Category: KPOP

[Review] Secret – WJSN (Cosmic Girls)

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WSJN (Cosmic Girls) have returned to the stage with their brand new mini-album, The Secret. This is their first comeback since their debut. It is also Yeonjung’s first time performing with the group. She was previously a Produce 101 trainee and was also chosen to be part of the lineup of I.O.I. She had taken time off from I.O.I to promote with Cosmic Girls and will return to the temporary group once her promotions (for Secret) with her group are over.

I freaking love this song. I am in awe. I am amazed. I can barely contain my excitement while I write this. Because everything in this review will be praising the song and the entire comeback. For those who don’t remember, I was not  fond of Mo Mo Mo (their debut track). This is definitely an improvement in all aspects. I loved the funky/retro instrumental that I would have associated with Space and the universe when I was younger. The vocal work (especially in the chorus) was superb. The rapping here is 100% improved from their last release. There was a nice kick to it this time that really drew my attention to it. The song was catchy and addictive. As soon as I heard it, I fell for it and this song has been replayed every day ever since it was released. I was satisfied from start to end and I have no complaints about anything in the song.

That Space sound that I mentioned before, it was definitely incorporated and reflected in the video. The video reminded me of  Lovelyz’s Destiny for the camera angles and the way the video was shot. It also reminded me of Brown Eyed Girl’s Brand New World for the futuristic and universal concept. I am not saying that they copied the mentioned videos, just it reminded me of them. Anyway regarding the content of the video, I have no idea with what is going on. It seems like they are wishing upon a star (hopefully) or doing some weird astrology mashed up with witchcraft. There was an air of mysteriousness in the video, which looked really cool and I also liked that a lot. Even though the majority of the video was shot with a green screen and some shots were cheesy to watch, I thought it was a nice looking video. I am not disgraced or disappointed by anything in the video, though. I love the choreography scenes a lot. While I am quite sure they shot that in a studio with the green screen (I may be wrong), they made it look so much like outside but with an artificial component to it as well.

Dance wise, I loved it. A lot of likes and love with this review. Since there are so many members, it is very hard to get everyone proper screen time and the movement around the stage is always hard for a group with many members. But Cosmic Girls have done it effortlessly. I love the start of the dance, where they split into groups and strut out in diagonal lines. Also liked the chorus dance as well.

Final Rating – 10/10. I will recommend this to anyone who wants to get into WJSN (Cosmic Girls).

 

[Review] Lotto – EXO

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EXO has returned with their latest repackaged album, Lotto. If you don’t remember, EXO made their previous comeback with Monster and Lucky One back in June. In the brief absence, the band have been busy with international and domestic concerts (both solo and company). Unfortunately, though, this comeback have been riddled with problems. The majority of the members have been injured or currently sick. Yet they still manage to pull through and perform every week for this promotion run. It shows their passion and determination for the fans, but like any human being, they need rest and a break. A long massive break! And that goes for all artists, KPOP or not!!!

For those who don’t know, I am not a big fan of autotune. Yes, I do enjoy it to some degree, especially when it is used interestingly and in small doses. However, a song that is autotuned from beginning to end really irks me. Not all the time, as a few songs with autotune all the way through it, have been my favourites. But from experience, the majority of the songs of that kind do disappoint me. Moving back to this song, though, I am a little torn. I am extremely disappointed with the copious amount of autotune, but I am digging the instrumental and it is quite catchy. From the vocals and rap, everything has been laced in autotune and I can’t help but shiver from it. I do much prefer the live versions (or the stage version) where the autotune is reduced and you can clearly hear the vocals and rapping work. With that alone, the song is quite good. We (and I) already know that the group is capable enough with the autotune. I just cannot get over the autotune. The instrumental (at the start) sounds a lot like RnB back in the day. I do like the electronic components in the background. I am totally in love with the short instrumental bit for the dance break.

The music video is a lot dark and shot in a way that resembles Monster’s music video. The camera angles, the wide panning and the overall way the camera moves (should have said that from the start) seem quite similar (probably the same director). I like it very much in this video. It captures the scenes pretty well and gives the video a nice “story” feel to it. Anyway, like the song title suggests, the video is made purely with the idea of gambling and money surrounding it. Yes, even Suho is burning money.  The guys went for a more edgier look and style for this concept and I do think it suit them. I am a little surprised about the content of the video. For a video which promotes gambling, the people who rates the music video put down a rating of 15+. That’s okay an all but doesn’t this video send a bad message to the younger kids. I am quite sure there are many mature fans who know what is right and wrong. But I am a little concerned about the younger generation. I won’t hate on the video for showing all of that plus some activites that are illegal (in my country at least), but I think something should be said about those who puting ratings on the video. Minus the ethics of behind the video (will refrain from going into a huge debate), I actually do like this video quite a bit (more so the imagery and viewing pleasure).

