Secret Number's Doomchita Explained: The Magic Behind the Music

Secret Number - Doomchita marked the K-pop group's fourth single album release on June 8, 2022, arriving at a time when many critics felt the industry lacked musical diversity and fresh ideas. The physical album was initially offered in three distinct versions: Normal and Limited editions in both Medium and Large sizes.

While "Doomchita" serves as the album's title track with a runtime of 3:17, the release also features a second song titled "Hola" lasting 3:24. Despite the anticipation surrounding the comeback, the album received mixed reviews from critics, earning a rating of 6.5. In fact, some reviewers suggested that the K-pop industry was "severely lacking in actual songs" during this period, with artists focusing more on performance aspects rather than vocal delivery.

The concept behind 'Doomchita'

"Doomchita" represents a significant departure from Secret Number's previous musical identity. The title itself serves as an onomatopoeic expression that mirrors the song's powerful trap-based beats interwoven with bold brass elements. This sonic combination creates the energetic foundation upon which the group builds their confidence-driven message.

How the title reflects the song's theme

The title "Doomchita" directly connects to the song's underlying theme of bold self-assurance. Member Soo-dam described it as "a powerful dance song with addictive trap-based beats interweaved with brass sounds". These musical elements reinforce the lyrics that focus on uniqueness and being "incomparable" in the world.

The meaning of 'Doomchita' in Korean pop culture

Within Korean pop culture, onomatopoeic song titles often represent specific sound effects or rhythmic patterns. "Doomchita" falls into this category, though notably, some critics pointed out that "tracks with these weird onomatopoeia names tend to be as irritating as their sound effect suggests".

Why Secret Number chose this concept

For this comeback, Secret Number deliberately "drifted away from its high-teen concept and went for a dashing and devil-may-care look". This transformation was strategic, with member Zuu explaining they "invested ample time studying it" and "practiced for the best harmony". Furthermore, the album's cover art featuring a door symbolizes "the medium to connect Secret Number's new attempt at this [dark and powerful] concept".

Breaking down the song structure

The musical architecture of Secret Number - Doomchita follows a sophisticated formula that blends powerful brass elements with dynamic rap sequences. Specifically, the song employs a structure that maximizes impact through strategic placement of high-energy segments and melodic contrasts.

Intro and hook: Setting the tone

"Doomchita" opens with a distinctive brass sample that immediately establishes the song's bold character. This introduction strategically hints at the hook that will later dominate the chorus, effectively preparing listeners for the full sonic experience. The opening brass elements create a foundation for the subsequent layers of the composition.

Verse and rap sections: Energy and flow

The verses feature alternating vocal parts from Minji, Zuu, Soodam, and Jinny, creating textural variety. Jinny's rap sections, particularly, stand out as one of the stronger elements of the track. Critics have noted that "the rap parts in the verses are done well", providing essential momentum between the more melodic segments of the song.

Chorus and post-chorus: The signature sound

The chorus centers around the repetitive "Dum chit du dum chita" hook, which serves as both a call-and-response with the trumpet elements and sometimes duplicates the instrumental hook. Subsequently, the post-chorus sections feature alternating parts between Lea & All and Soodam & All, adding further dynamic contrast.

Bridge and final chorus: Building climax

Before the final chorus, the instrumental notably "kicks it up a notch," adding a welcome touch of dynamism to the composition. The bridge segment featuring Minji's "Ready, burn" line intensifies the energy, leading to what some describe as a "double time final chorus" designed to add excitement and create a climactic conclusion.

Production and performance choices

Behind Secret Number's distinctive sound stands global production team ARTMATIC, who crafted "Doomchita" with an emphasis on performance impact and expressive power. The track credits Team VN, XLMT, and SOCIOKATE as lyricists, with composition handled by ARTMATIC members Hyeon Sang Lee, Ji San Choi, XLMT, WUD, and KAELINL.

Producers and songwriters behind the track

The production credits reveal a collaborative effort across multiple disciplines. Vocal direction was managed by OBROS, whereas Masterkey (821 Sound) handled the mixing, with mastering completed by Namwoo Kwon. This coordination between diverse talents helped shape the song's distinctive character.

Instrumental and beat composition

"Doomchita" marries addictive trap beats with intense brass sounds to create a powerful sonic foundation. The instrumental features Kyungbin Kim on chorus, WUD on piano, and Jisan Choi handling guitar elements. Nevertheless, some critics described the track as having an "irritating instrumental loop" opening the song.

Choreography and stage presence

The choreography incorporates precise arm movements resembling weapons, hip swings, and 90-degree angle positions. Although crafted to match the song's energy, some reviewers felt the moves "could have been a bit more aggressive and 'in your face'". Instead, the routine focuses on "more sensual movements".

Music video aesthetics and symbolism

The visual presentation employs familiar tropes including graffiti and "WANTED" posters. The members appear in both colorful outfits and leather ensembles, with the latter drawing comparisons to ITZY's "M.A.F.I.A" styling. However, critics noted the absence of a distinctive "wow factor" moment that might have elevated the otherwise conventional concept.

Reception and impact

Following its June 2022 release, Secret Number - Doomchita generated divided opinions across the K-pop community, becoming a turning point for the group's artistic direction.

Fan reactions and online discourse

Online discussions revealed passionate but conflicting viewpoints about the comeback. Even as some fans defended the track, others expressed disappointment, with commenters stating "I CAN'T STAND THIS NOISE MUSIC TERRORISM ANYMORE". Additionally, some longtime supporters felt betrayed, dramatically suggesting they wanted to "burn down the agency's headquarters".

Critical reviews and ratings

Professional assessments were similarly mixed. One reviewer rated the song 6/10, the music video 5/10, and the performance 6.5/10, for an overall score of 5.8/10. Critics frequently described the release as "generic", lacking "individuality or character", thereby failing to stand out in an overcrowded market.

Comparison to previous Secret Number releases

Compared to earlier works, reviewers considered "Got That Boom" "incredible", "Fire Saturday" merely "fine", whereas "Doomchita" was viewed as a disappointing continuation of this downward trend. Consequently, some claimed "their music quality dipped drastically".

What it means for the group's future

Surprisingly, amid critical concerns, "Doomchita" achieved commercial success, recording "3 times the initial Chodong sales of their previous album", suggesting a growing fanbase. This paradox between critical reception and commercial performance placed Secret Number at an artistic crossroads.