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Deborah Rodriguez  Credit: Dxmon_ssq On January 17th, 2024 the six-member boy group DXMON (consisting of Minjae, Seita, Hee, TK, Rex, and Jo) made their official debut with their 1st Mini Album “HYPERSPACE.” DXMON is the first boy group to debut under their agency, SSQ Entertainment. Prior to their official debut date, the group released their pre-debut single “Burn Up” on January 1st, 2024 which has gained over 1 million views on Youtube. Not bad for a rookie group! DXMON has garnered global attention from K-pop enthusiasts on social media due to their distinctive edgy and eccentric style, especially Jo’s vibrant red liberty spikes. Fans began to wonder if DXMON’s sound would be as punk and edgy as their visual concept, but to our surprise, their album contained a wide variety of genres that showcased the different sounds of DXMON. The first song on “HYPERSPACE” is “N.W.B.” which is a unique rap-only hip-hop song that talks about the importance of taking a deep breath before jumping into action in this fast-paced world. Though the lyrics are quite inspiring and uplifting, DXMON delivers this message on a musical canvas uncommon in K-pop, sparking an irresistible urge in listeners to stand up and dance. The next song on the album is the pre-release track “Burn Up,” which centers around the beginning of DXMON’s journey. It is a rap-heavy hip-hop track infused with an EDM melody that creates a familiar K-pop boy group sound that we hear from popular boy groups like Stray Kids and NCT. The MV for “Burn Up” matches the intensity and edginess of the song, featuring the members dressed in dark clothing and in dark-lit settings. Following “Burn Up” is the album’s title track “Spark.” In comparison to “Burn Up,” “Spark” embraces more of a pop sound but still infused with a bit of hip-hop and even R&B. The sing-along chorus is quite catchy and it makes the song easy to listen to. The lyrics focus on conveying the emotions of determination towards reaching their new destiny. This song does a great job at showcasing each member’s position in the group. “Spark” comes to life with the MV which captivates the viewer with a bright color palette and special effects. The album takes an unexpected turn with the fourth track “Very,” which is a fun and upbeat pop song with EDM instrumentals that portray a softer and more charming side to DXMON. The chorus is quite catchy so it makes it a perfect b-side! Lastly, DXMON wraps up their 1st mini album with the instrumental versions of “Burn Up” and “Spark.” Overall, DXMON does a great job on setting the tone for their concept and artistic journey with their first album, and they have left fans wanting more. We look forward to seeing how the members of DXMON grow in the K-pop scene and what they will accomplish in the future. What is your favorite track off of “HYPERSPACE”?
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Deshalia Murray  Credit: GLG “H1-KEY is back :) We’re presenting our first love song that is filled with a winter vibe, so please give it a lot of love! Shout out to M1-KEY♥”. H1-KEY’s Seoi introduces the beautiful beginning to their new project “H1-KEYnote #1”, a gift to their fans. The four-member girl group under GLG and Sony Music comprises the talented Seoi, Riina, Hwiseo, and Yel who debuted on January 5th, 2022. Following the release of their second mini album Seoul Dreaming, released on August 30th, 2023, the group is back and better than ever. “H1-KEYnote” will consist of three parts, with “Thinkin’ About You” being part #1. Through this project, the group aims to convey solace and emotion to all, unrestricted in their musical expressions. This marks the beginning of a series of songs within the project, intending to share H1-KEY's untold stories and messages with their fans, M1-KEY. “Thinkin’ About You” articulates a mature and realistic yearning for a former lover, depicting a resilient and independent individual who, despite feeling sorrowful, refrains from shedding a tear. The charming pop song comprising lovely vocals helps emphasize these emotional lyrics. Each member has proven to truly embody talent, showcasing this with the group’s new single. Hwiseo expresses, “H1-KEY, whom you can trust when you listen, is back with a new concept! I hope you find warmth with this song during the cold winter!” Please check out this comeback and show the members some love! Natalia