As for the dance, I like it as well. It suits the song pretty well. Love the “pokie machine handle” dance. It fits in with the sound/concept of the song but at the same time, emphasises the sexy and ediger side of the guys. I do also like the dance break they have. That is probably the most memorable part of the dance. If I were to use a word to describe the dance, I would say “cocky”. Their facial expressions and some of their dance moves give off that vibe.

Final Rating – 6.5/10

[Review] Whatta Man – I.O.I

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I.O.I are currently one of the trendiest groups in KPOP at the moment. For those who don’t know who I.O.I. are (the first thing should be: where on earth have you been?), they are a girl group formed from the show Produce 101. The top 11 girls went on to debut in I.O.I who will continue with activities, until they are to disband in January 2017. Some of the 11 girls are from girl groups who have recently debuted, so the last times the girls performed as  a group of 11 was with Dream Girls (which I did not review). Now, the girls have returned with 7 members and their new song, Whatta Man.

Sounds familiar, do you say? Well, the song is a remake of What A Man by Linda Lyndell and Whatta Man by Salt ‘N’ Pepa. I.O.I’s version is obviously going to be more modern and I like it (to be exact – half of it). Love the rock inspired instrumental , which sounds really fitting for the song. This song sounds more powerful and gives off a nice strong vibe than the originals.The vocal work in the chorus and the instrumental is phenomenal.However, I do think the vocal work of some of the members needs to be improved. They kept the strong vocalists for the chorus and left the other members to do the verses, which is smart, but it kind of gives off an empty feel when I started to listen to the verses. I personally do not listen to the song for the verses, but for the catchy chorus. I would like to see future releases and see some of the other members get their moment to shine, though.

So the music video opens up with one of the members on a date with a handsome guy. He is uninterested in the girl, who is devastated  when he leaves. Her friends are concerned for her and decide to the girl a makeover. So they start redoing her makeup, choosing her clothing and teaching her how to be confident. And while it is as cliche as it sounds, the guys fall for the girl after she becomes “stronger” in the end. It is a pretty simple, yet overdone plot. Besides that, I don’t really have much else to say about the video.

Once again, the dance also goes for the strong  and powerful vibe that I was talking about before. I personally think it looks really cool and nice. Not sure about the latex style outfits, though.Everyone assumed the girls were going for the sexy concept when the photos of the girls in the latex was released. YMC Entertainment (their company) scoffed and questioned why everyone assumed so. I was like everyone else and thought it was going be a disaster. But hey, they managed to pull it off with a fitting dance to go with it as well.

Final Rating – 6/10

[Review] Fantasy – VIXX

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VIXX has returned to the stage with the second part of their Greek God trilogy. Last time, they were Zelos, the God of Jealousy and Rivalry and made their comeback with Dynamite. This time, they returned to their dark roots as the God of the Underworld, otherwise known as Hades. The title track for this promotional run is Fantasy.

Jaw dropping. I am amazed and in awe when I hear this song. I love the orchestra feel of the instrumental. The instrumental itself was sampled from Moonlight Sonata, which in the context of this song, gives it an eerie feeling that really cannot be described in words.I love the slow buildup in this song and that burst of power and sound that we get as soon as we launch right into the chorus. And saying launch makes it underwhelming. More like thrown into the chorus as approx 100 km/hr. Okay, I will stop. The vocal work and the rapping in the song are amazing. None of them felt lacking or  underwhelming. I do have two minor complaints. While I did love the chorus a lot, I felt it was quite overpowering for the vocals. I found it a bit difficult to listen to Ken and Leo the first few times I listened to the song. I am more used to it now, just I do have that thought come into frame every now and then. Ravi had quite a limited part. I am a little disappointed in that. The rap sequence we got is already excellent, though I would appreciate it more if it was a lot longer. But still, it is an excellent song that is right up VIXX’s alley.

Concept wise, I don’t really see much of the “Hades” concept in the video. But when we talk about the Greek God of the Underworld, ‘eerie’, ‘mysterious’, ‘dark’, ‘powerful’ and ‘terrifying’ are all terms we would use to describe him. And once again, VIXX has ticked it all off. The darkness was not there that much in Dynamite, but it is definitely here in this one, which reminds me so well of the old days for VIXX. Though I have no clue on what is really happening in the video, here is my take on the video: the members are like demons from the underworld. They are sent to bring N down to their world, and coerce him into going into the door that leads to the new world. So some of the members (N, Hongbin, Ken and Ravi( had halos at the end but in the form of the prickly metal halos. Once N officially becomes one of theirs, it seems Leo is their next target but somehow manages to avoid it (as he is bandaging up his wounds at the end, where the prickly metal bits are meant to be). Hyuk seems to be someone from above, stopping people before entering the door. That’s my take on the video and if I was even remotely right, I think it is an interesting story to tell.

