Events Archives - Page 7 of 13

What We Learned at AOMG’s Los Angeles Show

April 21, 2016/in Events /by Alexis Hodoyan-Gastelum

AOMG artists Jay Park,Simon D, Gray, Loco, and DJ Pumkin turned the Koreatown staple The Wiltern in Los Angeles way up on Apr. 14 with their AOMG Follow the Movement 2016 American Tour. Their show at the City of Angels was part of the home stretch of their eight-city tour, and despite them being a bit sick and on their fourth show back-to-back, the guys put out an outstanding performance to a full house.

Each rapper performed a set of about nine songs each, which given their repertoires might seem as very view. But with energetic performances of “Dang, Dang, Dang,” “You Know,” and “I Like 2 Party,” the rappers curated a perfect show that gave the audience a crash course on AOMG excellency.

The L.A. AOMG show was one of those “you had to be there” experiences that don’t come around often. It might have been a fast two-hour show, but it will go down as one of the most fun Korean rap shows of the last few years. And while we can’t make a complete recap of the night (again, you had to be there!), we can share a few highlights of the night and what we learned about Korea’s hottest hip hop label and rappers.

1. Jay Park’s Not Afraid of Getting Groped

There’s no denying that Jay Park is hot. That, of course, is not an invitation for fans or anyone to touch and grope him though. It’s common practice that when K-pop idols go into the audience during their shows, they’re kind of freaked out by the number of fans reaching out to grab them (I specifically remember one nervous Sungyeol at Infinite’s Los Angeles show back in January). They’re generally visibly uncomfortable but push through it because they’re professionals and want to please the fans.

by Yasamine Entesari

Mr. Jay Park however seemed like he didn’t have a major problem with that. Not only did he go into the audience during one of the last few songs of the L.A. show, but he did it at every stop of the U.S. tour. Fangirls went crazy, and yet, he continued to do it. For the Los Angeles show, Jay flocked to a group of male fans in the audience and jumped and sang around with them. He appeared genuinely appreciative of his male fans who he knows aren’t all there to see him strip, like one fan suggested right at the start of his set.

Also on KultScene: Why You Should Watch Korean Film ‘Time Renegades’

2. Simon D’s Popularity is No Joke

When it comes to shows with multiple artists, the pace is set to build up momentum for the main act at the end. And yet, that wasn’t the case with AOMG. With zero build up, Simon D opened the night to a crowd that went from zero to 100 instantly just at the sight of him; no hype men needed. Not to mention that the three opening songs were “Simon Says,” “Simon Dominic,” and “Won and Only,” which only got people dancing, singing, and waving their hands that more excitedly.

simon d dominic aomg los angeles follow th emovement

by Yasamine Entesari

Even if he had the shortest set of the night (debatable, since Loco and Gray performed together), more than a couple of people were absolutely moved by Simon’s mere presence. After a long career where he had to overcome adversity, it was mind blowing how he’s still going and is stronger than ever; the fans’ reaction back this up.

Fans recognize his struggle and that’s why they’ve stuck with him. Jay, his abs, and his “Mommae” dance might have drawn the most screams and cheers from the audience, but Simon D just by his verses came at a close second.

3. Gray Needs to Go Back to Rapping ASAP

Despite him being a popular rapper, especially among female fans, he’s only released one mini album way back in 2013. That’s an eternity in Korean entertainment time! And we get it, he’s produced a lot of great songs for artists like Zion T., Dok2, Infinite H, and of course his AOMG label mates because he’s awesome at it. But if something was made clear on the night of the show is that Gray needs to get in front of a mic already. Three years with no new material, but the boy is not rusty at all and killed his set, performing his EP jams like “Dream Chaser” and “In My Head.” He also gave Loco a hand with his hit “Respect,” and performed their collaborative tracks “If I” and “Just Do it” together. So what is he waiting for? We’re all so ready for this.

