Song Review: Seventeen – Hot
Review

Song Review: Seventeen – Hot

Seventeen’s fourth full album was preceded by their first English-language single Darl+ing, released last month. That song felt very much like a placeholder, as many pre-releases tend to be. Now that anticipation has been built, it’s time for the main course. With Hot, the guys are back with a harder-edged hip-hop track (what else is … Continue reading

Song Review: BVNDIT – Venom
Review

Song Review: BVNDIT – Venom

It’s crazy how quickly time passes in K-pop. When looking back at BVNDIT’s discography, I hadn’t even realized their last release happened over two years ago. That’s an entire lifetime for some groups, and a real hurdle for those still trying to establish themselves. So, it’s no surprise to see BVNDIT opt for a reinvention … Continue reading

Song Review: BoA – The Greatest
Review

Song Review: BoA – The Greatest

BoA’s career forms the architecture of K-pop’s success in Japan, and she’s rightfully celebrating her 20th anniversary in Japan with all the pomp and circumstance that milestone deserves. A title like “The Greatest” may feel a bit cringey as part of other acts’ discographies, but it suits BoA just fine. The real question is: does … Continue reading

Buried Treasure: Astro – More
Review

Buried Treasure: Astro – More

A K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve. Though I’m not yet sure how … Continue reading

Song Review: TXT – Good Boy Gone Bad
Review

Song Review: TXT – Good Boy Gone Bad

Back when TXT debuted with the excellent Crown, it seemed they had years of bright, bubbly pop ahead of then. Instead, the group quickly veered into more combative territory. Their first comeback enhanced the rock angst and – apart from one disco-infused “minisode” in 2020 – they’ve stayed pretty faithful to that template. This paid … Continue reading