July in Music

Here are my picks for the month of July!

1. Yoon Mi-Rae - You And Me

Korean

Released: July 5th

Often hailed as the best female rapper in Korea, Yoon Mi-Rae (AKA Tasha) is actually a very versatile artist that can do more than just spit bars. Her latest song is a chill R&B number that showcases her pleasant vocals. "You And Me" describes having an ambiguous relationship in which romantic feelings develop, but he ends up getting friend-zoned. Yoon Mi-Rae's songs exude such an effortless vibe, which is probably because she is a senior in the music industry. I already knew that she sounded good in a group and features nicely on others' songs, but this reminded me how well Tasha shines is her solo work. "You And Me" features Tasha's labelmate Junoflo and the MV includes the rest of the "Feel Ghood Music" crew.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 2/5

2. Luhan - Catch Me When I Fall (R3hab Remix)

Mandarin

Released: July 10th

Luhan is back with his EP "Re:Play," which is a collection of his old songs that were remixed. The original "Catch Me When I Fall" was released almost two years ago and expresses Luhan's experiences and progress. To me, the lyrics mean that everyone faces obstacles, makes mistakes, or feels blue at times. As a celebrity, Luhan may be compelled to maintain a certain image but we are all imperfect. "They keep telling me that I'm the chosen one. So I have to act like the one. All the time, It's hard to confess all the weakness. When I start to tell, It's even more than I can take."  Dutch producer, R3hab added a dose of Trap and heavy EDM drop to the new version making it a club banger.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 1.5/5

3. Seventeen - Our Dawn is Hotter than Day

Korean

Released: July 16th

"Our Dawn is Hotter than Day" was released back in July along with the rest of Seventeen's comeback album "You Make My Day," but the dance video wasn't released until August. I much prefer this b-side over the album's title song because of its great beat. Filmed on a rooftop under the night sky, the choreo is perfectly synchronized (as expected of Seventeen!) The subtle movements are done so precisely and gracefully that it really enhances the emotion of the song. This is a good example of how a performance can still be powerful even without lots of fast jumping. 

Review: Song - 4.5/5  MV - 5/5

4. Riri - Maybe One Day

Japanese

Released: July 27th

Last winter, Riri made her major label debut with an album and a single titled "That's My Baby," which I really enjoyed! It had a very Western feel due to being worked on by established American producers. Her newest song, "Maybe One Day" comes from the same vein of Pop-ish R&B and was likewise prepared in LA. According to her official website, "Maybe One Day" is summer anthem material that mixes "an emotional melody" with "dance music." The lyrics express the viewpoint of a girl who falls in love with her best friend, but he doesn't feel the same way. Unfortunately, the Youtube music video is not available worldwide, so here is a link to view it. However, both the Japanese and English version of this song can be found on Apple music!
Review: Song - 3.5/5  MV - 3/5

5. Astro - Always You

Korean

Released: July 27th

Astro caught my attention with their cute performance of "Crazy, Sexy, Cool." However, then they went on hiatus and I became worried about their future at the news of their label's financial issues. Now Aroha's (their fandom) can rejoice because the boys have debuted a special album dedicated to them. "Always You" the title track, stands in stark contrast to Astro's former tunes. It's serious and mature, with an intensely captivating music video. I'll admit, I half-expected something sweet like "Crazy, Sexy, Cool" and was disappointed to find it completely different. But, it's nice to see Astro active on the scene again.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

6. Perfume - Let Me Know

Japanese

Released: July 30th

If you are familiar with Perfume, you'll know that their music is characterized by high-pitched vocals, game-changing bass drops, and fun electronic melodies. "Let Me Know" is pretty much that except it has a few additional characteristics -  the composition is noticeably Westernized and slower in tempo. This release also seems to have personal meaning to the members. Nocchi, A~Chan, and Kashiyuka take a ride on a bus and meet three girls who likely are intended to be younger versions of themselves. The bus ride may represent Perfume's career, and while on this journey, they have a message they'd like to convey to their past selves. Some of the lyrics go, "Don't tell anyone, because you're about to be somebody. Believe in yourself."

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

Sources
Info: 4.6

Image: *,*,*,4,5,*

* are screencaps I made myself

June in Music

It's a little late, but here are my picks from the month of June.

