Hello Gloom may still be a rising name in Korean music, but he’s crafted some of the best pop music of the past few years — both for himself and label-mate from20. His Mamacita is one of my favorite tracks of the year, delving deeper into dance music than ever before. New single Somebody slows things down a bit, offering a moody sound that retains his sonic hallmarks.
I first became interested in Hello Gloom’s music with last year’s Dancing In The Dark and Somebody reminds me of that song. Its synth-powered groove is measured but insistent, delivering an atmospheric backdrop that plays well with the texture of his vocals. The melodies unfold with a similar patience, taking their time but growing more engaging with each repetition. The chorus is more understated than Mamacita or even this summer’s Your Love, but it works in this context.
Somebody also features LA-based singer Justin Park. While Park has a great voice, I’m not sure this song needed a duet partner. The overall vibe is more suited to Hello Gloom’s wistful tone and works best when he’s at the helm of the evocative chorus.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 9 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.25 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
The instrumental here is more 80’s than most songs that claim to be 80’s inspired. The synth atmosphere, especially. The vocal production is all contemporary though with a heaviness – a 80’s song would have had it all in mic effects like a reverb a la Phil Collins “In the Air Tonight”.
I think it is nice.
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Hey Nick, there is a new BOL4 song out this week. Dance track. Its actually pretty good. Though still within the dance style and structure, the song does a lot of things right. It also fits her characteristic high squeaky voice perfectly.
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This type of music is too moody for me, but I listened all the way through because I was surprised by how well constructed this song is. The quality is in the details.
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This guy just keeps on making pure, straightforward bangers. I love the production in this one.
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