Author: kpopreviewed

Hi, my name is Tony and I am the man behind the site, kpopreviewed. Currently an university student who wants to introduce people to KPOP and if you are already into KPOP, different groups and bands.

Let’s Not Fall In Love – Big Bang

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Once again, Big Bang has made their comeback, for the 4th time this year. Talk about that Big Bang drought we had, I think that has cleared up totally. Yes, their MADE album is about to end. Now, the full album and the final songs are meant to be released in September (next month), but since the comebacks have been quite tiring on the members, YG has decided to delay (hmmm… why is delay and YG always in the same sentence?) the full album release, to let the members rest and to make way for iKON’s long awaited debut. But these are the song released for August. Which I am reviewing at the end of August because I am that slow (and busy). Lots to catch up on.

Big Bang have been experimenting with different sounds for these few comebacks. They continue to return with unique sounds. This time, they went for a much happier sounding (?) ballad, something that we don’t actually hear much of the band. It is probably one of their slowest songs ever. I think the vocal mix in this song is pretty nice. We have all the members singing and of course rapping from G-Dragon and T.O.P. It is a nice sounding song, which I would love to hear on a summer night when it is raining. There is something so dreamy about T.O.P’s singing voice for rainy days… It just lacks that appeal that Big Bang songs usually have. To be honest, this is just a B-sided track. It is good, but it really is not good enough to be the title track. There really isn’t a hook or anything to grab our attention. But still, nice song.

If there is another thing I like this for, I guess how the lyrics mis-match with the sound of the song and the music video. The lyrics have that sadness factor, but the sound and the music video do contradict that. Not in a bad way. But in a way that could be described as artistic. While the members sing about “not falling in love yet” and “just be my friend” or “remain friends or else I can hurt you”, we see the members play around with the girls. They have fun and no hint of sadness. No tears, no arguments. I have a feeling that Big Bang always know how to have a good time. Their company always bring along these foreign girls into their music video. Not only that, but the girls change each time, so I would expect there to be some sort of awkwardness. But the guys and girls seem to have a great time and their chemistry together seems pretty nice.

Nice song and music video. Pity that they haven’t really promoted this song at all, compared to Zutter. 8.5/10. Zutter review will come tomorrow.

Married To The Music – SHINee

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SHINee has returned to the stage after promoting View back in May. This time, they are joining the retro train with a throwback to music in the 80s, with Married To The Music.

This is a pretty nice song. It is definitely very different due that 80s feel it is going for. I love those small sections just before the start of the chorus. They add a more 80s feel to the song, even more than what the song is already showing. Not a big fan of the verses in this song. Not that they are bad, but they are pretty bland compared to the rest of the song. I really enjoyed Onew’s voice in this song. His vocal style and sound really fits in well with this song. The group’s harmonising in this song is pretty amazing as well. While the song is pretty unique, I don’t think this has the potential to turn into an iconic song. And honestly, I enjoyed listening to it the first few times, but then it was just forgotten for me. It really did not have much for me to go back to and I don’t find it catchy. But nevertheless, it is a pretty “popping” song that takes us back to probably the biggest era in music for today’s pop. But that is pretty debatable.

I enjoyed the music video. It had that Rocky Horror Show feel to it, which was quite big at the time (and I think it was big a few years back as well). I love how the whole music video can literally be turned into a movie. And how it was shot with a movie like feel. It is pretty creepy when you think back to it. Having your head lobed off or have your facial features stolen by some pretty and mysterious girl. To me, this has to be one of the best music videos this year to date. Everything that came together for this video worked really well with each other. The concept, the angles, the members, the editing and the really cool effects played well with each other. Jonghyun’s lips singing while in the bowl was pretty cool. Probably one of the most unique music videos to date. But if you don’t like heads getting chopped off (there is no blood in this video though), then you might not want to watch this.

The dance was really cool as well. Using back up dancers as your support is a pretty good idea to give off that impression of floating. Well, at least that is what I think they are trying to get at. I enjoyed how they interacted with the camera for the dance this time. It suits the fun side of KPOP that we are clearly missing.

Overall, a pretty good comeback but it got forgotten quickly. But it was hella unique and gave everyone memories to the 80s. 8/10

Sweet Girl – B1A4

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Another group has returned for the Summer. B1A4 last promoted in South Korea last year in the Summer with Solo Day. Since then, they released songs in Japan and Sandeul (in particular) has been prominent in the variety field. Sandeul has recently garnered a lot of popularity over his voice (why has this only just started?). Both Jinyoung and Baro have been acting. CNU has doved into the world of musicals and Gongchan is currently an MC for a South Korean/International-embracing show (I don’t know what the show is called). They are also due to be performing in this own concert after promotions for Sweet Girl ends.

