It’s been gratifying to watch Astro’s surge in sales numbers this year. 2018 was rough for the group, without a fully-promoted comeback as the fate of their agency seemed unclear. But, their first full album was a surprise success this January, and now the guys are entering the Japanese market. With J-pop’s love for bright … Continue reading
This time last year, NCT had already delivered an exciting yearbook project that saw the release of no less than four singles (with more to come). In comparison, 2019 has been downright barren. In fact, SM Entertainment’s 2019 schedule has been exceedingly light, relegating to a pair of SHINee-related solos and a few other ballads. … Continue reading
GFriend have already packed a lot into their 2019. In just two months, they’ve released a full-length Korean album and a Japanese single. Now, they’re back with another new J-pop track, funneling various sounds from their four-year career into the upbeat Flower. Last year’s Memoria was a lyrical, slow-burn affair, but Flower punches right out … 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. February 2019 Overall Thoughts We’re deep in the winter doldrums, and that’s exactly what February’s K-pop … Continue reading
I’m honestly a little confused when it comes to Boyfriend’s current status. Their contracts would have expired last year, but I never remember hearing news of a renewal. As much as I love the group’s music, I would have pegged them for a likely disbandment simply because Starship Entertainment rarely does anything for them in … Continue reading
Many idol group members have gone solo, but few boast a singles run big enough for a top ten countdown. SHINee’s Taemin is one of those few, starting with his solo debut in 2014. His music borrows elements from SHINee’s repertoire, but draws on a different type of artistry. It’s at turns powerful, sexy, smooth … Continue reading
AAA’s Nissy is celebrating five years since the launch of his solo career with a greatest hits compilation. Never mind the fact that all of his solo work can be found across just two albums, making a greatest hits somewhat redundant. I’ll take new music where I can get it, and this compilation comes with … Continue reading
