Uchinaga Aeri, known professionally as GISELLE, is a vocalist and rapper based in South Korea. As a member of the girl group aespa, she is known for her onstage charisma, flirtatious flow and multilingual artistry. GISELLE released her first official solo track, “Dopamine” on aespa’s digital single album SYNK: PARALLEL LINE. This release features four tracks by each group member and mixes electronic pop with hip-hop to create a hyperactive K-pop sound.
“Dopamine” is memorable for its rap sections and allusive lyrics. As a girl anthem, the song explores the contradiction between being captivated by someone and holding back out of self-respect and independence. This feel-good song is impressive for its dynamic instrumentation that features dreamy synth pads, sonorous bass samples and dramatic drum patterns.
As an English and Korean track, “Dopamine” highlights GISELLE's lyrical ability to transition between languages while enhancing the playful mood of the song. Her airy and pop-esque vocals alongside the track’s multigenre instrumentation create an ambient and luscious sound.
The intro instantly pulls you in with the line: “I don't need a man, just accessories / Yeah, you look so good standing next to me.” Layered with a synth riff, this section incorporates a radio voice effect, forming an auditory illusion.
The beat-drop at 0:27 is smooth and powerfully welcomes the verse: “Stop, go, put that in slow-mo / … Oh, no, you're getting too close / Playing dangerous with me.” GISELLE's tone conveys the ‘tension’ of wanting to be with someone while simultaneously needing distance. This is further expressed through the succeeding lyrics: “Uh, commitment / … Lock it up inside, I gotta hide the way I feel.”
The chorus is vocally expressive and flawless. Accompanied by electric keys and rhythmic hi-hats, GISELLE effortlessly sings: “Be my little secret / Keep it, hush, hush, but I think I'm in love” showcasing her true emotions.
Verse 2 includes two rap styles, a laid-back bit followed by a staccato-like flow. The lines: “Every time I see you 두근거리는 my heart rate / Spikes up like a race still to this day” are satisfying and display GISELLE's girl crush attitude.
The track’s outro is especially vivid, emulating an EDM loop. This section serves as a dance break and ties in the whole track through an expansive arrangement of synthesizers and percussive instrumentals.
GISELLE. Promotional Images for SYNK: PARALLEL LINE in Tokyo Dome. 2024. Retrieved from X.com.
GISELLE is one of my favorite K-pop rappers because of her skillful delivery. While she thrives at working across concepts, the experimental hip-hop and R&B styles fit her tone perfectly. GISELLE's voice is made for dreamy songs about paradoxical concepts, romantic sentiments and self-confidence. She is known to build energy in aespa through catchy ad-libs and powerful raps. Her talent is noteworthy as her inclusion in the group led to the creation of aespa's concept. Watch their “Supernova” MV to discover this futuristic K-pop sound.
“Dopamine” is a stunning track that I will keep replaying and vibing to. Yet, I am eager to witness GISELLE work on additional projects and further her career as a solo artist. I am confident that GISELLE will release another hit filled with feminine expressions, feel-good beats and spicy lyrics.
Aespa will tour the U.S. next year with SYNK: PARALLEL LINE. This will feature live performances of solo songs including “UP,” “Bored!” and “Spark.” Although I will miss them on tour, I'll enthusiastically fangirl over their concert recordings and GISELLE's “Dopamine” stages.
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