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Perfect Velvet
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| Perfect Velvet | ||||
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| Studio album by | ||||
| Released | November 17, 2017 | |||
| Studio | SM Studios (Seoul, South Korea) | |||
| Genre | ||||
| Length | 30:56 | |||
| Language |
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| Label | ||||
| Producer |
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| Red Velvet chronology | ||||
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| Singles from Perfect Velvet | ||||
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| Repackaged edition cover | ||||
Digital cover | ||||
| Singles from The Perfect Red Velvet | ||||
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Perfect Velvet is the second studio album by South Korean girl group Red Velvet. Released by SM Entertainment on November 17, 2017, the record incorporates R&B, soul and hip-hop with influences from future bass, trap and synth-pop, and saw contributions from various songwriters and production teams.[2] The album is a portrayal of the group's "velvet" concept, making it their second major release to follow this sonic direction since their second extended play, The Velvet (2016). The album reissued as The Perfect Red Velvet on January 29, 2018.[3]
Perfect Velvet was met with critical acclaim from music critics; music webzines Idology and Weiv named it the best album of 2017 while Billboard ranked it the fifth best K-pop album of the 2010s. Commercially, the album debuted at number two on the Gaon Album Chart and peaked at number one the Billboard World Album Chart. Two singles were released from Perfect Velvet: "Peek-a-Boo", and "Bad Boy" from its reissue. To promote the album, the group performed on several South Korean music programs.
Perfect Velvet was included in several music critics' year-end lists of the best K-pop albums of the year and earned the group several nominations, including Best Pop Album at Korean Music Awards and Album of the Year at the 2018 Mnet Asian Music Awards. A landmark performance by the group was held in North Korea where they performed "Bad Boy" at the "Spring is Coming" concert, to an audience that included Kim Jong-un.
Background
[edit]Perfect Velvet
[edit]On October 30, 2017, news about the group's upcoming comeback appeared on various South Korean news sites, which was then confirmed by their company, SM Entertainment.[4] On November 8, SM revealed that Red Velvet's upcoming album would be titled Perfect Velvet and would contain nine tracks, with the lead single titled "Peek-a-Boo".[5] The name of the album references the "velvet" half of the group's concept which stems from the meaning behind their name, where "red" is their vivid and bold image while "velvet" stands for their softer and more mature side.[6] In an interview with Xports News on November 8, SM stated that they intend to show "an upgraded version" of the group's "velvet" concept.[7]
The group admitted to being unnerved by the success of their last single, "Red Flavor", as they were preparing for the album which the members participated in making through song selection. Group leader Irene told Billboard that unlike their past two releases earlier that year, they wanted to show an upgraded version of what they can show of their "velvet" image. Joy likewise expressed that she desired to showcase diverse concepts.[8] Despite their concerns about the drastic change from their previous comeback, member Wendy stated that she thought it was "good timing" for the album to be released before the year ended as it "can show the perfect Red Velvet performances and songs".[9]
The Perfect Red Velvet
[edit]In an interview with Idolator on January 16, 2018, American production team The Stereotypes revealed they had "a new one coming that's gonna be really cool" when asked about working with Red Velvet. Previously, they also produced two tracks from Perfect Velvet ("Kingdom Come" and "Attaboy").[10] SM announced on January 23, 2018, that Red Velvet will be releasing a repackage of the album titled The Perfect Red Velvet with "Bad Boy" as its lead single.[11][12] "Bad Boy" was described as a song with a "sexy" or "girl crush" concept by South Korean news sites, which has never been done before by the group. On January 24, it was reported that the repackage of Perfect Velvet will be released on January 29 with three new songs, including "Bad Boy".[13][14]
On January 26, individual teasers of members Wendy and Joy were released through the group's official SNS accounts which were noted by Kang Seo-jung of Osen as having the vibe of a powerful "eonni". In the same article, Kang also spoke of how their latest concept differs from the group's past releases. The teasers were followed by clips of Irene and Yeri the following day, with Seulgi's unveiled on January 28.[15] The reissue was released on January 29, 2018, at 6PM KST both digitally and physically. The physical album was released in two formats-CD and Kihno kit.
Composition
[edit]Perfect Velvet has nine songs which features mostly pop, hip hop, soul and R&B genres. The album's first track, "Peek-a-Boo", was described as an up-tempo pop song with addictive hooks.[16] Tamar Herman of Billboard stated that it is "laden with trop house elements underneath the overarching quirky pop vibe, and is driven by a deep bass drumline, scratchy synths, and metallic beats" which also features "a variety of diverse, playful instrumental elements nestled beneath the main melody". Lyrically, it compares a new romantic relationship to a game that children play.[17]
