Song Review: BoA – Crazier
Review

Song Review: BoA – Crazier

Throughout her historic career, BoA has tried her hand at just about any K-pop sub-genre you could imagine. Having started in the industry so young, she still feels like a contemporary to many of this era’s groups despite being one of K-pop’s most respected elder stateswomen. New title track Crazier is her first in over … Continue reading

Song Review: Say My Name – iLy
Review

Song Review: Say My Name – iLy

Say My Name debuted last year as the first idol group on Kim Jaejoong’s agency iNKODE. That debut didn’t do anything for me, but their follow-up ShaLala showed promise. Now, it’s time for them to take on a summer concept with new single iLy, which ambitiously interpolates Frankie Valli’s iconic 1967 classic Can’t Take My … Continue reading

Song Review: Jay (iKON) – Obey
Review

Song Review: Jay (iKON) – Obey

Ahead of his new album, iKON’s Jay (aka: Jinhwan) pre-released We Can’t Explain last week. That song didn’t do much for me, but title track Obey promised edgier sounds. Obey certainly has some ideas, but the way they’re executed isn’t very satisfying. The track starts promisingly enough, establishing a moody build toward an anticipated payoff. … Continue reading

Song Review: Ryugujo – OSHIBAI
Review

Song Review: Ryugujo – OSHIBAI

Ryugujo are a young group at a crossroads. They’ve been a favorite of mine since forming on the excellent Year 0, Class 0 series and went on to develop a unique and compelling discography. Through it all, mentor and producer Avu-chan oversaw everything. But after the shock announcement that Avu-chan would be stepping down as … Continue reading

Song Review: Twice – Enemy
Review

Song Review: Twice – Enemy

Less than a month since the release of their new Korean album, Twice have already returned with the lead track of their upcoming Japanese album. They’re certainly busy, and Enemy represents a new sonic challenge for them. The group has long been known for their glossy pop sound but this track injects a grittier rock … Continue reading