The choreography fits the song and concept really well. Though I do not see anything memorable, them singing the song and pulling off any dance is bound to blow all our minds. I do think the dance does back up my theory in the music video. At the end of the first chorus, the lyrics “Get back up, off that dream”. They drop down to the stage as if the underworld is calling them, but the eerie vocals make it seem like someone from above is calling them, hence they look up. Just something I noticed that probably isn’t right, but still amazing.

Final Rating – 8.5/10

[Review] Tonight – UP10TION

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UP10TION made their Summer comeback with Tonight. They released their song back on August 5th and have been promoting the song. They previously came back with Attention in April this year.

Honestly not too bad of a song. It just isn’t find it memorable or that catchy. Sure, I will listen to the song, but it isn’t something that I would say I would go back to it over and over again. I do prefer the more powerful and strong sound that UP10TION is going for. This suits the Summer concept really well, even borrowing lines from top Korean Summer hits. The vocal work is solid and the rapping was okay (not their best). The instrumental does feel quite bopping but (and here is contradicting me coming along) quite monotone for my liking. I don’t mind the brass sounds in it, but it does feel lacking in many ways. It does have a more colourful and bright vibe to it, which is something that we have not yet seen from the guys. But then again, these Summer tracks are something that most KPOP boy bands do. Which kind of leads me onto my next point (and refer back to the top). It is pretty generic (i.e. every band does a song like this and the sound/concept becomes unoriginal) and bland. That contributed to the lack of memorability of the song. But like I said, if it was there, I would listen to it.

Can’t really bang on how generic this video is. Unless I think of some way to show the Summer concept without throwing in the pool and the guys having fun. But that is essentially what the video is and there really isn’t much to say in regards to it. Though, rolling disco balls on a sunny day isn’t that fun. The light reflecting off the ball and into your/stranger’s eyes? Isn’t that annoying? This is coming from a guy who squints every time the suns pops out from behind the clouds. Where is this going?

Dance is okay. The stages aren’t that memorable as well. They do use a blanket or some material of some sort on the stage. The start looks quite cool, but pulling your members on it looks too childish for me. The blanket itself is something that I would associate with toddlers, not young adults.

Final Rating – 5/10

[Double Review] Whistle + Boom Bah Yah – BLACKPINK

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One of the newest groups on the block. BLACKPINK is a four member girl group under YG Entertainment. The group is the first girl group from YG Entertainment, since 2NE1 made their debut back in 2009, which was 7 years ago. Countless rumours over the years have suggested YG would be debuting another girl group, but those plans fell through. Glad to see that one of their plans managed to make it in the end. The group consist of Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé and Lisa.

Whistle is a song that is quite addictive and is firmly rooted with its hip hop influences. When I say it is addictive, I think we can thank the continuous whistles in the song. While they do seem somewhat annoying and repetitive, it made the song feel alive and more likeable. I really liked the completely slow verses and then the sudden buildup to the chorus. The chorus + bridge had such a nice soulful vibe to it, which pretty much showed me their vocal abilities (which are quite strong). I am on the fence when it comes to their raps in this song.

However, Boom Bah Yah shows their rapping and vocal talents off pretty well. This song is quite bass heavy and still have that hip hop influence in it. It also has a nice powerful vibe to it. I like this song more (over Whistle) because there is more of a vibrant colour to the song, plus a much better hook that reeled me into the song.The words “Boom Bah Yah” are the perfect way to start off the chorus. The insturmental is more likeable here. Overall, Boom Bah Yah was my more preferred song.

The music videos that were released alongside these songs really failed to capture my attention. I basically watched each once and haven’t returned to any of them at all. Both videos were shot inside sets that felt a little too constricting. That was the first thing that I noticed. But even the dance scenes were constricting. Boom Bah Yah had great colour in the video. It just lacked the powerful feel the song had going. It  seemed weak and needed something to make it seem stronger. Maybe more flashing lights that were in time with the beat? Whistle had a more stronger vibe in the video, but it didn’t suit the song. Majority of the scenes in the video showed the girls stuck to one spot and only the camera moved. That made it boring. I would liked to see more of the scenes where the girls were dancing or at least moving. Might have given me more to talk about. I did like the sets for this video though.

Dance wise, not that memorable. That goes for both performances. The dances did suit the songs to a certain degree, but I feel like they fall short compared to other artists with (what I see) is great choreography.