"Look" is a disco-styled dance song written by Jinbo and Sumin who also composed the song along with Charli Taft and Daniel "Obi" Klein who have written several songs for the group since their first EP, Ice Cream Cake, including the single "Automatic".[18] "I Just" is a pop song with a futuristic bass and distinctive synth sound composed by Aventurina King, Kim Boo-min, John Fulford with arrangement by South Korean EDM artist and DJ, Hitchhiker and its Korean lyrics written by Kim Boo-min.[19] "I Just"'s lyrics express the empty emotions felt after a break-up.[20] The fourth track, "Kingdom Come", has been noted as an R&B song with a gentle beat and a soft melody. It's a remake of "I Deserve More" by Tenin, released as part of her eponymous debut studio album in 2011. The lyrics for Red Velvet's Korean version was written by Lee Seu-ran of Jam Factory paired with entirely new melodies by Deez, Ylva Dimberg and was produced by The Stereotypes.[21][22] "My Second Date" was characterized as a mid-tempo pop track, composed by James Wong, Sidnie Tipton and Sophie Stern with lyrics by Jeon Gan-di.[23]
"Attaboy" is a hip hop song with a hook melody. It was penned by S.M. Entertainment lyricist Kenzie who also composed the song with Ylva Dimberg and The Stereotypes.[24] "Perfect 10" is an R&B song composed by Charli Taft, Daniel "Obi" Klein and Deez with lyrics by Cho Yoon-kyung.[25] "About Love" is a mid-tempo pop song produced by re:one who also composed the song with Davey Nate. Its lyrics were written by January 8 of Jam Factory.[26] The final track, "Moonlight Melody", is a low-key ballad with a delicate piano melody, written and composed by Lee Joo-hyung of Monotree and Kwon Deok-geun.[27]
"Bad Boy" is characterized as an R&B song with elements of hip hop and a synth melody along with a heavy bass sound. The song was composed by The Stereotypes, Maxx Song and Whitney Philips with Korean lyrics by Yoo Young-jin, and the lyrics describe the attraction between bad men and arrogant women.[28] Mexican news site Milenio called the song's melody a mix of R&B and hip hop, and described its lyrics as the story of the beginning of a couple's relationship.[29] "All Right" is an up-tempo dance-pop song that lyrically encourages a person to look forward to the future with the people around them. Composed by Kevin Charge, Phoebus Tassopoulus and Jessica Jean Pfeiffer, its lyrics were written by Lee Seu-ran of Jam Factory. "Time to Love" is a mid-tempo R&B ballad composed by Ellen Berg Tollbom, Ming Ji-syeon and Lee Dong-hoon with lyrics written by Kim Eun-jung detailing excitement over a new relationship.[30]
Promotions
[edit]Perfect Velvet
[edit]The group began releasing teasers for their upcoming comeback on November 8 through their official social media accounts, which was followed by individual photo teasers of the members and a preview of a track from the album on each day until November 16. To further promote their comeback, the group held a showcase on November 16 which was hosted by label mate Taeyeon, where they discussed their album and performed the lead song, "Peek-a-Boo", live for the first time.[31][32] On the same day, they appeared on a live broadcast through the Naver app, V Live.[33]
The group had their first music show appearance on November 17, 2017, on Music Bank, where they performed "Peek-a-Boo" and "Look".[34] As part of their promotions, Red Velvet appeared on the variety show Weekly Idol and were guests on several radio shows, where they performed "Peek-a-Boo" along with "Look" and "Kingdom Come".[35][36][37][38] A remixed instrumental version of "I Just" was performed by the musician Hitchhiker, member Seulgi, and NCT 127's Taeyong at the 2017 Mnet Asian Music Awards, where the group also performed "Peek-a-Boo".[39]
The Perfect Red Velvet
[edit]The album's title track "Bad Boy" had what Annie Martin of UPI called a "sultry" music video that featured the members in various coordinating outfits, which include all-black ensembles and pink pajamas, while performing against a snowy backdrop.[40] The song was choreographed by Japanese hip hop dancer and choreographer Rie Hata, who had previously worked with CL for the choreography of "The Baddest Female" and with the group's label mate BoA for her single "Nega Dola".[41]
Red Velvet held a comeback showcase on January 29, 2018, the same day as the album's release, and was hosted by label mate Girls' Generation member Hyoyeon. It was broadcast live through the Naver app V-Live. During the show, the members discussed their new songs, including "Bad Boy" which they performed live for the first time.[42] The group started their music show promotions through M! Countdown on February 1.[15] The group also performed the song on Music Bank, Show! Music Core, Inkigayo and Show Champion where they won their first trophy for "Bad Boy" on February 7.[43] To further promote the album and single, the members also appeared on several radio shows in South Korea such as SBS FM's Choi Hwa Jung Power Time, SBS' NCT's Night Night and SBS FM's Kim Chang Ryul's Old School Radio.[44][45][46]
In 2018, Red Velvet embarked on their Redmare world tour to promote the album and its reissue alongside their first Japanese mini-album, #Cookie Jar, and their special summer mini-album, Summer Magic. A vertical music video for the song "I Just" was released on February 28, 2018.
Reception
[edit]| Review scores | |
|---|---|
| Source | Rating |
| IZM | |
| The Star | 7.5/10[48] |
| The 405 | 8/10[49] |
Perfect Velvet received critical acclaim from music critics. The release of the album was also seen as the group's softer, more mature and sophisticated "velvet" side finally being accepted by the public.[50] Seon Mi-kyung of Osen considered the transition from their last song, "Red Flavor", to their "velvet" concept a bold move but felt that it showcased the group's growth as artists.[51] Kukmin Ilbo complimented the songs on the album as "colorful and solid", and noted its visual references to classic B-grade movies.[52] Weiv chose Perfect Velvet as their pick for the best domestic album of the year and was the only album by an idol group to be included on the list.[53]
Kim Sang-hwa of Oh My Star praised Red Velvet's vocal performance and "future-oriented sound", and stated that the album is one of the most outstanding domestic music records released in the year.[54] Writing for OhmyNews, Oh Joon-young discussed the prejudice that idols are not considered artists and how Red Velvet pushed the boundaries of what idol music should be with their diverse musical inspirations and styles, thus gaining the public's respect.[55]
