At the end of each month, I compile my top three K-pop title tracks and list a ton of honorable mentions. In 2025, I thought I’d try something new and add a weekly feature to supplement my monthly round-up. Each Sunday, I’ll offer a compendium of the week’s new releases featured on the blog. And … Continue reading
Tag Archives: jay
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
THIS WEEK IN K-POP: Ranking the New Releases from July 20 – 26
At the end of each month, I compile my top three K-pop title tracks and list a ton of honorable mentions. In 2025, I thought I’d try something new and add a weekly feature to supplement my monthly round-up. Each Sunday, I’ll offer a compendium of the week’s new releases featured on the blog. And … Continue reading
Song Review: Jay (iKON) – We Can’t Explain
iKON’s Jay made his solo debut back in 2023 with a smooth R&B sound that was high on style but low on the kind of addictive melodies that usually make my ears perk up. He’s set to release a new album next week, and prior to that he’s dropped pre-release track We Can’t Explain. This … Continue reading
New & Noteworthy J-pop of the Week (June 2, 2024)
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
Song Review: Jay (iKON) – Blue Moon
Hours before his military enlistment, iKON’s Jay has dropped his first EP. As the group’s main vocalist, his solo sound offers a sensual atmosphere and plenty of space to show off his voice. Blue Moon is pleasing in a purely aesthetic way, but barely registers as a song. Blue Moon is brittle and slight, driven … Continue reading
Song Review: Jay (iKON) – Paradise
It’s amazing what can be accomplished when the shackles of a big agency like YG Entertainment are thrown away. In just a couple of months, iKON members have released a full album and solo tracks/features. This is lovely to see, especially with so many years of infrequent comebacks. Lead vocalist Jay (also known as Jinhwan) … Continue reading