Category: KPOP

Love Actually – Sunny Hill ft. Daybreak

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Sunny Hill last year collaborated with the band Daybreak to deliver a beautiful love song that had everyone talking. It has been a while since Sunny Hill has released a single, and today actually marks the release of a new single from the band, which I should get to reviewing next week. I won’t discuss too much about the new single, just it sounds amazing and I am sadden to hear the departure of the male counterpart of the group, Janghyun who decided to become a producer for the girls. Such sad news as he was pretty amazing person after all, and brought Sunny Hill a lot of cool and different songs, such as Midnight Circus, The Grasshopper Song and their newest single: Don’t Say Anything.

This song is lovey dovey for me. To the point where I am actually liking it. The vocals of the girls and the guy actually matches up and sounds a like. It seems like these two groups are a match made in Heaven. The song talks about the ideal types of the girls. The song is a song that you should check out. It is a ballad, but the way it sounds make it sound a lot like a happy jumpy kind of song. The chorus is really catchy and sounds amazing. There was a rap in here by Misung and that probably was not a great idea overall, mainly because rapping in a ballad really does not sound as great. On top of that, the girls sung their hit song Pit-A-Pat which was a hit OST song for a Korean drama back in 2011. I like how they managed to slide it in there, but it sounded so different I did not realize after I did some digging into the song last year.

The music video is somewhat satirical. I mean the girls list their ideal types and they include: a guy with a hairy chest, a guy who figure is like a rose and a guy who has so much muscles, that his pants rip by doing nothing. Yeah, pretty much weird. I love it how the girls act all seduced by him and turned on because that is something all guys enjoy seeing. Hahaha… That was pretty rude. Sorry. Anyway, I too like how the band go squeezed by appearing on a tablet randomly. And then the male lead in the music video turns to another girl hahaha… And then Kwanghee turns up and becomes the new ideal type of the girls. Wait what??? Kwanghee? Z:EA? Ummmm.. Honestly a poor choice….. Did I just insult two things at once? OMO! I am sorry ^^.

My use of emoticons on this site is scaring me. Anyway, there is only one live performance of this song and it was shortened!!! WHY????? But there was nothing that special with the live performance. Just then singing and performing.

9/10. A song I encourage you to check out. I tend to like pretty cheesy stuff though, so yeah. K Dramas are considered as extra cheesy. Like you can see cheese oozing out of the drama. As you can see, I am going to run away. I will be back with reviews of the latest songs tomorrow.

Fiction – Beast

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How on earth did I pick these songs? Today I will be reviewing Beast’s Fiction. This was the title track off their first album and was one of their most successful songs. It was released in 2011, when KPOP was quite smaller, compared to now. It has changed so much that I don’t even know what is going on. It is a review that I have being put off for a very long time. Actually, I think it is a review that I had already written, lost it when my computer had to be wiped clean and reinstalled and all of that occurred early 2012. Yeah, there are a few reviews that I believe are hanging around my computer somewhere or on my external hard drive. Which reminds me, I could not copy and paste CN Blue’s review for I Am A Loner. I remember that one because it was the only one that would not publish. Anyway, on with the review.

Back in 2011, I hated this song. Why? Because it played non stop everywhere. All the sites were raving on about it and I was just like no. Fiction now disappeared from the ranks and I am thankful for that. I have no idea what the hype of this song was for. It was another boring song which I never got into. It was not impressive and I know the boys could have done a whole heap better because of their songs that they released prior to this. The chorus was boring and unappealing and there was not one thing I liked about the song. The vocals were so so and I expected a song much better from that band. Honestly, I have no idea why I am even reviewing this song, because by now, you probably will understand what my score will be at the end.

The music video is not actually that great. It is basically about how a guy is completely heartbroken at how his girlfriend leaves him. Yeah, the music video was played so many times that I got sick of Junhyung’s acting. It was good at first, but it was really boring when you watch it over and over again. It was dark in some places which fit the feel of the song, but then there were parts that were super bright (such as the one where he is at the desert, but it did not look like a proper sun light. Sun light is not white…) and then dark places, such as that scene where they are dancing on the roof. And what is that alien ship structure where the whole scene is orange, looks like they were on Mars. Though I liked the plot of the video, it was played some many time, I grew to dislike it.

The dance is called the “penguin shuffle” dance I believe, and it looks easy to attempt. Yeah, I have to dance the dance. It fits the speed of the song which I great, but really lacked the impact of a good performance. And those leather suits or whatever look kind of weird.