In December, Herman chose it as one of Billboard's 20 Best K-pop Albums of 2017: Critics' Picks.[56] Chase McMullen of The 405 believed that too often than not, most of South Korea's popular girl groups were limited to two concepts, which are "cute" and "sexy" but "Red Velvet's only true interest appears to be dodging what's expected". He stated that "The album plays like something of a challenge, constantly seeking to top itself". Lastly, he maintained that the members continue to challenge themselves, all the while crafting "irresistible pop that doesn't lose an ounce of sheen once the buzz wears off".[57] In January 2018, Perfect Velvet was chosen by Idology out of 729 Korean albums as the best album of 2017, where 11 of their writers voted.[58]
Forbes stated that The Stereotypes' work on The Perfect Red Velvet "helped hone the girl group's lush contemporary R&B-meets-pop sound". In December 2018, Billboard included the title track "Bad Boy" in their '100 Best Songs of 2018: Critics' Picks' list while MTV picked "All Right" as one of the 'Best K-Pop B-Sides of 2018'.[59] The Perfect Red Velvet was also included in Refinery29's '12 Best K-Pop Albums of 2018'.[60] In 2020, Perfect Velvet topped a Billboard readers poll for favorite girl group album of all time.[61]
Accolades
[edit]| Year | Award show | Category | Work | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Golden Disc Awards | Album Bonsang | Perfect Velvet | Nominated | [62] |
| Korean Music Awards | Best Pop Album | Nominated | [63] | ||
| Mnet Asian Music Awards | Album of the Year | The Perfect Red Velvet | Nominated | [64] |
| Publication | List | Work | Rank | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Billboard | The 20 Best K-pop Albums of 2017 | Perfect Velvet | 10 | [56] |
| 25 Greatest K-pop Albums of the 2010s | 5 | [65] | ||
| Idology | Best K-pop Albums of 2017 | 1 | [58] | |
| Paste | The 30 Greatest K-pop Albums of All Time | 5 | [66] | |
| Weiv | Best Albums of 2017 | 1 | [53] | |
| Tonplein | Best Albums of the 2010s (ColoringCyan) | 16 | [67] | |
| Best Albums of the 2010s (Choi Ji-hwan) | The Perfect Red Velvet | 19 | [68] | |
| Refinery29 | The 12 Best K-Pop Albums of 2018 | 3 | [60] |
Commercial performance
[edit]Domestically, Perfect Velvet was a commercial success, peaking at number two on the Gaon Album Chart upon its release. It eventually became the fifth best-selling album on the November issue of the Gaon Monthly Album Chart, and ultimately the thirty-sixth best-selling album of 2017 in South Korea, having sold a total of 90,456 copies by the end of the year.[69][70] As of April 2018, Perfect Velvet has sold a total of 101,032 copies, making it Red Velvet's first album to surpass 100,000 copies sold in South Korea.[71] Under its re-release title The Perfect Red Velvet, the album became Red Velvet's seventh chart-topping title and spent a week atop the Gaon Album Chart.[72] The re-release was the sixth best-selling album of January 2018, having sold a total of 55,128 copies, and eventually finished as the fifty-third best-selling release of 2018, achieving a total sales of 91,325 copies.[73][74]
In addition to the album's domestic success, Perfect Velvet topped the Billboard World Albums Chart for the week of December 9, 2017, becoming the group's third consecutive chart-topper in 2017 and fourth overall, following The Red (2015), Rookie and The Red Summer (2017). Red Velvet extended their record as the K-pop girl group with the most number one entries on the chart, breaking tie with their fellow labelmate Girls' Generation.[75] The album also made its debut on the Billboard's Top Heatseekers Albums chart at number three, becoming their first release to enter the top five. With over 2,000 copies sold in its first week, Perfect Velvet earned their best US sales week at the time, later surpassed by the group's fifth extended play RBB in the same year.[76] Following the release of the album, Red Velvet appeared on the Billboard Social 50 chart at number thirty-three, a new peak for the group.[77] In Japan, the album debuted on Oricon Albums Chart at number 20 with 2,867 copies. The album also debuted at number 95 on the French Download Albums chart, making it their first release to enter the component chart.[78]
Upon its re-release as The Perfect Red Velvet, the album debuted and peaked at number three on Billboard's World Albums chart, becoming their seventh top-three entry.[79] It also entered the French Download Albums chart, achieving a peak position of number 87.[80] The re-release also helped Perfect Velvet re-enter the top 50 on the Oricon Albums Chart, reaching number 29 on the fifth week of January 2018.[81]
Track listing
[edit]| No. | Title | Lyrics | Music | Arrangement | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Peek-a-Boo" (피카부; Pikabu) |
|
| 3:09 | |
| 2. | "Look" (봐; Bwa) |
|
| 4:05 | |
| 3. | "I Just" |
| 3:08 | ||
| 4. | "Kingdom Come" |
| 3:30 | ||
| 5. | "My Second Date" (두 번째 데이트; Du beonjjae deiteu) |
|
|
| 3:14 |
| 6. | "Attaboy" |
| 3:16 | ||
| 7. | "Perfect 10" | 3:29 | |||
| 8. | "About Love" |
|
| 3:25 | |
| 9. | "Moonlight Melody" (달빛 소리; Dalbit sori) |
|
|
| 3:40 |
| Total length: | 31:03 | ||||
| No. | Title | Lyrics | Music | Arrangement | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Bad Boy" |
|
| 3:30 | |
| 2. | "All Right" |
|
| 3:49 | |
| 3. | "Peek-a-Boo" (피카부; Pikabu) |
|
| 3:09 | |
| 4. | "Look" (봐; Bwa) |
|
| 4:05 | |
| 5. | "I Just" |
| 3:08 | ||
| 6. | "Kingdom Come" |
| 3:30 | ||
| 7. | "Time to Love" |
|
|
| 3:15 |
| 8. | "My Second Date" (두 번째 데이트; Du beonjjae deiteu) |
|
|
| 3:14 |
| 9. | "Attaboy" |
| 3:16 | ||
| 10. | "Perfect 10" | 3:29 | |||
| 11. | "About Love" |
|
| 3:25 | |
| 12. | "Moonlight Melody" (달빛 소리; Dalbit sori) |
|
|
| 3:40 |
| Total length: | 41:37 | ||||
| No. | Title | Lyrics | Music | Arrangement | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Bad Boy" |
|
| 3:30 | |
| 2. | "All Right" |
|
| 3:49 | |
| 3. | "Time to Love" |
|
|
| 3:15 |
| 4. | "Bad Boy" (Instrumental) |
| 3:30 | ||
| 5. | "Peek-a-Boo" (피카부; Pikabu) (Instrumental) |
|
| 3:09 | |
| Total length: | 17:00 | ||||
Notes
[edit]- "Kingdom Come" is a remake of "I Deserve More" by Tenin, released as part of her eponymous debut studio album in 2011.
