I’ve listed my “top tens” for many artists, but it’s time to rummage through entire discographies and rank every single from worst to best. This feature will primarily tackle groups who have disbanded or gone on indefinite hiatus. It’s a way for me to re-evaluate my initial thoughts on their singles run. Don’t be surprised … Continue reading
In connection with my desire to fully keep up with the J-pop industry, I’m planning to do a weekly round-up of any new releases that have caught my ear. Some of these may have been covered on the blog already, but my hope is that this will become a one-stop shop for anyone interested in … Continue reading
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. I’m one of those weird people … Continue reading
I’ve listed my “top tens” for many artists, but it’s time to rummage through entire discographies and rank every single from worst to best. This feature will primarily tackle groups who have disbanded or gone on indefinite hiatus. It’s a way for me to re-evaluate my initial thoughts on their singles run. Don’t be surprised … Continue reading
As Super Junior-L.S.S.’s releases have gone on, the material has felt more and more like a joke. Now, they’re saying the quiet part out loud with the appropriately titled… Joke. It’s hard for me to see this sub-unit as anything but novelty, and I guess novelty has its place in the pop landscape. Unfortunately, it … Continue reading
Since switching agencies, iKON members have had more opportunity to develop solo careers and explore different sounds. DK (Kim Dongyuk) is known as the group’s main dancer, but his music takes a more downbeat, angsty turn for pre-release LTNS (오랜만이야). This track melds rock textures with mid-tempo percussion. The vocals are heavily filtered, giving them … Continue reading
I’m not as familiar with Billlie’s discography as others, so I was confused by the “Japanese version” tag attached to this music video. Is there a Korean version of Domino? I certainly can’t find one. Regardless, this synth-heavy sound would be a great direction for the group to take in any music market, melding their … Continue reading
Mamamoo’s Moonbyul is gearing up to release her full album at the end of the month, and like so many others she’s kicking off with a pre-release track. Pre-releases usually go one of two ways: either the artist teases with their strongest material, relegating the actual title track to an afterthought, or they shine spotlight … Continue reading
In a period without many new K-pop releases, a few Japanese tracks from Korean artists are picking up the slack. First up is Yena’s DNA. Though it’s not her first foray into the J-pop market, this is the first original single she’s promoting there. Her pop/rock concept is well suited to Japanese tastes given the … Continue reading
Pre-releases are all the rage these days, and EPEX are preparing for the release of their first full album with the sentimental Graduation Day (졸업식). Over the course of the past few years, the group has ping ponged between genres, often going to opposite extremes. But we haven’t really heard them slow things down for … Continue reading
Just over three years after their debut, P1Harmony have unveiled their first full album. This always feels like a milestone for artists, and P1Harmony aren’t messing with the formula when it comes to its title track. Killin’ It (때깔) retains their attitude-fueled hip-hop sound. There’s no doubt the group excels in this realm, so it’s … Continue reading
ICHILLIN’s music has been on an upward trajectory lately, and last month’s Bite Me impressed with its edgy beat and exciting energy. The girls aren’t wasting any time with a follow up, releasing new digital single Demigod just weeks later. This song shares so much with Bite Me, succeeding and struggling in the exact same … Continue reading
In connection with my desire to fully keep up with the J-pop industry, I’m planning to do a weekly round-up of any new releases that have caught my ear. Some of these may have been covered on the blog already, but my hope is that this will become a one-stop shop for anyone interested in … Continue reading
I still can’t get over the name “Young Posse.” It sounds like something that would’ve been part of an original Disney Channel series — hip-hop as viewed by middle-aged executives. The group’s gimmicky Macaroni Cheese didn’t help alleviate these concerns, but to their credit Young Posse have gone straight to the K-hip-hop well with their … Continue reading
New sub-unit Super Junior-L.S.S. has somehow become the most prolific project from the group, releasing multiple Japanese tracks and now the one-two punch of Suit Up and C’mon. Though it had high points, Suit Up squandered much of its potential by failing to find an engaging chorus to compliment its fun funk instrumental. Follow-up C’mon … Continue reading
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. In addition to strong title tracks, … Continue reading
If we were to judge solely by Korean comebacks, Twice had a relatively sparse 2023. It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly a year since Set Me Free was released. The group has been on a roll awhile now, luxuriating in their space as a long-running, extremely stable idol act. JYP Entertainment has also been … Continue reading
At the end of each month, I look back at my three favorite title tracks by K-pop artists. I take my own ratings into account, but there’s a bit of wiggle room as certain songs tend to grow or fade. January 2024 Overall Thoughts Well, what a nice surprise this month has been! After many years … Continue reading
I keep seeing headlines about how well BABYMONSTER’s Batter Up has done with streams and views. The amount of interaction and hits on my review of the song bear that popularity out. Admittedly, I’m surprised there’s still such an appetite for this specific YG Entertainment song template. The debut of a new YG act is … Continue reading
I hadn’t really connected with Vanner’s music in the past, but their post-Peak Time comeback album impressed me last year. The group harnessed a sleek funk sound that took advantage of their impressive vocals and stage presence. Now it’s time to see if that track was a one-off or if the guys can forge an … Continue reading
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 