Category: Reviews

[Review] TAXI – JO YURI

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Last week, we saw the return of JO YURI with her latest mini-album Love All and the title track TAXI. This new release follows her October 2022 comeback with Loveable and the announcement that she will be joining the upcoming season of Squid Game.

TAXI is a rather straight forward pop song and I think more can be done with it to really take it to the next level. But what we got in terms of vocals and melodies earned massive points for TAXI. pleasant and brings a memorable ring to the track. I really enjoyed how effortlessly smooth and pleasant JO YURI’s vocals were, with that slightly raspy tone she has being well utilised in making TAXI more appealing. This lead into the pop melodies that JO YURI brings to life in TAXI, which gives the track a fun, bright and enjoyable motif. The instrumental was a bit dull and typical, in my opinion. But it had enough to create a bubbly and upbeat number. I particularly like that deep repetitive piano piece in the verses and the added vibrancy the synths in the chorus gave TAXI. However, I felt the song could have added a bit more zing, either by a more ear-catching detail to the instrumentation, or a post-chorus hook that could have reiterated the catchiness of TAXI. But what we got in TAXI is pleasant and enjoyable as it, and that is absolutely fine.

The music video sees Jo Yuri take a taxi to meet her crush, which she uses as a metaphor for “one’s feeling of wanting to run to one’s crush as fast as they can” (taken from Soompi). In that same Soompi article, she makes the comment that if something urgent was to happen or if she needs to see someone, she would think of taking a taxi as that is the fastest route for her. And we see that reflected in the music video, which can be split into two halves. The first half sees her trying to get her drivers license, but she fails her test. This leads to the second half of the video, where she just misses her crush (who I presume she was supposed to meet at the restaurant), but he isn’t there. Instead, someone knows where he is and gives her the address. And because she can’t drive, she needs to take a taxi (or a tow truck, given there is no driver). In the end, she meets up with her crush. Overall, it is a lighthearted and cute video that plays well with the lyrics and meaning behind the song.

I like how refreshing and summery the choreography and stage performance for this comeback feels. Obviously, it suits the current season quite well, as well as the upbeat nature of the song. Nothing necessarily stands out for me, but the overall performance was enjoyable nonetheless.

Song – 8.5/10
Music Video – 9/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 8.6/10

[Review] ROCKSTAR – xikers

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xikers made their debut at the end of March of this year with the mini-album HOUSE OF TRICKY: Doorbell Ringing and one of the title tracks from their debut mini-album was TRICKY HOUSE. The other title track is ROCKSTAR, and is the subject of this post. Since their debut, the group has also returned with their second mini-album, HOUSE OF TRICKY: How to Play, which is lead by the single DO or DIE and Koong (the latter will be the subject of another review in the future).

Their recent release of DO or DIE took on a punkish rock sound that I described as thrilling to listen to. But DO or DIE isn’t the first time that the group trekked into rock territory. xikers previously did so with the single ROCKSTAR, which is equally as thrilling (if not more) than DO or DIE. At times, ROCKSTAR felt like a more dynamic and vibrant take on what ATEEZ would sound like if they did a rock/dance track (i.e. Guerrilla). The main difference between them and their more senior labelmates is that added dynamism and vibrant tinge that I had just mentioned, which gives xikers an opportunity to make the intense rock sound and style their own. And they did so successfully. The energy that comes off ROCKSTAR is super powerful and intense. Their execution felt elevated and polished to the point where they did not feel like a newly debut group. The vocals were a little muffled due to the processing to match up with the rock intensity, but the rapping really benefits from the energy driven nature of ROCKSTAR. The first half of the chorus was features a grungier sound, while the second half of the chorus (i.e. when the head-banging rock comes into play) shows a relentless approach to the rock sound. I also equally enjoyed how intensified it got at the very end of the song. Such an ender just gives ROCKSTAR the chance to signal the end and feel complete the song without repeating everything we had heard earlier on in the song. That would’ve ruined the song, and I am so glad that the producers only thought of how ROCKSTAR could have gone up from there. Overall, ROCKSTAR is a very strong showing to why xikers is one of the male rookie groups to look out for in 2023.

The lyrics of the song are about youth and chasing one’s dreams (taken from Soompi), and we see the group go from schoolboys to (what I presume are) artists at the end. The energy and passion, as per the featured image of this post, comes from the members’ hearts and that their desire to become artists is within them, waiting to be unleashed. And in the end, the storm and eye helps the members unleash the that power and desire. I would have liked more explanation of the eye and/or storm (but I am presuming both are the same thing), maybe through an intro scene or an outro scene, as I feel like this is a unique concept that could be a recurring element in their music videos. We know KQ Entertainment love their trilogy concepts and story-telling in their music videos.

