Category: KPOP

[Album Review] HAPPY (1st Mini Album) – JIN (BTS)

Posted in Album Reviews, KPOPTagged , Leave a comment
JIN is nominated for Best Male Soloist, with the Japanese version of Falling (ft. TAKA) is nominated for Best International Song by a Korean Artist (Japanese) in the 2025 KPOPREVIEWED Awards. Support JIN and Falling by voting today!

Over a year ago, JIN made his first solo comeback since his 2022 military enlistment with his first solo mini-album, HAPPY. It is finally time to review the mini-album and all the songs that are featured on it, including the pre-release I’ll Be There and the title track Running Wild (links below, as usual). Per my rating below, I am quite impressed with the entire mini-album, with half the songs on the mini-album earning a 10/10 rating from me. I will admit I am easy to satisfy, but JIN really blew me away with these tracks and HAPPY overall. A definite, highly recommended album from me.

Before HAPPY, JIN made his solo debut with the digital single The Astronaut. More recently, JIN made a quick solo comeback just 6 months after the release of this mini-album, the subject of this review, with his second mini-album ECHO and title track Don’t Say You Love Me.

HAPPY Album Cover

1. Running Wild (Title Track) – Click here for my full review of Running Wild. (8.5/10)

2. I’ll Be There (Pre-Release Track) – Click here for my full review of I’ll Be There. (8/10)

3. Another Level – Throughout this year, I have been working to an ‘epic music’ playlist, which mainly consists of cinematic instrumentals or dramatic covers of songs. Upon relistening to Another Level for this post, this can easily fit into the scope of that playlist. The intensity and power of the rock instrumentation has a ‘keeps me on the edge of my seat’ vibe, and I appreciate that JIN gives it his all to keep up with the epic nature of the backing. I also like the calculated filtering of his vocals behind autotune, which just heightens the appeal of the song. (10/10)

4. Falling (네게닿을때까지) – I really enjoyed JIN’s vocals in Falling, especially the oomph he gives to the chorus. The rock instrumentation is straightforward and very pure, with the modern style really complementing JIN’s voice. A Japanese version of Falling was released shortly after the mini-album dropped, featuring TAKA (one of the song’s writers). For me, the Japanese version had a bit more impact, especially in the choruses, which is why I nominated it for Best International Song by a Korean Artist (Japanese) of 2025. But that doesn’t mean the Korean version is anything less. (10/10)

5. Heart on the Window (ft. WENDY of Red Velvet) – JIN moves us into a blend of acoustic and pop percussion territory with Heart on the Window. He also joins forces with WENDY, who, as we all know, is an amazing vocalist. JIN holds up well alongside WENDY – I did have a concern that he could have been outdone in his own song. But that didn’t occur. In fact, Heart on the Window did not disappoint. Their harmonies and the song’s melodies were beautiful. I did feel the song was rather short, and I felt JIN was only getting started by the time it wrapped up. (8/10)

6. I Will Come To You (그리움에) – Finishing up the mini-album is the ballad I Will Come To You. As a song written for fans by JIN himself, I recommend you check out the lyrics (and a translation, if Korean is not your native language). It was so lovely to read, and it put a smile on my face – I am sure fans find it a very warm hug from JIN. As for the ballad, it simply features JIN’s heartfelt vocals and a simple piano accompaniment. To me, this helped make I Will Come To You feel much more profound and made JIN sound much more present. (10/10)

Overall Album Rating – 9.1/10

JIN’s teaser image for HAPPY

[Album Review] DREAMSCAPE (4th Studio Album) – NCT DREAM

Posted in Album Reviews, KPOPTagged , Leave a comment
NCT DREAM is nominated for Best Male Group and Best Dance Performance (Male Group) for CHILLER in the 2025 KPOPREVIEWED Awards. Support NCT DREAM by voting today!

Next up on the hyper-focused 2024 albums yet to be reviewed is NCT DREAM’s DREAMSCAPE, which dropped mid-November 2024 and features the title track When I’m With You. Alongside the title track are 10 other tracks, including the pre-releases Flying Kiss and the group’s first English single Rains In Heaven (links below). There is a consistent theme of dreaminess in DREAMSCAPE, with many songs taking on this characteristic or leaning towards it (at the very least). It creates cohesion and works well with the album’s brighter themes (see more below). I agree with people when they say it isn’t NCT DREAM’s strongest work, but it is still a pleasant listen overall.

Previously, the group released their fifth mini-album, DREAM()SCAPE, which was a lot darker and focused on escaping pain and struggles. That mini-album was led by Smoothie. In contrast, this studio album (also titled DREAMSCAPE, without the brackets) is much brighter and focuses on freedom. More recently, the group released their fifth studio album, Go Back To The Future (led by singles BTTF and CHILLER) and their sixth mini-album Beat It Up (with the title track of the same name).