aomg jay los angeles follow the movement

by Yasamine Entesari

4. Loco is Awkwardly Adorable When he Comes Out of His Shell

On his music videos or shows like “Show Me the Money,” Loco comes off as your typical rapper who spits fire and gets pumped through performances. Maybe it’s because we don’t have access to see him in “real” life like we do with K-pop idols or other rappers who appear on variety shows, but we had no idea he was such a cutie pie. It was interesting and endearing to see him drops bars on tracks like “High No More” and “Dangerous” and then turn and bashfully interact with fans while Gray was rapping his verses. Plus, he has this signature head bob that’s quick and not intense, like he’s bopping to a Disney song, even though it’s rap. When we talk about rappers, we generally use words like “hot” or “dope” to describe them. “Cute” is a word we reserve for idols. Well, Loco is the cute rapper and we’re totally digging it.

loco aomg follow the movement los angeles

by Yasamine Entesari

5. We Need More Cha Cha

We not only need a Cha Cha beat, boy, we just need him around. Always. For the L.A. stop, Cha Cha attended the show and mostly watched in the side lines. But at the end of the show, when Jay, Simon, Gray, and Loco were all performing together, Cha Cha joined DJ Pumpkin at the DJ booth and even rapped along and repeated punch lines. Why he’s not more involved in the shows is beyond us, but we certainly would appreciate his presence and input more.

Also on KultScene: The Hallyu Attorney: Entertainment Lawyer David Kim Talks About New Media, K-Pop & More

6. AOMG is Truly the Best

Somewhere at the start of every set, each rapper explained and apologized for being sick. Despite being ill they were all in high spirits and energy, and even if they said they’re voices might crack or they could cough at some point, it went unnoticed. The AOMG guys gave it their best and it was enough, for there was not a single dull moment in the night.

And to think that Jay and Simon D, AOMG’s CEO’s, at some point could’ve given up on their careers after facing hardships. Instead, they joined forces and created the hottest Korean hip hop label that sets the trends and changes how the genre is viewed. Not only that but they also create and give opportunities to emerging rappers, singers, and producers, all while giving their share of the pie.

aomg jay park follow the movement los angeles

by Yasamine Entesari

Major entertainment companies like to use words like “family” or “town” to describe their artist rosters, even if this isn’t entirely true. AOMG, however, the thing about them that makes them so rad is the fact that they truly are bros. Whether they’re on each other’s songs, or performing one’s tracks as a group (Jay’s “BO$$” and Loco’s “No Manners”), the genuine camaraderie in undeniable. This is exactly what makes AOMG frontrunners in the game and what will keep on packing shows all over the world. They’re the real deal and they’re shows are fun af.

loco gray aomg los angeles follow the movement

by Yasamine Entesari

Who’s your favorite AOMG artist? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

Rock Bottom on Top in London [INTERVIEW]

April 18, 2016/in Events /by Joe Palmer

Sitting in the venue’s pub, World’s End in London, a few hours before the show I started to feel vibrations in my chest and feet. Although loud, it was clearly not due to the heavy metal being played in the bar. I realised soon after that it was the soundcheck of the people I was here to see; I knew then that Rock Bottom were going to be up for this performance.

It also got me thinking about why a South Korean hip-hop crew was playing in The Underworld, a venue known for its heavy metal. To find out, I asked them about hip-hop’s rising popularity in Korea in a short interview before the gig. “There’s been a lot of ball crossing in Korea recently, which has made it more approachable,” answered Kidoh, who spoke the most, presumably referring to shows like “Show Me The Money” and chart topping collaborations between vocalists such as Sistar singer Soyou and rappers of the likes of Mad Clown. Yet Rock Bottom don’t identify with this more popular strand of rap. Referring to the Korean public they said, “They don’t know us, we are lowkey.” Maybe that’s why they’re playing a sold out international show.

