SHINee Vol. 5 - 1 of 1

SHINee creates a unique retro sound by combining modern styles and music elements of the 80s and 90s. The title dance jam 1 of 1 (Track 2) brings back the vibe of the new jack swing style, a popular fusion genre in the late 80s and the early 90s. Introduced by several synthesized drum rolls, Tae Min pays tribute to Michael Jackson with the King of Pop's signature high-pitched squeal. The sudden change of mood and the cool guitar solo in the middle eight make the song even more tasteful. Featuring a contemporary smooth R&B tune, the funky, beautifully harmonized song may disappoint those who expect a powerful new jack swing jam like Janet Jackson's Control. However, in order to match the album's playful tone, 1 of 1 obviously doesn't intend to be heavily rhythmical. The song's modernized vintage style is exhibited not just musically but also visually in the fashion show-like music video, which showcases a collection of trend-setting outfits that mix retro and 21st century fashion styles. "Don't Let Me Go" (Track 4) has the least retro feeling in the melody and instrumentation, but audio filters are applied to recreate an old-time radio sound. Shift (Track 7) is another outstanding fusion of the 80s' distinctive disco vibe and the futuristic EDM style of the present day.

Prism (Track 1) and U Need Me (Track 9) are like multi-layered sandwiches that feature a different music style in each layer. After a tranquil ballad-style opening with Onew's angelic vocals, Prism surprisingly gives off an old-school UK garage vibe with bumpy two-step beats. Despite the stark differences between parts, the song keeps moving back and forth between throbbing two-step and smooth R&B. The varied rhythmic patterns also add musical variation to the lyrically repetitive chorus. The composers' awesome music arrangement skills are also shown in U Need Me, which shows smooth transitions between the bold EDM with explosive synth effects and mellow jazz.

Departing from the uplifting feeling of the previous tracks, Lipstick (Track 5) and Don't Stop (Track 6) pursue a sensual ambience. Lipstick doesn't have many retro elements but the composers seek to offer some vintage sounds in the contemporary R&B-flavored tune through the 80s-style drum synth effects. Co-written by Min Ho, the song carries an implicit message of wanting to kiss a girl as exemplified in its witty lyrics: "I want your lipstick and color." The sensual atmosphere of Lipstick prevails in Don't Stop with its sexually suggestive lyrics and the members' seductive vocals. Its dreamy synth sounds and random neo soul tunes also create an aura of mystery.

Retro style is one of the all-time most popular concepts in the K-pop scene. It can help singers stand out among typical pop musicians but, at worst, it can also descend into a displeasing parody. Rather than copying the retro sounds exactly as they were in the 80s and 90s, SHINee and their songwriting team cleverly recreate the styles in a stylish way. Through 1 of 1, SHINee successfully launches a new synth wave while evoking nostalgia.