Personnel
[edit]Credits adapted from the liner notes of Perfect Velvet.[82]
- S.M. Entertainment Co., Ltd. – executive producer
- Lee Soo-man – producer
- Yoo Young-jin – music and sound supervisor
- Lee Seong-soo – producing director
- Jeong Eui-seok (S.M. Blue Cup Studio) – recording engineer
- Lee Min-gyu (S.M. Big Shot Studio) – recording engineer
- Lee Ji-hong (S.M. LYVIN Studio) – recording engineer
- Park Eun-kyeong (Lead Sound) – recording engineer
- Eazy $ign - EQ mixing engineer
- Oh Seong-geun (T Studio) – recording engineer
- Baek Kyeong-hoon (T Studio) – recording engineer
- Lee Joo-young (MonoTree Studio) – recording engineer assistant
- Nam Koong-jin (S.M. Concert Hall Studio) – mixing engineer
- Koo Jong-pil (Beat Burger) (S.M. Yellow Tail Studio) – mixing engineer
- Kim Cheol-soon (S.M. Blue Ocean Studio) – mixing engineer
- Jeong Ui-seok (S.M. Blue Cup Studio) – mixing engineer
- Chris Gehringer (Sterling Sound) – master engineer
- Min Hee-jin – creative director
- Min Hee-jin – music video direction and arrangement
- Kim Hye-min – music video direction and arrangement
- Kim Ju-young – music video direction and arrangement
- Kim Ji-yong – music video director
- Min Hee-jin – art direction and design
- Jo Woo-cheol – art direction and design
- Kim Ye-min – art direction and design
- Cho Woo-shik – art direction and design
- Son Sae-rom – art direction and design
- Kim In-woo – art direction and design
- Kim Ye-jin – stylist
- Soon-ee – hair stylist
- Seo-ha – hair stylist
- Shin Kyung-mi – make-up artist
- Sung Si-young – photography
- Han Jong-cheol – photography
- Kim Hye-soo – music video sketch photography
- Teaser promotions
- Min Hee-jin – planning and directing
- Kim Ye-min – planning and directing
- Kim Ju-young – video clip
- Park Yoon-seok – video clip
- Kim Na-yeon – video clip
- Nam So-young – management and marketing executive
- Han Se-min – management and marketing executive
- Kim Young-min – executive supervisor
- Red Velvet – vocals
Charts
[edit]| Chart (2017–2018) | Peak chart positions | |
|---|---|---|
| Perfect Velvet |
The Perfect Red Velvet | |
| French Download Albums (SNEP)[78][80] | 95 | 87 |
| Japanese Albums (Oricon)[83][81] | 20 | 29 |
| South Korean Albums (Gaon)[84][85] | 2 | 1 |
| US World Albums (Billboard) | 1 | 3 |
| US Top Heatseekers Albums (Billboard) | 3 | 7 |
| US Independent Albums (Billboard)[86] | 39 | 32 |
Release history
[edit]| Region | Date | Edition | Format | Label |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Various[87] | November 17, 2017 | Perfect Velvet | Digital download, streaming | SM Entertainment |
| South Korea | CD, digital download, streaming audio | SM Entertainment, Genie Music | ||
| Various | January 29, 2018 | The Perfect Red Velvet | Digital download, streaming | SM Entertainment |
| South Korea | CD, digital download, streaming audio, SMC | SM Entertainment, Genie Music |
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Perfect Velvet
View on GrokipediaBackground
Development and recording
Development of Perfect Velvet followed Red Velvet's 2017 releases emphasizing their brighter "red" aesthetic, shifting focus to a more mature "velvet" side characterized by R&B and sophisticated pop elements.[5] SM Entertainment announced on November 8, 2017, via X Sports News that the album would showcase an "upgraded version" of the group's velvet concept, building on earlier tracks like "Be Natural" from 2014.[2] Executive production was overseen by SM founder Lee Soo-man, with contributions from in-house and external songwriters and composers to refine the dual-concept identity.[6] Recording sessions occurred across international facilities, including Gula Studion in Sweden, DeeKay Studios, Glenwood Place Studios, and Windmark Studios in the United States, reflecting SM's practice of collaborating with global talent for polished production.[6] Key tracks like the lead single "Peek-A-Boo" were written by longtime SM composer Kenzie, with composition credits to Swedish production team Moonshine alongside Cazzi Opeia and Ellen Berg Tollbom; engineering involved figures such as recording engineer Lee Ji Hong and mastering by Chris Gehringer.[7] The process emphasized layered vocals and intricate arrangements, aligning with the group's reputation for harmonic precision, though specific member anecdotes on challenges remain limited in public accounts.[5]Concept and thematic elements
Perfect Velvet represents the maturation of Red Velvet's "velvet" concept, which emphasizes elegant, sophisticated, and introspective aesthetics in contrast to the group's brighter "red" side characterized by upbeat, playful energy.[5] This duality, inherent to the group's branding since their 2014 debut, draws from the material's name evoking smoothness and luxury, with the album showcasing layered R&B-infused pop to convey emotional depth and relational nuance.[5] Producer statements highlight this as an evolution toward a "more mature Red Velvet," prioritizing versatility in vocal delivery and thematic subtlety over overt exuberance.[5] Thematic elements revolve around the intricacies of romance, including seduction, unrequited longing, and self-assurance, often framed through metaphorical narratives that blend whimsy with psychological tension. The lead single "Peek-A-Boo," for instance, employs children's games as symbols for flirtatious pursuit and hidden affections, portraying a cat-and-mouse dynamic where attraction simmers beneath coy interactions.[5] Tracks like "Bad Boy" explore the allure of forbidden or flawed partners, delving into temptation and moral ambiguity in love, while "Kingdom Come" shifts toward empowerment, urging introspection and bold self-realization amid relational doubts.[5] Member Wendy noted the intent to reveal a "deeper side" through these portrayals, aligning the album's cohesion with themes of personal growth and emotional resilience.[5] Overall, the album's narrative arc progresses from playful intrigue to reflective maturity, using velvety production to underscore causal links between desire and consequence, eschewing simplistic romance for multifaceted human experiences in attachment.[5] This approach reinforces Red Velvet's reputation for conceptual balance, with Perfect Velvet—released November 17, 2017—marking a pivotal refinement of their velvet identity.[5]Musical composition
Genres and stylistic influences
