SEVENTEEN have settled into a pattern that alternates between the upbeat pop of their past and an emotional brand of tempo-shifting EDM. And while I will always be drawn more …
Read More »[Review] Gugudan continue run of solid releases on “The Boots”, but there’s potential for more
Looking back on my past reviews of Gugudan’s discography, I’ve been a little hard on the group. I’ve never actively disliked one of their songs, but every time they make …
Read More »[Review] BoA’s “Nega Dola” has a lot going on, for better and worse
On her currently-streaming documentary, BoA has professed a desire to release music that appeals to the current generation of k-pop fans. Her concerns are valid: Why listen to an established …
Read More »[Review] Golden Child’s “It’s U” is catchy pop fluff with a questionable instrumental backdrop
When it was announced that Golden Child would be working with Sweetune for their comeback, I was absolutely elated. Not only would 2017’s most-promising rookie group be paired with my favorite …
Read More »[Review] VAV’s “Spotlight” is a solid dance track that’s limited by small missteps
Boy group VAV have flown under the radar so far, despite being quite prolific. They released a total of four singles in 2017, but hadn’t yet compiled them into an …
Read More »[Review] Go Won’s “One & Only” stands out as LOONA’s weakest effort yet
Given that LOONA scored about as many songs on my Top 100 Korean Songs Of 2017 as any other group, it’s safe to say that I’ve grown to anticipate their …
Read More »[Review] Suzy’s “Holiday” creates a tranquil atmosphere, but that’s about it
Thus far, Suzy’s solo music has often been more about aesthetic than dynamic composition. She possesses the kind of soft vocal that lends itself well to this relaxing style, even …
Read More »[Review] Red Velvet find their best ‘velvet’ side, excelling on the slow-burning “Bad Boy”
Calling your album ‘The Perfect Red Velvet‘ sure sets expectations sky high, but Red Velvet have gradually been blending their quirky pop and r&b sides for the past year or …
Read More »Jeong Sewoon returns with safe & solid “Baby It’s U” that could’ve used a bit of punch
When I cued up Jeong Sewoon’s new single, I was expecting some soft, acoustic ballad. But January continues to surprise with upbeat material, as he’s taken a sudden shift towards …
Read More »Indie Focus: Ashmute’s ’01’ is a quality album that puts twists on the electronic sound
It’s been about 10 months between Ashmute‘s last single, “Scenery,” and now her first EP in ‘01‘. The four-song EP carries well with the addition of the instrumentals, which I …
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