Playlist 16. Latin Influenced K-pop Songs

Theme: Latin Influence

Songs with a [♥] are my preference or a personal favorite

K-pop songs that are inspired by Latin culture.

1. SF9 - O Sole Mio

Korean ♥

SF9 are warm under the sun in this blazing love song. The song starts off with the strumming of a Spanish guitar and then moves into a more electronic-pop sound. Interestingly, "O Sole Mio" includes lyrics in three Latin languages: Italian, Spanish and Latin. First, the title of the song "O Sole Mio" is Neopolitan Italian for "My Sunshine" or, "Oh My Sun". Perhaps it is a reference to the popular Neopolitan song of the same name. Next is "te quiero", which according to some sources translates as "I love you" or "I want you" from Spanish. Finally, there is the phrase "ego dormio" which is Latin for "I am sleeping". This is followed by a Korean verse, which together translates as "Even when I am sleeping, I am still filled with your warmth." I really like that SF9 used this concept - it was unexpected and unique!

Review: Song - 3.5/5 MV - 3.5/5

2. IU - Havana

Korean

"Havana", named after the capital of Cuba, is a romantic song in which IU compares her love interest to the Caribbean city. The instrumental to "Havana" is very soft with the light strumming of a guitar and there is inspiration drawn from bossa nova (a genre of Brazilian music from the 1950's). It's one of many tracks on IU's third album "Modern Times" that ventured away from typical pop music and gave the singer a more mature image. 

Review: Song - 3/5 

3. Babylon - La La La (feat. Chungha)

Korean ♥

"La La La" is a fun-loving dance tune by solo artist Babylon. The song has a tropical house beat that includes the notes of a marimba (Latin American instrument). The phrase "La Vida Vi Loca", meaning "the crazy life" in Spanish, makes up much of the carefree chorus. Also, tucked in the lyrics is a reference to a classic Mexican folk song. Babylon says "Para Bailar La Bamba" which refers to the 1986 song by Ritchie Valens. To top off, soloist Kim Chungha lends her airy vocals to "La La La", making it even more of a fun listen.

Review: Song - 3/5 MV - 2.5/5

4. Sonamoo - I Knew It

Korean

Sonamoo seems as if they are new ladies in "I Knew It". With this release, they take on a dark, elegant concept that is quite different from what I have seen them do before. "I Knew It" is a Latin-pop song that includes the Spanish guitar and brass instruments. The strong, but graceful choreography features posturing and hand claps that are typical of flamenco style dance.

Review: Song - 2/5 MV - 4/5

5. K.A.R.D. - Rumor

Korean ♥

"Rumor" is KARD's third pre-debut project that followed "Oh Nana" and "Don't Recall". Like the two previous songs, the genre is Tropical house. However, "Rumor" especially gives off a Latino and Reggaeton vibe.

Review: Song - 3.5/5 MV - 2/5

6. Kim Jonghyun (Shinee) - Y Si Fuera Ella

Korean

Many fans of Shinee and K-pop, in general, are remembering the late Shinee member Jonghyun and celebrating him as an artist by listening to his music. While doing so myself, I recently discovered one of Jonghyun's solo tracks "Y Si Fuera Ella", which is a Korean cover of a 1997 song by Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz. Jonghyun sang the ballad with such intense emotion that perfectly matched the longingness of the lyrics - "Ella, How are you trying to leave me with those easy words, “goodbye”. Notably, "Y Si Fuera Ella" was the first solo track of Jonghyun's career and was very beautifully done.

Review: Song - 4/5

7. IU - Everybody Has Secrets (feat. Gain)

Korean

Also from IU's album "Modern Times", is "Everybody Has Secrets" - a collaboration between her and Brown Eyes Girl's Gain. It has a bossa nova influence and an upbeat rhythm that is great for dancing. Its composition is very rich with the sounds of various percussion and stringed instruments. Plus the way IU's and Gain's vocals overlap at parts make everything very dramatic and expressive. 