Perfect Velvet primarily explores contemporary R&B and pop genres, aligning with Red Velvet's "Velvet" concept that emphasizes smooth, mature, and sophisticated sounds in contrast to the brighter, upbeat pop of their "Red" releases.[5] The album incorporates soulful elements, hip-hop rhythms, and trap-influenced instrumentals, particularly evident in tracks like "Look" which features heavy rap sequences and trap-based production.[8] This stylistic shift draws from the group's dual identity, where the Velvet side prioritizes dreamy, velvety textures over high-energy dance-pop, as articulated by member Irene in describing the album's departure from prior "red style" brightness.[5] Song structures often blend electropop synths with alternative R&B vocals, creating a lush, mysterious atmosphere described by the group as "charming" and enigmatic.[5] Influences from future bass and synth-pop add electronic layers, enhancing the album's cohesive yet genre-fluid approach, while full-group harmonies underscore soul influences for a fuller, more emotive delivery.[9] Tracks such as "Perfect 10" exemplify R&B composition with soft jazz undertones, venturing into sounds uncommon in mainstream K-pop at the time.[10] Overall, the album's influences reflect a deliberate expansion into R&B subgenres and trap elements, produced under SM Entertainment's framework to balance accessibility with experimental edges, distinguishing it from genre-conventional K-pop peers.[8] This approach has been noted for its genre versatility, touching on disco hints in select arrangements while maintaining a core R&B-pop fusion.[11]Songwriting, production, and structure
The songwriting for Perfect Velvet was handled by established lyricists and composers, predominantly from SM Entertainment's network and international contributors, without direct involvement from the group members. The lead single "Peek-A-Boo" credits lyrics to Kenzie, SM's in-house writer known for crafting narrative-driven hooks, alongside composition by the Swedish production duo Moonshine (Jonas Myrin and Marcus Lindgren), Cazzi Opeia, and Ellen Berg Tollbom. Other tracks followed a similar model, such as "Look," with lyrics by Lee Seu-ran and composition by Deez, Ylva Dimberg, emphasizing thematic continuity in romance and allure. This approach prioritized polished, concept-aligned narratives over artist-led input, reflecting SM's centralized creative control.[12][13] Production occurred at SM Entertainment's studios in Seoul, overseen by executive producer Lee Soo-man, with track-specific handling by external and affiliated teams to achieve the album's signature velvet texture—marked by layered harmonies, subtle electronic elements, and R&B-infused grooves. "Peek-A-Boo" was produced by Moonshine, incorporating tropical house synths and precise vocal engineering by figures like Lee Ji-hong for recording and Chris Gehringer for mastering. "Look" received production from The Stereotypes, a Los Angeles-based collective, blending hip-hop beats with soulful undertones. The process emphasized iterative refinement for vocal clarity and dynamic range, resulting in a cohesive sound that balanced accessibility with experimental flair, as evidenced by the album's high-fidelity mix suitable for both live performances and streaming.[7][14] Structurally, Perfect Velvet features nine tracks totaling approximately 27 minutes, arranged to unfold the group's "velvet" persona through escalating emotional depth: opening with the playful yet seductive "Peek-A-Boo" (3:09), transitioning via the pre-release "Look" (4:06) into mid-album standouts like the ethereal "Kingdom Come" (3:30) and closing with the atmospheric "Moonlight Melody" (3:41). This linear progression avoids filler by alternating tempos and moods—energetic pop hooks yielding to introspective ballads—while maintaining sonic unity via recurring motifs of smooth ad-libs and harmonic stacks, fostering replay value without abrupt shifts.[15]Release and promotion
Initial release and singles
Perfect Velvet was released on November 17, 2017, by SM Entertainment in South Korea as Red Velvet's second studio album and their first full-length release since the 2015 mini-album The Red.[16][6] The album was made available in both digital and physical formats, including CD editions with a photobook and random photocards, containing nine tracks in total.[16][17] The lead single, "Peek-A-Boo" (피카부), was unveiled on the same day as the album, serving as the title track and primary promotional focus.[2][16] Co-written and produced by Kenzie, the song features a blend of electropop and trap elements with mysterious lyrical themes, accompanied by a music video directed by SM Entertainment's in-house team that debuted alongside the single.[18] No pre-release singles preceded the album launch, distinguishing it from Red Velvet's prior extended plays that often included teaser tracks.[16] "Peek-A-Boo" dominated South Korean charts immediately upon release, topping the Gaon Digital Chart for multiple weeks and earning triple platinum certification from the Korea Music Content Association for over 300,000 digital downloads in its debut month.[6] The track's promotion included live performances on music programs such as Music Bank and Inkigayo, contributing to the album's swift commercial ascent without additional singles from the initial edition.[2]Marketing campaigns and music videos
The promotional campaign for Perfect Velvet began on November 7, 2017, when SM Entertainment released a teaser image and short clip announcing the album's November 17 release and lead single "Peek-A-Boo," emphasizing a horror-film aesthetic with eerie visuals to generate fan anticipation.[19] Daily teasers followed from November 9, featuring image updates at 10 a.m. KST and video clips at midnight KST through November 16, incorporating velvet textures, red accents, and supernatural motifs that aligned with the album's "Velvet" side concept of mature, mysterious R&B influences.[20][21] Post-release promotions included performances on South Korean music programs, starting with MBC Music's Show Champion on November 22, 2017, where the group showcased "Peek-A-Boo" choreography emphasizing synchronized formations and playful menace.[22] Additional appearances on variety shows like Weekly Idol and radio broadcasts featured live renditions of the title track, extending the campaign's focus on the song's dance-pop energy and thematic duality.[22] The music video for "Peek-A-Boo," released concurrently with the album on November 17, 2017, depicts the five members as femme fatales in a gothic castle, luring a pizza delivery man into a trap involving ritualistic elements, weaponry, and black magic, while clad in sequined velvet gowns that underscore the video's blend of opulence and horror.[23] Directed with a narrative structure inverting typical thriller tropes—positioning the women as empowered predators—the video amassed over 200 million YouTube views by May 2021, reflecting sustained online engagement driven by its visual storytelling and the group's performance.[23][24]Repackage edition
