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Deborah Rodriguez  Credit: CRAVITY_OFFICIAL After a triumphant world tour, a captivating performance at KCON LA, and their official debut in Japan, CRAVITY introduces a sound that sets this comeback apart from anything we've heard from the group before. CRAVITY is a 9-member boy group under STARSHIP Entertainment consisting of Serim, Allen Jungmo, Woobin, Wonjin, Minhee, Hyeongjun, Taeyoung, and Seongmin. The group made their debut in 202 with SEASON 1. HIDEOUT: REMEMBER WHO WE ARE, and their youthful and energetic music style has attracted the attention of many kpop fans worldwide. Now, returning with the mini-album 'EVERSHINE,' CRAVITY presents a more mature and refreshing sound, delving into the theme of their love journey. The title track "Love or Die" introduces a fresh sound to CRAVITY's title track history. Infused with rock elements, this pop track instantly captivates listeners with its dynamic drum beats and powerful vocal deliveries from the members. The blend of English and Korean lyrics in the chorus makes “Love or Die” an easy sing-along song for everyone, while the strategically placed rap verse towards the finale intensifies the song's impact, leaving you craving for another playthrough. The music video for "Love or Die" intricately portrays the band members' quest for love, highlighting how each challenge in youth contributes to our strength and resilience. The MV's color palette, featuring dark cool and warm tones, complements the pop-rock concept of their comeback. Some of the remarkable elements in the MV include the symbolic wounds on each member's face and the dramatic rain scene towards the end, adding an extra layer of intensity to the visuals. Although the title track is quite intense, the rest of the album is not. The first song on the EP is “C’est La Vie” which translates to “that’s life.” This is a rhythmic pop song with a unique post-chorus that highlights the importance of living positively. The second track is the title track “Love or Die,” followed directly by “Cherry Blossom,” which is a bubbly pop song that talks about the sweetness of love. The fourth song on “EVERSHINE” is “Mr.” which was co-written by members Serim and Allen and also WJSN’s EXY! This song will take you on a time capsule as its sound resembles that of a 2nd generation K-pop song. Very nostalgic! Next, we got “Worst Thriller,” a sinister siren song that encourages thrill-seeking as a means to enjoy life to the fullest. Lastly, we got a track that would be the perfect encore song for CRAVITY’s future tour, “Over & Over.” The delves into the intricate realm of emotions tied to clinging onto memories and the yearning for second chances, even if it entails reliving the same patterns “over and over.” Overall, “EVERSHINE” is a refreshing EP that shows us sounds by CRAVITY that we had not heard before, promising an exciting journey ahead as they further define their unique sound in the years to come. Don't miss out on the opportunity to see CRAVITY perform “Love or Die,” on Day 2 of We Bridge 2024! The event will take place at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center and Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, NV, this April.
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Deshalia Murray  Credit: Beat Interactive After two and a half years due to military enlistment service, A.C.E has returned to give their fans, Choice, a treat. The mini album My Girl: “My Choice” is their 6th mini album following in the footsteps of Changer: Dear Eris. The album pays homage to their adored fans and aims to embody the feeling of rediscovering oneself. The album consists of 7 tracks, with “Effortless” and “Angel” being pre-released tracks. “Facetime” and “My Girl” also accompany said tracks with “Effortless,” “Angel,” and “My Girl” having English versions. Each song tells a new story, showing the love and passion Choice missed from the members while they were gone. We aspire for this album to be musically soothing to listen to. We also wish for it to resonate with many, providing comfort and support through our work. - Park Junhee In the music video, A.C.E is tackling the theme of adulthood. With the fictitious company “PETFLIX” the members are working harder than ever. Even depicting themselves as robots, they take their jobs very seriously. It’s a relatable video for us adult fans who work hard and feel the relief of finally leaving work. The song is refreshing with a smooth sound. Each member’s vocals are absolutely breathtaking and it proves they are back with the same warmness they always had. With choreography that even included fans, the music video and song were a perfect springtime track crafted to show Choice how much they loved and missed them. I believe this album portrays the journey of modern individuals rediscovering their loss selves and embodies their emotions. - Lee Donghun Natalia Kabenge  Credit: ateez_official_ February 5th brought with it the release of ATEEZ Mingi’s first solo project. Standing at almost 2.3 million views just under a week later, it’s clear that fans have highly anticipated a solo release from Mingi, and he most definitely delivered. This release strays from ATEEZ’s standard sound—as opposed to the fast paced raps layered over hard hitting trap beats that we know to be Mingi’s signature sound within the group, he takes a different approach when it comes to his solo music. ‘Tunnel’ takes on an alternative rock feel, opening with