Review: Song - 3/5 

8. Super Junior - Mamacita

Korean

"Mamacita" is an uptempo pop track with a variety of sounds and genres mixed throughout. In the music video, Super Junior act as cowboys in the Mexican Wild-West who are going after a criminal. Along with the Spanish term "Mamacita", Super Junior take inspiration from Latin culture through their outfits and choreography.

Review: Song - 3/5 MV - 2.5/5

9. Shinee - Señorita

Korean

Many are familiar with "Juliette", one of Shinee's hit songs from 2009. Those who like it may also enjoy "Señorita" - it is a b-side from the same album with a similar energy. Like "Juliette", "Señorita" is a confession of love aimed at the girl they are trying to charm and pursue. The song opens with a Spanish intro, moves into a slow, dramatic bridge and then breaks into a more powerful and uptempo chorus.

Review: Song - 2.5/5

10. K.A.R.D. - Hola Hola

Korean ♥

Even after releasing a few pre-debut singles (as mentioned earlier), KARD hasn't been able to gain popularity in Korea. However, they have garnered attention among international K-pop fans, especially from those in South America. Because of this, KARD included Brazil, Mexico, Peru, Argentina, and Chile on their World Tour and were very well received. After completing part 1 of their tour, KARD officially debuted with "Hola Hola", that seems like a warm greeting to their Spanish-speaking fans. The song is pretty much the same genre of every one of their prior releases, but it has a summery twist and is more cheerful.

Review: Song - 2.5/5 MV - 4/5

Sources:

1a,b,3a,b,6a,b

December in Music

2017 came to a close and wrapped up nicely with some winter-themed songs and special collaborations. Here are my favorite releases from December.

1. K.A.R.D - Trust Me

Korean

Released: December 6th

KARD's second mini-album was released in November, with two duet versions of this song. A month later, KARD unexpectedly dropped the promotional version of "Trust Me" that includes all four members. In this R&B ballad, the girls and guys are trying to stabalize their relatationship by gaining trust and affection. It's not working though, and this song marks the beginning of the end. "Trust Me" is the prequel to "You In Me", and if you remember, the story does not have a happy ending.
Review: Song - 2.5/5  MV - 2.5/5
  

2. BTS - Crystal Snow

Japanese

Released: December 6th

"Crystal Snow" is an exclusively Japanese single that was sold with the Japanese versions of DNA and Mic Drop. It is a soft love song, that is very comparable to another one of BTS's songs - Spring Day. Both releases focus and capture the essence of winter and spring, respectfully, and use metaphors to make a point. The lyrics of "Crystal Snow" compare love to snow - BTS want to grab a hold of their love, but it keeps melting or slipping away. The song also mentions unrequited love which further explains why love is eluding them. My favorite thing about this song is it's lyrics - the emotions and meaning are articulated very well!
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - N/A

3. Blackpink - So Hot

Korean

Released: December 25th

As a special stage for the 2017 SBS Gayo Daejun Awards, Blackpink performed a cover of Wonder Girl's "So Hot". Considered a k-pop classic, the 2008 Wonder Girls song was rearranged and given a new hip-hop flair by YG producer Teddy Park. Blackpink truly delivered "So Hot" in their own style with all-English raps and their trademark "Blackpink in your area!"
Review: Song - 4/5  MV - N/A

4. EXO - Universe

Korean and Mandarin Versions

Released: December 26th

EXO kept their annual tradition and released a "winter special" album for the season. "Universe" is truly heartwarming in both it's sound and aesthetic. The sentimental rock ballad is about searching the ends of the universe to find their lover and never letting go of cherished memories. The theme of the whole music video is the making and enjoyment of coffee. EXO are dressed in cappiccino colored clothes and sing solemnely with earnest hearts. As far as beverages go, people often associate hot chocolate with the winter season, but as it turns out, coffee is very appropriate too!
Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 5/5