1. BTS - DD Ceremony (Ddaeng)

Korean

Released: June 10th

BTS had their FESTA which is an annual celebration of their debut anniversary. As part of their 5th-year celebration, they released a few free tracks on SoundCloud for fans! "Ddaeng" is a diss track aimed at haters and at those in the industry who ignored BTS before they were popular. The song includes clever wordplays surrounding the term "ddaeng," which has various meanings, and hip-hop beats with Oriental instruments. It's performed solely by the rap-line-up (Suga, RM, and J-Hope) and is very reminiscent of their cypher series! There is no official music video, but the members put on a fire performance and uploaded it on BANGTANTV.
Review: Song - 5/5  MV - N/A

2. Blackpink - Ddu Ddu Ddu

Korean

Released: June 15th

One year of absence has built a swelling of anticipation among fans for Blackpink's comeback. Finally, the girls returned with their first mini album that takes on a different sound while still keeping Blackpink's essential style. "Ddu Du Ddu Du" is a powerful hip-hop trap song that opens with whistle-y synths and later blends in the sounds of East-Indian percussion. The lyrics assert a strong personality and a "go-get-it" attitude of girl power. Jennie performs as a rapper this time and the music video serves a lot of sass and creativity. Was "Ddu Du Ddu Du" worth the wait of an entire year? Well, I can only think that in that span of time Blackpink could have had hit after hit, since they are capable of having content this high-quality.
Review: Song - 4.5/5  MV - 5/5

3. BtoB - Only One For Me

Korean

Released: June 18th

After their hit "Missing You" from last fall, BtoB switches things up for the summer season. Instead of a slow, sad ballad, the group treats fans to a happy love song that is more suitable for the warm weather. "Only One For Me" is a very easy listen - it has a breezy melody and some added tropical elements. Since its BtoB,  the song showcases the group's stellar vocals, which can make even a bland song sound pleasant. It's worth to mention that this may be BtoB's last project as a complete group for a while. This is because sometime after the album release, the main vocalist Eunkwang enlisted for his mandatory military service. In the meantime, I expect the other group members to perform without him or maybe promote as soloists?
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

4. Red Velvet - #Cookie Jar

Japanese

Released: June 21st

Red Velvet had their Japanese debut and (not surprisingly) its theme is food-related! They've had "Ice Cream Cake" and "Red Flavor," but this time the girls talk about another type of treat - cookies! Just like their Korean releases, "#Cookie Jar" includes the same cute, quirky charm that Red Velvet pulls off well. Though, at the same time, I find that the song feels very Girl's Generation-esque.  Its groovy beat and retro 60s feel remind me of SNSD's "Hoot," a favorite of mine! I'm happy to see Red Velvet back at their so-called "red" concept and I think this suits the Japanese market very much.
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3.5/5

5. Nu'est W - Deja Vu

Korean

Released: June 25th

Nu'est W is a subunit of Nu'est that will promote while member Minkyun is active with the temporary boy group Wanna-One. In recent years, Nu'est has taken on an interesting musical direction - they focus on a mature sound and incorporate mysterious elements into their album concepts. "Deja Vu" is a mellow pop song with a Latin influence and acoustic guitar that makes for a tropical vibe.  It has an unexpected but pleasant tempo and a smooth chorus that captivated me at first listen. Interestingly, the light breeziness of "Deja Vu" contrasts with the dark aesthetic of the music video. 

Review: Song - 5/5  MV - 3/5

6. Day6 - Shoot Me

Korean

Released: June 26th

"Vicious words hurt like bullets." This metaphor is the core theme of Day6's new single and is shown in the music video. "Shoot Me" expresses the feelings of a guy who is at the receiving end of his girlfriend's harsh remarks. He endures her verbal abuse and hot temper in hope that she will feel better by it. "Shoot Me" has a rich guitar and keyboard instrumental that brings back the exciting energy the band had in an older song, "How Can I Say." The abrupt drums and gunshot-like "bang bang" turn the energy up even higher and work as the most memorable part of the song. 

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 3.5/5

Sources

Image: 1,2,3,4,5.*

* are screencaps I made myself

May in Music

Here are my song picks from the month of May!

1. Shi Shi - Guilty

Mandarin

Released: May 7th

Shi Shi is an absolute ballad queen, she always has the most beautiful, emotion churning songs. "Guilty (內疚)" was co-composed by the Taiwanese-Korean songstress herself and incorporates musical trends from both Taiwan and Korea. It is a piano-ballad, a genre that is popular in the Chinese-speaking world but also has electronic dance music that is commonly used in Korea. According to the song's description on KKbox, "Guilty" is about feeling remorse after ending a burdensome relationship.