The Perfect Red Velvet, the repackaged edition of Red Velvet's second studio album Perfect Velvet, was released on January 29, 2018, by SM Entertainment.[25] The announcement came five days earlier on January 24, 2018, introducing three new tracks to extend the album's promotional cycle.[14] "Bad Boy" served as the lead single and title track, shifting focus from the original's "Peek-a-Boo" with a darker, R&B-infused sound emphasizing the group's "Velvet" side.[14] The repackage added "Bad Boy," "All Right," and one additional unreleased song alongside selections from the original album, totaling 12 tracks in the physical edition.[26] Internationally on platforms like iTunes and Apple Music, it appeared as a five-track EP limited to the three new songs plus instrumental versions of "Bad Boy" and "Peek-a-Boo."[14] Physical versions included a CD, 56-page photobook, lyrics booklet, and random photocards out of 10 variants, packaged in a sleeve box to differentiate from the original release.[27] Promotion centered on "Bad Boy," with teaser images and music video released prior to the album launch, maintaining the horror-tinged aesthetic from Perfect Velvet teasers but incorporating retro elements.[28] The repackage sustained chart presence and sales momentum, contributing to the album's overall commercial extension without altering core production credits from the November 2017 original.[25]Critical reception
Contemporary reviews
Perfect Velvet garnered positive reception from critics upon its November 17, 2017, release, with reviewers emphasizing its shift toward a more mature, R&B-infused "velvet" aesthetic compared to the group's prior "red" side releases. Billboard described the nine-track album as presenting "a mature take on what it means to be Red Velvet," highlighting its lush pop sound and sonic variety that explored the group's expressive range through upbeat dance-pop like the lead single "Peek-A-Boo" and more restrained textures elsewhere.[5][23] Domestic Korean critics were particularly effusive, praising the album's cohesive experimentation and production quality. Music webzine Idology, in a review translated from its original Korean coverage, called it an album that "contains all the potential that Red Velvet has" and deemed it the most impressive release of the second half of 2017, noting its tight integration of the group's identity with contemporary pop elements across all tracks.[29] Similarly, Weiv selected Perfect Velvet as the top Korean album of 2017, citing its innovative sound design and emotional depth.[30] Standout tracks received specific commendations for their atmospheric production and vocal delivery; for instance, "Kingdom Come" was lauded for its orchestral swells and glitchy electronics, which critics viewed as emblematic of the album's sophisticated, velvet-glamour concept.[8] International outlets echoed this, with early coverage noting the album's departure from typical K-pop formulas toward a dreamier, more introspective vibe that showcased Red Velvet's versatility. While some reviewers, like those at Kpopreviewed, acknowledged it as strong but not the definitive best of the year—praising its genre ventures yet reserving top honors for other releases—the consensus highlighted its role in elevating the group's artistic maturity.[8]Achievements and praises
Perfect Velvet received acclaim for its refined R&B sensibilities and cohesive exploration of the group's "velvet" persona, emphasizing emotional depth and intricate vocal layering across tracks such as "Kingdom Come" and "Don't Know What To Do." Critics noted the album's shift toward a more mature sound, distinguishing it from Red Velvet's brighter "red" releases while showcasing artistic versatility.[31] Korean music webzine Idology lauded it as encompassing the full potential of Red Velvet and the standout release of late 2017, praising its structural tidiness and melodic innovation.[29] Similarly, Weiv selected Perfect Velvet as their Album of the Year for 2017, highlighting its impact amid a competitive field.[32] Billboard ranked the album fifth on their list of the 25 greatest K-pop albums of the 2010s, with staff describing it as a potential crowning jewel in Red Velvet's discography for its lush production and conceptual consistency.[31] The release also achieved notable chart milestones, debuting at number one on the Billboard World Albums chart and tying Red Velvet with male-dominated acts for the most number-one albums by any K-pop group on that tally—the first such feat for a female act.[1]Criticisms and analytical debates
Certain reviewers have pointed to an uneven distribution of quality across the tracklist, with standout tracks like "Peek-A-Boo" and "Look" front-loaded, while later songs such as "About Love" were described as standard fare lacking distinctive elements beyond vocal delivery.[8] Similarly, aggregated user assessments on music rating platforms characterize the album as front-heavy, with the first four tracks receiving disproportionate acclaim compared to the remainder.[9] "Attaboy" has drawn specific criticism for its heavy emphasis on hip-hop and rap sequences, which overshadow the group's vocal capabilities and result in a disjointed, staccato structure featuring abrupt stops, a "weird stoner opening," and shouting verses that limit melodic flow.[33][8] One analysis labels it the group's sole outright weak track, attributing issues to poor engineering that fails to harness their typical harmonic strengths, marking a rare instance where production choices hinder performance potential.[33] Analytical debates center on the album's cohesion and fidelity to Red Velvet's "velvet" aesthetic of mature, R&B-infused maturity. Some contend it lacks a unified narrative thread, exacerbated by its extended length and experimental detours that dilute thematic consistency, in contrast to the more directed storytelling in predecessors like The Red.[33] Tracks such as "I Just" and "Look" have been faulted for repetition without sufficient progression or climax, potentially fatiguing listeners despite innovative genre blends.[8] These points fuel discussions on whether SM Entertainment's production formula prioritizes bold risks over polished integration, with critics arguing that while the album advances the group's duality concept, certain choices reveal limits in balancing accessibility and artistic ambition.[8][33]Commercial performance
Sales and certifications