5. Meng Jia - #MOOD (Feat. Jackson Wang)

Mandarin

Released: December 27th

Meng Jia and Jackson Wang partnered up for a collab that promotes a happy mood and relaxation! Jia sings about the little things in life that give you a good feeling such as waking up without an alarm clock and allowing your thoughts to wander freely. This collaboration is even more fun because these two artists are former labelmates - Jackson is a member of JYP group Got7 and Jia used to be a member of JYP group Miss A.
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

6. All SM Artists - Dear My Family

Korean

Released: Decemver 29th

"Dear My Family" is the last SM Station song of 2017 and includes all the SM Town acts such as Red Velvet, f(x), Super Junior, EXO, and BOA. Most notably, the song includes the late Kim Jonghyun of Shinee, who passed away on December 18th. "Dear My Family", by itself, is beautiful because of  the great vocals and warm message. But considering the circumstances of Jonghyun's death, the song is even more significant because it acts as a homage to the late singer.
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

Sources

Info: 1,2,6

Images: 1,2,3,4,5,6.

English Songs by Asian Pop Artists (Pt 1)

There are some cases when Asian pop artists deviate from their usual language and make a song in English, whether it be to reach a wider audience or to treat their international fans. Here is a list of completely English tracks by K-pop, J-pop and C-pop artists. Some of these songs are exclusively English, whereas some are an alternative version to the original. Please anticipate a part two!

***On December 18th Kim Jonghyun, member of Shinee died tragically from suicide. The whole Korean entertainment industry is still in shock and mourning from this sad incident.

1. Henry - That One

K-pop

Henry Lau is looking for the one he can adore in this piano-based R&B track. Co-written and co-composed by the singer himself, "That One" is just more proof of Henry's talent.

2. Dean - I'm Not Sorry

K-pop

Before Dean started his singing career in Korea, he debuted in the United States with "I'm Not Sorry", featuring Grammy-winning artist Eric Bellinger.

3. Jane Zhang - Dust My Shoulders Off

C-pop

Jane Zhang is carefree and confident in "Dust My Shoulders Off". The song, produced by Timbaland, takes on a style different from Jane's previous music and proves her versatility as an artist. The music video gives this another touch of uniqueness for its appreciation and playful use of art.

4. Namie Amuro - Heaven

J-pop

Namie Amuro is no stranger to singing in English, despite not being fluent in the language. "Heaven", a single from her second bilingual album, is a futuristic EDM track produced by the famous European DJ ZEDD.

5. K.A.R.D. - Don't Recall 

K-pop

As part of their pre-debut project, KARD would have a "hidden card" or a special surprise for fans with each song. After the release of "Don't Recall", KARD rereleased the song in English in the following month.

6. Luhan - Skin to Skin

C-pop

"Skin To Skin" is a mid-tempo synth-pop song with soft vocals and intriguing whistle beat.

7. Ten - Dream in a Dream

K-pop

NCT member Ten goes solo for this SM Station release. With Ten's breathy vocals, synths. and Asian instruments, "Dream in a Dream" is an ethereal listening experience.

8. Wonder Girls - Like Money

K-pop

The Wonder Girls have quite a few songs that were geared towards an international or Western audience, this being the last one in their career. "Like Money" is a collaboration with American rapper Akon that takes on the dance-pop genre.

9. Diana Wang - Home

C-pop

Taiwan-based singer Diana Wang gained the attention of the Chinese audience with her single "Home" despite it being entirely in English. The lyrics are about wanting to return to one's safe haven for security and familiarity.

10. Odd Eye Circle - Loonatic

K-pop

Odd Eye Circle is a sub-unit of the k-pop girl group LOONA. "Loonatic" shows the cuteness and quirkiness of the three members and references the group's moon concept.

11. Amber X Luna - Heartbeat (Eng)

K-pop

This is the English version of a song released through SM Station. The f(x) members teamed up with Dutch DJ Ferry Corsten and Korean producer Kago Penchi for this EDM number. "Heartbeat" has a relaxing melody and explores the softer side of the electronic dance genre.