DREAMSCAPE Album Cover

1. INTRO: DREAMSCAPE – DREAMSCAPE, the studio album’s namesake, begins with some acoustic guitar before developing into a hyperpop track. While the synth work and vocal distortion partway through the song were very cool, I wish some of that acoustic guitar had remained in the track as it developed. This would have made DREAMSCAPE unique and potentially added to the dreamy tinge of the introductory track. Alongside the instrumentation are NCT DREAM’s fresh, youthful vocals, which added to that dreaminess. (8/10)

2. When I’m With You (Title Track) – Click here for my full review of When I’m With You. (7.5/10)

3. Flying Kiss (Pre-Release Track) – Click here for my full review of Flying Kiss. (7.5/10)

4. i hate fruits – NCT DREAM continues the dreamy motif through this pop track. i hate fruits liken the idea of being in love to fruits, with the idea of hating fruits (thus love) is because of how infatuated and centred their world becomes on their lover (though they caveat it with the line that they can never hate it). I really enjoyed the vocals in this one – this is what give i hate fruits its dreaminess. I am also super impressed with the way JISUNG and JAEMIN sound in the bridge – that was a highlight for me. (9/10)

5. No Escape – Hip-hop influences, darting synth work and pounding beats take over in No Escape. Together, these create a bold, edgy track that contrasts with the album’s dreamy motif. This style allows the rappers to showcase their capabilities (which they do extremely well), but I must also commend the smooth texture the vocalists give No Escape. They also contrast nicely with the song’s boldness and edginess. (8/10)

6. Best of Me – Best of Me sees NCT DREAM visit the 80s (perhaps a hint for their July 2025 album release?) synths to create a strong dance track that is reminiscent of past boy bands. The rapping was super edgy and bold in this track. For me, this undoubtedly became one of the song’s strongest drawing points, in my opinion. The rapping also ties in nicely with the chorus’s beat and rhythm, which was another highlight of the song. There were also some great ad-libs in this track. (9/10)

7. YOU (숲) – Through YOU, NCT DREAM continues with the album’s dreamy motif with a low-key synth-based instrumental and R&B vocals that are smooth and delicate. I enjoyed the pleasantness of this number. What is interesting about YOU is that the bridge features a retro, jazzy, hip-hop sequence. This was an unexpected change-up, but it still made the song fun and enjoyable. I also enjoyed the layering in the final chorus between vocals and rapping. (8/10)

8. Heavenly (하늘을 나는 꿈) – Right off the bat, the harmonies stood out in Heavenly for me. They are warm (the same can be said about the rest of the vocals) and remind me of some of their best works (like Broken Melodies). I liked the shouty rap style added to the song. It gave Heavenly extra oomph and created a very inclusive atmosphere to enjoy. Combined with the 80s synth-pop instrumentation, you have a wholesome track that is comforting and inviting. It is hard to fault this one, so there is only one possible rating for Heavenly. (10/10)

9. Night Poem (밤) – Night Poem is another R&B number that is pleasant and enjoyable. The soft, whispery “Bam” (which means ‘night’ in Korean) in the chorus was really beautiful, as was the wispy synth faintly heard in the background. I liked the emphasis they put on some of the lines in the second verse, and the rapping throughout the song provided a nice rhythm. The layering, especially towards the end, was a little standard and didn’t feel well utilised to give Night Poem that wow factor that great layering usually delivers. (7/10)

10. Off The Wall – Off The Wall is the album’s final new offering, bringing us a fun and playful, funky and groovy disco number. With how light and soft the instrumental turned out, Off The Wall is just so easy on the ears and light-hearted at the same time, making it an ideal single to blend with the rest of the album and give us a number to dance to. The vocals and rapping are so dynamic and robust, making it an absolute delight. (10/10)

11. Rains In Heaven – Click here for my full review for Rains In Heaven. (9/10)

Overall Album Rating – 8.5/10

NCT DREAM’s teaser image for DREAMSCAPE

[Album Review] LIVE AND FALL (5th Mini Album) – Xdinary Heroes

Posted in Album Reviews, KPOPTagged Leave a comment
Xdinary Heroes is nominated for Best Band Performance, Best Music Video and Best Band or Rock Song for Beautiful Life in the 2025 KPOPREVIEWED Awards. Support Xdinary Heroes by voting today!

In the pursuit of the end of the year, I will be reviewing the remaining 2024 albums that I have yet to review. One of these is Xdinary Heroes’ LIVE AND FALL, their 5th mini-album, which was released in October 2024. Leading the mini-album is Night Before The End, two additional new songs and 4 (or 5 if you count the instrumental intro) singles from their Open ♭eta series released throughout June to September 2024. Put all of these songs together, and you have a mini-album full of a variety of rock styles. And it is a good variety of songs and styles to enjoy. It isn’t their strongest album release to date, but it is still worth checking out.

More recently, Xdinary Heroes released 2 mini-albums this year: Beautiful Mind (led by Beautiful Life) in March, and LXVE and DEATH (led by the single ICU) in October.

LIVE and FALL Album Cover

1. XH_World_75 – Xdinary Heroes begins the mini-album with a fantastic instrumental track, which was previously featured as a side track on their Open ♭eta v6.3 single release (alongside Save Me, also featured on this mini-album). XH_World_75 begins quite atmospheric at first, then develops into an emotive rock track, before ending briefly with some synths. It definitely sets the tone for what is to come on Live and Fall.

2. Night Before The End (Title Track) – Click here for my full review for Night Before The End. (7.5/10)

3. Save Me – As mentioned earlier, the songs released as part of Xdinary Heroes’ Open ♭eta are also featured on this mini-album. First up in the series on the mini-album is Save Me, released in August 2024. It is an alternative rock ballad in which Xdinary Heroes pour their emotions into an upbeat song. I quite liked the energy of this one when it was first released, as well as its straightforward nature (relative to the other songs featured on this mini-album). (8/10)

4. Boy Comics (소년만화) – The second song on this mini-album from the Open ♭eta series is Boy Comics, which was released in June 2024. If you also cast your mind back, I also nominated Xdinary Heroes for Best Band Performance of 2024 for the 2024 KPOPREVIEWED Awards based on Boy Comics. This was because of the intense, consistent energy Xdinary Heroes put behind the upbeat rock song, and the anthemic qualities the chorus exudes, both of which I really enjoyed since its initial release. Sure, it is another straightforward track, but why mess with something that works well? (9/10)

