Welcome back, k-dreamers! At first, I was unsure whether it was a good idea to review another song off of AKMU’s album when I already reviewed “NAKKA“. But the message and the form of the song was too good not to talk about. So let’s dive into “Everest” featuring Sam Kim, shall we?
The instrumentation builds and builds.
The main thing to notice about this song is that the instrumentation continues to get bigger and better. “Everest” starts with a simple acoustic guitar played by Sam Kim. Next comes the thumping of a drum. Then we add Suhyun’s voice and another guitar into the mix. Finally, an electric guitar and a drum kit are included to really round out the song. And I didn’t forget about those awesome gang vocals in the second verse!
Obviously the increase in instruments can represent the progress of climbing a mountain because the song feels more complete over time. An alternative way of interpreting it is that more and more people are joining in on the journey to the top of the mountain. Having only Sam Kim and his guitar in the beginning feels lonely. But once we add Suhyun, more instruments and even gang vocals, suddenly “Everest” doesn’t feel as lonely.
AKMU and Sam Kim have made a masterpiece.
When I first heard this song, I was immediately reminded of one of my first articles: “What Does Success Look Like?” In this article, I talk about chasing after a life that feels unattainable. After listening to “Everest” by AKMU and Sam Kim, it made me feel like I’m not alone and that the success I want isn’t impossible. So I hope other fans find comfort in the song and maybe even in each other.
Honourable Mentions: Ha Sung Woon ft. Don Mills – Strawberry Gum, NCT U – Maniac (Doyoung and Haechan? I’m sold.)
If you like this song, check out: Jeong Sewoon – 20 Something (2018), Hyolyn – youknowbetter (2019), Stray Kids – Blueprint (2020)
I can definitely get behind this message. Chasing my dreams is what this blog is all about. How do you feel about “Everest” by AKMU and Sam Kim? Let me know in the comments!