12. Thelma Aoyama feat. 4minute - Without U

J-pop, K-pop

"Without U" is a beautiful collaboration between Japanese soloist Thelma Aoyama and k-pop girl group 4minute. This ballad was initially released in Japanese.

13. Cindy Yen - Fighting For Love

C-pop

In 2016, Cindy Yen came out with the Mandarin theme song for Cotton USA, titled "I Love Myself". Recently, she came back with an English version which is renamed "Fighting for Love". It has an electronic composition, while the former is more piano based.

14. Jannine Weigel - Finish Line

T-pop

As a T-pop singer, much of Jannine's music is in Thai. However, in 2016, she came out with her first English song "Finish Line" with the intention to break into the American market and reach a wider audience. "Finish Line" features a sound that is often used by Western producers making me believe it would perfectly suit American radio.

15. Wonder Girls - Nobody

K-pop

"Nobody" was a huge domestic and international success for the Wonder Girls. After the single became a smash-hit in Korea, the group released the song in three other languages. The English version landed number 76 on the Billboard Hot 100, making the Wonder Girls the first Korean group to do so!

Sources:
2,3,4,8,14,15

November in Music

Here's my top picks from the month of November!

1. NCT 127 - Limitless

Japanese

Released: November 4th

NCT 127 released the Japanese version of "Limitless" which is a preview of their upcoming debut in Japan. You may recall the Korean version from this past January, and you will hear that the song in Japanese is just as high quality! The music video, however, has a slightly darker, edgier concept. The members of NCT dance and roam around in a mysterious warehouse.
Review: Song - 4.5/5  MV - 5/5

2. Block B - Shall We Dance

Korean

Released: November 7th

Block B's last comeback was in February with the quirky pop tune "Yesterday". However, with "Shall We Dance", the versatile group goes back to showing their love for urban music. There's a very obvious Latin influence, which is paired with brassy horns and an addicting beat. And as usual, the guys of Block B are styled very flamboyantly.

Review: Song - 3.5/5  MV - 3/5

3. Namie Amuro - Finally

Japanese

Released: November 8th

Namie Amuro gracefully ends her long, successful career with a final compilation album. Through "Finally", Amuro seemingly bids the music scene farewell with a touching sentiment and opens a new chapter of her life, "I'll spread both hands towards an unknown world the light shines into, and I'll accept it all so I'll go to a brilliant future, finally." This ballad is complimented by the beautiful and calming aesthetic of the music video. Note: I've only included the teaser because the video is not on youtube, but you can watch the full mv here.
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 4/5

4. Eric Chou - Without Her

Mandarin

Released: November 16th

Taiwanese singer-songwriter Eric Chou's latest song "Without You" is sure to attract much attention with its style and sound. It closely follows the latest music trend of EDM and has a very enjoyable melody. Personally, I love the way the song transitions between English and Chinese, and between piano and electronic. This is just a taste of Eric's upcoming album, "The Chaos After You", which is to be released very soon!
Review: Song - 5/5  MV - 4/5

5. Jannine Weigel - Heart Stop

Released: November 17th

English

Jannine Weigel is a 17-year old Thai-pop singer, but much of her music is in English. "Heart Stop", from her second English EP, is a catchy pop tune about the thrill of falling in love. It's fun and sounds very much like something Disney stars release when they start off their solo careers. 

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 3/5

6. K.A.R.D. - You In Me

Korean

Released: November

"You In Me" is KARD's first official comeback since their debut in July. To me, this song really points back to their pre-debut singles in terms of sound, theme, and choreography. "You In Me" is about reaching a desperate point in a troubled, failing relationship - much like "Don't Recall". As for genre, it is electronic or tropical house like the majority of their discography. What makes this KARD release different is the dramatic music video. The members are paired into couples and act out a dying romance, in which the guy dies - perhaps symbolizing that the relationship or love is dead.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3.5/5

Sources:
Info: 4, 5

Images: 1,2,3,4,5,6

July In Music

Two-thirds into the summer, the music scene only heated up more with comebacks and debuts! Also, I found myself listening to more Chinese music this month.

