Red Velvet's song 'Ice Cream Cake,' from their debut extended play of the same name, is a standout track that showcases the group's unique musical style. Released in March 2015, the song is a blend of various
musical genres, creating a distinctive sound that contributed to the group's breakthrough success. This article delves into the musical composition of 'Ice Cream Cake,' highlighting the elements that make it a memorable and influential track.
The Blend of Genres
'Ice Cream Cake' is primarily a dance-rock track with influences from bubblegum pop and drum and bass. This combination of genres creates a vibrant and energetic sound that captures the listener's attention. The song was produced by Hayley Aitken and the producing team Trinity Music, who skillfully blended these elements to create a cohesive and catchy track.
The song's composition is in the key of A major, with a tempo of 172 beats per minute. This fast-paced tempo contributes to the song's lively and upbeat feel, making it an ideal track for dance performances. The use of drum and bass elements adds a layer of complexity to the song, enhancing its appeal to a wide audience.
Lyrical Themes and Metaphors
Lyrically, 'Ice Cream Cake' uses the metaphor of an ice cream cake to express the excitement and attraction a girl feels towards her boyfriend. The lyrics were rewritten in Korean by Jo Yoon-kyung and Kim Dong-hyun, transforming the original English demo titled 'Ice Cream Truck' into a song that resonates with Red Velvet's audience.
The song's lyrics are complemented by its 'haunted' harmony, which can be heard during the intro. This harmony, combined with the sound of a music box, creates an intriguing and whimsical atmosphere that sets the tone for the rest of the track. The use of these elements demonstrates the group's ability to convey complex emotions through their music.
Impact and Reception
Upon its release, 'Ice Cream Cake' received critical acclaim for its innovative composition and catchy melody. Music critics praised the song for its addictive and unpredictable nature, highlighting its potential to become a pop sensation. The song's success was reflected in its commercial performance, peaking at number four on the Gaon Digital Chart and number three on Billboard's World Digital Songs chart.
Overall, 'Ice Cream Cake' is a testament to Red Velvet's musical prowess and their ability to blend different genres to create a unique sound. The song's composition and lyrical themes have left a lasting impact on the K-pop industry, solidifying Red Velvet's position as a leading girl group.