I try to be reasonable and rank it as if I first listened to it and watch the videos. 4/10. Obviously not the best Beast song out there. I will update the playlist tomorrow. Currently watching the Seoul Music Awards. ^^

So Cool – Sistar

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Sistar, one of the biggest girl groups at the moment, returned in 2011 with So Cool. Now they are known for big hits like Alone and Give It To Me, which sky-rocketed them to fame. Prior to this is that the girls made their comebacks with a few songs, such as Shady Girl, How Dare You, Push Push. They also before So Cool’s release unveiled Sistar19, which is a subunit of the band which consisted of members Hyorin and Bora. So Cool was not the first song that they won their awards with. They got their first music show award with How Dare You which rose to the top of the charts quite quickly. So Cool followed likewise as well, rising to the top of the charts as well.

Looking back, I really don’t know why I chose to review this song. I was not a major fan of them back in 2011, and this song was really boring for me. It was just a standard pop song for me, which was quite disappointing, because now they release top hits like Give It To Me and Alone. Another string of boring songs. Well, it is not that boring as I still tend to listen to it (It is on me exercise playlist for some reason) and I enjoy singing along to it, bur it really is not a song that I would say is high up there at all. The vocals are okay, not as great and the line distribution was much better than nowadays. The rapping was the only thing I liked in this song, since it really showed off Bora’s style and all I remember from the song is “So Cool like Ice Tea”. Hahahaha… So yeah… Not so much a great song. Its not bad, but not that great either.

The music video to me was boring, but I know a few people who thought this music video was amazing. I did not like the set as much as I wanted to, and those guys were a distraction. I thought they were Brave Brothers, but it turned out that Brave Brothers was a one man band. Anyway, I was not entirely sure about them running in puffy dresses, but at least they were wearing runners. Cause if they were not, wow. What would have had happened to them? I always think something and here we go. I don’t like how the white people are portrayed in music videos. With the exception of YG Ent, the white people always seem to be directors and people behind sets. On top of that, they always seem to be so fake and whatnot. But then again, probably revenge on how Asians are portrayed on the screen in America and other countries.

The dance is okay. The music video one was better, but was not as catchy as I thought it would be. On top of that, how did tail swishing become shoulder rubbing on face dance? I would love to see the thought progress of that one.

6/10. Honestly don’t know why I chose this song to review when I come to think about it. But hey, a review is a review. Not much has changed since 2011 I guess. Next review goes to: Fiction by Beast. Note: I will update a proper playlist tomorrow when I have time.

Hug Me Once – Girl’s Day

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All throughout this week will be me releasing reviews for past songs. It is great to look back on the past and see how everything changed. Oh look at that, Girl’s Day is the first group up with their song Hug Me Once. Wow, did you catch the review just a few weeks ago for their latest release? Something? Well, may I shock you that this is the same band? Hahahaha… It is the same band and they went from cute to a sexy style (which they were still criticised for. They can’t be cute or sexy, so what should they go for then? Serious?)That and they also lost a member who left the group at the end of 2012. But while turning over a new leaf the girls have proven to be a success, picking up 3 awards for their latest release, boosting their ranking up high.

This song is really catchy. So freaking catchy that I keep on singing along to it everytime it is released and it has been freaking 3 years since this song was released. It is so cute as well. The chorus is really catchy and the vocals are amazing. Not sure about the degree of autotune in this song, but it still sounds amazing. I am sorry, if my inner fanboy is coming out. The song itself is really catchy and cute, I just feel like dying. I don’t I ever took Girl’s Day too seriously with their releases prior to Don’t Forget Me. Maybe because I first heard the band through Oh My God! which was a terrible song.

The music video was really pretty cool. I loved the first perspective. I also enjoyed watching the interactive video, which I will link the playlist below. It is a bit cheesy, but hey, I like my things interactive. Like this keyboard, so high definition. You all should check it out if you ever find it. The actual music video are just cuts that you can see, and it looked rather cool, back when the group and its company did not have enough money to actually film a better music video. But it looked fresh. However the dance scenes to me did not fit well with the couple scenes. That is just my preference. But I still liked the video and will not complain at all.

This dance is so freaking cute and so easy to do. Even a guy can dance well to this song. Seriously, these girls, why did you guys not win anything back in the day???

8/10. Pretty cool comeback. It would be amazing to see if the band can go backwards in time and redo something cute. Please Don’t Go was not as successful. If they are a band who can go between sexy and cute, they they will be superstars!!! Tomorrow’s review will be: Sistar’s So Cool!!!Please anticipate.