Kabenge  As temperatures continue to drop this winter, we’re bundled up and doing our best to stay warm. We’ve got all our cold weather gear, but think our hearts could use a little warmth too. Check out some of our team’s favorite winter themed B-Sides that are sure to keep you nice and cozy this winter! Stay - EXO A melancholic song with a bittersweet message, “Stay” is one of our favorite winter B-Sides right now. Its the story of a lover lost, and we’re left to question what could have been, and left to savor the bits and pieces that remain of a failed love. With a relaxed drumline, flawless vocals, and effortless raps from the members, the lyricism perfectly encompasses the feeling of a winter night while the melody warms the hearts of listeners. REWIND - TWICE TWICE shows of their velvety vocals in “REWIND”, a song with a message of heartbreak hidden behind a warm melody. While they remember the cold feelings caused by their past lover, the members of TWICE are still left to wonder what would happen if they could go back and do it all over again. Each member gets the chance to shine on this track, and their vocals blend flawlessly together to create this masterpiece. Winter Blossom - punchnello This mellow RNB track is the perfect song for a snow day—it creates a calm lofi atmosphere that is sure to have you relaxed, letting the gentle melody wash over you. The song features vocalist SAAY, and the contrast between her effortless vocals and punchnello’s low tone rap is quite lovely, and perfect for a lazy snow day in. Winter - Dreamcatcher (Handong Solo) A story between lovers that has yet to be finished, “Winter” is the perfect song to add to your playlist this winter. Revealing her true feelings to a lover, and longing for moments past, Handong’s tender voice is quite pleasant to listen to. A delicate guitar and piano duo carry out the melody, which beautifully compliments her vocals. She holds on to her lover until the very end, eventually wishing them a goodbye in Mandarin, her native language. The conclusion of the song will leave your heart aching, but the composition makes it perfect for cozying up with a cup of hot chocolate this winter. Melting Point - ZEROBASEONE We may be hopeless romatics, but “Melting Point” by ZEROBASEONE is sure to turn that right around. We could all use a fun love song on our playlist, and this song is just that. Heart fluttering and blush inducing, ZEROBASEONE sings about the woes of a first love—meeting their gaze, hold their hand, and kissing them sends their heart on a roller coaster, something so pure and heartwarming. Pulling inspiration from Jersey Club, with some electronic elements, “Melting Point” is sickeningly sweet, and is a favorite on our winter playlist right now. Which winter B-Side is your favorite? Deborah Rodriguez  Credit: P1H_OFFICIAL Following a year-long tour encompassing 39 cities worldwide and special appearances at iHeartRadio’s Jingle Ball, P1Harmony's members, including Keeho, Theo, Jiung, Intak, Soul, and Jongseob, are ready to unveil their very first full-length album since their debut in 2020. Their upcoming album ‘Killin’ It,' is scheduled to release on February 5th at 6pm KST. P1Harmony is known for being unique in their craft and sound. From the dynamic energy of "Scared" to the introspective and emotive "I Am You," the group has proven their ability to navigate diverse genres while maintaining a signature sound. This versatility has contributed to their widespread appeal, attracting fans all around the world with varying musical preferences. By actively participating in the songwriting and production of their music, choreography, and style, each group member makes a significant contribution that enhances the authenticity and versatility of their creative output. Stay tuned as P1Harmony begins their comeback journey for 2024, and take a look at the release schedule for their upcoming album, ‘Killin’ It,’ below:  Credit: P1H_OFFICIAL Pre-save & Pre-order: http://p1h-official.lnk.to/Killin_It
Deshalia Murray The B.E.L.U Lineup’s 2024 Playlist For us here at the B.E.L.U Lineup music has no boundaries. We enjoy all music regardless of genre, country, or even release date. As a treat to the amazing supporters of our publication, we want to recommend some songs loved by our contributors. In our 2024 Playlist Lineup, Dyani (founder), Samiyah, Shaneice, Deb, Glenalyn, Lexy, Shalia, Jennifer, Natalia, and Ilanna have shared a diverse array of songs for any and all fans to enjoy. As a reflection of our publication, we want fans to connect with the media they love without a box or label. Just as we love what we love, we hope you can as well. Enjoy our playlist of our favorite songs and we hope some of them make it on your own Spotify or Apple Music! Dyani - Founder