Whistle – 5.5/10

Boom Bah Yah – 6/10

[Review] Stuck – Monsta X

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Monsta X previously made their comeback with All In. Another song that was released with All In was Stuck. Stuck was chosen as another special release and was promoted on shows for 2 weeks. While it does not have an official music video, there is an accompanying “special” video that I will dive into very briefly.

With that last statement, I feel like I am reviewing Stuck mainly for the song. Stuck is such an awesome song. How did I not notice it before? I think Stuck is a very unique song, despite it being somewhat similar to their previous releases. Monsta X is doing pretty well with this rough and edgy eletronic EDM sound. All their songs so far that I have listened to tend to fall into that genre. Stuck is more sophiscated, in the fact that the song isn’t as simple or clear cut. The vocal work in this is amazing and so are the raps. But let me focus a little on the vocals. There is something about each time they start the chorus. It stood out for me from the get-go and I think it makes the song amazing. It leads into the rest of the chorus quite well and I like that for that. The song is (obviously) powerful and from the start to the end, you can definetely hear that load of power. Regardless if you are listening to it on full blast or full blast with your earphones is (don’t judge – and it was by accident). Personally, I really like the song and think (as mentioned above) it is really awesome.

The video that was released with it includes a few close up shots but majority of it is cheorprgaphy. Nothing to mention about the video. Would have loved a full music video however this still does the job nicely. The video was filmed in an abonaded place that when paired with the song, matches the edgy feel I was talking about before.

Moving to what Monsta X does really well. The dancing is extraordinary. There is no arguments against that. It fits the song perfectly (from the power feel to the clean cut moves that matches the clean cut beat). It hit the expectation bar quite nicely. I just do not watch it enough to bang on about it. I write this review more for the song (as I said) than anything else.

Final Rating – 9/10 

[Review] That’s My Jam – B.A.P

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B.A.P has returned after 5 months with a brand new single. Earlier in the year, the guys made their first comeback of 2016 with Feel So Good. After finishing promotions for the song, they went on a world tour and recently completed it. Now, back in South Korea, launched right back in with their song.

It is a totally cool song that will totally be anyone’s jam. B.A.P has done it again. Their last song had a similar style but this one is more upbeat and party anthem like. It is a great song to rock to at a party or just to dance around the house. There are many components to the song that when you step back sounds like a horrible mashup. But when you listen to the song, it somehow manages to work. The chorus is quite upbeat and poppish. The raps were hip-hop oriented. The song slowed down at some parts and made it sound dramatic. Let’s move onto the rapping. Yong Guk and Zelo used to stand out, however, the raps in this song were quite lacking. I didn’t really enjoy their raps as I wanted to. But the vocal work in this song was amazing. Per usual Daehyun got the most parts but Jongup’s forever improving vocals were put into the spotlight. Youngjae and Himchan basically got the short end of the stick. Not much time to shine at all (or barely noticeable in the song). But overall, it is a good song to just have a dance around to. Quite catchy and has a great hook.

Parts of the video make sense to me. Some parts have me going “huh?”. The guys at the start look like they are about to die from boredom. But Daehyun’s plays his songs, which gets everyone in the mood for partying. Then the videos move to them going to some holiday. Okay, makes sense. But why the cheesy close-up shots to make them look like they are doing some commercial throughout the whole video.For a few parts, I get. But like Daehyun, Youngjae and Jongup on the beach chairs. Was that necessary?  And where do they plan to go for the holiday? Cause it looks like the desert and the middle of nowhere. Anyway, finally comes to the shooting scene. What? I don’t see the connection there. Just because you are having fun doesn’t equate it to shooting guns… You see my reasoning? I am lost for parts of the videos and that does impact my viewing experience. The fun element in the video, however, is through the roof and I do like that. While it is all staged (and you cannot deny it), the boys look like they are genuinely having fun and making the best out of the situation. Oh, and I like apple juice as well (thought I somehow add that in there).

The dance was more of a “let’s party” on stage kind of dance. Sometimes I can appreciate it. Sometimes, I can’t. With this performance, the backup dancers have a set routine that they had to follow, but the performance I watched today was incredibly messy. I am going to blame the guys for that one because they were running about and having fun. While the concept was good, the overall look of the stage was disappointing.

Final Rating – 6/10

[Review] Lip 2 Lip – Nine Muses A

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Nine Muses have returned but as a subunit consisting of Kyungri, Sojin, Hyemi and Keumjo. It has been a while since we heard from Nine Muses and since we last heard from them, a few other members (namely Minha and Euaerin) left the group once their contract was up.