5. iNSTEAD! (ft. Yoon Do Hyun of YB) – Xdinary Heroes join forces with Yoon Do Hyun from YB for iNSTEAD!, the third single from their Open ♭eta series, to feature on the mini-album. This collaboration unexpectedly delivers a metal track with a screamo hook. As far as I can remember, this is new territory for the band and also KPOP in genre. While I liked the edgy energy and powerful intensity from the metal side of the song, I don’t think the screamo hook resonated much with me, as I hadn’t paid much attention to the song since its release, and it is simply not my style. Based on what I am hearing, Xdinary Heroes can rock this genre, just without the screamo centrepiece. (7/10)  

6. FEELING NICE – FEELING NICE is one of the three new, fresh singles on the mini-album. It features an upbeat electro-rock instrumental that evokes punk and headbanging vibes. I liked the intensity of this song (especially from the get-go), as well as the consistency the vocalists brought to it as it shifts in tempo and other ways. (8/10)

7. XYMPHONY – Hands down, XYMPHONY is very much the song on the album. From the very intense rock energy to the sinister, striking piano in the background to the catchy melodies and hooks, XYMPHONY is bold and powerful. For me, this is the unique, individualistic style I am looking for in artists. With regards to the piano, JUNGSU gets his solo moments in the song, and those parts were quite beautiful and felt calming. I appreciate that it sounds like a lot is going on in the song (I won’t deny it), but if you like Xdinary Heroes’ music or style, then XYMPHONY is definitely the one you need to check out. (10/10)

8. LOVE and FEAR – LOVE and FEAR is the final track from the Open ♭eta series featured on this mini-album. It again puts rock energy in the forefront, with the head-banging and foot-tapping potential behind it very hard to deny. I really liked the build-up during the pre-chorus of LOVE and FEAR, as well as the launch into the chorus. The way all of this was handled was very clean and straightforward. As for the vocals, I could feel the yearning and desire behind them, which makes LOVE and FEAR more impactful alongside the song’s more anthemic moments. (8/10)

Overall Album Rating – 8.2/10

Unit teaser images of Xdinary Heroes for the LIVE and FALL album.
Unit teaser images of Xdinary Heroes for the LIVE and FALL album.

[Album Review] CALL BACK (1st Studio Album) – MINHO (SHINee)

Posted in Album Reviews, KPOPTagged , Leave a comment

While I am fully aware that MINHO has made a more recent solo comeback (TEMPO, a week ago), I have just been too busy and preoccupied to review it just yet. I will definitely get around to it in the new year (just not sure when). But I have managed to find some time to review MINHO’s 1st studio album, CALL BACK, which was released over a year ago. It features 10 songs in total, with the title track sharing the same name as the album. Overall, a consistently good album from MINHO, with a few gems to keep an ear out for.

CALL BACK Album Cover

1. CALL BACK (Title Track) – Click here to read my full review for CALL BACK. (8/10)

2. Slow Down – MINHO asks for time to slow down so he can spend more time with his lover. I liked the combination of dreamy synths and trap elements in this R&B song, as well as the simple yet repetitive nature of the song’s title in the chorus. I also enjoyed the distortion in the bridge, which gave Slow Down a cooler effect. I also appreciate that Slow Down is only 2:46, yet it feels like a song that runs over 3:30. (8/10)

3. FIREWORKS (ft. SOHEE from RIIZE) – For FIREWORKS, I liked the funky and upbeat underlay in the instrumental. It creates a fun atmosphere that makes FIREWORKS quite enjoyable. MINHO’s deeper rapping vocals also add to this aspect of the song, but I also enjoyed the contrast with SOHEE’s higher-pitched vocals during the chorus and bridge. (8/10)

4. Came and Left Me – Chosen as the accompanying side track for promotions, Came and Left Me goes for a dance-pop style that is well catered to MINHO’s abilities and style. MINHO’s raspy vocals were definitely well-utilised. I also particularly enjoyed the percussion in the pre-chorus, the pronounced acoustic guitar riff throughout the song, and the punchy synth work. All of this comes together to create a simple yet effective track. (10/10)

5. Something About U – MINHO continues the dance style through Something About U, with the track going for an intense and synth-heavy dance track. The synths were wild, and I could hear something resembling an electric guitar at the end of the pre-choruses. MINHO delves further into this by featuring bass guitars as part of the backing for the chorus. While I do appreciate the intensity of Something About U, it could have done better with stronger hooks and melodies to really remember the song by. (8/10)

6. Round Kick – Round Kick features an awesome mix of instrumentation. There is just so much going on – synths, percussive, brass, drumming (of the retro nature) and probably a whole lot more. MINHO himself is also quite engaging throughout the track, serving as a constant throughout Round Kick. I liked how he served as a mechanism to tie everything together into one cohesive number, which was the impression I got towards the end of the song. But upon reflection and a closer listen, MINHO has been doing this from the start. (10/10)

7. Affection – MINHO steers us back into pure R&B territory with soft afrobeats being the song’s defining feature. Because of the soft afrobeats and MINHO’s deep vocals at play in Affection, the track has an alluring smoothness that makes it sound dreamy and hazy, which I quite liked. I would have liked more in terms of a hook or melody, but as is, it is also completely fine. (8/10)

8. I Don’t Miss You – Two things really stand out in this blend of R&B and pop. The first has to be the instrumental, particularly the pounding, dulled beat and prolific guitar work. The second is the combination of vocals and rapping throughout. Altogether, I Don’t Miss You is quite an engaging track.(9/10)

9. Because of You (ft. NINGNING of aespa) – The penultimate song of the studio album brings MINHO and NINGNING (from aespa) together. Similar to the other collaborative track on this album, I enjoyed the contrast between MINHO’s deep, raspy vocals and NINGNING’s refreshing, higher-pitched tone. The blend of the two was really nice, as was the acoustic-leaning instrumental. (9/10)

10. Would You Mind – Bringing the album to a close is Would You Mind. MINHO’s vocals throughout the song, particularly during the pre-choruses, were really well done. The dreamy instrumental that accompanies also has a nice, alluring R&B energy. That touch of brass at the end was quite unexpected, but really helped offset the potential for Would You Mind to be overly consistent. (8/10)

Overall Album Rating – 8.6/10

MINHO’s teaser image for CALL BACK.

