LOUD’s format surprised all the way up to its grand finale. The line-up for its two boy groups was actually revealed in the penultimate episode, with the finale devoted to a festival-like series of performances. It was nice to watch an episode without stressing over votes and eliminations, and I’m super excited about both groups … Continue reading
While BTS may be the most globally known K-pop act, I’d argue that NCT has had greater influence on the sound of this generation’s boy groups. During the first few years of their existence – with various units tackling distinct styles – this influence was surely a boon for the industry. But, now we’ve reached … Continue reading
LOONA’s Japanese debut Hula Hoop has no music video, and there doesn’t seem to be one forthcoming. This usually means I skip writing about the song unless I’m ridiculously enthused or enraged. But, enough of you asked for a review and today’s a slow K-pop day. So, here we are! Like so many recent idol … Continue reading
Over twenty years since his debut, Miyavi is releasing some of the strongest albums of his career. He’s found a great juncture that encompasses solo work, collaborations, Japanese and English lyrics, original songs and covers. His new album Imaginary wraps these facets in his incredible guitar work and knack for a killer melody. K-pop fans … Continue reading
Best-of albums are uncommon in K-pop, and usually mark a special occasion. With the news surrounding Wheein’s contract negotiations, I can’t help but feel like this new album is a sign that Mamamoo may be taking a hiatus or at least slowing down. If I’m being honest, I haven’t been excited about a new Mamamoo … Continue reading
Without being a massive, in-the-know fan, I’m consistently surprised at how different Wonho’s solo work has sounded from the bulk of Monsta X’s discography. When it comes to title tracks, he’s opted for a much softer sound, making me curious how he felt performing the harder-edged material that came to define his former group’s singles … Continue reading
It feels like I’m writing a new Stray Kids review every other day. JYP Entertainment has gone all out for their newest album, filming several music videos to promote group and sub-unit tracks. I don’t know if I’ll write a detailed review on every one, but Bang Chan and Hyunjin’s Red Lights deserves a few … Continue reading
As they have in the past, ATEEZ held a public vote to decide which of two songs would become their newest title track. My choice was soundly beaten, proving yet again that Old Man Nick and the general K-pop fandom have diverged in taste. Thankfully, a music video for Eternal Sunshine is waiting in the … Continue reading
K-pop’s title tracks might gain most of listeners’ attention, but many album tracks are worth equal spotlight. I call these “buried treasures.” Beyond this, K-pop’s albums deliver thousands of additional tracks that settle for a more limited audience. It’s these songs that will become a part of my “battle of the b-sides” feature. In this … Continue reading
After a couple of years spent ignoring music from the west, I’ve started to listen to more American and European pop in 2021. You can thank standout releases by big acts like Dua Lipa and The Weeknd for that. Granted, my Western pop consumption is still ridiculously small when compared to K-Pop and J-Pop, but … Continue reading
After making their long-awaited return earlier this summer, 2PM are releasing new music in Japan. They’ve always had a huge J-pop career – so big that it eclipsed their Korean output in recent years. We’ll see how commercially impactful With Me Again (僕とまた) ends up being, but when it comes to sheer quality, it definitely … Continue reading
I wish every release received the promotional blitz JYP Entertainment affords Stray Kids. Though it’s only been out for a few weeks, we’re already on the third official music video from their NOEASY album. Neither Thunderous nor The View did much for me, so to call Cheese my favorite single yet isn’t exactly high praise. … Continue reading
After the excellence of recent comeback libidO, I was in the process of laminating my OnlyOneOf stan card, only to be interrupted by an unexpected message from 8D Creative: 8D: By the way, Love (the group’s leader) is leaving OnlyOneOf. Just thought you should know. Me: What?!? Wh- 8D: Yep, he’s out as of this … Continue reading
Rather than return with a full group comeback, BLACKPINK’s 2021 has seen the group deliver long-promised solo songs. This spring marked the release of Rosé’s first solo, and now Lisa has dropped her self-referential LALISA. YG Entertainment has a long history of idol rappers going solo, with acts like G-Dragon, CL and Mino paving a … Continue reading
There have been a few small-agency debuts over the past day or two. My busy schedule – coupled with an indifferent opinion – has meant I haven’t covered any of these. But, I’d like to write about Luminous’s Run because I think the song is quite good. It’s straightforward and won’t likely set the industry … Continue reading
Lee Hi’s recent output is solid and rewarding, but it’s been a long time since I’d call one of her singles “fun.” Granted, K-pop has more than enough upbeat, exciting material. Lee Hi is in no way required to jump into a style that’s not a match for her ambition or personality. But, I’ve always … Continue reading
Watching the competition show LOUD has renewed my interest in P Nation and its artists. The agency is already stacked with major talent, both in front of the cameras and behind the scenes. And the series’ reinterpretations of popular songs have showcased the creativity at the core of P Nation’s ethos. It’s disappointing, then, when … Continue reading
First comebacks can be even more exciting than debuts. It’s where you begin to see the path of an artist. Will they double down and quickly develop a signature sound? Or, will they display their diversity with a new concept? I tend to prefer the former approach, unless I really disliked the debut song! With … Continue reading
I don’t know that I’ll ever understand the deal with Sungmin and Super Junior. He’s yet to return to the group since his military service, yet releases solo music under their sub-label. I know that the “controversy” surrounding his marriage effectively removed him from group activities, but I’m surprised his career continues to exist in … Continue reading
Over the years, I’ve become increasingly disillusioned with the K-pop sub-genre some affectionately call “noise music.” As dance clubs become less common and listeners primarily consume new music from their computer screens, dance-oriented tracks seem designed to get your head nodding as you watch YouTube rather than get your body moving on the dancefloor. Though … Continue reading