 

Miniskirt – AOA

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AOA recently returned to the stage after promotions of Confused back in October with a new single, titled as Miniskirt. AOA is a good band, but I am not much of a fan of them as I am with other groups. I feel like the whole Ace Of Angel’s concept has been lost with these girls. They used to be a  girl group and a band at the same time, but now only a girl group. What happened to the band side of the group? AOA Black, I think it was what the band unit was called. It was pretty original, but it seems the girls just neglected the whole thing. Quite disappointing. Anyway, the group is back with the exception of member Seolhyun, who was injured prior (like a day or two before) to the comeback. On top of that, the girls are finally getting recognition for their songs, with this song topping charts upon release (according to sources).

Yeah, I was not that excited for this comeback as I was with Confused. Maybe because the whole thing really got overshadowed by other artists coming back at the moment. The song was rather boring to me. There was nothing as great in this song as there was in Confused. Some of the vocals did not match with the instrumental of the song and the chorus itself was not as catchy as it should have been. The rapping from the rapper in this band is really whiney in this song. It is so high pitch and it sounds like a child who has a blocked nose. And the high whistle likes sounds throughout the song were pretty annoying for me to listen to. Usually I would fall for the high notes, but after listening to the live performance, yeah, wow. Not impressed. Even not impressed with the song.

Honestly, I still have not watched the music video prior to writing this review. So hence, here is my reaction to it. There is a lot of emphasis on the thighs in this video. Straight from the start, I think I got a good 5 second look at that girl’s thigh. Wow. Then she proceeds to sleep. I am not a major fan of their black colour dresses. But I really actually enjoy look at them in the red mini skirt and white blouse. Cause damn, they look good in that. Major problem with the car though. Umm… I hoped you park because taking your stockings off in a car that is moving and your a driver is not really as safe as I expected it would be. Also, is that a sofa? Like did you use a sofa as the seat of the car? Well. There really is not much to say about this video. Just girls “showing off” their thighs and mini skirts.

The choreography is alright. Not the best, but it will do. I don’t know, but when they shake their bottoms, I had a scene in my head that the girls dressed up as bunnies. Like the bushy tail? Nope? Okay… I like the zip part of the dance. That was probably the best. The chairs, well, I am leaning to the no no side a little too much there.

2/10. Yeah, not really the best song for me. It was too boring to listen to. Their previous songs were much better.

Girls Girls Girls – GOT7

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It is the first major debut of the year from one the big three companies. GOT7 is a 7 member boy group who has been in the spotlight this week for their debut. The group is under JYP Entertainment who we all know manages 2PM, Wonder Girls, Miss A, 15& and many other artists. And it seems like this boy group will be hugely successful because it comes from a company with such big names. Two members of the group debuted as a project group back in 2012, as JJ Project and featured members Jr. and JB. The other members include Mark, BamBam, Jackson, Youngjae and Yugyeom. Their name, GOT7, apparently, showcases their 7 nationalities, but I counted and I could only find 5 (Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Thailand, English) , so…

Okay, this thing I want to get off my chest, Sohee, your amazing but that “Omma” throughout the song is really annoying. To the point it is the only think I don’t want to remember, but since the repetition of that one word was so great in this one song, it was the only thing I got out of there. This honestly, was a weak song to debut with. Though it has a bit of charm, it really does not sound like a song that should be promoted. I don’t know if they would do well with such a boring song. The same tone of the song is kept throughout and there was nothing in the song that appealed to as much as I wanted to. I enjoyed Bounce, which was JJ Project’s song, but this song was pretty boring. It really did not have me singing along with it. The vocals and rapping in this song is quite meh and not extraordinary. Though I think the guy who ad-lib in the song is probably a relative on Munjae (Junsu) from 2PM, cause they sound a like. Catchiest part of the song goes to “Girls, Girls, Girls, They Love Me”. But not an okay song for a debut.

The music video once again is meh. But there were some good parts in there which I enjoyed. And then there was those ridiculously part. I like how when the guys were dancing and they had to go away from the group to do something like show off to a girl who looks barely of age, the screen would cut in half. I liked that and thought that was rather original. It gives us two different sides, while we focus on the group, the same time, each person can have a solo. Hence, I also liked the teaser. I like the set that they were in. Even though it was rather dark, but the lighting was pretty good. Nothing too flashy. As for the rest of the video, yeah. What was with the car sounds at the start when they were on their motorized skateboards? A little bit too extreme? I am also not that great with accessories, but what did they drop again? It looked like some earring, but why would a guy carry around earrings around. If it was a bracelet though, it looked rather small. Also, girl. Try calling out before you going around trying to find out where the guys went. You have a mouth. No one in this day in age, would just walk into a shop, go and find the most expensive thing in the story and start feeling it. Well, I hope nobody does that. And the secret door made me laugh. Mainly because the club looked like an abandoned bar.

The dancing is pretty good. It seems like this group is going to rely heavily on their dancing. If the track was better, the group could have danced along to something much more captivating. I don’t think it was rather necessary to cope Sohee’s move, but seriously, doing it over and over again looked really stupid.

