The Rose’s album HEAL elaborates on the pains that come with growing up and becoming aware of one’s faults and strengths. The record pulls on the heartstrings of childhood memories, self-worth, and processing emotional healing. Through powerful harmonies, incredible instrumentals, and intelligent lyricism, HEAL succeeds at creating a space for listeners to relate and heal for themselves, all while reigniting the alternative rock genre in the K-Pop industry. The aim of this series is to provide a thoughtful, track-by-track analysis of an incredible album.
“See-Saw”
Approaching a new part of healing, “See-Saw” moves away from the energetic rush of “Cure”. Vocalist Dojoon steps away from the role of being healed and refocuses on being the healer. His phrases of “I’m here” and “You’re okay” act as a comforting friend to listeners who may not have someone in the moment. Dojoon describes himself as one end of a see-saw, where he has the strength to push the other side (or other person) back up. He proceeds to digress the struggles of being the cure for someone else. His fears of understanding and being enough for the audience are expressed in the second verse, surrounded by the gorgeous bowing of a small string section. Dojoon refers to the see-saw with the words “Ease the weight, slowly, little by little,” expressing that despite his ability to hold others up, he needs help balancing himself occasionally. The piece sparks the feelings of listeners who may not be in the process of healing themselves, but rather, healing others.