Perfect Velvet, released on November 17, 2017, recorded first-week sales of 49,485 copies on the Hanteo Chart, reflecting real-time retail data from participating stores.[34] Its first-month shipments reached 101,000 copies according to the Gaon Album Chart (now Circle Chart), marking Red Velvet's first album to exceed this threshold domestically.[34] The repackage edition, The Perfect Red Velvet, issued on January 29, 2018, achieved first-week Hanteo sales of 31,768 copies and first-month Gaon shipments of 55,128 copies.[34] Combined, the original and repackage editions amassed 185,289 physical units sold in South Korea based on aggregated official chart figures.[35] No formal certifications were issued for Perfect Velvet or its repackage, as the Korea Music Content Association (KMCA) certification program, which awards platinum status at 250,000 units for post-2017 releases, commenced operations in 2018 for eligible titles only.[36] International sales data remains limited, with no reported certifications from bodies such as the RIAA or Oricon beyond minor chart entries.Chart trajectories and metrics
Perfect Velvet debuted at number two on South Korea's Gaon Album Chart for the week ending November 25, 2017, representing Red Velvet's strongest domestic album chart entry to that point, though it was held from the top spot by a compilation album.[1] The album maintained presence on the chart for several weeks, reflecting sustained sales amid competition from other K-pop releases. Internationally, the album achieved its highest peak on the Billboard World Albums chart, entering at number one for the tracking week of November 25, 2017, which marked Red Velvet's fourth such summit and tied them with Exo for the most number-one albums by a K-pop act on that ranking at the time.[1] It also debuted at number three on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart, the group's best performance there to date.[1] In Japan, Perfect Velvet reached number 20 on the Oricon Albums Chart upon its release, with initial sales of approximately 2,867 copies.[37] On the UK Official Albums Chart, it entered at number 86 for the week of November 30, 2017.[38]| Chart (2017) | Peak Position |
|---|---|
| Gaon Album Chart (South Korea) | 2 |
| Billboard World Albums (US) | 1 |
| Billboard Heatseekers Albums (US) | 3 |
| Oricon Albums Chart (Japan) | 20 |
| Official Albums Chart (UK) | 86 |
Accolades
Awards won
The lead single "Peek-a-Boo" from Perfect Velvet achieved two music show first-place wins during promotion, reflecting its strong digital and broadcast performance.[39] Specifically, it claimed victory on SBS MTV's The Show on December 5, 2017, and on SBS's Inkigayo on December 10, 2017.[40] No major year-end ceremony awards were directly conferred on the album Perfect Velvet itself, though it received nominations for Album Bonsang (Disk Daesang category) at the 32nd Golden Disc Awards in January 2018.Nominations and recognitions
Perfect Velvet earned nominations at prominent South Korean music award ceremonies recognizing its artistic and commercial impact.[41] At the 2018 Golden Disc Awards, the album was nominated in the Album Bonsang category, which honors top-selling and influential albums of the prior year.[42] The 2018 Korean Music Awards nominated Perfect Velvet for Best Pop Album, placing it alongside releases by artists such as BTS, IU, and Taemin in a competitive field evaluated by music critics and industry professionals.[41]Legacy
Cultural and industry impact
Perfect Velvet solidified Red Velvet's dual-concept framework, particularly the "Velvet" side characterized by mature R&B and soul-infused pop, which has influenced the industry's approach to girl group versatility and sonic depth.[43] The album's integration of upbeat midtempo R&B elements diverged from prevailing K-pop norms of slower ballads or hip-hop dominance in the genre, enabling more dynamic expressions of elegance and experimentation.[44] This shift contributed to Red Velvet's role in expanding genre limits, as noted in retrospective analyses crediting the group with shaping K-pop's creative standards.[45] In a 2023 NME interview, member Irene expressed surprise and honor at the album's lasting legacy six years post-release, highlighting its cultural resonance through viral visuals like the "Peek-a-Boo" music video's rainbow dress.[45] Industry-wise, the album's unconventional packaging—such as pizza box-inspired covers and uniquely shaped CDs—challenged standard physical release designs, encouraging innovative merchandising trends among subsequent K-pop acts.[46] Critics, including Paste Magazine, have retrospectively praised it as enduringly fresh, underscoring its impact on perceptions of K-pop artistry beyond commercial metrics.[47] While members like Wendy modestly downplayed defining K-pop outright, external views affirm its indelible influence on the genre's evolution.[45]Retrospective assessments and influence
Perfect Velvet has been retrospectively acclaimed as one of the landmark albums in K-pop, frequently cited for its sophisticated blend of R&B, electronic, and experimental elements that expanded the genre's boundaries. In Billboard's 2019 ranking of the 25 greatest K-pop albums of the 2010s, it placed fifth, praised for its mature evolution of Red Velvet's "Velvet" aesthetic, which shifted from ballad-heavy predecessors to incorporate uptempo tracks while maintaining atmospheric depth.[31] Similarly, Paste Magazine's 2023 list of the 30 greatest K-pop albums described it as sounding "just as good now as it did six years ago," underscoring its timeless production and vocal harmonies.[47] Group member Irene, reflecting in a 2023 NME interview, expressed surprise at its enduring impact, stating, "I’m truly honoured by the legacy it has created. I’m just realising and extremely surprised that six years have passed."[45] The album's critical lauding stems from its role in solidifying Red Velvet's dual-concept identity, with Perfect Velvet fully embodying the introspective, velvet-sided maturity that contrasted their brighter "Red" releases, influencing perceptions of versatility in girl groups.[45] In terms of influence, Perfect Velvet contributed to trends in K-pop by popularizing upbeat, midtempo R&B infusions over traditional slow ballads or hip-hop dominance, setting a template for atmospheric, genre-blending productions in subsequent girl group works.[44] It positioned Red Velvet as trendsetters in effortless cool, engaging contemporary electronic and retro-futuristic sounds that echoed broader K-pop shifts toward experimental maturity.[48] While direct attributions to specific artists are sparse, its expansion of the "Velvet" side—introducing dance-oriented R&B—has been credited with broadening the sonic palette for K-pop's R&B explorations, aiding the group's legacy in sustaining innovative duality amid industry homogenization.[45]Track listing
Perfect Velvet edition
The Perfect Velvet edition of Red Velvet's second studio album contains nine tracks, blending the group's signature "red" and "velvet" concepts with a focus on mature, velvet-side sounds.[49]| No. | Title | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | "Peek-a-Boo" (피카부) | 3:09 |