sullen vocals and an acoustic guitar before building up into a strong chorus which beautifully highlights Mingi’s gravelly rich vocals. He truly leans into his abilities as a vocalist in this song—revealing a new side of his artistry to listeners. As a lyricist, Mingi has already proven both his versatility and expertise, and ‘Tunnel’ is no exception. It’s through the lyrcism of artists that we get to experience the inner working of their minds, and in ‘Tunnel’, Mingi wears his heart on his sleeve, coming to terms with having to let go of memories he holds close to his heart. The song’s melancholic melody is accompanied by rather sombre lyrics—Mingi serenades us with a reflection of past heartbreaks as he struggles to face reality. The prechorus is angry, as Mingi sings, “I gotta get outta fucking love Everything I said was a lie Everything right at this moment” Mingi is not only clearly dedicated to his craft, but also willing to show a new side of himself to fans through his lyrics and composing. The music video is a perfect reflection of the lyrics—Mingi, donned in all black, is accompanied by a band and surrounded by fire, something which helps to convey the desperation and longing evident throughout the video. Not only are the lyrics meaningful, but the song features a heartbreakingly sweet melody that I just can’t get enough of. I’m honored to have witnessed this solo project from Mingi, and even though it has yet to come out on streaming platforms, that hasn’t stopped me from having “Tunnel” on repeat since it’s release! Deborah Rodriguez  Credit: BRANDNEW MUSIC AB6IX returns with their 8th EP, ‘THE FUTURE IS OURS: FOUND.” This EP concludes the album series connecting with “THE FUTURE IS OURS: LOST” released in May 2023. The EP consists of five new songs: “Whistle,” the title track “Grab Me,” “Traveler,” “All Night,” and “ILY (I LOVE YOU).” If you are new to the world of AB6IX, AB6IX is a dynamic and versatile K-pop group who made their highly anticipated debut on May 22, 2019, under Brand New Music. Their dedicated fanbase, known as ABNEW, has been an integral part of their journey, offering unwavering support and love since their debut. The 4-member group composed of members Jeon Woong, Kim Donghyun, Park Woojin, and Lee Daehwi has garnered recognition and acclaim within the industry, receiving several awards including the Rookie of the Year Award at the 2019 Asia Artist Awards. With their infectious energy and diverse musical style, AB6IX has produced numerous popular tracks such as "BREATHE," "BLIND FOR LOVE," and "SALUTE," captivating audiences worldwide with their captivating performances and chart-topping hits. This new EP is quite the emotional rollercoaster. The album starts off with the rhythmic track “Whistle,” a fresh song with a catchy whistle melody fitting for its title. The title track “Grab Me,” is easily one of AB6IX’s top title tracks. It is an alternative pop rock song that hooks the listener from the beginning. One of the parts of the song that stands out is the unique post-chorus which changes in tempo and melody, yet it helps the song transition seamlessly into the next verse. The lyrics of "Grab Me" echo a theme of hope and the willingness to overcome life's challenges alongside loved ones, rather than facing them alone. The accompanying MV enhances this message, portraying the members initially struggling in solitude and gradually finding happiness together as the video unfolds. The rest of the EP is just as full of emotion as the title track. The fourth song on the album is “Traveler,” which talks about being fearless in reaching for your goals and aspirations. The final song “ILY(I LOVE YOU),” is a playful ballad that expresses AB6IX’s unconditional love to their fans. Altogether, this is a refreshing comeback by AB6IX that promotes hope and new beginnings. A perfect theme to kick off the year! Make sure to check out AB6IX’s comeback and stay tuned for the group’s future activities in 2024! Natalia Kabenge  It’s finally February 14th, and we’re bringing you some songs to add to your playlist this Valentine’s Day! Whether you’re spending the day with someone you’re head over heels for, or taking yourself out on a solo date this year, we’ve got just the tunes to accompany you. And don’t worry—for the heartbroken, lovesick, and hopeless romantics who are weary of love songs, we’ve got a few for you anti-romantics too!
Late Night Calls - P1Harmony Late Night Calls (Late Night Calls) “Late Night Calls” is a sweet message to a lover—a reminder that something as simple as hearing their voice can be enough to make your day. Pleasant vocals and an unassuming fingerstyle guitar give the song a mellow unplugged vibe before a dance beat falls in during the chorus, heightening the energy and making it impossible to resist playing on repeat. Planet Girl - Jooyoung (Feat. pH-1) Planet Girl (Feat. pH-1) (Planet Girl (Feat. pH-1)) A true RNB track, “Planet Girl” is an easy listen, falling sweetly on the ears as we’re blessed with flawless vocals from Jooyoung. The song features the ever talented rapper pH-1, and the contrast between his . Completely infatuated with a lover, the two go back and forth throughout the song, sultry vocals perfectly complimenting graceful raps. If there’s someone you just can’t quite get off your mind, this soulful composition is perfect for your playlist. Love Like This - SS501 [MV] SS501 _ Love Like This (네게로) “Love Like This” is a real throwback, and SS501 perfectly blends RNB and EDM in this