Lip 2 Lip is another okay song. Sadly, it is not as memorable as I would want it to be. It has a diva-like feel to the song and falls nicely in within the retro realm. The chorus is not as catchy, but that “la-di-da chu~” steals my attention. Them singing that makes somewhat catchy, but I would have liked more of a hook to the rest of the chorus. It just feels empty and bland. Sojin’s rap is pretty nice. It is very mature and sounds very classy. I don’t know why but the song starts to pick up at the bridge and slows down before getting into the last “la-di-da chu~” part. I felt like that faster beat should have been there from the start and the bridge should have been a simple slow down. However, as I said, it is okay. It is bearable and I do listen to it. If it was catchier, I would have liked it more and probably more people would pay attention to the song. I agree with you, that is harsh, but I think that is what is missing in the song.

The music video depicts a group of girls who gather around and I guess chat about a guy one of them is meeting. This chat makes the main character in the music video discuss with the others about her experiences with the guy (which makes the other girls envy her). However, towards the end of the video, it is revealed that the guy is two-timing with another girl from the group and the girls are angry at that. The ending kind of leaves you on edge a little bit. There seems to be something more to the video and hopefully, this is a sign for a future Nine Muses comeback, so the story can be continued. Interesting story line. One that has been done a few times too many recently. Rest of the video (i.e. the dance shots) were okay.

The dance featured a small part of the music video concept. The end of the dance shows the girls standing around a phone and realising the same thing that occurred in the video. Quite smart. The rest of the dance was okay. It isn’t memorable or anything, sadly. Nine Muses usually do well with the dances. Just not this time, sadly.

Final Rating – 4.5/10

[Review] Listen To My Word (Aing~) – Oh My Girl

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It has definitely been a very busy year for Oh My Girl. They previously released Liar Liar and Windy Day, this year. Some of the members have been busy with their other appearances. Seunghee is garnering attention for her very successfully and highly skilled performances for Girl Spirit. YooA, just the other day, joined Block B’s U-Kwon for Hit The Stage. And on top of the promotions for their title tracks. Wow.

I don’t exactly sure, but it kind of feels like Oh My Girl and their company have found a new niche – bringing in different cultures into the realm of KPOP. Windy Day had this addictive Arabian and ethnic sound to it. This song combines the innocent sound of KPOP and the reggae sounds of Jamaica. It is an interesting mix and it works in their favour. A lot of attention was directed to the track. One way or another, but I am quite sure fans are loving it. It felt awkward at first, but it ended up working perfectly. Skull and HaHa featured in this track and provided that reggae sound to the song by the two small parts they had. Overall, it set the Summer and beach theme of the song quite nicely and provided the girls with the right platform to “launch” into the song. While the vocals were soft and cutesy, can I just point how amazing Mimi’s rap was? As I was listening to the song, I was in awe with her rap part and the transition between reggae, the rap and the rest of the song was amazing. Maybe the only downside to the song I could see was the awkward idea of the two sounds together, but honestly, I am currently in love with this song.

The music video was interesting. It is set in a swimming pool and shows that a little imagination can go a long way. Okay, maybe that isn’t the actual message of the video, but it was the first thing that popped into my head. From the lyrics of the song plus the video, I guess the girls want their friends (lover or social friend) to listen to their story (well I just ripped that out of the English translation provided), despite how crazy it may sound (like sailing in a swimming pool). Honestly, quite a cute video, though. There were some things that caught me off guard, but nothing bad. First of all, Mimi’s rap scene. Love the set there. However, one of the scenes where the girls are standing behind Mimi and those questionable shelves with the plants looked quite freaky and scary. And that English translation on 1TheK’s YouTube video. Wow. Might want to check them out. Quite interesting to read. (I understand that OMG’s company is in charge of the translations).

Dance wise, it was to the boring side, but still enjoyable to watch. Wasn’t as amazing at Windy Day’s dance. However, it kept that cute and innocent concept quite well. And yes, the girls looked quite cute. On stage and throughout the video.

Final Rating – 8.5/10

[NOTE: I also know OMG consist of more than two members. I couldn’t find a decent picture of the whole group from the music video or the teaser images]

[Review] How’s This – Hyuna

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Hyuna has returned for the first time since her former group, 4MINUTE, parted ways. Hyuna was the only member to remain under Cube Entertainment. Hyuna has a remarkable solo portfolio, so we shouldn’t be alarm. As Hyuna has already demonstrated by topping charts, Hyuna has a long road in front of her that is full of success and popularity. That was so cheesy. I am just going to have to go on with the review now.