This comeback is very chilled in my opinion. I really like the laid back feel that this song delivers to you. It is powerful in its own way, but it doesn’t necessarily hits you. I think this is quite a nice song that channels that retro sound that KPOP has been going for in a few releases. It reminds me of songs that were so long ago, I don’t even remember the artists or the actual song titles. But I am 100% that there is a song that gives off the same feel. Their vocals compliment the subtle instrumental. As I said, the song isn’t powerful in a sense that it makes me go “Woah”, but more like a relaxing sigh. The rapping fitted in very well. The insturmental itself is everything I could ask for. The orchestra sounds and a pretty nice band sound as well. I honestly should have said that all the elements that make up the song come together very well and compliment each other. Nice song.

As for the music video, I don’t necessary hate it. I just feel like the video feels disconnected from the many parts. Like each member gets their own scenario and all, but the scenarios don’t really join well with each other. Baro’s is all in the dark realm and mysterious and Sanduel is eating fairy floss? There is a direct mismatch. I honestly thought the video could have gone for a more classy feel, like the live jazz singers in a bar type of concept.  And don’t get me started on the acting. I know Baro can act. But that small part of hesitation when he opens the door to the blinding light, I was like “Noooo… WHY????”. It made me cringe on badly.

The dance for the song is pretty good. It does look a little awkward. They went for a more sexy concept while still maintaining their style, which I like a lot. It just the “feeling the legs” and all don’t really fit in well with what I had associated them to. I think I am not that used to this style for them.  On top of that, their expressions, they are just on the line of sadness and boredom to me.

Overall, it was a nice comeback. Song was amazing. Dance was too. Music video wasn’t so much. 7/10.

There is one song that I am going to put down here. But 10 Years (from this mini album) was probably my favourite song from this whole comeback. Check it out here!!!

I Feel You – Wonder Girls

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Probably one of the most sought after comebacks for a very long time. It has been over two years since we heard anything from the Wonder Girls, and now they are officially back with a brand new member. I kid. A former member, Sunmi, who we all probably know as the artists who sang 24 Hours and Full Moon. She left the group a while back and has returned as the fourth member. Why fourth? Well, Sunye and Sohee both decided to leave the band officially after a lot of speculation with their departure. Sunye now has a child and Sohee says she wants to focus on an acting career. Fans did get a little Wonder Girl’s feel when Ye-Eun made her solo debut last year with Ain’t Nobody, as HA:TFELT. And beside all of that, I haven’t heard much from the band themselves in the past 2 years. But they are back with a brand new concept and new album for fans to listen to.

This time around, while they were known for their dances, Wonder Girl’s had gone for the band concept. Interesting. Regarding the song, it is totally their style. These girls have retro down as if it was child play and they once again proved to the audience why they are so great at the retro sounds. Honestly, I love this song. It is damn catchy and addictive. The instrumental, while there really isn’t anything that grand within it, managed to blow my mind away. The drum beat and the electro sounding keyboard was a pretty nice combination. The guitars were a little more subtle, but they managed to tie everything together quite well. The vocals, that we know pretty well, was pretty good as well.  The rapping fitted into the instrumental/song pretty well. However, the vocals. While they are good, they really feel like they are holding themselves back. While I cannot point to a certain style, I felt this song limited their abilities and failed to show off who they really are. Particularly Lim, she definitely held back the most, as we know her vocal capabilities, but there was none of it here. And I am going to be honest, I might have the slightest belief that this song may be a little too dry, compared to their past releases. But still, great song.

As for the music video, tick for retro.  Everything from the stage set and their clothing looks pretty retro. Minus their instruments. They do look a little too modern, particularly the drums. That start though, with Sumni, unzipping her shorts, and then there is a massive zooming in effect, really took the cake for me. Was that seriously necessary? I thought back in the day, they opened doors for that sort of effect, not unzip pants. Also, they looked very bored. They don’t seem to enjoy themselves. One stage and in the video. I am not expecting them to be having the time of their lives, but their facial expressions tell me that they rather be somewhere else. Their instrumental playing, kind of ruined their performances. While I do understand that the performances were not live instrumental performances, at least some effort to give off the illusion would have been nice.

It was a nice retro return for the retro queens with a great song. However the music video, hmmm… Maybe not so much. 8/10 (I am being too nice). 

Queen – Miryo (Brown Eyed Girls) ft. Gain (Brown Eyed Girls)

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It has been a long time coming but finally something has emerged about Brown Eyed Girls. While this is not a full comeback from the band, one member is pretty good, considering the lack of activities from the band. So when I heard Miryo was making her comeback, I was extremely happy. Yes I know, Gain did make a comeback, but compared to the other members, she is promoted a lot more than her other band members. Brown Eyed Girls also shot down disbandment rumours, by saying that they are currently working on an album and it should be released sometime in the near future. I hope they don’t disband and if it happens that this album may be their last, I don’t mind. Just give me the album. How selfish of me really. But considering their age, it is amazing at where they are today.