That intensity that I mentioned earlier on in this review is definitely showcased and alive on this stage. It is the best aspect of the performance and makes the whole watching experience thrilling and electrifying. I really like how the members put their all into the performance and do not hold back at any moment.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 8.5/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 8.7/10

[Review] Love Me Again – V (BTS)

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V is the final member of BTS to release solo work since the announcement that the group would focus more on solo endeavours as they move towards their military enlistment. His official solo debut won’t occur until early September. But in preparation of that release, V has pre-released Love Me Again on Wednesday, alongside a music video for the single. In addition to that, V has also pre-released another single Rainy Day with its own music video just yesterday – both song and video will be the subject of its own review.

There is no doubts that Love Me Again showcases the wonderfully husky and raspy vocal tones that V is known for. The track really nails down in that department at the start and continues to bring these vocal tones as Love Me Again progresses. The R&B instrumentation is very comforting and mellow-sounding, with the atmospheric instrumental break (which doubles as the bridge of Love Me Again) being quite dreamy. But while the track is executed well, I did think it lacked a compelling element to get me back once it ended. Love Me Again is the type of track that I would listen to if it appears on my playlist or queue, but I wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to search for the track or go back to it. I also found the track, while wispy and floaty, to be over sooner rather than late, and I felt this prevented the song a chance to show or develop that compelling element if it was in Love Me Again already.

I feel like similar comments can be made with regards to the music video. V, himself, is quite well known for his visuals. So the focus on his face in this video is warranted. V is also dressed in a sequined top, which glimmers and dazzles in the light. But aside from that and the retro-style karaoke setup during some parts of the music video, there isn’t too much else to the video. And the lack of ‘else’ in this video does make it become on of those where ‘you watch it once, you have seen it all’ videos. The only other comment I can make about the video is question why the background is cave-like.

Song – 7/10
Music Video – 6/10
Overall Rating – 6.6/10

[Review] ISLAND – The Wind

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The newly debuted seven member male group, The Wind, made their first comeback last week with the single WE GO. Usually, I go ahead and review WE GO. But have been wanting to review ISLAND for a while now. So, today, I will reviewing their debut single ISLAND and shall return to review WE DO soon. ISLAND dropped mid-May as part of the group’s first mini-album, Beginning : The Wind Page. It kicks off the careers of Shin Jae Won, Kim Hee Soo, Thanatorn, Choi Han Bin, Park Hayuchan, An Chan Won and Jang Hyoun Joon, all of whom are signed under With US Entertainment.

While ISLAND doesn’t bring anything necessarily new to the table, the debut single does offer some relief from the current sound that male groups are putting out. ISLAND is a simple yet bright and bubbly pop dance track, reminiscent of something that GFriend would have put out during earlier on in their careers. You could say some of the instrumentation could have been lifted out of GFriend’s discography, such as the synths used in the background. There is also a youthful tone of the song that just makes such songs so blissful to listen to. ISLAND is also quite melodic, which I found to be a huge driver in ISLAND sounding pleasant and enjoyable. This also helps bring a smile to my face whenever I hear the song. The melodies, however, could have been punchier in some areas, just to give that extra memorable element to the song. I did enjoy the more chanty lines you hear at the end of the choruses that all the members contribute to. This style of delivery in ISLAND just add extra oomph alongside the vocals, and makes ISLAND more than just a melodic track. With this in mind, I do think ISLAND could have incorporated a more substantial rapping department without breaking the song and ruining the pleasantness that we got. There was definite room for more in ISLAND to go that extra mile. But as it stands, ISLAND is a very strong debut track and successfully launches the group’s career by attracting attention towards the group.

Just like GFriend’s debut single, the group’s music video highlights their youthful visuals and tone by opting for a schoolboy concept. To me, this is highly expected and doesn’t come as any surprise. In the lyrics, the group sings about wanting to meet and explore the unknown with their special someone. And in the video, we see the additional elements of the group getting ready for an adventure at a train station and that curiosity to see what is beyond school. One thing that I really appreciated from the video is that it takes on that cutesy and sweet concept that tends to come with the school-aged concept. But it does so without feeling cringy or overly saturated, which I find helps makes the video much more appealing to watch, as a result. I also like the emphasis on the colour blue in the video. A bit traditional, but it does feel refreshing.

While the choreography of ISLAND doesn’t stand out, I do like how breezy and energetic it feels. It works extremely well with the song and the group’s youthful charms, without a doubt. I do also want to applaud The Wind in their efforts on pulling off a live performance with stable vocals in each performance I have watched of them. It just makes the performance more worthwhile to watch.

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

[Review] LIP GLOSS – THE BOYZ

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Also making their comeback yesterday was THE BOYZ. While the leadup to the comeback was a touch rocky, the group has pulled off another Summer comeback with the single LIP GLOSS and the first part (of three) that will constitute the group’s second studio album, PHANTASY. This part is titled PHANTASY Pt. 1 Christmas in August. It was announced by their company that the male group will be making two further comebacks this year to complete the release of the second studio album. This one serves as their second Korean comeback of 2023, following the release of ROAR in February of this year.