3/10. It was too weak for a debut. They are not going to be a group like Miss A who won a award with their debut song. Maybe next time the group can receive a decent song with would showcase their skills and have nothing that is boring.

Age Height – Two Song Place (Song Eun Yi ft. Song Seunghyun (FT Island))

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Source: http://www.soompi.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Song-Seung-Hyun-Song-Eun-Yi-Age-Height-Teaser-Screencap.jpg

A hot new duo collaboration for those who still have not seen their song. Both of the two are under the same company, FNC Entertainment. And it seems like this duo is quite popular from the reaction that they were given recently. One of them, the female, is actually a comedian, Song Eun Yi, who is ridiculously funny and is all over Korea with the many comedy shows that she participates in. The other half, the male, is actually FT Island’s rapper, Song Seung Hyun! This comeback, stage, song and video are really funny and I urge you guys to check them out.

Though I do not understand a single word in this song, the song itself talks about how guys focuses on more of the age and height rather than personality and other factors. So basically, if your hot and beautiful, more guys are going to take notice in you more than those who are less hot or beautiful. I guess there is more of a meaning when the comedian sings this song. Honestly, even though I understand zilch of the song, I actually find it really cute and catchy. After a few listens, you are bound to be singing along with the song. The song’s instrumental is pretty cool, but the start seems rather awkward. I am not going to judge her singing talent, mainly because this is probably her first time singing, but the Seung Hyun’s raps are pretty cool (The raps also seem to be a response to the lyrics. Just my thought)!

The music video is amazing. Not epic amazing, but hilariously funny amazing. Though I don’t think the parodies have much to do with the song, it fits the comedic concept that they have gone for. They had parody many different top Korean artists in this video. The parodies include: Miss A’s Hush, EXO’s Wolf, EXO’s Growl, Trouble Maker’s Now, Sunmi’s 24 Hours, 2NE1’s Missing You and probably many others that I have yet to pick up. On top of that, the music video contains so many famous comedians in the video such as Park Ji Min and Shin Bora. It is funny because they look all awkward dancing around and stuff. You all should check this video out.

The dance is pretty simple and I actually like it. You are bound to start dancing around when you hear this song as well. Or am I seriously the only one?

9.5/10. Really recommend you guys check it out in the playlist below.

 

 

 

Lonely – B1A4

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Source: http://www.soompi.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/B1A4-Lonely-MV-Screencap.jpg

It has only been 2 days since these boys released Lonely and their second album, and yet I am here reviewing in it. And don’t worry, I am now swimming in my own sweat. Gross huh?Anyway, the boys returned on Monday and since have been performing strongly on charts, hitting number 1 upon release. It seems like these boys are on the rise. Soon, they will take over KPOP and Korea and who knows what will happen then? But it is quite interesting to see the transition between the different concepts for these boys. Remember their first few days, being the cute boys and now, singing mature ballads and whatnot. Amazing. Seems like they are off to a strong start.

The song is amazing. When I heard the teaser I was unsure. But as soon as I heard the song itself, I threw everything down and made sure I listened to each bit in detail. The odd guitar sound sounds pretty good, but I am unsure if they reflect the song. It is odd sound, but I don’t think they fit “lonely” as well as a normal guitar sound would. It is great that the lines are more evenly spread (Gongchan has two parts in this song that are pretty long). But I still have this problem with Jinyoung. You occupy approximately 60% of the song, leaving your other vocalists with a sad 40% of the song. The rapping by Baro is really good in this song. When you first hear this song, you can understand how sad the song and how much pain the boys must be going through. The bridge to me, does not sound good as compared to the rest of the song. It seems to clash with the free-flowing sound of the rest of the song. But overall, an amazing song. And at least their English has improved.  From “I zoom zoom my heart like a rocket” to “I just want to spend  some time with you”.

The music video is quite interesting as well. The music video scenes with Jinyoung and the girl is pretty good. But as for those “lonely” walking scenes, yeah, they kind of distracted me from the rest of the video as there is nothing going on in the video. I love the artistic nature of the couple scene. Jinyoung desperately tries to hold onto his girl, but it seems like his girls thinks otherwise. Every time she tries to get away (i.e. floats up), he holds onto her. Likewise, when he gets the chance to go with her (get another chance with the girl) he holds back and decides to move on. In the end, he goes up as well, not knowing if he would ever get the chance to meet the girl. Now, I have a few problems with this, even though it is pretty good. Where did the balloons come from and why is there no roof to this house? I assume if there is a roof, she would not get very far. Just my logic. Oh and the dance scene with Jinyoung, Baro and Sandeul: Sandeul is a completely losty.