Review: Song - 4.5/5  MV - 2/5

2. Cherrsee - Piano

Japanese

Released: May 15th

Cherrsee is a J-pop girl group whose name is derived from the words "cherry seeds." This act was formed by Korean producer Brave Brothers and the members received guidance from K-pop girl-group AOA. For this reason, Cherrsee gives off a very K-pop idol feel. In fact, their latest song reminds me of a popular Korean song - Rough by Gfriend. Like the aforementioned, "Piano" has a rich string and piano-based instrumental. It is the lead single for their first mini-album which includes the Cherrsee's older songs. 

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

3. NCT 127 - Chain

Japanese

Released: May 16th

In November 2017, we got a taste of NCT 127's Japanese debut with a new version of "Limitless," and now they've finally debuted with their first Japanese mini-album. The album, "Chain" intends to reflect the chain connecting Seoul, South Korea, and Tokyo, Japan. Its lead single of the same name takes the concept quite literally, incorporating a chain drill sound throughout the song and showing the members using power tools. Overall, NCT has developed a unique, niche style of music and "Chain" definitely follows suit. Though initially overwhelming, the song got better for me after a few listens.
Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 4.5/5

4. BTS - FAKE LOVE

Korean

Released: May 18th

BTS confess that their love was all smoke and mirrors in "FAKE LOVE." Such a sharp contrast from the group's previous release "DNA," their latest album and single talks about the dark side of love. As I mentioned in my album review, BTS further show their flexibility as artists with the trap-style of "FAKE LOVE." I appreciate the combinations of grunge guitar, trap beat, and vocal layering, as well as the continuation of the "Love Yourself" storyline. It's a perfect song!

Review: Song - 5/5  MV - 4/5

5. Shinee - Good Evening

Korean

Released: May 23th

Shinee makes their emotion-heavy return as a four-membered act, though they will always be remembered and cherished as five. With "Good Evening," they stay true to their brand of a contemporary R&B group that they've developed over the years. The song, which is actually a remake of  112's 1996 single "Cupid,"  mixes R&B with electronic dance. The genres are blended smoothly and the track maintains a mellow, sentimental vibe. "Good Evening" and it's accompanying album was released to celebrate Shinee's 10th year anniversary. The EP "The Story of Light Pt.1" is the first part of three, so look forward to the rest!
Review: Song - 4.5/5  MV - 3/5

6. Pristin V - Get It

Korean

Released: May 28th

Pristin is a ten-membered rookie group with a bubbly and fun energy. However, they really switched things up with the debut of their first sub-unit. The five girls of Pristin V take on villainous personas to make the man of their affections fall in love with them. The music video is equally filled with dark and light aesthetics as the girls seem to revel in their schemes. "Get It" is an r&b pop song with trap elements and heavy synths. It has a well-constructed production, though it veers very close to being generic. Still, "Get It" was a nice way of showing Pristin's versatility as Kyulkyung, Rena, Nayoung, Eunwoo, and Roa, all own the villain attitude.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

Sources

Info:1a,b,2a,b,3,5a,b,6

Images: *,*,3,4,5,6

* are screencaps I made myself

April in Music

Here are my song picks from the month of April!

1. CLC - Distance

Korean

Released: April 3rd

A few months ago, CLC unveiled the dark and fierce "Black Dress". Now the ladies are back with the second single from their album but they're wearing white dresses. Quite different from the former single, "Distance" is soft and subdued, which brings me to again point out how flexible this group is concept-wise! I'd like to believe that "Distance" is a sort of epilogue because of some of the visuals (like the lace blindfolds) in the videos parallel. "Black Dress" illustrates a girl trying to get a man to fall for her. Fast forward in time and "Distance" describes the aftermath of the relationship - the man no longer loves her.
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 4/5

2. Winner - Everyday

Korean

Released: April 4th

Winner returned with their second full album "Everyd4y" exactly a year after their charismatic hit song "Really Really". Really Really marked a new beginning for the group - it was their first release with the remaining four members and it favored a trendy genre over the group's usual alternative sound. Since then, Winner has continued using trendy genres for their singles, moving from tropical house to trap! "Everyday" is an autotune laced trap track with a summery vibe and serenading lyrics. Between the dances and music video scenes, it's quite far from what I expected the foursome to perform!