So Miryo made her comeback. And the rapper is known for her bad ass style and hardcore rapping skills. And that is what every expected. However, I have to agree with most people. This song is quite underwhelming. I don’t think it is bad, it just does not conform to our expectations of the rapper. That is quite disappointing. But nonetheless, I don’t hate the song. I thought it was quite good and continue to think that it is Miryo putting out a new style. If you consider it, if an artist writes their song and produces it, only to have their loyal fans express their disappointment continuously, it would be hard on the artist. Learn to appreciate the song. For the song, I thought it was classy in its own standard. The song stilled managed to flow pretty well. It was not a badly written song or was not an earsore. Is it a song I would listen on repeat? No, not really. Gain’s feature in the song is pretty nice. There is this thing where the vocals of Brown Eyed Girls blend very well together. There is still that hip hop sound to the song, just it is very tamed and low key. It is a great song to listen to, but yeah, did not really wow anyone.

As for the music video, I am sure a little more budgeting would have made this video into something that makes us go wow. Yeah, rumours have it that Nega Network (which houses Brown Eyed Girls) have been having financial issues. Anyway, the music video was very boring. There wasn’t anything to interest me. Close up shots of the rapper and then dark silhouettes. The use of the Queen cards were pretty smart. I am at awe of her figure as well. She looked very hot in this video and her clothes just made it so much better (much of a pervert???). The music video did fit the style of the song pretty well as well. Gain did not feature in the video, which was another disappointment for this comeback. Yeah.

Now, they say Miryo has a few songs lined up and will be releasing more towards the end of the year. That is what I read online. 2 songs ain’t going to quench my thirst. Hahaha… Or even better, get the whole band to make a comeback. Nice song, though underwhelming. 5/10

So Crazy – T-Ara

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T-Ara has returned after a year as a full group. They did make a comeback with Little Apple in December last year, but it was only with 4 members, which was disappointing. But now they are back as a six member group with a summer song that should be a total hit. No bias. T-Ara has literally had a massive rise of popularity in China and have focused most of their attention to the Chinese market, with this mini album containing both a Korean version of the song and also a Korean/Chinese version of the song. Only reason why I am not saying Chinese version directly, is that their Chinese version is basically Chinese for chorus and the rest is Korean. Not very “Chinese version” but it does the job.

Not going to lie, this is a pretty cool song. It is pretty catchy and addictive. The teaser did a very bad job at selling the song, but the song itself is pretty good. Though I am honest here, I am disappointed with the song. While I do dig the song and enjoy it, for T-Ara, it seems underwhelming. There really is not much of an impact that I expected from the band. Sugar Free and Number 9 were powerful, What Should I Do? was fun. But this, it just seemed far too mainstream for me. It was not what I had expected from T-Ara. I was disappointed that there was no rap section, but at the same time, the song would not suit a rap section. I really liked the chorus (it was quite cutesy sounding, but it worked) and the bit right after the chorus. Once again Qri and Boram got shoved to the side. Boram and Qri got a decent amount of time for Sugar Free, so I don’t know why they were shoved to the back once again. But the song was just right for my liking, just minus the complaints and the disappointment of style of song.

As for the music video, it was rather boring. But at the same time, I felt like the music video was talking about females in KPOP or actually about themselves. So my first theory, the girls represents all the girl groups in South Korea. Just normal looking and have “standard jobs” which I think would represent an alright song, popularity rank or fanbase. Now without improving on any of the three, the girls are no going to succeed. But once they change it up and go for the “sexy” concept, some many people go from the other popular groups and divert their attention to the “sexy” girls. And from there they enjoy their new popularity. OR T-Ara was reduced to a lower status after what happened a few years back. Then they change it up a bit and win their first award in a while. And then they bask in their new reclaimed popularity. That or I am looking far too much into it and should just enjoy what I see literally. But beside that, music video was rather boring. The sailor concept was rather weird, but yeah, the video was boring. And who buys bread only?

Dance fits in with the song pretty well. The chorus is just hella cute. And I liked it how they actually did take those cute dance moves and combined it with the sexy dance moves. Though I know people have done it before, it just feels like they blended it in very well for this comeback.

T-Ara did pretty well for this comeback. A few disappointing points here and there, but I think this comeback was decent enough. 7/10

[DOUBLE REVIEW] Gotta Go To Work + YeY – Beast

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Finally, what I intended the double reviews for. For when artists come out with a pre-release and then their title track. Honestly, I felt like Beast should have reviewed sooner, but it won’t be fair for other bands to wait it out as well. Beats has comeback with their fifth mini album. Gotta Go To Work was their pre-release single, while YeY is their title track for this promotional run. Their album is titled as “Ordinary” but this album and their songs are nothing “ordinary”. Prepare for lame puns.