The dancing to this song I am not sure of yet, since I have not seen any live performances (since none of them exists at the moment). But from the scenes we saw in the music video, they are pretty cool. I am just anticipating the scarf dance they have planned.

8.5/10. Pretty good comeback that may earn this band more awards. With the promising start to the year, maybe it is going to happen.

B.B.B (Big Baby Baby) – Dal Shabet

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Source: http://www.soompi.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dal-shabet-bbb-800×450.jpg

Dal Shabet recently made their comeback after nearly a year’s absence from the KPOP scene. After success of their last concept, which involved legs and sexy, the girls have gone for an even more sexy comeback this time around. Joining the hype this January with the mad rush of comebacks just at the beginning of the year, the band has made many fans extremely happy with their comeback. I just wish to say if today’s review is a little wonky and badly written. I am currently sweating in 43 degree heat and it is going to get worse during the next few days. Sorry. But still, will try my best to get reviews done. Be right back, my arm is so sweaty, it stuck to the table. Ewww…..

Anyway, when I first heard of this comeback, I would never have expected a retro themed song, which these girls are known for. Honestly, I am quite torn about the clash of concepts. The disco feel of the song really does not fulfil the idea of “sexy”. I don’t know. The song itself is okay. It is catchy to an extent, but I don’t always want to listen to it. It seems like an occasional song to listen to. The instrumental is pretty good to listen to and I am happy with the outcome of it. But the vocals I am quite disappointed in. I am a total fan of the rest of the songs on their mini album, but this song was pretty weak. The song does not have a catchy chorus to make us remember it easily, which is quite disappointing. A catchy chorus would have improved the song so much and sky rocketed the band into even more fame. The only part which I liked in this whole song was the “No, No, No, No” part. Not a major fan of the “Big Babe Baby” part as well. So yeah, my thoughts on the song.

The music video is really boring. A video of girls dancing and being “sexy”. Yeah, you can comment on me being hypocritical and stuff, as Girl’s Day music video was like that. But at least there was something to talk about in that video. As for this video, I don’t think I am ramble on the topic of uses of useless sets (ie. orange staircase twirling thing). Well, I could, but I would just rather advise you guys to go onto the next paragraph.

As for the dance, it is pretty good. I have to say, every time there is a new sexy concept they always find something different to do. Boob rubbing, ass waving, “pulling the pants up”, legs dragging, lip rubbing, butt hitting, hair swinging have all been done. So what is next? A combination of those?

4/10. It could have been loads better. Way better. Maybe next time. And sorry for the extremely boring review today. I am still sweating in this horrible heat and it will continue until next week. 40 degrees all week-long.

Singing Got Better – Ailee

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Source: http://www.soompi.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/ailee-teaser.jpg

Ailee has finally returned to the stage with a new song. This time around, she shedded her usual powerful image for a more relaxed and quieter image. The past few songs by the artist has showcased her powerful vocals in a a brighter yet more powerful image. In this comeback, everything seems to have been toned down, but yet she has still managed to wow us all with this amazing song. This song was recorded before her actual debut song, Heaven and has been contended as a comeback song in place of I Will Show You and U&I, however has been pushed back because the other tracks were better. To know this is a song that has been around for quite some time and yet we have not heard it, is pretty amazing. I wonder what other songs she has up her sleeve?

The song this time around is a ballad. It is much different from her previous songs, as they were more of the pop genre. But even though it is a ballad, the song still manages to showcase her vocal ability, proving that she is still the top of the game. Her voice just amazes me everytime she comebacks and I literally believe that everytime she comebacks, her “Singing Got Better”. Too subtle? No? Damn… But anyway, the song is a little slow at the start for me, but that chorus is really good. It is not the best song out there, but this song is pretty high up there at the moment for me. It is great for a change in style for once in a while though. Beside that, there is not really anything to talk about the song. Pretty good!

The music video is okay. I don’t know if this is the correct word to used to describe it, but I found the music video quite “mute”. There is nothing that suggest it is a loud music video. You don’t here what is going on in the video, but we see what is going on in the music video as the song plays in the background. The way Ailee walks as a celebrity further proves this as she walks quietly, without making a loud noise. Or even disturbing society. While the guards are serious about protecting her, she is just in her own world, as if no one is around her. The music video shows her life as a small recording artist and her songwriter boyfriend played by Lee Joon. Poor dude because he always play the role of the player. In Hyuna’s Bubble Pop. He also gets killed in This Is War and Iris. Quite concerning. But anyway, this music video is quite realistic and has a solid plot that I can follow from start to the end.