| 2 | "Look" (봐) | 4:05 |
| 3 | "I Just" | 3:08 |
| 4 | "Kingdom Come" | 3:30 |
| 5 | "My Second Date" (두 번째 데이트) | 3:14 |
| 6 | "Attaboy" | 3:16 |
| 7 | "Perfect 10" | 3:49 |
| 8 | "About Love" (여유) | 4:16 |
| 9 | "Moonlight Melody" (달빛 소리) | 4:19 |
The Perfect Red Velvet edition
serves as the repackaged edition of Red Velvet's second studio album Perfect Velvet, released on January 29, 2018, by SM Entertainment. This version incorporates three new tracks—"Bad Boy" (the lead single), "All Right", and "My Second Date" (두 번째 데이트)—alongside five selections from the original album, resulting in an eight-track configuration.[14][25] The standard track listing is:- "Bad Boy"
- "All Right"
- "Peek-A-Boo" (피카부)
- "Look" (봐)
- "I Just"
- "Kingdom Come"
- "Time to Love" (사랑의 시작)
- "My Second Date" (두 번째 데이트) [14][25][27]
Track annotations
"Peek-A-Boo" (피카부)The lead single from Perfect Velvet, "Peek-A-Boo" is an up-tempo electronic pop track characterized by mysterious and playful lyrics depicting a cat-and-mouse game where the protagonists subtly express romantic interest without direct confrontation, akin to hiding and revealing in peek-a-boo.[51][52] "Look" (봐)
"Look" features smooth R&B production with 1980s-inspired synth bass and percussive elements, exploring themes of desire and intimacy through lyrics evoking being enveloped in warmth like morning sunlight and held throughout the day.[53][54] "I Just"
This EDM-influenced mid-tempo track addresses feelings of loneliness and the urge to escape a suffocating or toxic environment, with lyrics portraying the breakdown of outdated emotional baggage and a yearning for renewal amid lingering darkness.[55][56] "Kingdom Come"
An R&B song with mysterious pads and driving drums, "Kingdom Come" lyrically conveys profound romantic commitment and a dreamlike connection, likening love to an eternal bond persisting until the end of time or "kingdom come."[57][58] "My Second Date" (두 번째 데이트)
A medium-tempo pop dance number, it captures the nervous excitement of a woman on her second date, pondering casual speech and actions to secure a third, blending cute uncertainty with experimental music-box-like beats.[59][52] "Attaboy"
This upbeat track encourages bold pursuit of paths and dreams through adventurous imagery like riding motorcycles under stars, with repetitive motivational hooks urging clarity and action to avoid confusion in the heart.[60] "Perfect 10"
A sensual slow-jam R&B piece, it uses the metaphor of a "perfect 10" score to describe an ideal partner and flawless relationship moments, incorporating suggestive elements like "lights, camera, action" and tone-painting in the melody to mirror lyrical intimacy.[61][62] "About Love"
The song reflects on the complexities of love through introspective lyrics questioning its nature and persistence, set against a melodic structure that builds emotional depth.[52] "Moonlight Melody" (달빛 소리)
A ballad-style track evoking serene nighttime imagery, it lyrically paints a gentle, melodic expression of longing under moonlight.[52] "Time Slip"
This closer incorporates themes of temporal displacement and reflection, with production suggesting a slipping through time in emotional narratives.[52]
Personnel
Production credits
The executive producer for Perfect Velvet was Lee Soo-man of SM Entertainment.[63][2] Production drew from a mix of South Korean in-house staff and international collaborators, with arrangements handled by entities such as MoonShine, Daniel "Obi" Klein, Hitchhiker, The Stereotypes, Gladius, Re:One, and Kwon Deok-geun across the album's tracks.[6] Vocal direction was provided by Kenzie, Jinbo, Sumin, Hitchhiker, Deez, Maxx Song, Jeon Seung-woo, and Lee Joo-hyung.[6] Recording engineers included Lee Min-gyu, Lee Ji-hong, Ahn Chang-gyu, Jeong Ui-seok, Park Eun-kyung, Baek Kyung-hoon, and Oh Seong-geun.[6] Mixing was overseen by Jeong Ui-seok, Gu Jong-pil, Kim Cheol-soon, and Namgoong Jin.[6] Digital editing involved Lee Min-gyu, Lee Ji-hong, Jang Woo-young, Jeong Ho-jin, and Maxx Song.[6] Track-specific production highlights include:- "Peek-A-Boo": Arrangement by MoonShine; Korean lyrics by Kenzie.[6]
- "Look": Arrangement and writing by Daniel "Obi" Klein; lyrics and direction by Jinbo and Sumin.[6]
- "I Just": Arrangement and direction by Hitchhiker; Korean lyrics by Kim Bu-min.[6]
- "Kingdom Come": Arrangement by The Stereotypes; Korean lyrics by Lee Seu-ran.[6][2]
- "My Second Date": Arrangement and writing by Gladius; Korean lyrics by Jeon Gan-di.[6]
- "Attaboy": Lyrics and direction by Kenzie; arrangement by The Stereotypes.[6][2]
- "Perfect 10": Arrangement by Daniel "Obi" Klein; additional arrangement and writing by Deez; Korean lyrics by Jo Yoon-kyung.[6][2]
- "About Love": Arrangement and writing by Re:One; Korean lyrics by January 8.[6][2]
- "Moonlight Melody": Arrangement and composition by Kwon Deok-geun; lyrics and direction by Lee Joo-hyung.[6][2]
Performance credits
The primary vocals for all tracks on Perfect Velvet were performed by the South Korean girl group Red Velvet, consisting of members Irene, Seulgi, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri.[6] Backing vocals were primarily provided by the group members, with supplementary contributions from session vocalists on select tracks, as follows:| Track Title | Additional Backing Vocals |
|---|---|
| Peek-a-Boo (피카부) | None listed beyond group |
| Look (봐) | Jinbo, Sumin |
| I Just | None listed beyond group |
| Kingdom Come | Deez |
| My Second Date (두 번째 데이트) | None listed beyond group |
| Attaboy | Ylva Dimberg |
| Perfect 10 | Deez |
| Unspecified (track 8) | Jeon Seung-woo |
| Moonlight Melody (달빛 소리) | Park Seul-bi |
Release history
Perfect Velvet was released on November 17, 2017, by SM Entertainment in South Korea as the group's second studio album, available in CD and digital download formats.[6][16] The physical edition included a photobook, slipcase, and random photocard.[6] A repackage album titled The Perfect Red Velvet followed on January 29, 2018, incorporating tracks from the original alongside three new songs, including the lead single "Bad Boy," and was distributed in the same formats.[25][50]| Date | Title | Region | Format | Label |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| November 17, 2017 | Perfect Velvet | South Korea | CD, digital download | SM Entertainment |
| November 17, 2017 | Perfect Velvet | Worldwide | Digital download | SM Entertainment |
| January 29, 2018 | The Perfect Red Velvet | South Korea | CD, digital download | SM Entertainment |
| January 29, 2018 | The Perfect Red Velvet | Worldwide | Digital download | SM Entertainment |
