Battle of the B-Sides: Girls’ Generation, Monsta X, Lovelyz, Cross Gene, Nu’est W
Feature

Battle of the B-Sides: Girls’ Generation, Monsta X, Lovelyz, Cross Gene, Nu’est W

K-pop’s title tracks might gain most of listeners’ attention, but many album tracks are worth equal spotlight. I call these “buried treasures.” Beyond this, K-pop’s albums deliver thousands of additional tracks that settle for a more limited audience. It’s these songs that will become a part of my “battle of the b-sides” feature. In this … Continue reading

Song Review: Nu’est W – Dejavu
Review

Song Review: Nu’est W – Dejavu

Nu’est’s post-Produce 101 ascendance has been nothing short of extraordinary, and I’m surprised that they took so long to follow up on last October’s successful Where You At. Despite that song’s adherence to the annoying-instrumental-drop-as-chorus trend, I eventually came around to enjoying its dynamic arrangement. In contrast, new single Dejavu feels much more subdued and less … Continue reading

K-Pop Producer Spotlight: Bumzu
Feature

K-Pop Producer Spotlight: Bumzu

If there’s anything I’ve learned from covering pop music for over a decade, it’s that songwriters and collaborators are just as important as the artists themselves. Though they often work behind the scenes, this feature is a chance to shine the light on some of k-pop’s most innovative and accomplished producers and composers. Bumzu Years … Continue reading