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 2/5

3. Ten - New Heroes

English

Released: April 6th

SM Station 2 reached a wonderful finale with a solo from NCT's Ten. "New Heroes" is his second station track overall and like the previous, it's completely in English. The lyrics were written by Western singer-songwriters and feature some meaningful and reflective phrases. "Fought off the wolves in sheep clothing/Stood up for what I believed/ Turn my mess into messages/ Learn from the lessons/ And keep on keep on keep on..." Overall, "New Heroes" is quite a trendy work - it has an EDM/Future Bass composition and a music video with an artistic flair.
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 4/5

4. Super Junior - Lo Siento (Feat. Leslie Grace)

Korean, Spanish

Released: April 12th

A few years ago, Super Junior incorporated a Latin flavor into their song "Mamacita." The group embraces the culture once again in "Lo Siento", which is a collaboration with Latin-pop artist Leslie Grace! Leslie provides vocals for much of the chorus, and sings in Spanish, while the members of Super Junior sing and rap mostly in Korean. The stellar aspect of "Lo Siento" is the intricate, dance-inducing instrumental - it includes Spanish guitar and loud synths. Apparently, a lot of K-pop fans and Latin music fans alike enjoyed this as it debuted a number 13 on Billboards Latin Digital Songs Chart (making "SuJu" the first K-pop artist to do so)!

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 3/5

5. NCT 2018 - Black on Black

Korean

Released: April 18th

You may recall NCT's December 2016 MAMA stage, in which the group first performed a part of "Black on Black". They brought such great energy to the stage and it was my first time seeing all the NCT members perform together. Now over a year later, a revised studio version was released featuring three of the group's rappers: Taeyong, Mark, and newly debuted Lucas. Despite the fact that only a fraction of NCT appears in the song, "Black on Black" is very performance-based and includes all 18 boys clad in black (of course!) The dances are sharp and perfectly synchronized- exactly what I would expect from them.

Review: Song - 2/5  MV - 5/5

6. Meng Jia - Free

Mandarin

Released: April 26th

In March,  Meng Jia dropped "Weapon" and it was announced that she is preparing to come back with a full album. A month later, Jia followed up with her second pre-release "Free". For this one, she brings out her airy, light vocals, which compliment the indie-influenced sound. The accompanying music video has breathtaking shots that were filmed in inner mainland China and I applaud the high-quality production of it all.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 5/5

Sources

Info: 3.4

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

* are screencaps I made myself

March in Music

Here are my top picks from last month!

1. IKON - Rubber Band

Korean

Released: March 5th

After the impressive success of "Love Scenario", IKON quickly followed up with a special single. Like the former title, "Rubber Band" is of a similar genre: it has a hip-hop beat hidden under a variety of mellow sounds. The lyrics describe a relationship that has been pulled too tight and is about to break - like a stretched rubber band. As usual, the lyrics and composition were worked on by IKON's leader B.I. But this time, rookie YG producer Millenium and Winner's Mino took part in the creation as well!
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - N/A

2. Sojung - Crystal Clear

Korean

Released: March 5th

Ladies' Code, member Sojung made her solo debut in April 2017 and now has had her first comeback. "Crystal Clear" was revealed ahead of Sojung's single album release and it clearly has the distinct style of Ladies' Code that fans have missed very much during the group's long absence. "Crystal Clear" is an electro-pop ballad that showcases Sojung's crisp, clear voice. The music video is beautifully artistic with shots of ocean and forest landscapes.  The ethereal scenery is filmed in black and white until finally, the picture bleeds color.
Review: Song - 3.5/5  MV - 3/5

3. Big Bang - Flower Road

Korean

Released: March 13th

Big Bang's last group project was in December 2016. Since then, the members have started enlisting for their mandatory military service (TOP, the oldest member was the first to start in 2017). Because of this, it was assumed that it would be years before the whole five-piece would be together again. But thankfully, Big Bang gave us a special goodbye song ahead of their long hiatus! "Flower Road" was initially intended to be a part of MADE, but was cut with a plan for later release. G-Dragon and T.O.P. wrote the lyrics with the group's enlistment in mind and the song's message conveys, "good-bye, for now, we will meet again."