Knowing me, I liked YeY more than Gotta Go To Work. While their last few pre-releases were more of the ballad type, Gotta Go To Work can be described as a song that we would not have expected from the band. There is a lot of aegyo feelings in this song compared to any other song that they have released. And it is pretty interesting. No, it is not a crap song. It is actually pretty nice to listen to once in a while. And I am glad they did not choose this as their title track, because it would be a song that I would get tired with quite quickly. I think that while it is good to listen to from time to time, consecutively listening to this song on the loop would drain it of all the effects it should have. I love how Junhyung carries the first half of the chorus though. It changes things up a bit. I like their vocals in the song.

YeY is a much better song in my opinion. Mainly because I have replaying the song since it has come out and really enjoy the dance and party theme it was going for. The song starts off slow, and starts to build up to the first chorus. It basically hypes you up until the beat drops when we get to the chorus. Junhyung is singing quite a bit in these songs. Interesting. I really enjoy the chemistry between their voices in this song. Junhyung’s rap at the beginning was pretty bad ass though. There is one complaint I have in terms of the vocals. Kikwang seems to have a pretty deep voice this time around and I am quite sure I have never heard a song with Kikwang singing like in this sing. Not saying it is bad, but I feel like it really did not fit well with the song. The instrumental and chorus is really addictive as well. “Yey Yey Yey!!!”

The music videos are quite nice. Gotta Go To Work has a very colourful and cutesy video. I honestly like where they were going with the video and how the girl does not want Doojoon to go to work, mainly because she would miss him so much. And he would tempt her anyway he can to just go to work. Wait, doesn’t that mean he wants to leave her? OMG…. Hahaha… I know, don’t worry. But damn girl, she is just too clingy. I enjoyed Doojoon’s acting in the video though, Suited the music video very well. Yey also had a great music video. Though, my number one complaint is regarding the stylist who did Junhyung’s and Hyunseung’s hair. Please. NO. I cringed so hard, I felt like I cringed on behalf of Australia when I saw them dread locks. The rest of the music video (sorry have to gloss over this part) went pretty smoothly. Party animals I have to say. I love the warehouse dance set that they had. It looked pretty cool.

There should not have been a dance for Gotta Go To Work. It just looked weird on stage. YeY had a much better dance to it and that I expected from them. Their dancing matches the song quite well for YeY.

Overall, this was probably a solid comeback. Always expected Beast to make a great comeback and they managed to deliver pretty well despite all the competition.

Gotta Go To Work – 5/10

YeY – 9/10

Me Gustas Tu – GFriend

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Probably the hottest rookie of the year and no, they are not doing the sexy concept. GFriend literally won hearts of fanboys and fangirls across Korea and also internationally. Their debut, Glass Bead, was an instant hit when they debuted earlier in the year and this is their first comeback since debut. Drawing similairites from one of the biggest and popular groups in Korea at this moment did cause them some trouble, but honestly, they are going to be big as everyone have been saying. Me Gustas Tu rose to the top of the charts after release, showing Korea and the world the potential this group can be.

When I first heard the song, I honestly thought it was going to be chucked aside. Some many big groups are making their comeback and I thought GFriend had no chance. But after a few listens and a lot of reassuring looks from the charts, I was certain that this song would become something that would trend. GFriend, I think, solidified their position in the industry with this song. Yes, they have a long way to go, but they have overtaken so many groups and it has only been a few months since they debut. I love their instrumentals. For this song, they went with a nice piano intro and went straight into a cute yet rocking rock (?) sound. When I hear the song, I can’t help but pause what I am doing and sing along to it. Or sing it in my head. This song bring smiles to my face. It’s so damn good. Their vocals are solid. I have no complaints with their vocal work. I love how they work together during the chorus. It hooks me on so well. And that high note at the end. Wow.

The music video was very summery. It is just mainly shots of them enjoying the perks of Summer and dance shots. And it fits the song and the season. Those hills remind me of the Microsoft XP default background. But honestly, where can I find fields with such green grass and beautiful blue skies? I need that in my life. It takes my breath away. Some of the solo shots have that awkward feel to them though. I can tell some members had an awkward time with a camera up close to their face. Reminds me of a joke that Amy Poehler once said. Hehehe… Wrong context. Totally wrong context. 10 points to whoever gets what I am taking about.

Here is what I love about GFriend. They are a cute girl group that basically has the cute concept in the bag. But their dances are just a totally different story. Usually girl groups with the cute concept goes for more simple dances that matches their cuteness. But GFriend is no joke. They have hella hard choreography. Dances that put many boy groups to shame. This dance was so freaking cool. Not one to talk a lot about the dances in my review, but you will be blown away with their in-sync moves and powerful kicks.

