THROWBACK #6: SISTAR19- Gone Not Around Any Longer

Released: January 31st, 2013

Let me guess this off my chest; Gone Not Around Any Longer is technically a SISTAR19 song, but it's more of a Hyorin song featuring Bora because that's how much Hyorin gets the spotlight here. One of the greatest vocalists to ever debut from the 3rd generation (debuting between 2007-2011 in my books), Hyorin has yet to have a solo release at that time. So when Sistar19 formed, most of the songs released have showcased Hyorin's robust vocals that you otherwise would not have heard in SISTAR. There's nothing wrong with Bora's presence, and I actually like her parts in Gone Not Around Any Longer, but its production is mainly catered to Hyorin, and that's what makes this song so special. If you're a sucker for slow R&D jams, this song is for you. Mellow percussion, guitar, and an addicting saxophone hook establish the composition throughout the tune, along with some sprinkling of the piano. I absolutely love Hyorin's vocals and the verses do a wonderful job of balancing the volume of the music with her singing. Her vocals elevate and gradually descend when they need to. In the chorus, all of the instruments are put on full blast including the piano, and the melody is not just soothing but also quite catchy. The guitar meshes really well with Bora's rap, but give credit to the presence of Hyorin's harmonies for lifting it up even more. The vocals and the rap done simultaneously somehow blend together well, and is a refreshing change than if only Hyorin participated in it. The piano solo in the bridge is absolute gorgeous to hear and is probably one of the best instrumental solos I have ever heard in a K-Pop song. Unfortunately, there is no final chorus; there were so many beautiful harmonies on top of the 2nd chorus that it sounded pretty much like the last one. A final chorus could have given Hyorin an opportunity to boast her highest octaves and take this song to a whole another level. At least her vocals properly give the song closure at the end for one last time.

Production-wise, I think every instrument played a vital role in carrying the song forward as well as Hyorin's vocals; the saxophone mesmerizes us to the tune, the guitar keeps the foundations in place, and the piano drives the loud chorus without stopping for a breather, while sprinkling some magic in the end. Hyorin as well as Bora do their absolute jobs here, and the result is a song that will never ever get old.

RATING: 7.7/10