release. In true early 2000’s fashion, the song desperately pleads for the attention of a girl they’ve set their eyes on. Calling her their “one true love”, they’ll stop at no end until she realizes that she’s the one for them. A bittersweet melody transforms into an upbeat EDM track during the chorus, and it’s truly the love song we all could use this Valentine’s Day. Cupid - FIFTY FIFTY FIFTY FIFTY (피프티피프티) - 'Cupid' Official MV A clear-cut pick for your playlist, FIFTY FIFTY’s “Cupid” is the perfect song for Valentine’s Day this year. While the song starts out bittersweet, the lyrics become hopeful as the chorus begins, and the angelic melody is sure to warm the hearts of listeners. The song has been inescapable since it’s release, and as it nears it’s one year anniversary, this is the first Valentine’s Day we’ll get to celebrate with this song on repeat! I.L.Y - The Rose I.L.Y. “I.L.Y” is a tried and true love song, and chronicles the act of falling in love, and the feelings that accompany it. While the lyrics are rather hopeful, there’s a sense of anguish felt in the ernest and heartfelt vocals—delicate and serene voices drawing us into the song completely. Woosung’s vocals always adds a distinct flair to their music, not only making the group a standout, but adding a richness to each song that makes The Rose’s music unique, and “I.L.Y” especially heartbreaking. Only - LeeHi 이하이 (LeeHi) - 'ONLY' Official MV (ENG/CHN) If there’s one thing LeeHi does well, it’s love songs. “ONLY” is no exception—it’s beautiful in it’s simplicity, the gentle melody making her soothing vocals a standout. The song is melancholic, and LeeHi makes it clear that she desires something she can’t have, someone she can’t have. They’re just slightly out of reach, and yet she remains heartened, wanting nothing more than to have someone to call ‘hers’. Faded in My Last Song - NCT U Faded In My Last Song “Faded in My Last Song” isn’t so much about loving as it is about being able to let go. A somber piano melody starts off the song before a trap beat falls in underneath—an unassuming yet harmonious combination. As they struggle to let go of someone they’ve lost, the members go back and forth during the chorus, echoing eachothers sorrow. Making a promise that their lover will live forever in their memory, they can’t help but also remember the suffering they endured while they still had their lover by their side. She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not - Taemin She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not “She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not” is quite far from your traditional love song. In his own twisted take on love, Taemin serenades the listener, but it’s almost too late that you realize he’s fighting himself—stuck between wanting to believe his failing love remains salvageable while trying to find the courage to move on. The layered vocals in the chorus create a strong opposition to Taemin’s sole voice singing along, and he blends in until the very end, where his part breaks free in the form of heart-wrenching adlibs. The song comes to a head during the final chorus, where it fades to a final cry, and Taemin is struck with the realization that he has ultimately lost, and finds himself alone in the end. What are your favorite songs to listen to during the season of love? [First Listen] P1Harmony is ‘Killin’ It’: DISSECTING the Brilliance of Their First Full-Length Album2/7/2024 Deshalia Murray  Credit: p1h_official P1Harmony is back with their first full-length album Killin’ It and it's all fans have been asking for. With the group being more hands-on during the creative process, fans can truly see their passion through each song on this album. P1ece, P1Harmony’s fandom, have been anticipating this project due to the members adamantly speaking on their dream to create a full-length album. Here are my first reactions to the many sounds of Killin’ It. Killin’ It - Title Track From the first chords of this song, I knew it was the best choice as the title track. P1Harmony has consistently shown us that they are superstars (and even mention it in the song!) We can always expect a strong title track from the members and this one was no different as it gives us a high-energy, high-base pop song with a taste of hip hop. The boys rap and sing about their fame, swag, and how they’re killin' it. Coupled with the music video that depicts the boys in various situations, from dentistry to press conferences, P1Harmony is always the best in what they do. Late Night Calls The resident R&B track of the album and my personal favorite, “Late Night Calls” is a sweet-sounding song perfect for listening to wrapped in a warm blanket. With beautiful vocals to match, the song depicts a secret love made for the nighttime. The members’ sweet voices and adlibs mixed with calmer raps from Jongseob and Intak make for a pretty song that may make you long for a late-night call of your own. Everybody Clap A perfect concert song, this track is not only telling you to get up and clap but also to put aside your stress and enjoy the moment. A fun mix of pop, and hip hop, “Everybody Clap” emphasizes how the group has always shown themselves as artist which is uplifting and ready to make you move. Blast this in your car or shower and it’s sure to make you dance and scream the lyrics. Love Story One thing P1ece can expect and love is a ballad with a melody meant to make you shed a tear. “Love Story” brings out vocals from each member, including