LIP GLOSS is a very catchy and summery title track from the group that doesn’t rely too heavily on electronic synths like their last two Summer comebacks (i.e. THRILL RIDE and WHISPER). I really like how light yet upbeat the track is (thanks to the lower synth and EDM reliance), which feels refreshing. I will admit that I did find the hook, melodies and vocal work to be weak early on in the track. But as LIP GLOSS progresses, all three elements grow immensely on me, and that impression was reduced immensely by the time I reached for a second listen. The melodies and hooks become quite playful and works extremely well in maintain that aforementioned lightness and summery vibe. Maybe punchier vocals could still help LIP GLOSS in the long run. But as a vector for the lightness and freshness, the vocals that LIP GLOSS serves is just fine. I did like the interweaving of the entire group vs. a singular member’s vocals in the second half of the chorus, which adds to the song’s playful exterior. We do get some some abrasive house synths in the bridge’s breakdown, which facilitates a stronger presence for the rappers. The lightness in the verses and choruses does hold them back, so I appreciate that they have an opportunity to show something aligned with their delivery. I did wish for a stronger return to the final chorus, but what we got still managed to work. Overall, LIP GLOSS is a strong summer return for the group, and I can’t to hear more from the first part of the album as I have heard great things about it.

The music video serves some eye candy for fans in its beach and island theme getaway, with some of the members taking off their shirts for the video. On this beach and island, the members come across a stunning woman whom they are very attracted to. They do get a bit flirty with her (and vice versa), but not in a cringy way (allowing the video to be watchable). However, it is revealed at the end that she did lead them on. But don’t worry, as they group attracts another group of ladies who are also partying at the island. While that is the main part of the video, the group does return to perform LIP GLOSS from the second verse to the end in an after credits sort of manner. I quite liked this idea and it works extremely well with the light and simplicity of the summer concept. It also contributes to the fun nature of the song.

The playful vibes come off in the robust and energetic routine that is paired with LIP GLOSS. I really like the brightness that the members give off in the routine, which helps makes the choreography enjoyable to watch. I also liked how hard hitting the performance gets during that bridge breakdown, only to then revert back to those playful vibes in a matter of seconds.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 8.5/10
Performance – 8.5/10
Overall Rating – 8.8/10

[Review] Fast Forward – Jeon Somi

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It has been almost two years since Jeon Somi made her last comeback with XOXO (which featured the tracks Dumb Dumb, XOXO and Anymore). But fans welcomed her back on Monday with the release of her 1st ever mini-album, Game Plan, since her solo debut, which features the title track Fast Forward.

To me, Fast Forward is one of those songs where if you blink, you will miss it. Intentional or not, I think Fast Forward (like other songs spanning just over 2.5 minutes) deserves a bit more somewhere along the way. The fast tempo of the track, while contributes to a strong dance track, does drive the song towards its end sooner, rather than later. That personally is the biggest gripe I have about the song. Other than that, Fast Forward embraces a very cool rendition of 2010s deep house style that you might expect to hear in a club environment. The first verse begins and the pre-choruses shows a strong command of Jeon Somi’s vocals, before we launch into the song’s bold yet bouncy, upbeat and non-lyrical chorus. This is immediately followed up with a Madonna-Vogue-esque styled second verse (which I personally find to be the best part of Fast Forward and would have totally liked to have heard more of), before another run at the chorus. The bridge that follows doesn’t add much to the song, but does give a strong presence of keyboard, before a final run at the same chorus comes into play. Jeon Somi really did nail the song and its style, but Fast Forward could have benefited with a longer frame to give itself some thing more (potentially a strong ender that isn’t a direct repeat of what had already been heard).

The song serves as a message for a lover in the lover future and the desire to fast forward to being with that lover. We see the first high-school crush of Jeon Somi’s in the video via those scenes in the school yard where she is firstly crying and later on is shy in front of her crush (who has a terrible hair cut). These scenes may imply that she had opened her feelings to her crush, but got rejected and is thus heartbroken. But in the context of the lyrics, this heartbreak is the first of many due to come her way on the path of finding her true lover in the future. We then see Jeon Somi go through people at the club, who on screen appear glitchy (representing short-lived relationships, brief relationships, or lengthier one that she must experience before finding ‘the one’). I think the training scenes also represent that “I don’t need another person” mindset that many go through on their quest for love. Altogether, I think the video is a nice showing of the song’s lyrics. And of course, Jeon Somi looks very stunning throughout the video, particularly during the choreography and her goddess scenes.

From what we can see in the music video, the choreography is very well done. It embraces the bouncy aspect of the song and shows Jeon Somi off in an even more confident light, especially those moments where she is the centre of attention.

