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

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

Interesting K-pop Boy Group Concepts

Concepts, which are very important in K-pop, are styles or themes that artists take on for their music projects. They may be presented through the music video, styling or music genre and the whole 'package' is used to visually appeal to an audience. 

With that said, at times some concepts are overused. So when a group or artist uses that cliche without adding a unique spin it becomes boring. Fortunately, there are still some fresh concepts out there, and plenty of k-pop groups who add their personal spin on an old concept. Below are some boy group whose concepts I thought were interesting!

1. Hip-Hop Crew

IKON in Bling Bling

Hip Hop culture is characterized by rhythmic music, a strong attitude, and a distinctive style of dress. It also includes dance moves such as breaking and locking, that were popularized by dance crews. Through, "Bling Bling" and "Limitless", these boy groups took on some typical elements of the culture: hoodies & fresh sneakers, gold chains, powerful dance moves and, of course, rap. Both Ikon and NCT portrayed this urban influence so well that they reminded me very much of American Hip-hop dance crews.

Ikon - Bling Bling MV

NCT 127 - Limitless MV

NCT 127 in Limitless

2. Men In Black

Big Bang in Love Song

"Men in Black" may be used loosely to refer to mysterious men in black suits. With this concept, Big Bang and Winner are dressed suavely in a classic style like the main characters of a movie. They are filmed through a monochrome filter with high camera angles for extra appeal. Where is the mystery you may ask? These music videos are "mysterious" because there is really no plot. In "Love Song", Big Bang walk around in the middle of nowhere with no rhyme or reason, surrounded by destroyed objects. Winner has a classier take on the concept: they pose around dancers in a city square with no clear reason for doing so.

Big Bang - Love Song MV

Winner - Really Really MV

Winner in Really Really

3. Airplane Love Story

Got7 in Fly

Whether their love makes them fly, or whether their love is flying away, Got7 and Ikon aced the airplane concept. As expected, both music videos are set at an airport. Got7 are seen dancing in the airplane runway and (more comically) flying off of buildings. They sing about a happy, uplifting relationship which gives them the feeling of floating in the air. Through the same theme, "Airplane" by Ikon expresses the sadness of someone moving far away, not happiness. "We won’t ever see each other again after the airplane leaves..." The boys roam around the airport hoping they can stop the airplane and hold on to the girl that they like.

Got7 - Fly MV

Ikon - Airplane MV

Ikon in Airplane

Sources:

Images

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

Info:1,5

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

January 2017 In Music

In January, a few artists whom I was waiting for made a comeback. Including Jessi, whose last release was a single in March 2016 and 2NE1 whose were on hiatus since 2014. Here are my favorite songs that came out in  January.

1. Meng Jia - Who's That Girl

Released: January 3rd
Mandarin

Chinese singer and rapper, Meng Jia (孟佳), released her second single since her solo debut. You may know Jia as a former member of k-pop group Miss A, but now she is standing alone and establishing her personal music style. 'Who's That Girl (她是谁)' is a medium-tempo pop ballad that reflects a girl's identity crisis as she looks in the mirror. The song has a catchy chorus and relatable vibe.
Review Song - 5/5 MV - 4.5/5

2.  NCT 127 - Limitless

Released: January 6th

Korean

'Limitless' is the lead single from NCT 127's second mini-album of the same name. It has been described as "urban r&b" and features the rookie group's amazing vocal harmonies. There are two music videos: the rough version and the performance version, the former of which I found bizarre. However, the latter is impeccable and boasts NCT's razor-sharp dance moves!

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

4. BY2 - Peach Blossom Cheongsam

Released:  January 12th
Mandarin

BY2 ditched their trendy electro-pop style for a traditional aesthetic and sound. The twins are feminine and poetic as they dance in floral qipaos with wax parasols. All the details make the music video artistic and intriguing. There is paintbrush imagery that alludes to ancient Chinese art, cherry blossoms and kaleidoscope effects. The song, which utilizes traditional Chinese instruments and opera singing, still has a modern twist.

Review: Song - 3/5 MV - 4/5

5. Seohyun - Don't Say No

Released: January 16th

Korean

The Girls' Generation maknae made her solo debut with a mini album and single. In 'Don't Say No' Seohyun is begging for her man to come back with a pop/r&b tune. The music video visuals are kind of odd: she wears artsy-glam outfits and cooks up some frightening recipes. But, Seohyun makes everything better by throwing glitter in the air!

Review: Song - 4/5 MV - 3/5

5. 2NE1 - Goodbye

Released: January 20th

Korean

"Goodbye" is 2NE1's last single as a group. The members (excluding Minzy) released this farewell a few months after their disbandment. There are few ballads in 2NE1's discography, but each of them has stellar musicality. "Goodbye" is a few steps lower than the groups earlier ballads, but still a nice listen. It has an acoustic production and features mournful lyrics written by the group member, CL.

