After starting this feature in February, I hoped to post a new J-Pop round-up every month or so. But, the Covid-19 pandemic put a halt on Japan’s music industry, with very little material coming out since early April. There just hasn’t been much to write about. So, instead of featuring strong b-sides this time, I’m … Continue reading
Since the start of The Bias List in January 2016, I’ve always looked back at my three favorite title tracks by K-pop artists each month. Now, it’s time to look even further into the past, one month at a time. And, yes, the top three rankings count toward The Bias List’s personal artist scorecard! May … Continue reading
With the release of this week’s Mysterious, girl group Hello Venus finally have enough title tracks for a proper top ten countdown. The group has undergone quite the shift in sound and image throughout the years, starting with a quirky/cute concept before amping up the sensual side of their music. For me, their output has … Continue reading
I’ve been pretty lukewarm toward Hello Venus’ latest singles, but their sporadic 2016 material seemed like more of a teaser for something bigger than actual comebacks. They’re a group I really want to like more than I do. Unfortunately, their sound has shifted so many times since their 2012 debut that it’s been hard to … Continue reading
I was not a big fan of Hello Venus’s previous collaboration with Devine Channel back in May, but Paradise promised something more uptempo and summery. July hasn’t seen a ton of great summer girl group tracks yet, so I prepared myself for something fantastic. I should know by now not to set expectations high without … Continue reading
Hello Venus are one of those girl groups that seem to exist in the ether — established and successful enough to be known by many, but never to the point where they remotely threaten the big leagues. Frustratingly, they’ve often worked with mega producer Brave Brothers, but rarely reaped the same rewards his magic touch has … Continue reading
