get you real good: notes on TWICE's 14th EP, 'STRATEGY'
better late than never, i guess
TWICE has done it again with their 14th mini-album, Strategy, which was released in December. Catchy, charming and groovy, this album is yet another testament to TWICE’s range, versatility and longevity. There are plenty of reasons why they continue to be on top, and this is just one of them. Sharing some notes on the tracks below!
Strategy (feat. Megan Thee Stallion)
K’s notes: From the opening line (“Hey boy—!”) this track demands your attention—and holds it. With a sexy, groovy, early 2000s R&B vibe, this is a sound I’ve been waiting for TWICE to explore.
Megan Thee Stallion’s feature is a perfect match, her verses fitting seamlessly with TWICE’s energy like a finger to a glove. The vocal layering, especially Momo and Chaeyoung’s parts toward the end, adds depth and flair. And let’s not forget that Nayeon iconic ending! (Chef’s Kiss!)
It’s a pity this track did not get the full music show treatment—imagine the outfits, the choreo, the slay. Definitely deserved more stages!
C’s notes (for the TWICE-only ver):
lol akala ko may korean ver but ok i guess
also: i think i can now distinguish earattack’s sonic style??
oh god this must be so good live
Speaking of stages: Studio Choom TWICE, we missed you!
Kiss My Troubles Away
K’s notes: This track grabbed me at first listen, much like the way “I Can’t Stop Me” did back in the day. It’s upbeat and infectious, reminiscent of the sounds from Eyes Wide Open and Taste of Love. Not even kidding—if EWO and TOL had a baby, it would be this track. Love it. It’s an obvious addition to my Prescriptive TWICE playlist. Bright, effervescent, and everything we love about the group.
C’s notes:
oh god this is so good
didn’t expect the whole thing would be in english?? a nice surprise
sanayeon going one after the other and sana going “won’t you come and kiss my troubles away?” lmao sineryoso naman nila masyado
the drumming beat in the back is soooo good
still reminds me of a kylie minogue song
“you charge me heavenly battery” 😭
jeongmi bridge???
the background vocals in the final chorus oh my god
thank u lauren aquilina
Like It Like It
K’s notes: If “Basics” and “Rush” had a younger sibling, it would be this playful bop. The chorus line, “Every time we touch, I get a rush—and I like it,” perfectly captures the song’s carefree energy. Light and flirty, this track is as fun as it is addictive.
C’s notes:
is that nayeon going high in the prechorus???
oh yeah this is title track material but i’m glad they went with Strategy. definitely stronger.
it sounds different from their recent releases. i like it (like it)
“every time we touch, i get a rush and i like it, like it”
“don’t you stop, you know i like it” HAHAHHAHAA
momo go away please
Sweetest Obsession
K’s notes: First introduced at the end of the fan meeting, this track took me by surprise and stole my heart. This will forever be tied to that SaNayeon kiss moment, a memory so vivid even Mina and Dahyun couldn’t keep straight faces thinking about it. The track radiates playful sensuality and captures a moment in TWICE history that fans would always hold close to their hearts.
Keeper
K’s notes: Dahyun’s songwriting streak continues to be undefeated with this heartfelt piece. It has the same warm, comforting energy as “Marshmallow.” Yes, those two tracks would definitely sit at the same cafeteria table. This one is perfect for winding down on the slow walk home after a long day.
C’s notes:
this sounds so magical holy fuck the vocals in the back??
alriiiiiight OK JIHYO
jihyo going off in the back oh my god
oh the way momo sings “it’s shining”
dahyun pen still so STRONG
Magical
K’s notes: As the title suggests, this track is nothing short of magical. In this house, we love a TWICE holiday track! Also, their excellence at spelling out words = undefeated still, and always adds an extra touch of charm.
I can already imagine this song in a holiday Coke commercial or playing in the background of a Christmas dinner scene. The vibe is warm and celebratory, perfect for the holidays.
Nayeon and Jihyo’s bridge in this just takes this Christmas song to another level. It’s intense in the best way—TWICE doesn’t hold back, not even on a holiday track.
Every Christmas AU I ever write will have this as the soundtrack. (and that list already includes this one.)
C’s notes:
merry christmas!
oh shit the whole thing’s in english again??
it’s so cheesy oh my god
still sounds like a kylie minogue song hahaha
ooooh mina SPELLING QUEEN
“cause you’re the only thing on my list” awww
let’s fucking goooo nahyo bridge!!!! DPWH QUEENS!!!
this song fits tzuyu’s range so well
as usual, mina’s voice is like MSG. so fucking good.
it sounds like something i’d hear on tv
tl;dr
With Strategy, TWICE continues to showcase their ability to reinvent themselves while staying true to their core. Whether it’s sultry R&B or playful holiday vibes, TWICE always has something for everyone. What a perfect gift for ONCE during the holidays and a fitting bookend for 2024.
Strategy-related media round-up
Strategy choreo vids didn’t have to go this hard, really
This stage with Youngji was lit
Thank you Strategy for giving us this Jihyo
This TWICE-trategy ver was like a fever-dream
XO,
c+k