Compared to other HYBE groups, I’ve had a harder time getting into the groove of ENHYPEN’s discography. Each time they release a song that I love, they’ll follow it with two or three that leave me cold. That track record doesn’t exactly build confidence in new material, but I recognize how popular the group has … Continue reading
It’s been eight years since WM Entertainment debuted its latest group, and a full decade since their last girl group. Thus far, it’s been quality over quantity for this agency. B1A4, Oh My Girl and ONF all have discographies that are pretty bulletproof. Now, it’s time for another act to join this impressive roster. Enter … Continue reading
Baekhyun has done enough amazing things with EXO to warrant a steady stream of write-ups on this blog, even if his solo music has rarely connected with me. I hate coming into a song knowing that I probably won’t like it, though I’m always open (and hoping) to having my mind changed. R&B is a … Continue reading
It’s an uphill battle for new acts from small-to-medium sized agencies, requiring most to deliver eye-raising material that seizes the K-pop conversation. Rather than focus on legitimately great music, many of these smaller acts opt for gimmicks or — more recently — bold statements designed to grab listeners’ attention. The title of KIIRAS’s pre-release certainly … Continue reading
It’s crazy to remember just how huge N.Flying were in 2019 with their breakthrough hit Rooftop. For a short period, they were the K-pop band of note. Member changes and military enlistment complicated their run, leading to a precipitous drop in popularity with the general public. Now, their music feels almost interchangeable with their FNC … Continue reading
Promotion of Japanese music is often unpredictable. Ten’s Silence was released over a month ago as part of his first Japanese mini album but its music video has finally arrived today. I listened to the song back when it first came out and can’t remember a thing about it, but sometimes extra promotion unveils aspects … Continue reading
UAU is technically Dreamcatcher’s first sub-unit, but with the group’s uncertain future after half of the members chose not to renew with their agency, this project may become the most reliable Dreamcatcher content for the foreseeable future. The group’s transformation from super-pop act MINX to J-rock inspired Dreamcatcher is well-known, and 2 Months sounds as … Continue reading
Chart titan IU is back with a special remake album, following up her original work last year. As much as I would have loved it, Never Ending Story is not a cover of the 1984 Limahl hit from the film of the same name. I mean… can you imagine?? Instead, this Never Ending Story was … Continue reading
Seventeen are celebrating a huge ten year anniversary today. They were popular right out of the gate, but few could have predicted just how massive they’ve become. I remember staying up very late to watch the premiere of their first music video (the ebullient Adore U) ten years ago, but I’ve grown more distant from … Continue reading
In the world of silly K-pop names, “SMORZ” is pretty cute but also ridiculous when you realize that it’s a combination of “S’mores” and “Generation Z” and means that you’ll want more of… Gen Z? This project group has debuted with an English-language EP, showcasing their global ambitions. K-pop in English always gives me pause … Continue reading
RIIZE’s new album has a very strong visual element, with music videos or shortened “track videos” for each song. Because of this (and because the album is so strong), I’ll be working through the entire track list over the next few days. Make sure to check back often! 1. Odyssey // 2. Bag Bad Back … Continue reading
Multinational girl group Blackswan don’t return with new music often, averaging about one comeback per year. This is a difficult approach for an idol group. So much of an act’s success hinges on constant content for fans, but too often Blackswan’s career feels like a series of fits and starts. Because of this, each song … Continue reading
Despite many forces working against him, Kim Jaejoong has become one of K-pop’s longest-running success stories. In addition to his music career, he hosts a fun online show and continues to be a successful actor. Through it all, his music hasn’t changed much. At heart, he’s still a rocker. Rock Star is aptly named, and … Continue reading
EXO’s Baekhyun possesses one of my favorite voices in K-pop, but our musical tastes don’t usually seem to align. His solo work has favored the kind of slow, vibey sound that too often feels like background music to me, even as those vocals pull me back in fits and spurts. New single Elevator is no … Continue reading
Ahead of an eventual BTS reunion once everyone has completed their military service, oldest member Jin is back with his second solo mini album. I recently enjoyed watching him as part of the cast of Netflix variety series Kian’s Bizarre B&B, where he came off very well and added a quirky sense of humor. That … Continue reading
Like many boy groups of their stature, The Wind will be sending a member off to compete in the upcoming season two of Boys Planet. Thanatorn will be absent for promotions during this time and — if he makes the eventual group — for quite some time after. Before that, the group is celebrating their … Continue reading
Rose is an interesting display of time travel. NCT’s Taeyong is still on hiatus as he fulfils his military service. This song was first unveiled in 2021 and the video premiered during an event last year. Now, it’s finally made its way online in time for Korea’s Rose Day. I don’t think we can call … Continue reading
It’s become common for idol acts to release special music videos after promotions end for their title track. This allows the albums a longer cycle and spotlights various sounds that may appeal to a wider audience. Fifty Fifty’s perky Pookie saw them aiming straight for the pop jugular, but follow-up Midnight Special offers a moodier … Continue reading
After the release of many sub-unit projects, tripleS are back with their newest full group album. Coincidentally, the name of their title track is the same question I’ve been wanting to ask the K-pop industry for most of this year. Are you alive? This song does exactly what we’ve been conditioned to expect from tripleS. … Continue reading
MEOVV pre-released their Hands Up a few weeks ago and, though the song didn’t bowl me over, I’ll admit that its chorus has stuck in my head. Now, it’s time to see what they’ve got for a title track. Drop Top was written by a variety of YG Entertainment staples, responsible for crafting the greatest … Continue reading