Review: Song - 4.5/5  MV - N/A

4. BTS - Don't Leave Me

Japanese
Released: March 15th

On March 15th, BTS revealed a preview of a song from their third Japanese studio album. The song was later released in full on April 4th along with the rest of the album "Face Yourself". "Don't Leave Me" is an OST from the Japanese remake of the 2016 Korean hit drama "Signal". It's the group's first OST as an entire group and has a very intense, exciting EDM composition! I find that Japanese releases from K-pop artists tend to be much lower in quality than their Korean music, however, "Don't Leave Me" is definitely an exception. BTS sing and rap very naturally in the language, and the overall genre and style suit their voices well. 

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - N/A

5. Meng Jia - Weapon

Mandarin

Released: March 20th

Meng Jia (孟佳) surprises me again and again as a soloist. Each time she returns, she presents herself in a different way and masters each style that she chooses. In "Who's that Girl" Meng Jia was serious and self-reflecting, in "Candy" she was playful and coy, and now with "Weapon (炎)" we get to hear a pleading love song. "Weapon" opens with a memorable English line "drop your weapon please" and starts with a subdued beat. Then, the song moves into a more exciting beat and fun chorus. This is only a pre-release to Meng Jia's upcoming album and I'm very eager to hear more music from her!

Review: Song - 5/5  MV - N/A

6. Monsta X - Jealousy

Korean

Released: March 26th

Monsta X returned with a new album and its title track perfectly captures the group's unique color! "Dramarama", from their previous album, disappointed me, but "Jealousy" is pure redemption. "Jealousy" is a smooth, but upbeat R&B song with hints of hip-hop that point back to the group's roots. The entire package exudes the same manly aura that Monsta X delivered this time last year with "Beautiful".
Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 2.5/5

Sources

Info: 1,3,4

Images: 1,*,3,4,5,*

* are screencaps I made myself

February In Music

February is the shortest month of the year, but didn't fall short in good music! Here are top picks from last month!

1. Seventeen - Thanks

Korean

Released: February 5th

Seventeen returned with "Director's Cut", which is essentially a repackage of their most recent album "Teen.Age". The title track "Thanks" seems like a song of gratitude towards the group's fans. With its electronic synths and emotional theme, the song looks back towards one of Seventeen's previous songs "Don't Wanna Cry". In line with the director concept, the music video is "behind the scenes" with cuts of the members in the studio writing lyrics and recording their songs. I interpret this as Seventeen showing a glimpse at the hard work they put into the production of their albums, and paired with song's lyrics, they are grateful to fans for rewarding their hard work!
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3/5

2. Monsta X - In Time

Korean

Released: February 6th

Monsta X always reveal special music videos for select b-sides of their albums. This special clip is extra special though because it was released to celebrate the group's 1000th day anniversary! Much time has passed since Monsta X has debuted, and coincidentally (or maybe not), this r&b ballad talks about wanting to stop the passage of time. "In time, time please stop, so I can see that beautiful light In time, so in this time and place." With this, I noticed that, aside from consistently releasing fanservice clips, Monsta X are also consistent in including a high-quality ballad on their albums. With its smooth melody and lyrics that were co-written by member Jooheon, "In Time" fails to disappoint!
Review: Song - 4.5/5  MV - 3/5

3. Riri - That's My Baby

Japanese

Released: February 9th

Riri is a nineteen-year-old Japanese pop singer who debuted in 2016. She is an apsiring talent, with amazing vocals as well as songwriting and composing ablilites. Her music influences are the likes of Whitney Houston, Beyonce, and Mariah Carey, so not surprisingly, the genre that she takes on is American-style R&B. "That's My Baby" has a good mix of Japanese and English lyrics and has a fun summery vibe, despite being in the winter months!

Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 2.5/5

4. NCT U - Boss

Korean

Released: February 19th

NCT U is a rotational sub-unit of SM Entertainment's boy group NCT. They were last active in 2016 with two singles, and now SM has brought them back to start out their new musical project "NCT 2018". Since the unit is rotational, the member line-up is not consistent and some of the members that participated in the unit's debut are not included. This time, Ten and Taeil did not participate, but new members Jungwoo and Lucas were introduced! "Boss" truly captures the essence of NCT. The music video was filmed in Ukraine and the members show a cool vibe, an atypical sense of style, and great choreography!