GFriend is slowly becoming a group to watch out for. They will, one day in the future, probably be a group that others must compete against. And it seems Korea (and international fans) will not stop loving these girls. 9.5/10

I’m Ill – Hello Venus

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Another artist in need of some recognition. Yeah, out of all the bands and groups out there at the moment, Hello Venus has to be one of the few to drastically change their image around. But they are back with a club themed song for us to listen to. They previously made their long awaited comeback with the sexy concept late last year and came back with another sexy concept, Wiggle Wiggle, at the start of the year. Now, they are “ill”? Ummm… Say what?

Yeah, the title of the song really got me. It is not your typical title of a song. To be honest, I would not play a song titled as “I’m Ill” anywhere, mainly because that would give off the wrong message. And that is the last thing I want to do. But beside that, the song is pretty cool. I enjoyed the club feel that it had going for it. I don’t know why, but I automatically feel old when I need to review these club and electro style songs. I feel like my words are quite disconnected with the actual song. But I thought the chorus was catchy and the drop was pretty addictive. Honestly been dancing in my chair to this song. The “dance break” is what I am going to dub the part straight after the 2nd time the chorus is sung. Honestly, that sound. But honestly, I would play this song when I want some blood pumping through my veins. Great party song.

The music video was exactly what I expected from Hello Venus.  Dude in club gets attracted to the girls and starts falling for them. But damn, was he a playboy or what? He went from one girl to the next in like seconds. But yeah, it was a pretty boring video. There was not anything to hook me onto watching it more and more. While the flashing lights suited the song, I felt that they could have been taken away. And the girls should have danced at a club or party scene to fit the overall concept they are going for. I have to be honest, the girls look really hot in this video. While I do like the contrast between innocent Hello Venus and party Hello Venus, I don’t think this is the right video to have both of them in it. I think the party scenes and them club scenes were enough to suffice for the video.

The dance was meh. No twerking. Much disappointed. But beside that, the dance composed of a few finger pointing movements, body waves and steps. Literal steps. Not the most exciting dance out there at the moment.

The song was amazing, but the music video and dance could have been loads better. 6/10

Vanilla Shake – N.CA

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Sorry about the ongoing delay with reviews. Yes, I am back at university and boy it is taking a toll on me. I am feeling tired as the days go by since I have to wake up early for the few days I go per week. And I am trialling a new study method where I get on top of things. It has worked, but I have been so busy with assignments and homework, so there is so much to do. But I will be churning out reviews this weekend. I am literally going to dedicate tomorrow night or Saturday night to just write reviews and get them out there because I am so delayed. That is my lengthy apology. N.CA is back with a new song. Her last comeback was in March with Cinderella Time.

Yeah, I’ve decided to review some lesser known acts this time around, mainly because I feel like it. But also the fact that these artists are often thrown aside due to the ongoing competition between certain artists in the industry. I find many of these songs  quite nice and fail to get the recognition they deserve. This is one of them. I think this song can easily be turned into a sexual song, but let’s not. This song has that olden style hit track song (or how they described as “vintage”). And I like it a lot. It is quite addictive and the instrumental is not overpowering. But her vocals seem weak in this song, which is disappointing, because she has quite strong vocals. I also enjoy how she kept the cuteness that she is known for into the song with this song.

Here is where the comeback does fall a part for me. For a while I thought she was going to comeback with a more mature comeback (watch her teaser), but that was misleading. When I saw the start of the music video, I thought, “Okay, she is going for the cute comeback, fine.” Until I realized what she was wearing and at the same time her dance moves. Now, I don’t hate what she is wearing and don’t have anything against it. It just felt to mismatched with her vocals and song. Clearly the video was oversexualising her. Was it necessary to put her in tight clothing and lay around on the floor? But I have to be honest she has a nice body. And no, I am not a pedo. Wikipedia claims she is an adult and actually is older than me. So it is all good. Hehehe… And NS Yoon G featured in this colourful and bright music video. And somehow, some people missed that so much. But her cameo, what was the point of it????

Here is what stole the show for me. Cute song, bright video, suggestive dance? Yeah, dirty minded me, But honestly, the dance was asking to be associated with it. Yeah, that was essentially what ruined this comeback for me. What happened to her cute moves?

This review seems rushed. But I like the song. Music video was okay. Dance was a total no no. I think I got my message across. And maybe N.CA got her message across as well. 5.5/10

Cushion – SONAMOO

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SONAMOO is back with their first comeback, Cushion. They debuted at the very end of the year (last year) with Deja Vu and followed up with Just Go, another track for their debut mini album. From their Wikipedia page, it seems like they had their own reality TV show in 2015. But beside that. I personally have not been hearing anything from the band , beside the fact that they have officially came back with Cushion.