I am glad she toned her performance down as well. The version you hear when you play the music video is different to the version she sings live. Why? Mainly because I don’t think is needed for her to destroy her voice on stage singing those same high notes day after day.

9/10. Amazing comeback. But seriously, what other songs does she have up her sleeve?

La Song – Rain

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This is part two of the Rain special. If you still have not seen part one (aka. review for 30Sexy), then you can do so by clicking on the link HERE! This is the second song from the pair, with many people finding this new song quite interesting.

Yeah, same goes for this song. Not as great as the hype for it. Though it is mildly better than 30Sexy. I find this song more easily to listen to and it is more pleasant to listen to. But to me, is does not seem to be a style that I would go for. I find it rather awkward to listen at times. For those who have not listened to the song yet, you get this Spanish / Mexican beat to the song, which makes it rather different to the many types of standard songs we have now. I have to say, he made a good effort to make the song sound like it was from Mexico or a European country. But it does not suit him. He sounds good but the chorus seems to put me off. On top of that, the verses does not seem to match the chorus of the song. I think the best conclusion I can make is that the song sounds much better than 30Sexy.

The music video could have been much better. The music video seemed quite dark in feeling for such a upbeat song. Anyway, I have to say: why is twerking the new craze? Like seriously, I thought the Harlem Shake was weird, but twerking just takes internet crazes to a whole new level. People are saying that this song and music video is racially discriminatory, but I don’t find anything wrong with this music video in that sense. Well, beside that scene where the girl’s shadow gets changed. But beside that, all I can see is that the people in this music video are people who really know how to party really well. I see no problem with that. Anyway, the music video is okay, but I would have expected something a little more grand especially for Rain’s comeback and for this song.

The live performance is pretty good. It seems like he sings live, so that is great. And I guess the dance is pretty good. Though this song does not fit his style, It seems like he enjoyed being up there singing this song. Hmmm… I don’t have a problem with this, but he is far too happy on that stage.

5/10. Okay, not that happy with it, but I think it is much better than 30Sexy. Maybe next time I guess?

30 Sexy – Rain

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Source: http://www.soompi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/rain-30-sexy-teaser-vid.png

Rain, back from military service, has finally returned to the stage. It has been a very long while since we all have seen the singer on stage and finally fan girls have been able to see the singer perform. His last comeback was in 2010, with  Love Song, which won many fans over. It seems that with Rain’s comeback, he is quite popular. You probably be in denial if you said he was not popular, because the truth is that is has to be one of the popular male idols out there at the moment.  This time around he came back with two songs: La Song and 30Sexy. The second song will be reviewed first and also, tomorrow, the review for La Song will be revealed. So stay tuned for that. It’s the RAIN special. Woo!

And yeah. I should rather wrap up the review now, than be criticised. Oh sigh. I really don’t like this song. I have never been a fan of Rain and probably never be, but this song is absolutely terrible. The only good songs he had were Rainism and Love Song. And those were not total favourites as well. This song really did not sum anything up. You have been away for 2 years and you give us a song that is high-pitched and unappealing. His voice is meant to sound good, but all I hear is a high pitch screech. I actually like the moments where he is singing in a normal voice, but that is only like 30% of the song. This song is not catchy and to be honest, I cannot listen to this song for more than a minute. If you were to choose between 30Sexy, La Song and Love Song to introduce someone to KPOP, Love Song would be the best choice. This song is quite disappointing and probably a song that I would never turn to ever again.

The music video misses something. Sexy. Now, I know that to some people, this video is very hard to resist, but to me and probably a few others, what the fudge cake is going on? The King Of Pop is back and we get a dark music video with hardly anything to talk about. Well, I can point out that the extra big shoes he got (I am speaking in terms of heels. He is the tallest soloist, I believe, yet he is insecure about his height?) and  that extra short jacket is quite an eyesore. I actually prefer him wearing something like in his dance break, something casual. Anyway, the video is quite dark and with those visual effects going on, I spend more times trying to adjust my eyesight to the different colours (note, there is only black and white in this video) than staring and focusing on him. And why give him such a dull colour and put the dances in colour? Why are they getting the spotlight when this comeback is about Rain, not really about his backup dancer’s though.

I think it would be hard to top Love Song with the body rolls and ripping of shirts and abs. And I guess this dance just proves that. Nothing in this dance is memorable, and it does not reflect the song as I would have expected it. I think his dance break in song was pretty cool, but beside that… Sorry.

Sorry, but this does not cut out for me. Though this is not my cup of tea, I am sure everyone else enjoys it. 1/10. Definitely a song that I would not go back to.