[Album Review] VOYAGE (5th Mini-Album) – VIVIZ

Posted in Album Reviews, KPOPTagged Leave a comment
VIVIZ is nominated for Best Dance Performance (Female Group) of 2025 for La La Love Me in the 2025 KPOPREVIEWED Awards. Support VIVZ by voting today!

In November 2024, VIVIZ made their comeback with their 5th mini-album, VOYAGE, led by the single Shhh!. Over a year later, here is my album review for VOYAGE. Overall, this is a mini-album that you should not miss from VIVIZ, in my opinion. Given that it has been a year since its release, I am sure you are all aware of this mini-album, but I am impressed with all but one track (i.e., the title track – reasons outlined in my full review – link below). Literally, I have given 2 out of 5 songs a perfect rating, with the other 2 tracks close to it.

VOYAGE followed their November 2023 mini-album VERSUS (led by MANIAC). Following VOYAGE, VIVIZ released their first studio album, A Montage of ( ), led by La La Love Me, in July 2025.

VOYAGE Album Cover

1. Shhh! (Title Track) – Click here for my full review of Shhh! (7/10)

2. Cliché – Following the title track is this fusion of Latin and hip-hop influences. This alone is quite a unique combination, making Cliché stand out. But what I really enjoy about this track (and what wins me over) is the sophisticated vibe that both the combination and the members exude, which just makes Cliché sound so much better for me. It has always been hard for me to pinpoint an exact sequence or moment that I liked in the song, as the whole track just excels for me. (10/10)

3. Full Moon – For Full Moon, I enjoyed the soft vibes that come from the drum and bass instrumental and the melodies (with thanks to the sweet and rich vocals of VIVIZ). Both come together quite nicely to create an effortless listen. I think Full Moon could have been better with a more prominent bass presence to lift it to a whole new level. (8.5/10)

4. Hypnotize – VIVIZ gives us R&B in Hypnotize, and like the rest of the mini-album, I am totally loving it. I really enjoyed the dreaminess of the entire package that is Hypnotize, but also really enjoyed the contrasting nature of the synths and striking piano in the background at the same time. VIVIZ also manages to make Hypnotize sound and feel luxurious in all regards. This is another great track from the group! (10/10)

5. Love & Tears – Closing out this mini-album is the twinkling pop track, Love & Tears. Another sweet and beautiful track from the group, you can feel their gratitude and appreciation behind their vocals. I loved how they sang softly together in the end. I also liked the simple instrumentation – unfiltered and uncomplicated. A great way to end a mini-album. (9/10)

Overall Album Rating – 8.9/10

VIVIZ’s teaser image for VOYAGE

[Review] Season of Memories – GFriend

Posted in KPOP, ReviewsTagged Leave a comment
GFRIEND is nominated for Best ‘Return To Stage’ in the 2025 KPOPREVIEWED Awards. Support GFRIEND by voting today!

January is supposed to be a celebratory month for GFriend, as it serves as the anniversary of their debut. And while GFriend was strong enough to continue celebrating this for years to come, Source Music unexpectedly announced that the group would be disbanded in May 2021. Since then, Eunha, SinB, and Umji have redebuted as VIVIZ, YUJU and YERIN have debuted as solo artists, and SOWON has transitioned into acting. However, earlier this year, the former female group banded together to bring us Season of Memories to celebrate their 10th anniversary. It is also GFriend’s first release since MAGO in November 2020, which also (unknowingly at the time) served as their farewell song.

To me, Season of Memories doesn’t offer that GFriend sound, which I remember being disappointed about. There would have been a significant benefit in revitalising GFriend’s signature sound, particularly for a single meant to celebrate their 10th anniversary. This would have helped keep the song in listeners’ minds longer (such as mine), and is probably why I have not written a review for it sooner. That being said, re-listening to Season of Memories for this review, it is a pretty release from the group. I really enjoyed the combination of the guitar and piano in the background. It felt very clean and is reminiscent of a soft pop JPOP release. I appreciated the subtle upbeatness, grooviness and brightness it brought to the song. As for the members, they sounded very pleasant throughout the track. I particularly enjoyed the harmonies that form part of Season of Memories‘ leading hook, and the crispness of SinB’s vocal-only sequence in the bridge. The melodies also had a pleasant quality, and I really appreciated the warmth in the member’s tone.

The music video sees GFRIEND aboard a train as time slows down, with all the members running into one another, running alongside and supporting each other – just like old times. And just like old times, we see the members regroup on stage. It would have been nice to see them back on a real stage, rather than some that appears AI-generated or added in post-production, as this would have better conveyed the nostalgia and symbolism of such a moment. But overall, it was a nice, pleasant music video that brought GFRIEND back to us in one video.