I like the song. As soon as the song started, I started enjoying it. Dancing in my chair here and head bopping over there. It is just a great dance/club song. While I do find Hyuna’s voice in some parts this song somewhat whiney in the song, I let that go. The verses showed her as a great vocalist and I thought it brought out her voice very well (the chorus and start, I am not fond of). Also have a smashing instrumental. Definitely a club vibe and fitting for the season. However, everything was great up until that ending. It changed up the song a little too much for and it ruined the song for me. It sounded like moans you would here in a horror movie, rather than a club scene song. I also felt like there could have been a faster rap sequence in the song. It would have amped the song up a little more. Overall, (and I repeat) I do like the song. Just not the ending.

I am a little disappointed with the music video. The music exhibits a power club vibe, which the song has. Check. Club means dancing, alcohol, people. Check. Throw in a person in the spotlight (i.e. Hyuna) and focus the cameras on her. Check. Also sneak in a few extra shots of the crowd and them going wild. Check. Throw in some solo shots. Check. And then throw in a scene of the girls (plus Hyuna) in the bathroom, while this couple is making out. Check… You see, the video is pretty ordinary (even the club vibe) and that ending was a little awkward (plus random). It is another video where what you get is what you get, regardless of any other ideas. You can’t really deviate from what I mentioned above or run the risk of ruining the video. Just a couple making out (which I understand is completely normal) really makes me question the rest of the video. Once again, I was fine up til there… So….

Dance wise, I thought it was okay. Not amazing. Not too boring to make me avoid or not want to watch it. Twerking used to be focussed on the butt, but now, it seems like you can twerk from the front as well. (And this is where in my head a question pops up “where is this going?”). It just looked a little too repetitive. You can only twerk so many times in one performance and make it look like you just did it for the first time.

Final Rating – 5.5/10

[Review] What’s Your Number? – Zhou Mi (Super Junior M)

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SM has been churning out comebacks after comebacks for their artists, with the majority of their artists only being able to promote for a span of two weeks. Yesung and Ryeowook both had solo debuts at the start of the year, but given the short promotions, their debuts have been easily forgotten. Heechul has also made his comeback as part of M&D, but I don’t think their promotional span even lasted a week. Zhou Mi is the latest member to join solo comebacks from the entertainment company. What’s Your Number was released in conjunction with Empty Room, which I will not be reviewing (for the time being) due to time constraints.

It is a solid song. At first, I avoided the song at all cost. I don’t know why, but maybe I was a little overwhelmed with the continuous comebacks from SM entertainment. However, as I started to listen to the song, I thought that it was a pretty good song. I won’t say it is amazing because it leaves me a little disappointed. It feels like a typical song and a song that has been rejected by other artists in SM before being passed to Zhou Mi. There really isn’t much flare to the song nor is there anything to hook me in and keep me listening to it. I do listen to it because it is upbeat and bright. His vocals are pretty well highlighted in this song. But I wanted him to make a more powerful and strong comeback, not some sort of love summer song. While I do say his vocal potential is delivered in this song, I do have to say the song overall is quite monotone. Especially that launch into the final chorus. It sounded deflated and a failure, to be honest. Overall, the song did deliver but failed to keep my attention on it.

The music video reminded me of Jonghyun’s She Is video. I think it was the shipping crates, the overall tightness of some of the sets and some of the scenes. The video is essentially just close up shots of Zhou Mi, some dancing scenes and attempts to get a girl’s number. And SM is back it again with those brand name shirts. (When I say brand name, I actually mean a brand logo smacked onto a shirt – in this case, Pizza Hut). It was pretty boring and I am a disappointed by it. However what we got is probably what we get. It kind of does feels that this would be the final result of the music video if another artist did it. The video concept and overall idea do feel like a dead end. I guess I am more disappointed by the fact every time I watch this video, I automatically think back to Jonghyun’s one.

Dance wise, it is pretty good. I am impressed by this choreography. I do see a little uncomfortableness (or is it nerves) when I watch a few of his performances. Some moves do seem a little stiff at the start, but as the stages go on, he ends up more comfortable. I liked the simplicity of the chorus parts. It isn’t loud but still on point and well polished.

Final Rating – 5.5/10

 

[Review] Fantasy​ – Fei (Miss A)

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It has been a while since we last heard from Miss A. Sadly, Jia left the band earlier in the year. Suzy had a collaboration with Baekhyun at the start of the year and is active as an actress. But moving the other members aside, Fei has made her solo debut in South Korea. This is the first major release of a Miss A member that is promoted on stage. Fei is currently the only Chinese member in Miss A at the moment.