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

[Review] DO or DIE – xikers

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Making their first comeback earlier this week was the rookie group xikers. For those who missed their debut, xikers is a 10-member male group who debuted under KQ Entertainment in March of this year with the mini-album House of Tricky: Doorbell Ringing and the title tracks TRICKY HOUSE and ROCKSTAR (the latter and mini-album have yet to be reviewed and I will get around to reviewing them). On Wednesday of this week, xikers returned with their second mini-album, House of Tricky: How To Play and double title tracks Koong and DO or DIE (the latter is the focus of this review post today).

xikers embrace a punk rock sound in DO or DIE, which I find exhilarating and thrilling to listen to. I found it to be super effective and a successful instrumental that gets right to the point and doesn’t mess around. Upon my first listen to DO or DIE, I found myself head-banging along to the music and energy, pretty much as soon as the song started. Since then, I have managed to control myself enough to write a review. But I will probably be slipping back into head-banging mode once I complete this review for subsequent listens. The electrifying concentration (yet slowed down tempo) in the bridge and the groaning-like approach to the vocals was a cool and logical progression to “switch-up” the song that has already embraced an already intense form of the rock sound. A bit confronting, but it felt right. The final chorus throws in some really cool drumming, adding to the intensified end of this punk rock dance track. The vocal parts in DO or DIE were well executed, with some parts being super clear and other parts being slightly filtered and processed. But it is done in a way that works with the punk rock sound, giving off a rough and craggy. The rapping in DO or DIE benefits from the energetic nature of the song in that it comes off as punchy and dynamic, while the filtering and autotune helps give off an edgier effect. The energy and intensity of DO or DIE unfortunately does forfeit the appeal and impact of catchy hooks and/or melodies, so I wished the song really built that department more to really stand out. But as it is, DO or DIE is super awesome in its own right.

The music video concept is a zombie video game. But instead of a survival game where one might usually run away from the zombies and shoot at them in order to survive, the members pretty much interact with the zombies in an unexpected way – by finding the ones who have music in their bodies. The right zombies then become the rock band who plays for the group. As the zombies play, more zombies come and end up forming a crowd around the group as they perform. From there, the video becomes a bit drab in that it flicks over to reality, where the members appear to look for the second half of the game from the video store. I would have liked to see that it not be reality, but more so an extension of that zombie universe.

The performance leaves me speechless (in a good way). It looks quite tiresome, but yet the members make it look so dynamic and powerful from start to end. Something I hadn’t mentioned about the song yet is the fact there is some commentary in it between the bridge and final chorus. On stage, that sequence makes everything feel so much livelier. I also liked how one of the members kick over another member during the bridge, adding to the thrill of DO or DIE.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 7/10
Performance – 9/10
Overall Rating – 8.4/10

[Review] dangdang – MAMAMOO+

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Earlier this year in March 2023, MAMAMOO+ made their unit comeback with the single GGBB. That was a fair comeback with an unfitting dance break that caused a flow issue. Four months on, Solar and Moonbyul are back with their first mini-album, Two Rabbits, and their latest title track dangdang. The pre-release single Save Me is also featured part of this mini-album (which I have not yet reviewed).

dangdang is an appealing track. The guitar twangs in the background, the heftier beats in the choruses, and some of the hooks, melodies and vocal delivery is all evidence of appeal in my books. But I find the track to be rather mild and light on as it opts for a more pleasant atmosphere. While I do like pleasant tracks, I do feel like dangdang could have gone a bit harder. The final chorus is a prime example of this potential. Of course, by holding back dangdang for majority of the song’s run, the final chorus is a lot impactful. But I think the song could have explored other avenues to give the song more oomph. The vocal work from both Solar and Moonbyul was very nice. Solar brought a falsetto and wispy approach to enhance the lightness of the track. However, that is kind of the only mode I remember from Solar in dangdang and I wished she had more substantial parts. Moonbyul’s vocals and rapping helps ground dangdang, but I wished her rapping was punchier to be more memorable and give dangdang something interesting to throw at us. More interesting verses could have been another option, and maybe a few strong hooks/melodies would have been nice as well. Overall, dangdang isn’t bad and I find it to be a stronger release than their past tracks. But I am left wanting more as the song progresses.

The music video appears to be quite fun, which works well with the song. There seems to be a trend in KPOP lately to use a lot of dancers in music videos. This music video doesn’t feature as much as other videos have in the past, but I feel like the start of the main portion of the video looks really cool as a result of the higher number of dancers. I liked the boldness of the blue and yellow sets in the middle of the video. And per usual, Solar and Moonbyul look amazing in the video. The music video also features the intro track, Two Rabbits, to the mini-album.

Their stage presence and smiles really makes the performance even better. While nothing really stood out for me in terms of individual moves, the playfulness of the routine, the duo and dancers comes off quite strongly and this helps makes the stage worthwhile to watch.

Song – 7.5/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 7.8/10

[Review] The Flash – KWON EUNBI

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KWON EUNBI has been trending lately due to her stage presence at the recent Water Bomb Festivals. And her comeback today is timely to ride on this wave of new found popularity. Her new single is titled The Flash and forms part of her first single album of the same name. We last saw KWON EUNBI via her Underwater era from October of last year – a comeback from the soloist that I have yet to review.

