Earlier this year, I spent much of my review of Hyoyeon’s first DJ HYO track bemoaning its lack of structural risk-taking. It slavishly followed the standard EDM, beat-drop archetype. And the thing is… new single Punk Right Now kind of does the same thing. Yet, the song takes this formula and makes it memorable with hard-hitting, percussive … Continue reading
In addition to a fantastic full album, SHINee’s 2018 has seen new Japanese work from Taemin and a posthumous release from Jonghyun. One member we don’t hear from as often when it comes to solo music is Key. Four years ago, he formed the project duo Toheart with Infinite’s Woohyun, but beyond that he’s only … Continue reading
Most of the time, a k-pop group’s title track is the best song on their album. But, sometimes b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of k-pop, I wanted to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve. Sandwiched between NCT and EXO, BoA’s new album release received far … Continue reading
Most of the time, a k-pop group’s title track is the best song on their album. But, sometimes b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of k-pop, I wanted to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve. SM Entertainment spent a lot of time hailing EXO’s new album … Continue reading
Nearly every 2018 TVXQ release has felt underwhelming in some regard, and I only have myself to blame. They are my second-most-listened-to K-pop artist after Infinite, and as the years have gone on I’ve positioned them as untouchable legends within the industry. An over two-year hiatus only cemented this status, as I watched K-pop move … Continue reading
Though members of EXO have kept busy with solo projects and sub-units, it feels like forever since we’ve been treated to a full comeback from the group. Their new album, Don’t Mess Up My Tempo, has a wonderful title, promising a playground of shifting percussion and dynamic energy. This tone contrasts with the subdued Ko … 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. October 2018 Overall Thoughts October was like one of those Halloween horror movies with a twist … Continue reading