Something – Girl’s Day

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Source: http://modernseoul.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/girls-day-somethings-dance.jpg

Girl’s Day is back with a new song. After successful promotions for Expectations and their success song Female President, the girls once again have up the ante to become of the biggest groups of Korea. The girls released Something at the start of 2014, and have earned their first award just on Wednesday for their song. After receiving much love from fans boosting them to the top of the charts, it seems like this group is one to beat. But the competition in just January alone is quite fierce. Must I remind that TVXQ, Ailee, Rain, Dal Shabet and many other bands will be making their comeback and it seems that all of the groups will be having a run for their money.

When I first heard this song, I thought it was a total let down. Female President had this really catchy tune, while Expectation had guys screaming for more. This one seemed like a sexy video posted up in the 1960’s and everyone criticising it. It was not until I listened to it over and over again to understand that this song is a freaking awesome song. Though I have to be honest, I did get a little confused with another song by the same title quite a few times when I am listening to it online. However, I have been listening to this song on repeat and literally have fallen in love for it. May be a little bias (okay, a lot of bias here) but I freaking love every aspect of this song. The vocals were really good and they matched the expected standard of huskiness for a “sexy” song. The instrumental did make me go back in time, and that reminded me of a lot of videos and culture back then. I would’ve expected a rap, but it seems they did not fit it in. Instead they got a really good part at the end, where it seems like they are whispering (prayers, from the look of the dance) and that is totally awesome.

The music video is quite something. People are always criticising the sexy comeback. Saying that they are overusing the word. But it the same people who criticise this exact band for their debut song, which happens to be the other end of the spectrum, saying that they are tryhards. I am quite disappointed with the audience of the video. Not all, but the minority. Which leads to the next point. I don’t find this video “sexy”. Sexy was not the right word to use. I don’t see how sitting in a bathtub, ripping up an audio tape or picking up a phone, “sexy”. There are only two things that I found were quite suggestive. The dance at the start and Minah’s slowly scene where there is a camera on the bed. Ummm…. Yeah, but in today standards, this is just the starting point. No where near the climax yet. I like the setting of the dance scenes. Not sure about the alley ways though, they look okay, but rather awkward in this song.

The dance. The start. The freaking start had me screaming into the computer. I am sorry, but girls if you’re going to rub your body over the floor like that, how on earth do you expect your fanboys to live? And that is where the dance kind of goes weird. Most of the dance I thought: “Hey Cool”. But the bouncing dance in the chorus, what is going on? It feels awkward and weird. Does not show off the elegance that we were promised. It does not fit well with the song, but beside that everything else was okay.

Congrats girl on your first place win on Wednesday. 9/10. Was planning on giving them a 10/10, but I seemed to have rambled on about the music video and dance and pointing out the flaws a little too much. So a perfect 10/10 would not have suited the review.

Something – TVXQ

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TVXQ is finally back after a years absence from the stage and have “Something” to tell you fans. Hahahahaha… My lame jokes. It has been a while since we last saw this duo on the stage, and they recently celebrated their 10 year anniversary as a group. I never got around to reviewing Catch Me or Humanoids, even though the second song has been a favourite of mine, I was quite excited to finally sit down and review this song. And, like always, TVXQ never do well in my mind. Sorry. On top of that, I am still unsure if they have an effect on Korea anymore, especially since their last comeback scored them 0 awards but I guess we have to wait and see.

Okay, I admit that I was waiting for this band to make their comeback. Their teaser was amazing. I dig the teaser more than the actual song. It seems like the song was a total letdown for me. Not only am I disappointed with the song, I have to say that Catch Me was a totally better song than this. Though it was catchy, TVXQ is known for their dancing and singing ability, however, I think the song steps a little down from the singing ability side. I liked the start where they are like “She Got The Something!”, which really does not make sense, but hey, who cares! As soon as I heard the 1 verse, I was quite disappointed. The song has the epic feel throughout though which make it sound good, and the chorus was really good as well, but it was not as appealing as the teaser portrayed it. I can tell when Changmin is singing, but really cannot tell when Yunho is singing, because his voice sounds different. The climax of the song was not as I expected, it slowed and literally made the song more quiet than what it is. An okay song though.

The music video is like any other SM entertainment music video. You know the horrible sets and whatnot. But I found the set of this music video pretty cool. Las Vegas’s cousin, just inside a building. There are so many light-bulbs in this music video, but it makes the video look good and the set more appealing. The classiness of the video fits the feel of the song. Not sure about the girls though, they make the whole video really awkward. Not sure about the end though. Maybe the boys dreams were to become statues or something? No? Yeah… I don’t know as well. Also, the dance break scene was quite disappointing. But beside the sets that they are in when they dance is pretty amazing. Oh Changmin, lose the shorts and both of you, lose the tattoos. What are they even for? They look hideous!