The teaser for this comeback (which felt unexpected when it appeared on my subscription lists, as I hadn’t read any news about her comeback prior to the release of the teaser) pretty much got me on board with this comeback, and I can safely say that The Flash in its entirety did not disappoint. The Flash is a super upbeat pop dance track that catches on within a few listens. The electronic synths create a very dynamic atmosphere and I feel both KWON EUNBI’s vocals and The Flash‘s melodies build on this dynamic nature to create an exciting song. In amongst the electronic synths are some well selected synth details that adds flair and style to the song, which creates further excitement and dynamism in the song. The best part of The Flash comes as the song launches into the final chorus from the bridge. I feel like the impact here makes the ending of The Flash more satisfying to listen to. The only thing that comes to mind that could potentially make The Flash even better would probably be a sharper instrumental. But the lack of that strikingness doesn’t break the song for me whatsoever and I like The Flash very much the way it is presented to us now.

The music video has a balance mix of choreography shots and close-ups of KWON EUNBI. She is super stunning in this video, and I liked that they highlight both the dance aspect and her visuals. I also like how KWON EUNBI breaks the fourth wall during the choreography of the first chorus. If I had one request, it was for the video to explore more of the close-ups, particularly with the backstage shots of KWON EUNBI in the makeup chair. The sets also look stylish and beautiful, as well.

I really like the presence of the ribbons at the start and during the bridge segment of the routine. They add nice visual aspect to the choreography, but also boasts a level of complexity that looks impressive. I am also a fan of the routine in the second half of the chorus, which looks effortlessly sexy.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 9/10
Overall Rating – 8.7/10

[Review] New Emotions – INFINITE

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After a 4 year hiatus from the stage, INFINITE has finally made their long awaited comeback with their newest single, New Emotions, and their 7th mini-album, Begin. As it has been a while since we have heard from the group, here is a quick introduction to INFINITE. Starting out as a seven member male group under Woolim Entertainment in 2010, INFINITE is one of those groups who skyrocketed to fame from a small company with their sharp and synchronised choreography and hits after hits like BTD, Be Mine, Paradise, The Chaser and many more. Currently, the group is a 6 member group (consisting of Sungkyu, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Sungyeol, L and Sungjong) under their own company, INFINITE company. We last saw the group release the single Clock in 2019.

New Emotions is seriously groovy and funky, which is pretty much on trend with KPOP nowadays. We see the funkiness and grooviness in two different forms – the vocal-like detailing in the background of certain parts of the song and via the bass guitar in the choruses. The members’ vocals add such a sleek and smooth texture to the song, which contrasts super well with the instrumentation. The opener was very ear-catching and intriguing, while the accumulation of instrumentals in the choruses gives New Emotions drive. I would have liked to see a stronger melody or a hook to take New Emotions to the next level. Though, I have an inkling that the current melody/hook is growing on me as I review the track. My biggest disappointment with New Emotions, however, is its length and how underbaked it feels without a proper ending. It kind of leaves us hanging and doesn’t satisfy accordingly. I think I am with the majority here in saying New Emotions feels a bit lackluster when compared with their past hits which had a proper climax and ending. But nonetheless, I am glad that INFINITE is back and hope that there is more comebacks in the future for this second generation and iconic group.

The music video doesn’t have an apparent plot from what I can see (at least, I think it does). Though, the flashlights, the chase scenes and the members wearing silk red tops in a construction site says otherwise. But apart from that, I found it to be a very stylish showcase of the members. L (Kim Myungsoo, for those who don’t know his stage name) steals the show, particularly during those scenes where they wear white on a black background.

Sleek and smooth movements and engaging solo moments make up this choreography, and I am all for it! While currently we are constricted to seeing what is only in the music video, you can see INFINITE’s signature sharpness and sychronisation, which is a nice call back to their earlier works.

Song – 7/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 7.5/10

[Review] CAKE – ITZY

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One of the releases kicking off this big week of new songs and albums is ITZY with their newest single CAKE and their 7th mini-album, Kill My Doubt. Their comeback also features two pre-release tracks Bet On Me (released on July 3) and None Of My Business (released on July 24), both of which I have not reviewed just yet (but I will return to review some day in the near future). CAKE follows the group’s CHESHIRE era from November of last year.

CAKE is a solid track for ITZY. I just wish the verses weren’t such a bore (in the case of the first verse) and didn’t ‘switch it up’ (in the case of the second verse). Something more riveting and cohesive with the rest of CAKE would have better appreciated. Also, the vocals sound off to me in these segment. I don’t think it is the members’ fault for this, but rather the vocal processing just doesn’t feel right. Those were the biggest issues for me in CAKE, as they do stop the momentum that the pop melodies in the choruses and the growing CAKE repetition does create. These were the best parts of CAKE for me. Those pop melodies just bring a lovely dose of sweetness and brightness to the song that just makes it feel right for this season, while the CAKE repetition adds just the right amount of sass and attitude to the song to not fall into bubblegum territory. I wasn’t necessarily a fan of the repetition in the instance when I heard the song earlier today. But with the help of the catchy brass and the pounding beat, the CAKE repetition has really grown on me and I can see the song continuing to snowball further from here on out. It is just a pity that the verses just didn’t do it for me.

