June In Music

Summer opened with a big bang! Literally, as Big Bang's leader, G-Dragon, made his comeback at the start of the month after 4 years. Girl groups Mamamoo, Blackpink and APink made their returns as well with fun songs akin to the warm weather. This summer, what song is going to take the cake as 2017's summer anthem?

1. G-Dragon - Untitled 2014

Korean

Released: June 8th

G-Dragon released his second mini-album, titled after his real name "Kwon Ji-Yong". The songs on this album relay the artist's inner feelings and struggles that contrast with his confident persona. "Untitled 2014", the lead single, is an emotional lamentation with a piano composition and simplistic music video. This ballad is comparable to fellow Big Bang member Taeyang's "Eyes Nose Lips" but is a complete switch up from G-Dragon's normal hip-hop oriented works.

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 2/5

2. NCT 127 - Cherry Bomb

Korean

Released: June 14th

NCT 127 has taken on a very bizarre concept with their debut track "Fire Truck" and then went a tamer route with "Limitless". Now the ball is back in the court of unusualness in the swaggy and explosive "Cherry Bomb". Mark and Taeyong participated in writing the lyrics which talk about how they blow up the stage with their charisma. "I'm the biggest hit on the stage." Like always, the members deliver mesmerizing choreography but I can't help but call this a downgrade to their previous comeback. The electronic hip-hop composition of the song, albeit innovative, make it seems like two songs were cut and pasted together.

Review: Song - 2.5/5  MV - 2.5/5

3. T-ara - What's My Name

Korean

Released: June 14th

T-ara returned with their ninth extended-play to say goodbye. "What's My Name?" marks the end of the group's career as they plan to disband after its release. For this farewell song, T-ara swapped their typical EDM style for a softer approach.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

4. Monsta X - Shine Forever

Korean

Released: June 19th

After dropping their first full album in March, Monsta X came back with a repackaged version featuring its lead single "Shine Forever". "Shine Forever" is of the electronic genre with touches of hip-hop. It's lyrics describe being in awe by someone's shining beauty. The music video is acted out well: the group is in a car accident, which leaves Kihyun blind (as represented by the blindfold). Then in the end, after much regret and blame, the members take Kihyun to a field in the nighttime. The field is illuminated with lights and Kihyun regains his vision.
Review: Song - 3.5/5  MV - 3/5

5. Blackpink - As If It's Your Last

Korean

Released: June 22nd

"As If It's Your Last" is a uptempo pop track with a fun vibe perfect for summer. With this introduction to the groups' pink concept, Blackpink showcase what they haven't in their previous "black" singles. The girls show a brighter, cuter side to themselves and take on the school uniform concept. The release also features an all-English rap and a playful choreography that's easy for fans to follow along too!

Review: Song - 3.5/5  MV - 2.5/5

6. Hyolyn X Kisum - Fruity

Korean

Released: June 29th

Wasting no time since Sistar's disbandment (in early June), Hyolyn lends her vocals to "Fruity", a bright summer song about a refreshing, sweet relationship. She paired up with fellow Unpretty Rapstar contestant Kisum for this CF advertising Lipton fruit-flavored beverages. The chorus is groovy and airy, while the music video set is a vibrant fruit juice bar!

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 3.5/5

Sources

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