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 4/5

5. CLC - Black Dress

Korean

Released: February 22nd

CLC has decorated their career with different concepts and music styles. This time they go for a strong, feminine concept that even seems a little bit dark. "Black Dress", a heavy EDM song with hip-hop elements, is about a girl who dons a black dress to make a man fall for her. The beat gets an A+ and CLC's vocals are on point, however, "Black Dress" falls short because the progression of the song is stagnant. Also, repetition does not always bother me, but I wish this song didn't rely so much on the words "black dress". With that said, it's nice to see their company's effort at making them a versatile group.
Review: Song - 2.5/5  MV - 3/5

6. Red Velvet - I Just

Korean
Released: February 28th

"I Just" is a heavy electronic synth pop song that was produced in part by SM artist Hitchhiker. It is a b-side from Red Velvet's second full album and explores the group's "velvet" side. The beat instantly makes this one of my favorite songs by Red Velvet, and it has quirky elements that set it apart from typical EDM. Though "I Just" was released last November (with the album), the group is only now a releasing music video. The MV a is very simple and homemade clip that appears to have been filmed with a cell-phone.
Review: Song - 5/5  MV - 1/5

Sources

Info: 2a,b,3a,b,6

Images: *,*,*,*,*, 6
* are screencaps I made myself

January 2018 in Music

I hope you enjoyed the "Month in Music" posts of 2017 and now that the year has wrapped up it's time to begin again! Here are my top songs from January!

1. Diana Wang - Only Man

Mandarin

Released: January 3rd

Diana Wang has been dropping singles here and there since last September. They are all from her latest album "Poem", which was released at the end of November. I have been enjoying listening to the songs off "Poem" and was glad she released another music video. "Only Man" is what Diana Wang has mastered lately - smooth R&B. Shes sings to her "only man" and confesses that she is focused solely on him as if he were the main protagonist of a story.
Review: Song - 4/5  MV - 2.5/5

2. Monsta X - Spotlight

Japanese

Released: January 10th

Early in January, Monsta X revealed their third Japanese single. "Spotlight", despite not being in their native Korean, still captures the typical style of Monsta X. It has explosive synths and a hip-hop beat that makes it very reminiscent of the group's 2015 debut song "Trespass".
Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 4/5

3. Chungha - Rollercoaster

Korean

Released: January 17th

One of my favorite rookies of 2017 made her first comeback since her debut. "Roller Coaster" is a 90s inspired contemporary R&B track that showcases the cool and girly sides of Chungha. It's quite different from her hit "Why Don't You Know", but Chungha suits the genre well and is on the road to finding her own sound as a soloist. I find the smooth intro and the two-step rhythm of "Rollercoaster" very attention-grabbing, but the chorus feels too generic. For this reason, I think the music video is much better than the actual song. The neon-lit dance scenes capture Chunga's effortless charisma very well.

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 4.5/5

4. Sunmi - Heroine

Korean

Released: January 18th

Months after her summer hit "Gashina", Sunmi graced us with another single that was also produced by YG composer Teddy. "Heroine" is meant to be the prequel of "Gashina" and the two music videos have a clear connection. In "Heroine", Sunmi claims that both people in a relationship should be themselves even if doing so results in a break-up. She might experience a sad ending and break up with her man, but she'll become her own heroine because, as she repeats throughout, "the show must go own". 

Review: Song - 3/5  MV - 3.5/5

5. Jonghyun - Shinin'

Korean

Released: January 23rd

One month following Kim Jonghyun's tragic suicide, SM Entertainment released his final album that he recorded just before his passing. His posthumous album was titled "Poet | Artist", a very appropriate title since Jonghyun was an avid singer-songwriter/composer who communicated through his music. "Shinin'" is the lead single off the album and is an enjoyable mix of electronic and tropical sounds. Through his final release, Jonghyun seems to convey double meanings. "Shinin" is about wanting to always be with the girl he loves, but there is also the underlying message that Jonghyun will always be with listeners and live on through his music. *I won't give a number-rating/review and, instead, I'll just enjoy the wonderful music. 

6. IKON - Love Scenario

Korean

Released: January 25th

IKON only had a double single to show for 2017, and even though I enjoyed it, many listeners were left underwhelmed - as apparent by its lack of commercial success. This time, the group is back with a full-album of mellower genres and the lead single "Love Scenario" is placed firmly at #1 on various charts! The seven members reverted back to a "boy next door" concept that is similar to what they had in "My Type" and "#WYD". Most interestingly, "Love Scenario" has the sensitivity of a break-up song but also the cheeriness of a love song. This is because the lyrics speak of a past failed relationship, while the melody is light and fun.  

Review: Song - 3.5/5  MV - 3/5

Sources

Info:1,4,5a,b

Images: 1,*,*,4,5,6

"*" are screencaps I made myself

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.