The editing at the start of the video where the members are appearing out of thin air makes for a really cool opener to the video. Other than that, I thought the music video was a fun and light-hearted accompaniment to the song. Yuna falling from that height because of another member being distracted and making impact with that vehicle, but later getting up and acting pretty was one of my favourite examples of this. I also like all of their looks in the music video, from the brighter tones to the darker outfits to the factory tracksuits. ITZY looks stunning throughout the video.

Choreography-wise, CAKE features a solid routine. Everything that we do see in the music video fits in with the music of their respective parts quite well. But my favourite part from what I can see is the CAKE repetition sequences. You know I like a bit of edge and that part of the song, music video and choreography had it all.

Song – 7/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 7.5/10

[Review] Party O’Clock – NMIXX

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Making their comeback two weeks ago was NMIXX, with the single Party O’Clock and the group’s third single album A Midsummer NMIXX’s Dream. Again, apologies for how long it has taken me to write this review. Party O’Clock comes after the group’s earlier 2023 comeback with Love Me Like This (which you all know I really enjoyed). Also on A Midsummer NMIXX’s Dream is the pre-release single Roller Coaster, which I will return to review in the near-future.

To me, Party O’Clock is a solid pop dance track. Nothing more, nothing less. While it does sound like something positive to say about the track, that is all I can really positively say about the track. Party O’Clock was unfortunately pretty forgettable (hence why it has taken me two weeks to turn my mind to reviewing the track). As a bit of a teaser for my review of Roller Coaster in a future post, that song had some impact, whereas I don’t feel the same way about Party O’Clock. This song felt restricted, which prevents its from going anywhere or doing anything bold. For example, while I do like the fact that Party O’Clock gives the group opportunity to show off their vocals (which are charming), I was hoping that the members buildup their vocals with some tenacity or flair. The producers rely a lot on the sing-talk motif in the verses, but it sadly didn’t deliver much of a boost to the song. I also felt the chill beat instrumental was a bit linear and didn’t provide that opportunity to go that extra mile. That being said, there were some appreciable moments and elements in the song,. Melody-wise, I thought Party O’Clock had a comforting and inviting fun nature to it. Not entirely sure if that is the intention, but that was the vibe I got from the song. Also, I continuous appreciate the step away from the mash-up territory that the group debuted with. The closest we do get is the hip-hop switch up in the bridge, but that was not as jarring as previous switch-ups we have heard from the band. Overall, Party O’Clock was a decent track, but it felt held back at the same time, which was a pity as we all know what the group is capable of.

I am going to say the same thing about the music video. It was a bit of a bore and I don’t find much reason to come back to the video. There are a few different styles within the music video, most of which do work in harmony with one another. But there were two that I felt was clashing with one another, and made that mashup concept that the group is known for come to the forefront of my mind (which isn’t the case when I listen to the song). The first look that clashed was that urban look the members had going on at the start of the video (i.e., when one of the member step into chewing gum). It was the producers/directors way of addressing that hip-hop sequence in the bridge, which I do get. But I felt it was too different to the rest of the video, particularly the fairy-like styling in the forest that was more so the dominant style of the video. I wished more thought was put in to make everything look more harmonious. Apart from that however, the members do look good elsewhere in the video, which works well with the more fresh styling you expect from a Summer concept and embraces the group’s youthfulness.

The choreography is okay. It fits well with the song, but it has a very lackluster feeling which I don’t find engaging to rewatch. It seems like the instrumentation really confines it and doesn’t give NMIXX much of an opportunity to showcase their performance capabilities.

Song – 6/10
Music Video – 6/10
Performance – 6/10
Overall Rating – 6/10

[Review] BONA BONA – TREASURE

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As mentioned in yesterday’s review of MOVE, I am keen on reviewing TREASURE’s newest release sooner rather than later due to the likes of the pre-release single MOVE. Well, that review comes today as TREASURE makes their official comeback for the first time in nine months (that last comeback being HELLO and The Second Step: Chapter Two) with BONA BONA and their second studio album, REBOOT. It is also the first official comeback of TREASURE as a 10-member group, following the withdrawal of Bang Yedam and Mashiho late last year.