the rappers, that show the versatility of their artistry. The song depicts a longing for a love that consumes their whole being. While the group may be known for their strong sound. This track is a reminder of the softness they can create just as good. Countdown to Love Despite the title sounding like it would give us a slow song, “Countdown to Love” will bring out those dance moves instead. The song is all about going out and having the time of your life, with love being the power you need to face all your troubles. The pop song gives the vibe of a party song from the early 2010s with a modern twist. Turn this on at an event and everybody will be jumping by the end of the song! Emergency If one song from the album had to be chosen to represent P1Harmony’s versatility which I have mentioned throughout this article, it would be this one. You get so many sounds in the track with them all being perfectly blended rather than choppy. The song makes references as if you're running from said emergency and creating something new with both the lyrics and the sound. It sounds like something you wouldn’t expect from the boys but is done so well. 2Nite “2Nite” is another newer, but well executed nonetheless, sound from P1Harmony. While it has lyrics depicting dancing with and letting go with the boys like “Countdown to Love,” the sound is completely different. It's a slower R&B song with a funky beat, like music for a suit-and-tie event. The song is more proof that the members wanted to create an even bigger name for themselves by exploring their abilities. Let Me Love You Taking another pleasant turn, Killin’ It’s next track is bringing back the sound P1ece have always enjoyed from their favorite boys. The strong guitar sound is the star of the show and brings an 80s retro feeling to the album. The boys sing about doing anything for their love interest and wanting to be everything they need. The gorgeous song is bound to put you in a good mood. Street Star “Street Star” is high on many P1ece’s track favorites for a reason. The song is pure P1harmony with its strong rap and hip-hop sound. The song is meant to give fans the confidence they may be missing, something the group has often mentioned they want to do with their music. “Street Star” wants you to stand in front of the crowd rather than within it. This track is another contender for that car playlist. I See U A solid final track, “I See U” is a melodic song about noticing all the little things about their love. Dedicated to their adorning fans, P1ece can listen to this like a song specifically made to show how much the boys love them. The smooth vocals coupled with the groovy feeling would serve as an amazing encore song. A flawless ending to the highly anticipated album. Killin’ It is more than we could’ve ever expected. I know it’s a hard choice, but what’s your favorite song from Killin’ It? [First Listen] WJSN’s SeolA Takes Center Stage: A Look into Her Solo Debut with ‘Inside out’2/7/2024 Natalia Kabenge  Credit: wsjn_cosmic On January 23rd, WJSN vocalist SeolA made her solo debut with “INSIDE OUT”, a three song single that perfectly chronicles complicated feelings that arise at end of a relationship. Instead of moving on, SeolA dwells on what could have been, hanging on to the ‘what ifs’, remembering difficult times, and finally coming to terms with herself in all her imperfection. Skillfully hidden behind a sickeningly sweet guitar melody, SeolA recalls the moments she wishes would leave her memory in “Without You”. The music video is nothing short of introspective—a ticking clock, a burning rose, and broken glass help to tell the story of a failed romance, one which SeolA is left to painfully reminisce about. “Let’s Talk (Loneliness)” is the second track on this release, and as the bridge between the first and tracks is quite addictive. Wanting to give her lover a second chance, she struggles to come to terms with their absence in her life, and tries to embrace feelings of loneliness while asking for a chance to figure things out. The melody sticks with you, it’s mellow pop vibe practically addicting, and making this song my personal favorite on the release. “NO GIRL” is the closer to this release, and it’s nothing short of perfect. A sweet melody masks a rather disquieting message as SeolA comes to the realization that she can’t help but want something she can’t have. A desperate cry for a second chance, SeolA makes it known that she wants nothing more than to be by her ex lover’s side, while admitting the end of the relationship was somewhat her fault. The message is unorthodox—rather than placing the blame on another, SeolA fully accepts it, but despite it all, still hopes for things to be the way they were. Simply put, this is an incredibly strong release, an especially impressive feat due to the length of the EP. All three songs fit perfectly together to relay a complex story, one in which SeolA is both victim and perpetrator, responsible for a broken relationship but wanting to pick up the pieces and start again. Each song highlights her vocals beautifully, and the release as a whole features her skillful pen, as she boasts songwriting credits on all three songs. I’ve added all theses songs to my playlist, and have had them on repeat for quite some time! Congratulations to SeolA on her solo debut, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for future projects! 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”? 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? |