1. One - Gettin' By

Korean

Released: July 11th

One, a former member of OnePunch, is known for his appearances on Show Me The Money seasons 4 and 5. July 11th, he launched his career as a soloist, making him the first male solo artist to debut under YG Entertainment in 14 years. "Gettin' By", produced by AOMG's Cha Cha Malone, is a single off of his mini-album. This laid-back song talks about how life feels lukewarm after a break-up. One raps throughout and sing-talks the chorus in an almost monotonous way that reflects the whole "so-so" vibe.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

2. Shi Shi - A Late Goodnight

Mandarin

Released: July 13th

"A Late Goodnight (晚的晚安)" is a belatedly released OST from the Taiwanese TV Drama "Behind Your Smile". This lullaby-like song has a melody built on acoustic guitar and the light notes of a piano. All of this is complimented by Shi Shi's whispery vocals and a music (lyric) video of a night skyline.

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 2/5

3. Luhan - On Fire

Mandarin

Released: July 13th

Luhan concludes his "XXVII" music project with the last part "I". In "On Fire" he is a tough, cool guy singing and rapping about moving forward to accomplish dreams. This release is of the electronic hip-hop genre and is especially exciting because it's the first time in a while that Luhan gave the world something this fun and upbeat.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 4/5

4. Blackpink - Whistle (JP Ver)

Japanese

Released: July 14h

Blackpink made their Japanese debut with Japanese versions of their five Korean singles, "Whistle" being my favorite. A lot of times, versions of K-pop songs in different languages don't have the same quality as the original. In this case, the Japanese version of "Whistle" is just as good as the Korean and has the extra appeal of all-English raps.

Review: Song - 5/5  MV - 4/5

5. A-Lin - Go Straight

Mandarin

Released: July 18th

Three years since her last LP "Guilt", A-Lin is preparing to drop her 8th studio album in September. "Go Straight (一直走 GO)" is the first single off her upcoming album and was produced by A-Lin herself. The song explores the EDM genre, a sound that the pop and ballad-oriented singer has never attempted before. Overall, "Go Straight" is fresh and uplifting, making us curious as to what else A-Lin has in store.

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 3/5

6. K.A.R.D. - Hola Hola

Korean

Released: July 19th

Co-ed K-pop group K.A.R.D. finally made their official debut after teasing fans with pre-debut singles since December 2016. Once again, their title track is tropical house, which begs the question of when they are going to try a new style. Fortunately, there are a few fresh elements this time around: vocalist Jiwoo joins J-speph and BM in rapping and the music video was filmed brightly in areas of California.

Review: Song - 2.5/5  MV - 4/5

Sources

Info: 1,2, 5a,b

Images: 1,2,3,4,5,6

Top 20 Most Handsome K-pop Idols

Here's a list of the top 20 best-looking male k-pop idols. They are ranked in order of their birth year (youngest to oldest). Note: This list is based on my personal opinion. Who's your favorite on the list? And who do you like that wasn't included?

20.

Name: Han-Sol Vernon Choi

Nationality: Half Caucasian, Half Korean-American
Birth Year: 1998

Group: Seventeen

19.

Name: Dong Si-Cheng

Nationality: Chinese
Birth Year: 1997

Group: NCT

18.

Name: Kim Mingyu

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1997

Group: Seventeen

17.

Name: Koo Jun-hoe

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1997

Group: IKON

16.

Name: Jeon Jungkook

Nationality: Korean 
Birth Year: 1997

Group: BTS

15.

Name: Kim Seokwoo

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1996

Group: SF9

14.

Name: Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul

Nationality: Thai
Birth Year: 1996

Group: NCT

13.

Name: Lee Taehwan

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1995

Group: 5urprise

12.