Just like the song and music video, the performance offers us the chance to see GFRIEND back on stage, and I am completely content with just that idea. It was a good performance, but lacked the distinct GFRIEND factor that they had in previous performances (though this can probably be put down to the song). I am sure, however, that fans are appreciative of the final part of the dance, which is a homage back to their Rough days.

Song – 8/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 8/10

[Review] Promise – DOYOUNG (NCT)

Posted in KPOP, ReviewsTagged , Leave a comment

Similar to JUNGWOO with SUGAR the other week, DOYOUNG also made a comeback the day after beginning his military service on 8 December 2025. The new single, titled Promise, follows his second studio album, SOAR, led by the single Memory.

Unsurprisingly, DOYOUNG offers Promise as a ballad, a parting gift for his fans while he goes on hiatus to express his gratitude for the love and support he has received. Given his past work, I trust DOYOUNG to deliver an engaging ballad. And he does just that in Promise. The vocal performance in this one is spectacular. DOYOUNG is a formidable vocalist, and so such a performance is definitely within expectation. I particularly liked how his vocals build in Promise, helping create the engaging song as hoped. The melodies were charming, and I liked how they gave Promise some variety, avoiding becoming an overly consistent ballad that just repeats the same elements a couple of times and then calls it a day. As for the instrumentation, the backing is more typical of a ballad, with piano, strings, and percussion. But it complements DOYOUNG by building alongside his vocals. Overall, Promise is a beautiful ballad which I am sure fans and listeners will find comforting.

The music video centres on DOYOUNG returning home (presumably after an extended absence), rediscovering an old houseplant, setting it aside, and then going on with his life. One rainy day, he hears something fall to the ground outside and discovers the houseplant there. He takes it back inside, realising that he has taken it for granted, and begins to look after and care for it. That includes drawing some eyes on the pot (cute) and bringing it around with him as he goes on about his daily life. When it comes time for him to leave again, he realises the conditions will be harsh for the plant, so he builds a contraption to control the plant’s climate. The plant gifts him a flower, which he puts on a ring and takes on his adventures outside the house. At the end, he returns home with the plant, and another flower is in bloom. I think the parallels between the houseplant and his fans throughout the video are apparent, particularly at the end, when his fans will be waiting for him upon his return from military enlistment.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 9/10
Overall Rating – 9/10

[Review] RED (Beggin’) – VERIVERY

Posted in KPOP, ReviewsTagged Leave a comment

At the beginning of the month, VERIVERY made their first comeback in 2 years with their new single, RED (Beggin’). Their last comeback was in 2023 with Crazy Like That. Since then, one member (DONGHEON) completed his military service, 3 members (DONGHEON, GYEHYEON and KANGMIN) participated in Boys II Planet, and it was announced that most of the group re-signed with their current company (Jellyfish Entertainment) until the end of 2026.

VERIVERY’s comeback is fierce, aiming to make a strong impression after being absent from the industry. I wouldn’t be surprised if many fans and casual listeners had thought the group disappeared into the abyss, given that a 2-year hiatus period doesn’t bode well in the KPOP industry. Personally, I think VERIVERY has done well in this comeback. RED (Beggin’) is a fast-paced and robust drum-and-bass song, which features a familiar, yet memorable, interpolation of The Four Seasons’ Beggin’ in its chorus. I think this was a clever move from the producers, with something familiar in the mix that many people can latch onto. The vocal work was very clean and polished, while the rapping gives RED (Beggin’) a really nice kick. Altogether, these elements left quite an impression on me when I first checked out the song, and I have been digging it ever since. Perhaps more bass or possibly having the current bass feel a little fuller in RED (Beggin’) would have rounded out this song nicely.

According to the blurb in the YouTube description box, the music video opens with the group celebrating in the past, only for an alert to warn them of unidentified avian creatures approaching Earth. The music video then takes us to the present day, where VERIVERY find themselves stuck in the city, targeted by the avian creatures and unable to escape. Despite being on the run, VERIVERY do try to make the most of the situation by continuing filming ‘their youth’ as the final title card states. In the end, they board an elevator, which the blurb states ‘symboliz[es] a new future that awaits VERIVERY’. In addition to this storyline, I think we also see scenes where the avian creatures get to them, creating an alternative ‘what if’ scenario for the video to explore.

As for the performance, I thought it was good. I liked how they conveyed the fierceness of the song I mentioned earlier in their routine.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 8.5/10

[Album Review] The Star Chapter: SANCTUARY (7th Mini Album) – TXT

Posted in Album Reviews, KPOPTagged 2 Comments

A year on from its release, it is finally time for a review of TXT’s 7th mini-album, The Star Chapter: Sanctuary. Led by the single Over The Moon, the mini-album features 6 songs in total. Overall, it was a really strong effort from TXT. Had some of the songs been longer, as I was left wanting more from most of the songs, I think the mini-album would have been much stronger. But as is, it was still an excellent mini-album to check out.

Earlier in 2024, TXT released their 6th mini-album, Minisode 3: TOMORROW (led by the single Deja Vu). Since the release of The Star Chapter: Sanctuary, TXT has returned with the digital single Love Language; their 4th Korean studio album The Star Chapter: Together (led by the single Beautiful Strangers); and their 3rd Japanese studio album, Starkissed (led by the single Can’t Stop).