Fantasy is an okay song. It does have a sensual sound to it. Personally, it is another one of those songs that make me go “meh”. I am not impressed by it, but not disappointed by it. Like the title of the song, there is that fantasy vibe to the song, which goes well with that sensual sound that I mentioned. Many people liken it to Sunmi’s 24 Hours and I kind of agree with that. Just this song is more of an electronic and pop version of the latter. The song starts off with jaggered soft sounds which does a pretty good job at starting off the song. Fei’s vocals are pretty on point. Sure, they are not as strong, but she does suit this type of song and sound. I do feel like her voice is overshadowed by the instrumental (by the way, really liked the instrumental), especially on stage. Not sure if she is singing softly, but, it is a letdown, because I do fancy members who do not like limelight for their vocals because other members are better than them. All these “overshadowed” members usually have great vocals that suit a particular song. Sure they are not amazing, but they are great when the right song is picked. Song ended too abruptly for me. As a song that eased through the start, it would have been nice to have the song ease out at the end.

Adding to the sensual vibe of the song is the sensual video which had a 19+ rating on it. From what I see, most of the video is in the guy’s perspective who walks into this questionable, off-the-streets place to (I guess) speak some sort of fantasy. I really like the VR (virtual reality) idea. It adds to the futuristic side concept of the video. Though I was expecting porn for some reason somewhere in the video. Maybe at the end, but we were cut off. All jokes aside, I thought it was a well polished and classy (but in a sensual way) video. All the elements were brought together quite nicely. From the lighting to the editing, to the camera work. Some people may say that it went over the top, but I think it just right for the song. Who am I kidding? I probably am like the guy in the video. Just watching this on YouTube is making my jaw drop. I do know it was added to the video because of the concept, but that pixelated background wasn’t that enjoyable. Yes, to Fei, but not that background.

As you all know, I am a sucker for artists who using props on the stage. The hula hoops is an original idea and quite a complex object to incorporate into the dance. But every time I open up the performances, we see Fei and the backup dancers dance perfectly with the hula hoop. Those loops and kicks really well emphasised in the video. The start, with the hula hoop rings to make it look like the start of the music video, was quite nice. I would have liked for them to be used more in the performance, but then again, they are very hard to use (I say that from other experiences, but not dancing experience).

Final Rating – 7.5/10

[Review] Take Me Now – FT Island

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KPOP’s rock kings are finally back with a brand new album. Their last comeback was way back in March last year. The group has been busy in Japan with multiple releases (as usual), however recently complained publically about the lack of domestic activities and chances to make comebacks in South Korea. Remember reading that somewhere, just don’t know where. Anyhow, it has been a while, so let’s get cracking.

I really enjoy listening to this song. Every time I hear the song I can’t help but head-bang my way through the song. It is the perfect song for 3 minutes of pure head banging. Singing along to this song is amazing. The song just keeps you up and going the whole time (lol). Though I am not fond of the way Hongki pronounces some of his words, the song still manages to exceed my expectations. Remember last year when I bragged about how good Pray was? This song is like the more levelled up version. I really liked the fluctuations in the song. Some parts were fast, some were slow. But the bigger picture ended up being amazing. I could hear some American influences into this song. If there was an English version of the song, I think multiple bands (sorry, this is just based off minimal knowledge of American rock bands) would fit this song perfectly. The fact that FT Island has gone down this route with Pray and now this (when they used to be more about ballads and toned down rock songs) really give me a good impression of them (which I don’t really need because I know what these guys are capable of). So yeah, currently the perfect song to head-bang and rock to in KPOP.

A little confused with the music video. The music video alludes to breaking away from tradition. I don’t know, it makes sense for the majority of the video, but I don’t know how that little girl plays into it. Is she the young lady we see who “conformed” to society but ends up going against the norms? The burning guitar and how everyone else is wearing protective gear and a gas mask makes me think that way.  Is the little girl the symbol of hope and freedom (too much Hunger Games here) and rebels against the government? The video is so symbolic, but it is quite open ended in my opinion. Some different scenarios can fit the video and that is probably a reason why I am so drawn to the video. I, for some reason, have thought of a few possibilities. Some of which (when thinking back) makes no sense whatsoever.  At first, I thought the video was alluding to a new beginning, particularly regarding the guitar on fire.  I really like the set which they guys perform in. Though it is the same set all the way through, they change it up a few times. Once with a standard normal camera, then a red filter and then fire everywhere. It is really cool and a pretty smart thing to do.

Final Rating – 9.5/10

[Review] Crying – Stellar

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Stellar has returned with another Summer song. Their previous release was at the start of the year (Sting).