Name: Lee Taeyong

Nationality: Korean 
Birth Year: 1995

Group: NCT

11.

Name: Kim Taehyung

Nationality: Korean 
Birth Year: 1995

Group: BTS

10.

Name: Jung Jaewon

Nationality: Korean 
Birth Year: 1994

Group: Formerly 1Punch

9.

Name: Oh Sehun

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1994

Group: EXO

8.

Name: Jackson Wang

Nationality: Chinese (Hong Kong)
Birth Year: 1994

Group: Got7

7.

Name: Matthew Kim

Nationality: Korean-American
Birth Year: 1992

Group: K.A.R.D.

6.

Name: Kim Myungsoo

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1992

Group: Infinite

5.

Name: Kwon Hyuk

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1992

Group: N/A (Soloist)

4.

Name: Park Hyungsik

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1991

Group: ZE:A

3.

Name: Im Siwan

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1988

Group: ZE:A

2.

Name: Ok Taecyeon

Nationality: Korean 
Birth Year: 1988

Group: 2PM

1.

Name: Kwon Ji-Yong

Nationality: Korean
Birth Year: 1988

Group: Big Bang

Honorable Mentions:

***Upcoming***
Top Handsome Korean Actors
Top 20 Most Beautiful K-pop Idols

Sources:
Wikipedia, Kpopinfo144
Images

April In Music

In April a lot of my expectations were fulfilled! Winner and IU made their comebacks, former I.O.I Chungha had her solo debut and Taeyeon dropped her first repackaged album. All of this and more!

1. Winner - Really Really

Korean

Released: April 4th

Winner returns as a quartet in "Fate Number For" with two new singles: Really Really and Fool. Both tracks, penned by group member Seungyoon, are both of good quality and a timely boost for the group after having lost a member. However, Really Really is what gained my attention the most because of its compelling beat and confident charisma. In the lyrics, Winner cooly confesses their feeling to a girl, hoping to gain her affections without being too pushy. This is backed by a mild tropical house beat and a musical-esque music video filmed by the famous American director Dave Meyers.
Review: Song - 3.5/5  MV - 3/5

2. Ten - Dream In A Dream

English

Released: April 6th

NCT member Ten makes his unofficial solo debut through SM's music project 'SM Station'. 'Dream In A Dream' is an ethereal song that is heavily influenced by Oriental art and tradition. Ten sings in English, and while there are very few lyrics, listeners are kept entertained with the sounds of Asian instruments, echoes, and synths. The music video expands on the artistry: Ten, who is known to specialize in dance, showcases his skills through elegant choreography. Overall, even if one does not like the song like I do, the artistry is hard not to appreciate!

Review: Song - 5/5  MV - 5/5

3. Meng Jia - Candy

Mandarin

Released: April 6th

'Candy (糖果)' marks Meng Jia's (孟佳) third song and strive to brand herself as a soloist. Unlike her two previous singles, Candy has a playful energy and features a barrage of sounds: marching band drums, lips smacking and xylophone notes. This style was achieved by the composer, Shinsadong Tiger (a famous k-pop producer) and LE (of k-pop girl group EXID). Here is the lyrics video, colorful and vibrant. By now, I think they would've have released a real music video already if they had planned to.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

4. Luhan - On Call

Mandarin

Released: April 19th

The "King of C-pop" tries his hand at contemporary R&B with added electronic elements. Luhan, whose voice is particularly smooth, effortlessly delivers without the auto-tune he used in 2016.  As always, his music video is very visually appealing and complementary to the song. Its scenes show a world in between reality and fantasy. There are visuals of an infinite flow of mail: letters that never get opened.