The Star Chapter: Sanctuary Album Cover

1. Heaven – For me, Heaven was a really nice pop song. I liked the dreamy atmosphere within the song and the stunning vocals from TXT throughout this opening track. I also love that the melodies were pleasant and hummable. While I want to give Heaven a 10/10 because it deserves it, I am not sold on the way it ends. In a matter of seconds, the momentum building in Heaven was cut short, and it felt deliberate, as if the producers were told the song could only be in the 2:30-minute range. I was left wanting more, so I don’t think I can give Heaven its 10/10 it truly deserves. (9/10)

2. Over The Moon (Title Track) – Click here for my full review of Over The Moon. (7.5/10)

3. Danger – Following on the title track, we see TXT take on an edgier vibe with Danger. I really enjoyed the low-key chorus, with the really catchy “You got me in Danger, Danger, Danger” on repeat in my head. I also enjoyed the very sexy, deep, raspy ‘What you doin’ to me?” that followed the choruses. This definitely takes me back to some of the music I grew up on. The subtle, groovy underlay in the instrumentation ties everything nicely together and also helps make Danger sound alluring. (9/10)

4. Resist (Not Gonna Run Away) – The “I can resist” line is quite a memorable opener and makes quite a presence in Resist. The instrumental was also quite cool, with the fresh guitar, thumping beats, alluring synths and (what sounds like) hand drumming. It all came together to create a stunning backing for TXT to bring Resist (Not Gonna Run Away) to life. (8/10)

5. Forty One Winks – Forty One Winks is quite a groovy R&B dance number. I do like the old-school vibes of the song, as well as how consistent the track is. TXT executed their vocals well, especially those small ad-libs throughout the song. I would have liked to hear more of Forty One Winks, given its short length of just 2:30 minutes.(8/10)

6. Higher Than Heaven – Finishing off the mini-album is Higher Than Heaven, a bright and fun rock track. Everything about the track is dynamic, and I love that consistent aspect of Higher Than Heaven. TXT’s vocals were very refreshing, and the instrumentation was just so uplifting and energetic. My favourite bit has to be the post-chorus, with the ascending ‘High’, which leaves quite a strong impression. (10/10)

Overall Album Rating – 8.6/10

TXT’s teaser image for The Star Chapter: Sanctuary

[Review] NOT CUTE ANYMORE – ILLIT

Posted in KPOP, ReviewsTagged 1 Comment

Two weeks ago, ILLIT made their surprise comeback with NOT CUTE ANYMORE. Well, it was a surprise, for me at least, because I didn’t see any pre-comeback promotions for this release. NOT CUTE ANYMORE is ILLIT’s first Korean comeback since Do The Dance earlier this year.

NOT CUTE ANYMORE takes on reggae-pop, but in a very beige manner. For a group that has been dependent on a cute sound since their debut, the reggae-pop could have been a very unique direction for them and/or their discography. Considering the intent of the song, making NOT CUTE ANYMORE sound beige was intentional (more on this in the music video section). But this ‘beige-ness’ ends up being so thick in NOT CUTE ANYMORE that it makes it challenging to engage with the song, even for the purposes of this review. It extends from the minimalist instrumentation to the small vocals the members deliver in this song (which, in the end, make them sound cute). One thing that did come out of this, though I am not sure it is a positive, is that the beige is so prevalent that it does become a memorable part of the song. On a more light-hearted note, the combination does give NOT CUTE ANYMORE the catchy line “I’m not cute anymore” from the chorus, but that doesn’t do enough to make up for the rest of the song.

Despite trying to leave behind their cute image in the music video for a more edgy and mature look, the video for NOT CUTE ANYMORE portrays their attempt as a cute act and shows us that ILLIT cannot simply shake this cute image off. This was the whole point of the song, and so what we see in the music video is a strong portrayal of this concept. I just wish the song did this more engagingly. I liked how colour-wise, the music video is very toned down, complementing the beige sound, but also the notion that looking edgy and mature is not a colourful thing.

Watching the performance, I find myself smiling at their failed attempt at being edgy and mature. I liked how some of the members smile in one moment and, the next, are expressionless and serious. It brings the concept into the performance quite well.

Song – 6/10
Music Video – 9/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 7.3/10

[Review] Put It Back – ONF

Posted in KPOP, ReviewsTagged Leave a comment

Another mid-November comeback that I have yet to review (until today) is ONF’s Put It Back, the lead single off their 9th mini-album, UNBROKEN. Put It Back follows the release of the first part of their 2nd studio album, ONF: My Identity, and its title track, The Stranger.

Put It Back is good, but not great compared to ONF’s past hits. There are some elements that I really like that have me coming back to Put It Back. The super funky instrumental was the first thing that really jumped out at me. The concentration of prolific guitar twang and plucks makes Put It Back super cool and groovy. The hip-hop elements were also nicely handled throughout the song. Clear vocals and rapping are also present. The biggest problem I have with Put It Back is the lack of that really memorable hook and/or melody that becomes a defining feature of the song, as per their past hits. The “Put It Back” line that opens the chorus and its repetition as the post-chorus hook just doesn’t have that same ONF feel and boldness to stick with you, even after the song ends. This is most likely the result of decoupling ONF from Hwang Hyun, a long-term collaborator with ONF who has been behind many of ONF’s past songs.

The music video for this comeback was fairly straightforward, which I suspect is because budgets were cut back. For the most part, it featured close-up shots of the members, with the camera very close to them, as well as choreography shots around the stadium. The former offers what felt like a direct, unfiltered view of the members, which is a cool aesthetic. At the same time, with the latter, I appreciated how the production team used lighting, post-production and the outfits to give off different vibes and make it seem like entirely different locations.

ONF’s synchronisation and the smoothness of the ‘Put It Back‘ moves at the start of the chorus were the standout elements of their performance. Both were very cool to watch and appreciate.