Right off the bat, the synth selection for BONA BONA is very cool and reminds me of the 00s pop tracks. It really sets up the song super well and an opening like that is sure to attract many listeners. The verses in BONA BONA (and bridge) maintains that impression with great vocals and rapping, along with a nice nostalgic touch with the synths and the 00s direction. Then comes the choruses. They feature intense brass and marching drums, which gives BLACKPINK’s Kill This Love vibe. While I did question the change in direction from synths to marching band vibes at first and am still unsure if the intent of this was to draw us back to Kill This Love, TREASURE does manage to make it their own and create a high-octane and intensity centrepiece for BONA BONA. In true YG Entertainment fashion, the final chorus of BONA BONA is substituted out for an electrifying and anthem-vibe ending. Personally, I am into the presence of the electric guitars riffs in the background and how well it fits in with the rest of the song. The members really give it their all in terms of energy and this creates a very satisfying, strong and epic ending to BONA BONA. While I personally don’t think BONA BONA necessarily exceeds the bar that was set by MOVE, it is still a very strong comeback nonetheless, full of energy and vigor.

The music video starts off with what looked like a scene that could have been lifted out of MOVE, with the members donning suits in a blue-grey metallic set and Junghwan as the centre of focus. The sets start to expand from there with the black and white styling and blue-greys coming through, but it feels very different in this video vs. to the pre-release video. I did note that the set for the first chorus really felt similar to the Kill This Love set that was blown up (i.e. the stone walls/structure etc.). The only new set that felt original for this music video is the ship deck at the end of the video. I also like their more casual outfits for this scene and the summery vibes that feels a bit more fitting for the current season than the likes of the dark and confined sets we see at the start of the video.

The choreography, as you would expect, was intense and powerful, just like the song. The marching and air drumming just makes so much sense. Similarly, the energetic ending was just right for that part. The group also looks super focus and are very much in the zone, which helps makes the rest of the routine (from what I can see in the music video) super engaging to watch.

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

[Review] MOVE – T5 (TREASURE)

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It was announced in June by YG founder Yang Hyun Suk that TREASURE would be making their comeback with their second studio length album, REBOOT, in August. And ahead of that full group comeback, it was announced a unit of five TREASURE members would be making T5. IN that video that announced the releases, Yang Hyun Suk shared that the five members, who were unannounced at the time, were chosen after they each put their hand up in response to a question posed to the group – who thought they were the most handsome in the band. In the end, So Jung-hwan, Junkyu, Jihoon, Yoon Jae-hyuk, and Doyoung were announced as members of the unit and T5 debuted last month with the pre-release single (to REBOOT), MOVE.

MOVE has been out for a month now, and my impression of the song is pretty much the same now as it was then – that MOVE is a fantastic song. Described as a groovy and energetic (both of which are clearly and successfully delivered in MOVE) dance track by the members, MOVE still draws upon the hip-hop influence that YG Entertainment is known for. I really enjoyed their synth selection, which brings both crunchy effects and fluid momentum to the song. The beat gives MOVE oomph and punch. The brass element that forms part of the instrumental break is probably one of the most unexpected and unique twists to a song that I have ever experience and has fast become my favourite/standout moment of MOVE. The song also had some memorable hooks. The more melodic moments of MOVE, such as in the pre-choruses and bridge, showcased a strong showing of vocals. And I liked the enhancement of the final chorus with Junkyu’s higher pitched falsettos in the background. But the winning aspect of the vocals for me is the processing that occurs during the choruses. The deeper tone approach and additional processing to make said vocals fit in with the crunchy selection of synths was amazing and a smart move If I had to be critical about anything, maybe the verses could have featured something more riveting and showstopping in terms of melodies and vocals. But honestly, this is just a minor thing to me. As MOVE is of this caliber, I am definitely looking forward to reviewing BONA BONA (the title track off REBOOT) sooner rather than later.

The music video for MOVE is very much performance centric. But I will still keep the music video and performance aspect of the review separate, given there is a bit more to the video with the closeups and concept. MOVE’s video is simplistic yet stylish. I love the black and white look they were going for, with the subtle blue/grey coming through some strongly. The visual effects are awesome. But taking the video to the next level are the member’s visuals (as you expect from a group of singers who self-nominated themselves as being handsome and confident in their looks). Their closeups in suits are one aspect, showcasing their stunning and handsome looks. But a sexier concept arises during the performance scenes, with the members’ outfit styling and camera work coming together to show impact and confidence. The members’ looks here also probably serves as one of the more iconic looks of this era of KPOP in general.

Performance-wise, the unit nailed it. While their styling already makes you think sexy, the moves really goes the extra mile and emphasises this concept with the body waves and the drag of the finger down their bodies. But it also serves well with the groovy and energetic aspects of the song, as well. The best part, hands down, is the routine during the saxophone instrumental break.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 10/10
Performance – 10/10
Overall Rating – 9.5/10

[Review] Love Me A Little – SHOWNU x HYUNGWON (MONSTA X)

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SHOWNU x HYUNGWON made their debut as the first official subunit of MONSTA X earlier this week with the single Love Me A Little, and their 1st mini-album, The Unseen. It is the first time we are seeing a unit from MONSTA X, who made their debut 8 years ago in 2015. And the duo’s unit debut follows MONSTA X’s latest comeback Beautiful Liar and REASON, and also serves as SHOWNU first release since completing his military enlistment earlier in the year.