Samiyah - Social Media Curator
Shaneice - Social Media Curator
Deb - Journalist
Glenalyn - Photographer
Lexy - Photographer
Jennifer - Photographer
Natalia - Journalist
Ilanna - Journalist
Natalia Kabenge  Credit: 8turn.official Just a few weeks before their one year debut anniversary, 5th generation boy group 8TURN has come out with their third mini album “STUNNING”. Consisting of members Jaeyun, Myungho, Minho, Yoonsung, Haemin, Kyungmin, Yungyu, and Seungheon, 8TURN has been a major player since their debut just last year, and continues to prove this with each and every release. The five song EP features title track ‘RU-PUM PUM’, an upbeat track with hip hop influence in which the members flaunt their swagger. Upon first listen, something that immediately stood out to me was the genre. Having debuted with title track “TIC TAC” just last year, it seems 8TURN is returning to what their best at—that is, hard hitting hip hop tracks. The song really sticks with you after the first listen, an extremely catchy hook making it impossible to forget. The music video is rather dynamic, with the members giving off a lighthearted feel while dressed in colorful outfits, and a cooler vibe when attired in all black.  Credit: 8turn.official The release itself is extremely versatile. From the warm, relaxed vibe of ‘GLOW’, with a lively piano melody that anchors you throughout the song, to the acoustic guitar in ‘NOM’ that gives off a raw, rustic feel, ‘STUNNING’ is a pretty well rounded release, especially for only having five tracks. There’s something for everyone on this EP, and it only adds to their already diverse discography. One of my favorites is ‘THE GAME’, in which they take on an older hip hop sound. Much like the rest of the album, the song is high energy, and rather experimental as they add a twist of their own to the style. From their swiftly delivered raps to exceptional vocal runs, the members prove themselves to be well rounded as a unit, and quite the force to be reckoned with. 8TURN had a strong debut in January of last year, with their debut album ‘8TURNRISE’ immediately turning heads. ‘TIC TAC’ has garnered over 10 million streams on Spotify to date, and I’ve definitely been a good amount of those. They’ve had a rather impressive run for their first year in the industry, and I’m quite excited to see how they keep pushing their music to new heights as they continue to grow as artists. ‘STUNNING’ is now available on all major streaming platforms, and I was pretty quick to add a few of these songs to my playlist! Deborah Rodriguez  Credit: C9 Entertainment Following their successful 2nd world tour, "Save Me, Kill Me," and the success of their 6th EP Album 'OK Episode 2: I'm OK,' BX, Seunghun, Yonghee, Bae Jinyoung, and Hyunsuk are set to release their 1st Single Album, titled “0 or 1,” on January 24 at 6 p.m. KST. In the past week, CIX released two sets of concept photos showcasing the members’ versatility in their AI and humanoid forms.  Credit: C9 Entertainment CIX is building anticipation for their upcoming activities in the new year by unveiling a diverse range of content. From high-quality concept photos to new AI briefing videos featuring each member, the group is leaving fans excited and curious about the music and stage performances they will showcase in 2024. Follow CIX’s release schedule below and stay tuned for the full release of “0 or 1!”  Credit: C9 Entertainment Dyani Robles  Credit: @dxmon_ssq on X On January 1, 2024, DXMON unveiled their pre-debut single, "Burn Up," a dynamic hip-hop track accentuated by robust percussion sounds. This release marks the initiation of DXMON's musical journey, hinting at the exciting ventures the group has in store. DXMON is set to debut under SSQ Entertainment, previously known as NV Entertainment. This will be the company’s first K-Pop boy group. Comprising six talented members – MINJAE, SEITA, HEE, TK, REX, and JO – DXMON draws inspiration from the Greek word ‘Daimon,’ symbolizing the determination to actively shape one's destiny. Stay tuned for more from this promising new ensemble! |