Song – 8/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 8/10

[Review] LOOK AT ME – ALLDAY PROJECT

Posted in KPOP, ReviewsTagged 1 Comment

Making their comeback yesterday was ALLDAY PROJECT, with their self-titled debut mini-album. The mini-album does feature their recent single release ONE MORE TIME, but it is led by the single LOOK AT ME, which also dropped yesterday.

After a successful debut with FAMOUS and a comeback with ONE MORE TIME, I am disappointed with LOOK AT ME. From the nursery rhyme-based chant in the chorus (which makes the song sound childish) to the plain instrumental elsewhere in the song, everything pretty much felt a downgrade in comparison to their previous singles. LOOK AT ME is also relatively short in length, and that hindered its ability to actually develop into something decent. On the flip side, I did find some aspects of LOOK AT ME to be decent, so it isn’t all bad news for the song. The bass was appreciated, as was the rapping by ANNIE, BAILEY and TARZZAN in the second verse. TARZZAN also does well in the bridge. But overall, I very much prefer their more recent single ONE MORE TIME over LOOK AT ME any day.

From what I can gather from the music video, ALLDAY PROJECT is the centre of attention, breaking free from the rest of the world and garnering attention in the process. Some trampoline bounces, cool-looking close-ups, and nice editing/post-production make for a decent video. I felt the song limited the video’s potential. For example, the brown tones of the video complemented the music, but felt so boring and dull.

While the performance has been a strong point for ALLDAY PROJECT, I don’t necessarily think it was much of a highlight in this comeback. While we have not seen a performance for LOOK AT ME yet, the music video usually steps in to highlight the key points of the choreography. But aside from the ADP signage, I don’t remember much of the choreography from the video. I might return once we see a performance, in case there is more to it.

Song – 5.5/10
Music Video – 7/10
Performance – 7/10
Overall Rating – 6.3/10

[Review] Lemonade Fever – CRAVITY

Posted in KPOP, ReviewsTagged 1 Comment

Despite CRAVITY’s Lemonade Fever being out for a month now, I am actually excited to finally get a chance to review the new single. Lemonade Fever is the title track of CRAVITY’s Dare to Crave: Epilogue, the repackaged version of their 3rd studio album, Dare to Crave, that was released in June this year. Alongside that album, CRAVITY released Set Net G0?! as the title track.

Lemonade Fever stands out of the pack with its energetic groove and funky underlay, pushing forward a dynamic and upbeat dance profile. Great rapping and vocals feature throughout Lemonade Fever, with easy-on-the-ear pop melodies that help make the song approachable. Lemonade Fever is very much an underrated track and should have received more attention. Needless to say, CRAVITY did well with the song, but it wasn’t any of the already mentioned aspects of Lemonade Fever that grabbed my attention. That came down to the second half of the chorus, with the distorted guitar. The deepness, the harshness and abrupt nature of this second half was such an unexpected change up and contrasting element to the rest of Lemonade Fever. Yet, it works extremely well as a centrepiece to the song. Overall, I enjoy repeating Lemonade Fever, but there is something about that second half of the chorus that just manages to tickle my brain, particularly when it comes out of the blue.

The music video and lyrics to Lemonade Fever sees the members liken the attraction and pull towards a lover to the sweet taste of lemonade. The music video features the members enjoying the sweet taste of the beverage and shares this enjoyment with the people around them. Though, I think it gets out of hand at a certain point, with lemonade leaking all around the station, and it turning people exposed to a zombie. Slightly confusing, but still a fun and lighthearted video to enjoy.

The performance for Lemonade Fever encapsulates the funky and groovy elements of the song for majority of the choreography. But when it comes to the contrasting sequence of the song, the members turn serious (to complement the deepness and harshness) and give off more mature vibes. I did enjoy the entire performance, but particularly that same part in the routine.

Song – 10/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 9/10
Overall Rating – 9.2/10

[Album Review] DRIP (1st Studio Album) – BABYMONSTER

Posted in Album Reviews, KPOPTagged Leave a comment

Less than a year since their debut, BABYMONSTER released their 1st studio album, DRIP, in November 2024. And more than a year later, I am finally reviewing it. DRIP featured two title tracks: one sharing the same name as the album and CLIK CLAK. The album also features the pre-release track FOREVER (released in July 2024), a remix of their debut single BATTER UP, and 5 side tracks. There are some terrific songs on the album, and others that were questionable. But I was nonetheless excited for their first studio album and satisfied with how far they had come in the first year of their career.

Since the release of DRIP, BABYMONSTER embarked on their first world tour, released the single HOT SAUCE (which I have yet to review) and returned with their second mini-album, WE GO UP, featuring the title track of the same name.

DRIP Album Cover

1. CLIK CLAK(Title Track) – Click here for my full review of CLIK CLAK. (5/10)

2. DRIP (Title Track) – DRIP has definitely grown on me since its release. Thus, I am willing to bump the song rating by 0.5. Click here for my full review of DRIP. (8/10)

3. Love, Maybe – Following the two title tracks, I did not expect to hear an intimate ballad. But that is what Love, Maybe is. BABYMONSTER puts their stunningly emotional vocals over a minimalistic guitar-led instrumental to make a beautiful track. I don’t have much to say aside from that BABYMONSTER nailed it. (9/10)

4. Really Like You – I quite like the old school hip-hop vibe that Really Like You gives off. The track is softer than the title tracks, serving as a nice bridge between the ballad preceding it and the rest every time I listened to Really Like You. The same goes for the music video that I forgot to review. (8/10)

5. Billionaire– Billionaire was quite a surprise for me. R&B kicks off the song, and I really enjoyed the guitar work in the track. It gives off a distinct Latin flair that feels very unique and mature. I also really enjoyed the vocal work in this one, with the members keeping their voices low. It adds to those mature vibes already mentioned. The rapping gives Billionaire its edge and reminds us of BABYMONSTER’s hip-hop roots. The deep vibrating synth during this part and the bridge was spectacular. (9/10)