SONAMOO debuted with a hip hop styled track which was did okay on charts. While their debut song was a lot darker and more suited for the colder season, Cushion is too a hip hop themed song, but better suited for the Summer. I personally think this is a great song. It is quite catchy and addictive to listen to. I have one issue though. I did some research and it turns out they were singing “He’s like a cushion”, while 100% of the times I have heard the song (and it has been quite a lot of times), I hear “It’s like cushion”. So it may have blew my mind but at the same time confused the living soul out of me. I really enjoy the rapping bit afterwards the chorus each time. I thought that was probably the most addictive part of the song. I felt like their vocal work and rapping was improved quite a bit since their debut. I feel like they are quite comfortable with their voices.  The ending was probably the best ending to a song for a very long time. I am very impressed.

As for the music video, there is a very big mismatch with the whole video. The song has hip hop vibe to it and sounds like a “powerful women” style song. So why are there scenes in the video of the girls acting more like cute girls. There is nothing wrong with it, I just feel it doesn’t fit the video that well. Beside that, there really is not much to comment on. Beside the fact how cringe-worthy the video was (with their acting) and how the set looks like it was used somewhere else and just bought by the company. Like seriously? What happened to good old uniqueness to give your artists a little recognition.  I am glad for the amount of cushion in the video. But cushion fighting? You were singing about him being soft like a cushion, but you ended up killing them cushions. Yikes.

The dance has that hip hop and sexy vibe throughout it. I enjoyed it. I thought that rap sequence after the chorus was pretty unique. The chorus dance was quite nice and fits in with the song.

Overall, the song was nice and dance was cool. Music video could have been a little bit better. 7/10

 

[DOUBLE REVIEW] Champagne + Rise As One – TVXQ

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Another double review for you all. This time, TVXQ is back with a brand new special album. This is their final album for the next two years. That is right, they are enlisting into the army, with Yunho going in first and Changmin enlisting at the end of the year. However, of course, they did not want to leave their fans empty-handed and presented with a special album. This is like just a  present and received very little promotions. This time around however, they did not stick to being a duo (but the majority of the songs on the album are duo work), but selected solo songs for their title track. Yunho’s solo was Champagne and Changmin’s solo was Rise As One. Usually, I don’t review TVXQ songs, but I felt like I needed to this time around.

Like I said, I don’t review TVXQ songs that much. But this time around, I was drawn to their solo songs. Yunho’s Champagne is a really nice song that has a subtle party feel, with what I believe is some sort of rnb roots (?). He chose the song wanting to leave on a happy note and that is basically what he has done with this song. For me, this sounds like a pop song that would had come out like early 00’s. Back in the day. Hahaha…. Not exactly fond of his rapping in this song and also the bridge of the song sounded too mismatched with the rest of the song. The song is quite catchy (especially the “I only want…” parts. Honestly I thought this was such a great song. It is completely different from their past songs. They honestly should do more of these.

Changmin also has a great song as well. So it is not all praises for Yunho. I totally dig this song and would choose this song over Yunho’s song any day (Sorry Yunho). But why? The song has the EDM background instrumental to it, which I totally dig (I really enjoy songs with the “drop” nowadays). And boy, the instrumental sounds so great with the vocal’s of someone who is known for ballads and other strong songs. There is nothing wrong with the song. I enjoyed everything with this song from start to finish. The polished guitar instrumental towards the end fitted in well with the song. The song flowed so fluidly, I felt like I was floating away. Really did. This song has that effect of letting you float away into dream land.

Both music video’s were pretty cool. Yunho’s was still in a box, which is quite disappointing, but I really enjoyed it. There was some sort of story line with it, how he looks similar to the dude on TV. But then it abruptly finishes there and proceeds to go partying for the rest of the music video. The start with the many Yunho’s playing multiple roles in the one scene was quite cool. It also was meant to be for a comedic relief. There were also guest stars in the music video with a few people I don’t know. But I did notice Hyoyeon from SNSD. Changmin’s music video was equally as nice. It was shot outside (interesting…). It features no Changmin though, which was a disappointment, but the acting from the kids that did feature in the music video were pretty good. Though I don’t think that is a plot at all in the video, I really enjoyed how the scenes came together to tell (somewhat) a story. The cinematography was amazing.

There really isn’t much to say for a dance. From the looks of it, I don’t see much a dance from Changmin’s song. There is a dance for Yunho’s song but we really don’t see much of it in the music video.

Now, since the guys are gone for the next two years, what is going to happen to the band when they actually do comeback after their hiatus? How big is it going to be? It is going to be massive!!! But yeah, they will be missed.