While the song had good bass, and the vocals brings a satisfying deep and groovy tone to the song, Love Me A Little‘s instrumental is the song’s weakest point. Aside from the hefty paced drum beats, repetitive piano work and a few synths (most of which were percussive, so it blends in with the drum beats) to give Love Me A Little some texture, there isn’t much else to the background for a good portion of the song. It does lend well towards a sensual slow-burn atmosphere which Love Me A Little does go for, but it also doubled up in creating a sluggish and dry atmosphere as well. Thus, I found it difficult to maintain focus on Love Me A Little. It doesn’t help that the song didn’t have any memorable hooks or melodies to standout on or compensate the instrumentation. It isn’t until after the second run at the chorus do we start hearing the incorporation of additional instruments to the background, such as a brass element, strings and electric guitar. This does increase the appeal of Love Me A Little and gives the song some much needed flair, but I personally felt this was too late in the game. The instrumental’s existing makeup also gets interesting and builds towards something a lot more dynamic, which helps Love Me A Little end on a much stronger note than compared to the first two thirds of the song. I wished there was more to Love Me A Little, something that sparks a bit of energy and dynamism a lot earlier in the song.

As per the title of the song, the duo sings about wanting more love for themselves from their partner. The video doesn’t make much of a plot-line. Instead, we see the pair in an emotionless state caused by the lack of love that their partner is giving them. Honestly, there isn’t too much else to the video, so the music video becomes one of those that you watch once and you don’t really need to watch it again. On the flipside, however, the video takes a dark and moodier approach, which works well with the sensual slow-burn atmosphere of the song. I did like the choreography sets and locations chosen in the music video, and the transition between the pair in the driver’s seat of the car.

If there was any aspect of a comeback this duo would be sure to ace, that would be the performance aspect, given they are the dancers of their group. And they really did showcase a really cool and captivating performance to watch. Firstly, they made everything look effortless and smooth. Secondly, the dance sequences towards the end of the song were so well-executed and their chemistry was on point. Their backwards bending move was super cool and clean to watch – it is the part of the routine that I would gladly watch again and again.

Song – 6.5/10
Music Video – 7/10
Performance – 9/10
Overall Rating – 7.2/10

[Review] Summer Comes – OH MY GIRL

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Making their comeback at the start of the week is OH MY GIRL, who returns for the first time in 16 months with their 9th mini-album Golden Hourglass and the title track Summer Comes. Their last comeback, Real Love, occurred back in March of last year. This comeback also is the first time we see OH MY GIRL as a 6 member female group, following the departure of Jiho, who left the group and WM Entertainment to focus on acting instead.

For me, my main issue with Summer Comes is that it is a bit of a blur. It felt like it was whizzing past to the next section, and this does give the impression is over-stuffed. I don’t necessarily think the latter is the concern in reality. But the impression does play a big part in reducing the song’s appeal, especially when I reflect upon the continuous string that is the second chorus, bridge and final chorus. I did wish there was more opportunity to digest and take in the song, either by making it feel more paced and/or utilizing breaks that are either better placed or more innovatively or creatively used. We did get two brief breaks in the music prior to the first two choruses, but there wasn’t much of a change to the fast tempo and momentum that preceded and followed these breaks, so they didn’t make much of a difference for Summer Comes. This causes a bit of a ripple effect on other parts of the song, which I will touch on in just a small moment. Some good news such that, the song brightly upbeat and felt appropriately summery. I really liked how Mimi had more opportunities in Summer Comes to show off their rapping, and the vocals were decent. Again, I felt the speed and momentum of the song does causes some issues with the vocals and instrumental. There were moments where the vocals felt almost chipmunk-like and the instrumental had a shrilly type of effect. Had Summer Comes been a bit more paced, I think this potential issues would not have existed and Summer Comes would have been more appreciable.

The music video looks like the members are in some sort of video game against some ghosts, zombies and scary clowns. For majority of the video, the members do struggle in their battle. But they do prevail in the end. While I am not entirely sure what the connection with the song is (taken from SOOMPI – the song “convey the joys of hearing the voice of a loved one, which feels like the heart-fluttering excitement of summer arriving”), my best guess is that the members are seeking the voice of a loved one to help them through their battle. And for the video, it looks like Yubin is that voice given the heaven-like scenes during the bridge, where she grants Mimi a second chance at the battle. But aside from that, I like the brightness that stems from the colourful nature of the video, and the summery/beachy-like setting the green screen brings to the video.

The fast-paced nature of the song does lend well towards a great performance, which I find to be evident in the chorus sequences of the song. I also liked how the bubbly and upbeat the performance is, which does make it fit very neatly in the range of performance we have seen stem from the summer season.

Song – 7/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 7.5/10