Review: Song - 3.5/5 MV - 4/5

6. Jessi - Don't Make Me Cry

Released January 22nd

Korean

Jessi's soulful voice, combined with her ability to bring out strong emotions in music, makes any song she sings, amazing. "Don't make Me Cry" is a song about a potential break-up. The cracks in the couple's relationship are getting too big and the singer is heartbroken. "Don't make me cry. Don't do me wrong." But at the end of the video, the inevitable happens: they break-up.

Review: Song - 4.5/5 MV - 3/5

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

K-Pop Songs That Are Commercials (CFs)

Did you know that some K-pop music videos are actually commercials that promote a company's product? Sometimes the product placement is rather obvious or hinted at in the song's lyrics. Other times, it's hard to even tell that the release is a paid endorsement! Here's some k-pop songs that are pushing a product towards you.

1. 2NE1 - Don't Stop The Music

Promotes: Yamaha "Fiore"

2NE1 are warped into a colorful Lego world and party with Fiore motorcycles! They sing to the DJ, telling him to keep the music pumping so everyone can dance till the morning.  It's such an addictive song with auto-tuned vocals and trendy flair. And I didn't notice at first, but 2NE1 sing "Fiore" at some parts, just in case you forget what the song is promoting. In the MV, we get to see loud outfits, smooth dance moves and the fun, friendly chemistry between CL and Minzy.

2. Mamamoo - Woo Hoo

Promotes: LG G5 & Friends (cell phone)

From the first second, Mamamoo serenade listeners with their enchanting vocals. In such fresh harmony, these girls express the excitement of finding someone special. Their charm and flirtatiousness is all captured in a one-take music video. The video caption describes it as a"medium-tempo, funky" song. Overall, I just love the summery/spring concept! "Woo Hoo" is only a commercial, but it's Mamamoo at their finest.

3. Orange Caramel - Abing Abing

Promotes: Baskin Robbins (Ice Cream)

Lizzy, Raina and Nana entice you to fall in love with all thirty-one flavors. They assure us that ice cream is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. And I agree, though the girls' delivery is overly saccharine! 'Abing Abing' advertises a specific ice cream called bing-soo, which is a Korean shaved ice dessert. Tasty!

4. SNSD & F(x) - Chocolate Love

Promotes: LG Chocolate (cell phone)

Both girl groups released a version of this song. Girls' Generation (SNSD) are elegant ladies who sing about their love for LG's chocolate phone. Their version of the song is retro-pop with a feminine charm. The music video is in a fancy venue and the members wear white outfits. On the other hand, f(x) take a darker approach to 'Chocolate Love' with the ever-so trendy electro-pop. Instead of white lace, f(x) wear black leather and are edgier.

5. NCT 127 - Taste The Feeling

Promotes: Coca Cola

NCT collaborated with Coca Cola and released a Korean version of 'Taste The Feeling'. Members Jaehyun, Taeil, Yuta and Haechan provided the vocals for this track but the entirety of NCT 127 is included in the music video. Each member is shown doing an activity, but they all fall short of success. Then, they take a sip from the iconic red bottle and get the drive and ability to succeed. Like most Coca Cola commercials, this MV makes sure viewers associate their soda with happiness, friendship and positivity.

6. Yuri X Seohyun - Secret

Promotes: Pantene hair care

What's the secret to Yuri's and Seohyun's fabulous hair? They tell us in this endorsement for Pantene hair products, which is complete with silky tresses and slow-motion hair flips. 'Secret' is a dance song that has European-pop elements. The whispered chorus is backed by a heavy electronic bass. It is very chic and is paired with an equally cool video. Yuri and Seohyun dance beside each other and pose on fancy motorcycles and cars.

7. 2NE1 - Be Mine

Promotes: Intel 'Make Thumb Noise' Project

'Be Mine' is a laid back, medium-tempo song that shows the best of all the members' vocals. It is about a girl's confession to her long-time crush and desire to finally start a relationship. In the music video, 2NE1 show their technical savvy, as it is a promotion for a computer processor company. Laptops are shown throughout, and on their screens are with behind the scenes clips of 2NE1.

8. Girl's Day - Hello Bubble

Promotes: MISE EN SCENE  Hair Color Products

'Hello Bubble' is a rather short but fun promo song. It's normal for Girl's Day to switch between cute and sultry concepts, and for this release they went with the former. The music video shows the girls as they get ready for a date. They sport quirky, colorful clothes and show off their trendy styled hair, as it's an endorsement for hair dye.

9. Girls' Generation - Visual Dreams

Promotes: Intel Core

Girls' Generation get technical in 'Visual Dreams' to promote Intel Core computer-processors. It's a bouncy, fun synth-pop track with quite a bit of English in the lyrics. The music video is basic, but entertaining with plenty of colorful special effects!

Sources:

Images: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9