Review: Song - 5/5  MV - 4.5/5

5. Kim Chungha -Week

Korean

Released: April 20th

After competing in Mnet's trainee survival program, "Produce 101", Kim Chungha earned a spot in the girl-group I.O.I and has made a name for herself. Now that that I.O.I have disbanded, Chungha has started to follow her own path as a soloist. I believe she will do well because she is a good singer and a great dancer. 'Week' is a slow-rolling r&b ballad that expresses loneliness. It is only a pre-release single so I'm curious as to what is coming next.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 4/5

6. K.A.R.D. - Rumor

Korean

Released: April 24th

K-pop's one and only co-ed idol group debuted with 'Oh Na Na', followed-up with 'Don't Recall' and have now completed their trilogy pre-debut project with 'Rumor'. Up until now, K.A.R.D's songs have been narrating a story. First, a boy and girl begin a relationship, then the guy messes up and the couple breaks up, and in 'Rumor', the couple is hearing rumors about each other and are regretting their break-up. It has an obvious Latin influence and is not far in genre from their previous two songs. In the future, I hope to see them try a new genre, now that the trilogy is over.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 2/5

Sources:

Info:1,6

Images: 1,2,3,4,5,6

February In Music

We had some big comebacks in February including Red Velvet, Twice and Taeyeon. Overall, they weren't to my liking, but there were plenty of songs that I did enjoy!

1. NCT Dream - My First and My Last

Released: February 8th

Korean & Mandarin Versions

This is the groups' follow-up to their debut song 'Chewing Gum'. 'My First and My Last' is about a young boy's first love. The song is kind of choppy and is influenced by the bass of new jack swing (a genre of 90s music). It has a lighthearted melody and the members dance a quirky, cute choreography, that is much like that of their sunbaes Shinee. I included the dance version, I enjoyed it more the regular music video.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3.5

2. BTS - Spring Day

Released: February 12th

Korean

BTS are poetic as they use the weather to symbolize their emotions. Meeting the one you miss feels like a spring day in the dead of winter. But missing someone can feel like winter in the middle of summer. 'Spring Day' is such a touching display of friendship: the scenes are gloomy when the members are alone, but bright when they are together.

Review: 4.5/5 MV - 5/5

3. Dean - Come Over (Feat. Baek Yerin)

Released: February 16th

Korean

Dean is an outstanding musical artist. Every song he has written and composed for others has his stamp on it and is undeniably his. With that said, it's always nice to see Dean make music for himself. However, 'Come Over' isn't a heavy hitting song, in fact, it took a few listens to grow on me. The smooth vocals of Dean and 15&'s Baek Yerin are what makes it worth listening to. As for the music video, it's a black and white sketch animation. Creative, but rather boring.

Review: Song - 3/5 MV- 1.5/5

4. K.A.R.D - Don't Recall

Released: February 17th

Korean & English Versions

A very fitting follow-up to their debut, which I deemed one of the best songs of 2016. It's an extension of 'Oh Na Na' both sound wise and visually: both songs are tropical house and have the same music video aesthetic. Lyrics from the girls' point of view express wanting to get away from the guy. They pretend not to remember the good times in the relationship. In reply, the guys are trying the persuade the girl to come back and say that they were good together.
Review: Song - 4/5 MV - 4.5

5. Luhan - What If I Said

Released: February 22nd

Mandarin

'如果 What If I Said' is a laid-back electronic song with smooth, unprocessed vocals. Its duration is rather flat, in that it doesn't reach a climax, but this factor makes the song even more chill. The music video has very subdued colors and natural visuals: vintage furniture and mirrors in a sand-filled room with rays of sunlight shining through the windows.

Review: Song - 3.5/5 MV - 3.5/5

6. Faky - Surrender

Released: February 22nd

Japanese

I'm very familiar with this J-pop quartet, and this time they wowed me. 'Surrender' is an emotional plea to their boyfriend to stop fighting. It's perfectly chaotic: shifting from smooth vocals with little background sounds to a barrage of sounds and fast verses. To top it off, the rough & smooth sound of 'Surrender' is complemented by the girls' sporty, grunge outfits.
Review: Song - 4.5/5 MV - 3/5

Sources:

Images: 1,2,3,4,5,6

Info: 1,5