The dance never fails to impress. TVXQ has always had amazing dances and I think this just adds to the list. Using on object that is very hard to control to their advantage. The rope would have been hard to use but yet they pulled the dance off flawlessly. I have to say as well, the ending was amazing, where they are leaning over the ropes and stuff. Pretty cool, I have to say. But not as epic as Catch Me dance. But oh well, we will live.

6.5/10. Despite being full of praise for the video and dance, the song was a major let down.

Red Candle – Son Dam Bi

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Source: http://just46.justhost.com/~japakomu/dir/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/son-dam-bi-released-mv-for-red-candle.jpg

Son Dam Bi recently returned, without promotions, of a new single. After a years disappearance after releasing and promoting Dripping Tears, the soloist returned with Red Candle. Dripping Tears was an amazing song, and it seems like Son Dam Bi is returning with songs of the equivalent nature. But my question is, why has she not promoted this song? Cause this is an amazing song! Unless, there is something on the way for this solo singer?

The song has this rumba of salsa feel to it, which makes it so addictive. I don’t know why, but I have been falling for these songs for a very long time and it seems like it won’t change. Anyway, the song has a pretty addictive chorus. One that does not get me singing all the time but one that makes me go back for more. The song talks how this girl yearns for her lover and evidently from the title of the song, explains love in terms of a candle. Which is pretty poetic coming from KPOP i have to admit. I one only major complaint I have is that Son Dam Bi repeats the song title over and over again for the song. Like 15 times in the song, in English. Hmmm… Got a bit repetitive. But beside that, her voice really fit the song. It also pretty good.

The music video is pretty cool as well. I like how the music video takes a whole new spin on the lyrics and explains love in terms of the hardship of a celebrity. While they have to happy and smiling all the time in front of the camera, we really do not know what is happening behind the scenes in the celebrities lives. Hence why saesang fans are looked down upon and us, fans, place outrageous amount of pressure for them to perform. And yes, I said all of us. Its dark in many of the scenes where Son Dam Bi is alone, which kind of signifies the mood. When she is out and about, there are flashing lights and a little more colour to the picture to highlight the “happiness” in the shot, but that all sudden changes including the facial expressions of her, when she is alone. No flashing lights and no smiles. I think this video was really thought out and carefully planned, even though the comeback was quite sudden.

8.5/10. Quite happy with the release, but disappointed that she is not promoting the song, or that we have not heard any new plans for an upcoming mini album or album. (I realized that I forgot to mention this, but SHINee’s Jonghyun is pretty amazing songwriter!)

Friday – IU ft. Jang Yi Jeong (History)

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Source: http://modernseoul.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/friday-iu-feat-jang-yi-jeong-2.jpg

Welcome to 2014! Did you all have a Happy New Year? I did! Hahaha… This is my first review of the year. Sadly school is restarting in a month, so I have to start doing my holiday homework, so it is going to be an awkward struggle. But don’t worry. I doubt nothing will effect the rapid speed of my reviews. They won’t be rapid once I start school though, but anything that changes will be notified to you guys, so don’t worry. Anyway, IU recently released her repackaged album, on December the 19th. The new album featured 2 new tracks and also includes the tracks from her album, Modern Times. Though no formal promotions were taken (I believe so far), she still managed to achieve a perfect all kill on the charts and remain on the charts as one of the top singers of the year!

I have to say, this song is pretty good. However it does not have me coming back to it more. I like the song more than Red Shoes, but I have to be honest, but it seems to be lost and forgotten quite easily. I have the simple feel of the song which sounds pretty good and awesome. I have to say, both voices in this song, compliment each other. Both have this husky voice which I really dig. The lyrics are quite simple, and I am thanking IU for not singing the song of the same title released 2-3 years ago. You know what i am talking about! Anyway, the lyrics too are quite simple. It is great for a song like this to come out, which allows us, as the audience, to step back from the heavy dance tracks and relax through a song that calms ourselves down!

The music video is quite interesting. I don’t get the whole new trend of one shot videos. EXO did it well, but everyone else is jumping onto the bandwagon now. Sad. However, I really enjoyed the music video. It was pretty nice and like the song too, was relaxing. Though I am unclear about Yi Jeong though. What roles does he play? The best friend who acts like a big brother? or a guardian angel? Or her make believe friend, who she ignores when she talks about love? So many roles in which he can play that has a logical explanation. The music video is quite cute, but the last scene, where she gets dragged into a dark alley. Umm… I just hope I am looking into the video a little too much there! But beside that, really cool music video.

10/10. What a way to start off the year!!! Let’s hope 2014 will bring more amazing songs like this to our ears and minds!!!