6. Love in My Heart – Click here for my review of Love in My Heart. (7/10)

7. Woke Up in Tokyo (Ruka & Asa duet) – The rappers of BABYMONSTER come together to give the album, and us, an English/Japanese track. With RUKA and ASA at the helm, I expected something powerful. What I didn’t expect was a hip-hop rendition of a nursery rhyme. Safe to say, Woke Up In Tokyo is not my cup of tea, and I’m not sure the album needed this track. But here we are. (5/10)

8. FOREVER – Click here for my review of FOREVER. (8/10)

9. BATTER UP (Remix) – Per usual, I don’t review remixes and include a rating for them on album reviews. But I would like to point out how much 2010s nostalgia the remix instrumental brings to me. For my thoughts on BATTER UP, click here for my review of BATTER UP.

Overall Album Rating – 7.4/10

BABYMONSTER’s teaser image for DRIP

[Album Review] Tipi-Tap (6th Mini-Album) – Kep1er

Posted in Album Reviews, KPOPTagged Leave a comment

Next up for an album review is Kep1er’s Tipi-Tap mini-album, the group’s 6th. Leading this five-track mini-album is the title track, which gives the album its name. Both the Tipi-Tap song and mini-album mark Kep1er’s first Korean release since June 2024’s Shooting Star and the studio album Kep1going On, as well as Kep1er’s first release as a 7-member group (following the departure of MASHIRO and YESEO, who redebuted as part of MADEIN).

More recently, Kep1er released their first Japanese mini-album, Against the World (led by YUM), and their seventh Korean mini-album, Bubble Gum, (led by the single of the same name).

Tipi-Tap Album Cover

1. sync-love – First song out of the gate is sync-love, a hyper-pop track, which features some really cool synth work and rapping work from HIKARU.I really liked how pronounced both these elements were throughout the track. Contrasting them are the less-pronounced vocals and the backing to the vocal’s sequences, but they bring such a nice grounded and R&B touch to the song. I also really enjoyed the outro, with the autotune filtering of DAEYEON’s lines and HIKARU’s acapella line. Overall, a strong start to the mini-album. (9/10)

2. TIPI-TAP (Title Track) – Click here for the full review of TIPI-TAP. (6/10)

3. Drip – Out of all the different aspects that make up Drip, it is the chorus that speaks the most to me. It is so catchy and addictive, even though the main hook is just simple repetition. That and the combination of the tight beats during the refrain was super cool. I did wish there was a bit more to the rest of the instrumentation. I also like the mature vibe of the vocals, which complements the mature-leaning lyrics well. Also, Drip has HUENING BAHIYYIH performing the more substantial rapping part and completely nailing it. (8/10)

4. Bitter Taste – Aside from the title track, Bitter Taste is probably the second most skippable song to me. I just don’t remember anything from it, even after listening to the song to write this review. After really focusing in on the song, the only thing I do get out of it is that it has dreamy instrumental and vocal moments. Unfortunately, nothing else stands out to me that I find worth mentioning here. (6/10)

5. Heart Surf – Heart Surf also has a dreamy and soft vibe to it, but it is the vocal work and harmonies in this song that set it apart from the previous song. The flow of the vocals and the song overall was extremely nice. I love the subtle piercing nature of the ‘Just stop the motion’ line just before the choruses. (8/10)

Overall Album Rating – 7.4/10

Kep1er’s teaser image for Tipi-Tap

[Review] Panorama – TAEYEON (SNSD)

Posted in KPOP, ReviewsTagged , 1 Comment

Earlier this week, TAEYEON made her comeback with her first Korean compilation album, Panorama: The Best of TAEYEON, to celebrate 10 years as a solo singer. That was 2015 with the I (ft. Verbal Jint), though this album only features a solo version of her solo debut track. Leading the 23-track album of TAEYEON’s past hits and title tracks is the new single, Panorama. This comeback comes 1 year after her Letter To Myself comeback in November 2024.

Panorama starts off with soft piano and guitar in a ballad-like intro. It slowly builds towards the first chorus, which adds in the presence of drums before slowly building up again and bursting into the proper form of Panorama – a pop-rock single. From there, Panorama maintains the same momentum and energy before easing out at the end. The second chorus, however, launches right into the pop-rock sound and doesn’t feature a build-up in its first half. As with any of her solo songs, each section features her stunning vocals, keeping you engaged and entranced. While I quite enjoyed the choruses’ melodies, I wished the verses had something similar. The chorus really takes away a lot of the focus, and while the verses were good, they just didn’t have the same impact as the chorus. Overall, it is rare for any of TAEYEON’s songs to go wrong, and Panorama is another song that proves it.

The music video opens with a young female entering TAEYEON’s bookstore. The latter hands the younger a book and proceeds to stare at the younger customer whilst she reads it. Not creepy, but this sparks a smile from the younger customer and a friendship blooms from there. As they go on a road trip, it becomes clear that the pair share common interests and care for one another (particularly TAEYEON). As the video goes on, it is revealed that the younger girl is, in fact, the younger version of TAEYEON, taking possession of TAEYEON’s red umbrella that we see TAEYEON use at the start and throughout the video. While this felt very apparent from the onset of the video, I did quite like the reveal. I also like the scene where TAEYEON holds a battered version of the umbrella as she watches the younger girl, symbolising the hardships she endured on her journey to where she is today.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 9/10
Overall Rating – 9/10