In the ever-evolving world of k-pop, it’s difficult to present a concept that feels truly unique. Yezi’s girl group Fiestar is a good example of this, careening from cute to sexy to quirky in all the expected ways (and providing some fantastic pop songs in the process). But while Fiestar hasn’t allowed Yezi much spotlight … Continue reading
Last week’s Spotlight by Sohee marked the first post-series release by a K-Pop Star Season 6 alumni. Hot on its heels is Kriesha Chu’s Trouble. Though the two were placed in the same group for the season’s last few episodes, they’re taking an opposite approach now that the show’s over. Sohee will be performing as … Continue reading
Like many groups trying to break into the big leagues, B.I.G have changed styles almost every time they make a comeback. With February’s excellent 1.2.3, it felt like they finally found one that stuck. But not content to rest on their laurels, the guys have shifted genres once again. Hello Hello sees rapper Minpyo back with … Continue reading
Debuts are always exciting, offering the chance for a rookie act to paint the first brushstrokes of what might become their sound. Beyond the hope for a strong, quality track, a debut is free from the kind of crushing expectations that can sometimes derail the comeback of more established artists. I went into A.C.E’s Cactus … Continue reading
While its ambitious release schedule seemed overbearing initially, it feels as if the LOONA project has started to gain traction with fans. The girls’ material itself has also seen an uptick in quality, with bigger budgets and more involving imagery. It will be fascinating to see how each of these girls assemble into their eventual group, … Continue reading
It’s ironic that the title of MAP6’s new single album is Momentum, because I don’t know what kind of momentum their agency thinks the group is creating with their current promotional schedule. Since their debut in 2015, the boys have released a grand total of seven songs in Korea, making only one comeback per year. … Continue reading
With a title like B-Day (벌떼), a song could easily devolve into cringe-worthy territory. But with the first of iKON’s double title tracks trying too hard to paint the guys as swagger-filled hip-hop legends, a little levity is welcome. And although B-Day doesn’t receive top billing on the group’s new single album, it’s by far … Continue reading