Champagne – 8/10

Rise As One – 10/10

Remember – APINK

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APINK has returned to the stage with a brand new song. This marks their first release for 2015, becoming one of the most successful groups of 2014. APINK released hits such as Mr. Chu and Luv, which skyrocketed them into being dubbed as the next generation top tier groups for the KPOP industry. Luv was such a hit in the industry that it won all the possible awards on the weekly music shows for that month, beating out many top artists in December. But here they are now in Summer with their new track, Remember.

This is a messy song that has grown on me. But not as much as you think. I still think it is pretty messy and it really sounds quite jaggered. If you understand what I mean by that, award yourself a hi-five. But yeah, the song starts off with a slow piano sound, and then enters a dance pop genre quite randomly. Like there was no connection. The chorus was a bit awkward for me. Because it started off slow (compared to the rest of the chorus), but afterwards, it started to become more upbeat.  An interesting theory is that when Eunji sings the start, it more of a flashback type of sound that they were going for. When Bomi starts to sing, it like a “hit”- to get back to reality. That does seem very interesting and made the song feel better. But overall, it is nothing that I wanted from the group. No No No and Mr. Chu had very bright songs that fitted the summer season. But Remember, to me, was just Summer. It did not feel right for me. And the song ended very abruptly, and that still bugs me when I listen to it today. It just did not end well at all.

The music video was quite summery. Dancing on a boat is not something that I would enjoy, but it seems like the girls are having the time of their lives. Once again, it just feels like Summer. Yes, while the season is Summer, I feel like the song should fit into it, rather than be it. Once again, if you understand, pat yourself on the back. For some reason, I focused a lot on Bomi while watching this music video. And it is mainly because of her pink hair and the way they styled it into two buns. Like where are some stylists going with the hairstyles they give to these idols. (I am going to briefly mention it here. Wait until a review that will be coming out quite soon about hairstyles. If you have been paying attention to KPOP, you know who I am talking about. If that is case, guess below and pat yourself on the back). And those scenes where they get ready for the party. It has been done before in one of their OWN videos.

The dance was nice. It complimented the song quite well. That Running Man version of the dance was funny though. Just that crouching down to write letters in the sand, looks very awkward and kind of ruins it for me. APINK is one of the groups that just proves that you don’t need to have a sexy dance to get attention of others. Just ask their forever growing fandom.

Yeah, I sound disappointed. And I know that APINK is capable of much more. So I guess maybe next time. It is growing on  me, but it seems like it won’t be around for long though. 6/10

Devil – Super Junior

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Uni has officially restarted for me, so I will be a little slower with getting the reviews up now. BUT, I will try my best, of course, to get them out as fast as I can. And finally the group that did it all and conquered the industry has returned with a special album. Now while this is a special album and all, but SM, I think it is time to talk. Honestly, quit worrying about being a profit machine. Honestly, you have the biggest acts in the industry. You will be making profit, regardless of the amount of times you will be promoting your artists. Why am I saying this? SNSD, Super Junior, TVXQ and possibly SHINee have released a song or album within the month of July. Now, I don’t what your true motives are about this, but this has to stop. For fans and probably for your artists and staff. And this is not the first time it has happened. Promotions have overlapped in the past, but this is the first time where your artists are coming out every single week for 1 month.

That was my rant. Now, this is the first release for Yesung (as part of Super Junior) since he finished his military service. And for those who don’t know, I am a pretty big fan for Yesung. Mainly because of his vocals. But wow, do I believe he was shunned. Okay, maybe it wasn’t that bad, because we see members of Super Junior who we usually don’t see sing, sing quite a bit in this song. However, I feel like this song just disregarded the main vocalists of the group. I felt like the song held them back and really did not do them any favours. To me, the song has its good points, but also disappointed me. Devil sounded like a rock track or something quite upbeat. Further hype was added when the group suggested that Devil could become the new Sorry Sorry. BUT I was so disappointed when Devil came out. Mainly because it does not have the kick that I was promised, as in Sorry Sorry. Actually, no, this would not be a song that I would classify has the pop sound that Super Junior usually has. It has no similarities to Sorry Sorry whatsoever. But while you probably think I am criticising the song, I am not. I enjoyed the jazzy sound that the song has and also how the song compliments the other singers of the band that we do not see/hear much.

I thought this music video was perfect. Disregarding my thoughts about the song, I thought the teasers were funny (despite not understanding a single thing). The music video itself, I thought was pretty cool, with the movie teaser/poster effects. I thought they played very well with the actual song and concept. The devil is the female lead, while the male leads (Super Junior) themselves, are the main characters and trying to solve their problems. Gun fights, robbing and a whole heap of other action ensues. SM did not hold back for this music video. And that I am grateful for, and it seems like a new thing for SM. The one thing I do need to say is that: that hat Yesung wears at the end, needs to go. That is all.

