Last time we heard Block B, they were treading through K-pop and giving us their own twist on what we'll call 'hip-hop meets pop', a formula that's definitely paid off since they've accumulated quite the following since their debut. With Zico in the lead, the boys of Block B are back with the repackaged version of their first mini-album, 'New Kids On The Block'. � Track List: 01. Halo 02. Tell Them 03. U Hoo Hoo 04. Wanna B 05. Freeze! 06. Is It Only Me? 07. Tell Them (Inst.) 08. Freeze! (Inst.) � It's not easy stepping into K-pop as a group with a hip-hop inclination. However, Block B are bridging that gap by fusing sturdy rap phrases with bubbly melodies. In their first EP - or songs 04, 05, and 06 on this one - Block B were convincing as rappers but also as K-pop artists, for most of their music was fueled by 'pop' elements. That trend continues in 'New Kids On The Block'. "Halo" - the opening track and audio above - is quite possibly the best song Block B have served us to this day. It's an effortless hybrid of believable rap (thanks to their 'underground' upbringing) and engaging melodies. The transition between the first verse and chorus is really well done. Even better is that they spice things up the second time around, adding a dose of suspense, tension, and surprise to this already strong tune. But what's also exciting about this song is Block B's hunger to make a statement, which is precisely what "Halo" does. It's an opening statement; a measure of what they have to offer, be it feisty rap lines, howling choruses, pounding beats and catchy verses, or all of the above. "Halo" allows all aspects of what is Block B to shine in an appropriate manner. Block B aren't polished pretty-boys, but they're K-pop stars nonetheless, and this song allows them to tap into their rugged side, while using the more commercially-friendly songs on this EP - "Tell Them" and "U Hoo Hoo" - to soften their style. "Tell Them" falls in line with the expected style of Kpop boy-bands. It features rap and Block B's take on musicality, yet it's blatantly clear that this was designed to reach a wider audience, especially for those listeners who aren't particularly fond of the forceful flavor of "Halo". It kind of works as a gateway to the edgier side of Block B. Meanwhile, "U Hoo Hoo", which leaves behind the stamping beats that are associated with hip-hop, embraces a conventional electronic style. Both of these songs are a far cry from the kind of background they thrive in, but in a way, Block B manage to pull them off all the while still incorporating a sense of believability. === Mainstream music is at a point where it isn't as hip-hop influenced as it once was. Some would say that Block B is like a younger version of BIGBANG, but I'd argue that they could possibly be this generation's 1TYM. Of course, the members of 1TYM lived and breathed hip-hop when they were active, but that's not to say that Block B don't possess that same thirst either. Block B delivered an impressive banger with "Halo" and it comes at a time when that sound isn't as prominent in mainstream K-pop music, which gives them an edge and a route to follow, musically, that will allow them to shine and stand out in K-pop right now. It's a shame that the lead single and B-side tracks lack that particular kick, because although they're very K-pop and catchy, they don't hone in on Block B's full potential like they should. They don't show different sides to these guys, but instead tames them, and right now, Block B don't need to hold back. They should be allowed to explode. � � Overall Rating: 4.0/5 � What are your thoughts on Block B's repackaged mini album? � Suggestions for a future review? �Hit the author up on�Twitter (@rothsresidence) or via�e-mail (arnold.arteaga@allkpop.com)! � Note: This article does not reflect the opinions of allkpop, only of the author.