Be First Do NOT Mess Around!

We have our first Jpop group entry into the blog! I stumbled across Be:First last year when they did two collaborations with ATEEZ- Hush Hush and Royals. Both songs were absolutely amazing; heavier in rap with hip hop undertones and still shining vocals from both teams. AND Mingi had a lot to do with producing Royals (lyrics and song composition) so obviously it was going to be a hit for me. The video for Hush Hush is also fun- two competing teams eventually clashing and then coming together. I could tell they enjoyed working with each other and after that I dove deeper into Be:First’s discography and found that I really enjoyed it! Many other Jpop groups seem super bubblegum, which while I know is more popular in Japan it’s not my typical vibe. But this group is very similar to ATEEZ- hip hop grind with fire rappers, but balanced with stunning vocals. When I heard they were coming to the states, I knew I had to try for tickets!

General Admission is not my favorite (I am old and crunchy and I love a seat) but I was excited it was at Webster Hall- another older venue that has lots of history to it and still has the old time feel to it, as a big open room with a balcony wrapping around the second floor. The stage design was minimal, but the video design as a backdrop was very well done! These guys did not have elaborate costumes but they didn’t need it- loose street styles let their talents shine without any added bling. But when I say they do no mess around I am serious, this was a non stop show. No VCRs, no Ments, not even introducing themselves. These absolute Energizer bunnies went NON STOP back to back, never stopping the fun vibes. A slow song or two but for the most part everyone was giving it 115% on stage the entire time. The units were great, and I loved their energy.

I will say the vibe in the crowd was markedly different than a Kpop crowd- there was not a lot of screaming, certainly no backing, and most people put their hands up in the air instead of making noise. While the vibe was different the energy from stage to crowd and back was still energized, and people were dancing all night.

I can see why ATEEZ wanted to do a song with them, and I’m not shocked they did a second one. I’d love to see more with the two groups together because I see not only a lot of similarities but a lot of things that each group puts out that compliments the other. I’m now a full blown Be:First Stan and would put them towards the top of the list for groups I don’t think have any songs I’d skip if they came up on shuffle! They would be a GREAT group to see live if you ever get the chance!

I have a SHORT video below because I was way too busy enjoying the show to take a lot of footage!