The dance is alright. It fits the song, but I am not really drawn to the performances. Mainly due to the fact that they are going to be rare since SM is only allowing them 1 week on the stage, which has already past and now there is nothing me to look forward to each week.

While the promotional phase for this album was rather shot and it is the company that we can only blame it fall, Super Junior managed to comeback with a solid song, even though it seems like I disagreed with it, in certain aspects. 7/10

Choco Chip Cookies – Goo Hara (Kara) ft. Giriboy

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Summer comebacks keep on coming and they keep on getting announced. Gu Hara who is a popular member of the group Kara was confirmed to make her solo debut a few months back and finally has dropped the new song this month. Kara was quite busy in the last few months, due to their comeback with Cupid. So when  I heard that she was going to debut just a matter of weeks after their promotional cycle finished, I was shocked. Why don’t these people get some time to rest? But then again, many fans (and guys) are probably thankful for this. Hehehehe…

Not a big fan of Hara. I never see why she stood out beside the fact that she has a nice body. And many people have acknowledge that she isn’t the best member at singing or rapping. However it is still a pretty big feat if you are that someone but manage to pull off a solo song by yourself. I personally think this song suits Hara’s capability of being a singer. It is not a complex song that needs high notes and all those ad-libs to make it sound cool. But I have to be honest, I did find this song rather ordinary. I liked it, but it doesn’t have much going on within it. Giriboy’s rapping was pretty good and accompanied Hara’s vocals pretty well. But the rest really didn’t wow me. Maybe I am so use to powerful vocals and all, but this did sound rather flat and dull.

As for the music video, I thought it was rather boring. I have to be very honest here, but that dude looked pretty nice (physique wise). The chemistry between the two was pretty good. At least they were not awkward with each other, because that would be a video with disaster written all over it. It is very Summery video and colourful. But beside that, there really was not much going on. The couple flirted and acted cute/sexy around each other. And that is all. There was nothing else to talk about. Yeah, I am very disappointed about that. Maybe I am being hypocritical with myself, but those scenes where she is just singing and staring into the camera. Yeah, they look fake. I know the video would more boring, but honestly, I cringed during those scenes.

As for the dance, that dude is back again. Hahaha… I just remember watching one of the performances and there wasn’t much screaming for Hara. However as soon as the dude stepped out, the fan girls started their reign.  The dance was boring. There really wasn’t anything to eye boggle about. It does fit in with her image and reflects the sexy summer comeback that many did expect from her.

Overall, it was okay. Could have been loads better. 4.5/10

Just Right – GOT7

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Wow, the songs this Summer are pretty good. GOT7 is finally back after over a half year disappearance from the industry. Yes, they are not forgotten and return with their first comeback of 2015. Why has it been so long since we last saw them? Well, they have been having a lot of activities overseas, with a Japan comeback. On top of that, JB and Junior (formerly known as Jr. – he changed his stage name recently) have been acting again. Beside that, I don’t follow the members so I don’t really know. On with the review.

When I first heard the teaser for this song, I thought it was going to be a really boring comeback with nothing to exceed the standards which their other songs have created. In other words, I thought this track was going to suck. HOWEVER, I will kindly take my words back and confirm that I now officially think this is a fan-freaking-tatstic song to listen to. Actually, their whole mini album this time around was amazing. I am not into these types of songs such as Just Right which, to me, has that really annoying sound in it that detaches itself from the song. But the song was made for that sound and I thought the song flowed quite well. the song was very upbeat and bright. The instrumental was really good as well. While A was more of a pop-ish song, this song reminded me of A. But maybe more of the concept. The vocals and the rapping (even though to me they sound like they are talking in a more posh voice) were really good. I felt the song was too short and wanted more from it. Amazing song.

The music video reflects what the lyrics of the song are. The guys sing about how the girl of their dreams is ‘Just Right” and that she does not need to try hard to be beautiful. Ahhh… Meaningful lyrics. Now, this was a very bright video and I thought it was pretty good. But it looked dull in some areas. Great ummm… use of green screen. Honestly, it doesn’t look bad and obvious as other videos. I just find it creepy that as soon as she noticed her draws moving, she opened them. Ain’t she scared of something popping out, like a rat or cockroach? I would. Ummm… Running out of things to say about this video. It was pretty cool and I liked it a lot.

The dance can only be described in one way. Awkward. But good awkward. Their facial expressions make me laugh, but it is the whole point of the dance. I really like the laid back feel of the dance and how it fits quite well with the song.

Obviously, this song is not “just right”. It is awesome to my ears and this comeback is awesome to my eyes. 9.5/10