A K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve.

This is not a unique or surprising reference (in fact, I mentioned it just a few weeks ago on this blog), but when I think of 80s music one of my biggest touchstones is Don Henley’s The Boys Of Summer. I just love that soft, shimmering synth-rock sound coupled with absolutely perfect melodies. What’s more surprising is that the opening track of hrtz.wav’s new album echoes this approach.

I’ve been totally won over by this album. I still think this band is an awkward proposition on stage, but their hooky, melodic style works very well on record. Mind is perhaps the best example of this yet, offering a sticky melody underlined by that aforementioned mix of shimmering synths and galloping percussion. Frontman Riaan’s voice works so well over this material, adding a whispy texture supported by a subtle power that brings a bit of tension to the performance. If you’ve been on the fence about this band like I was, maybe this song will change your mind.

Grade: B+