With each Great Guys review I write, I feel obligated to repeat how awful I think their group name is. Seriously, it’s gotta be the worst K-pop name out there …
Read More »[Review] Super Junior D&E’s “Danger” brings the noise but not a whole lot else
Since opening Label SJ (a sub-label supported by SM Entertainment), Super Junior have taken a more active role in the production of their music. This is (understandably) the ultimate goal …
Read More »[Review] 1THE9’s “Spotlight” tries to make ‘merry go round’ swaggy, basically
When it comes to groups spawned by survival shows, it’s hard to predict what genre their music will take. More often than not, these projects simply cycle through whatever trends …
Read More »[Review] BVNDIT debut with familiar, workmanlike “Hocus Pocus”
BVNDIT’s debut album is titled ‘BVNDIT, Be Ambitious,’ yet it’s anchored by a title track so generic and workmanlike that it becomes difficult to recall once it’s over. There’s a …
Read More »[Review] IZ*ONE buck ‘Produce’ group trend, develop their sound with “Violeta”
For me, one of the most frustrating things about ‘Produce 101‘-spawned groups is that they don’t attempt to develop a signature sound or concept. Given their temporary status as project …
Read More »[Review] Bolbbalgan4’s “Bom” is pleasantly safe, which continues their brand
Last year, Bolbbalgan4 delivered their version of a summer song, and “Travel” went on to become a huge crossover hit. New single “Bom” takes its cues from spring — a …
Read More »[Review] Pentagon’s sound successfully evolves on “Sha La La” by invoking “Energetic”
After last September’s “Naughty Boy“, I feared that Pentagon might end up chasing their own tail on a never-ending quest to replicate the structure and energy of 2018 hit “Shine“. …
Read More »[Review] Taeyeon’s “Four Seasons” is an amiable mid-tempo, though it feels like one of her album tracks
It’s been a long wait for new material from Taeyeon, and even longer since she’s actively promoted in Korea. With the release of digital single “Four Seasons“, it doesn’t seem …
Read More »[Review] VAV’s “Thrilla Killa” is like a release from 2013 and in the best way
In this day and age, I’m always impressed if I can get through a K-pop title track without a single trendy synth flourish. The tropical squiggles of yesteryear have warped …
Read More »[Review] MOMOLAND’s “I’m So Hot” plays it safe, misses usual standout chorus
MOMOLAND had a stellar 2018, propelled by the surprise smash of their hit “Bboom Bboom” and its copy-and-paste follow-up “BAAM“. Now, the real test begins. Having one breakout single is …
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