If any group might have been spared the effects of k-pop’s prolonged tropical love affair, I assumed it would be one like N.Flying. Since reemerging with new member Hweseung last summer, they’ve consistently delivered a rollicking brand of punchy power pop, as joyously silly as it is addictive. Tropical house doesn’t usually play well with … Continue reading
Along with many other male groups of their era, FTIsland is approaching that dreaded military enlistment time, where each member will have to momentarily leave the entertainment industry for their mandatory service. This portion of an idol’s career tends to bring with it an added sense of sentimentality, as artists bid a temporary goodbye to … Continue reading
Most of the time, a k-pop group’s title track is the best song on their album. But, sometimes b-side tracks deserve recognition, too. In the singles-oriented world of k-pop, I wanted to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve. I’ve gone back and forth in my opinion about SF9’s … Continue reading
Since their debut in 2016, SF9 have flirted with a variety of genres and sounds. With October’s O Sole Mio they seemed poised for a breakout, exploring the kind of Latin influences that had been conquering the global music scene for months. Because of this, it’s surprising to hear that they’ve pulled a one eighty … 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 2018 Overall Thoughts It’s a brand new year, which means all possibilities are on the … Continue reading
While AOA remains on hiatus, leader Jimin is back with her second solo single in conjunction with W Magazine. October’s Hallelujah seemed to be on the cusp of trends by incorporating a Latin touch, but Hey reverts to a bratty sound that Jimin has become known for. After all, she is the undisputed queen of … Continue reading
Rap/rock hybrid N.Flying scored one of last summer’s most addictive surprises with the spirited The Real. Their agency FNC is home to several idol rock groups, making it harder for these guys to carve out a niche all their own. But by adding second vocalist Yoo Hwe Seung, N.Flying have developed a boisterous style of … Continue reading