I am a little torn about the song. Not saying it is bad in any way because it is honestly a pretty good song. However, it just sounds like a typical KPOP song and I am a little disappointed that the song falls under that description. There is a retro vibe in the song through the instrumental. The EDM based instrumental (which fits the Summer season perfectly) was pretty good, however, it did feel quite bland. Some bass or some other hook in the instrumental (maybe like a different instrument or beat) could have done the song some wonders. I was honestly yawning the few times I have heard the song. The vocal work and everything else is amazing. I could see a large potential in the song. Only if the instrumental was manipulated to be better. It honestly feels like an unfinished song and the producer (who I am pretty sure have put out continuous hits in the past) just forgot to add the bass component to the song. Minus the instrumental, the song is nice to listen to. It flows very well and while I do complain about it being bland, I do find it catchy (to an extent).

Hmmm.. Another video that I probably will never take seriously. Very dramatic video. The video opens up with a dramatic rewind of the ending of the video. It begs the question, what really happened at that poolside that very day. The video then pans to an out of control car, which the girls are driving in. The girls are originally on a holiday. But when they find out that their man is cheating on them, they bring out the water guns and race over to the pool. They plan their revenge by wearing robber’s mask and use their water guns filled with ammo (aka. water, but at some parts: actual gunfire – my guess is that then ran out of actual gun ammo after breaking all the glassware, so they opted for the massive supply of pool water). Once there, they start shooting everyone alike. They shoot the pool girls on the chest, who fall back in the pool. Once the girls are taken cared over, they deal with the dude. While my take on the plotline is questionable, I do find the editing (i.e. slow motion and gunfire) very dramatic and hence my attempt at telling the dramatic storyline. Another thing I noticed about the video, it isn’t overly sexual. Stellar’s videos in the past have been said to be overly sexual, but the most sexual part was the water rolling down the girl’s chest. That scene was probably thrown in there to draw the male demographic’s attention. Overall, the video was okay.

The dance was really bland and boring. I watched a few performance but don’t think the dance is fitting enough with the song. The dance seemed to be made for more of a “lighter” song, rather the EDM kind. Maybe the lack of bass was intentional. But it is disappointing.

Final Rating – 5/10

[Review] Can’t Help Myself – Eric Nam ft. Loco

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Eric Nam has made a surprising return to the stage with a Summer hit. 2016 is proving to be a very busy year for the solo artist, who has collaborated a number of times this year, made two comebacks (Good For You and Can’t Help Myself) and joined a popular South Korean variety show. Eric Nam has proven himself to be one  Korea’s fastest rising stars currently active, putting his name next to rising idol groups and the hottest actors/actresses.

The song totally rocks. It has been a while since Eric Nam’s last Summer track, but this song truly slays. I enjoyed every aspect of this song. From the Summer vibe instrumental that puts you at Hawaii or some other tropical beach to Eric Nam’s smooth yet husky voice, to the well fitting rap of the song. Everything played well with each other and I was not disappointed with the song in any way. The song is quite catchy and addictive to listen to. The instrumental is pretty typical (if we compare it to other songs) but combined with the vocals and this is a winning track. I think the song could have done without the rap, but the rap keeps the song interesting. I have been listening to this song quite a bit lately. Melbourne has been cold (like cold fronts from Antartica cold) lately, so listening to this song makes me picture the sun and Summer. Warmth mainly. This song makes me miss Summer so much. It also puts a smile on my face. The lyrics essentially talks about how a guy or girl becomes nervous when trying to get to know their crush. It likens the nervousness to the heat on a hot Summer’s day.

I notice one thing when it comes to many different videos. I watch them all with a straight face. Nothing makes me laugh. I am a cold, cold person. This video is like all the rest, it failed to make me laugh. But I could tell that it was trying to go down a comedic route. Eric’s character meets his all time crush and he falls for her. He then tries to impress her. With pineapple? Or what he is known for in South Korea (his famous interviews with Western celebrities).   There is also Michael Jackson moves to show off in the video as well. Or him just being handsome? I think there were also parts that made reference to his virtual marriage. I am a little disappointed with the outcome (where I don’t laugh – am still looking for a music video that makes me “roll on the floor laughing”). I did like the parts of the video which shows the dance. The use of that lighting in the background looked pretty cool. Overall, the video was quite simple. There wasn’t anything too complex in it or “crazy” to the point where we actually need to watch the video multiple times. It was clear and easy to understand. And more importantly, it is the small things that make a great video (such as those rolling lights or Eric Nam’s handsome face).

Boy, Eric Nam cannot dance to save his life (as indicated by yesterday’s MCountDown Special Stage). But the actual choreography of this song? I think it is okay for this particular song and the singer himself. It is simple and quite catchy. It does fit the song appropriately and matches Eric’s dancing capacity (sorry).

Final Rating – 8/10