Also on KultScene: Which B.A.P Member Are You? + Live On Earth World Tour North America Info

The main reason why they could be there was clear when I saw and, more importantly, heard the crowd. The majority young female crowd screamed at any sight of the members of Rock Bottom but never more so than for the aforementioned Kidoh. A former member of K-pop group Topp Dogg, he along with BTS collaborator Supreme Boi were the main attractions. Even so, the others certainly ended the night with some new fans.

i11evn was to be another big part of the show, but couldn’t make it so was replaced by Marvel J, who was only announced a week before the show. I was disappointed at first because i11evn’s “Siwi” was the song I was most looking forward to, but Marvel J more than made up for it. Having to inform fans of i11evn’s no show and open the show was a difficult task for Marvel J since he is probably the least well known of the whole crew. His energy, however, was palpable from the first song. He strode around the stage with great confidence; his impeccable flow never disturbed by fatigue. By the time he was trying out new track “Dak Galbi” the crowd was so with him that there was no chance of the song bombing. He got up close and personal with the crowd, sprayed water from his bottle everywhere, and involved the crowd without being too obvious.

When I say Marvel J more than made it up for i11evn’s absence, I really mean it. Whenever he was off stage, the night took a dip. Supreme Boi was up next after being introduced with “Uranus,” a duet with Marvel J. Most of his songs were actually the more interesting productions of the whole show, but didn’t translate as well as Marvel J’s simple trap tracks into a live performance. Vapourwave anthem “Hawaii” was his clear highlight and Type-C got onstage to help him out by shouting a bit and drinking a lot. Supreme Boi told me that this sound comes from one of their favourite producers at the moment, 회사AUTO. I asked them if vapourwave separated them from other Korean hip-hop artists of the moment, Kidoh answered that they don’t even know other people in the scene.

Supreme Boi pleased the crowd well, though, especially with his references to grime, the UK’s own brand of hip-hop. He sampled man of the moment Stormzy in one track and later told me he also loved Skepta and Wiley, other UK artists; he certainly did his homework. Another track that got big screams was “Cypher 3: Killer,” which is Supreme Boi’s track with BTS’ rap line. Interestingly, he only performed Rap Monster’s part, probably because it is the most energetic of them all. It certainly worked as it was his most aggressive moment on stage and was the only time I really felt like he could take off.

Supreme Boi was followed by crowd favourite Kidoh, who tried hard with less material than the rest of them. He jumped around a lot but never seemed to be fully into it. His main track “Pretty Mofucka” is disappointingly generic trap and did little for me live. I was happy to see him perform his new song “Ride,” which takes more of the vapourwave influences. The performance lost out, though, by not having female vocalist DUVV there to sing along or someone else to take her place.

Also on KultScene: Two Years Later Sewol Ferry Accident Still Resonates in K-Pop Memory

They all came alive again, however, when the three of them performed together. Rock Bottom anthem “Nicki Minaj Girls” particularly worked well. It showcased not just their talent as individual rappers but also their unity as a whole team, a team that Kidoh says is built on a healthy amount of conflict everyday. “KFC” also went down well and was the only song that the crowd lapped up and joined in on. It was odd, however, hearing a group of young girls chant back “wreck that pussy” throughout.

This sort of brushing over of the details is part of a big problem in Korean hip-hop for me. Before the show, they told me they were unique because they were able to stretch beyond boundaries. But, unfortunately, they showed little real sign of doing this in London. Not that it wasn’t a good gig; it was exciting and a lot of fun, but nothing about it was concurrent to average rap. Rapping about wrecking pussy and being the best is tired and, frankly, such a trope that it only ever feels dishonest. All the macho posturing is too self-conscious for its own good. Although they do have interesting sounds to distinguish themselves, Rock Bottom have a long way to go alongside Korean hip-hop as a whole.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Were you at Rock Bottom? What did you think of the concert? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

Teen Top Spoke to KultScene & Delivered an Exciting Show in New York City

April 6, 2016/in Events /by Tamar Herman

Photo Credit Anna Lai

Bringing their charisma and typical flare, Teen Top hyped up audiences aplenty in New York City on Saturday night. The RED POINT 2016 Teen Top US Live Tour brought Niel, L.Joe, C.A.P, Chunji, Changjo, and Ricky to Terminal 5 to perform in front of their dedicated fans, reuniting the group and New York area K-pop lovers for the fourth time in three years. Moreover, in a special pre-show interview, KultScene spoke to the act.

[Read the full interview at the bottom of the page.]

“Are you watching our performance today?” Asked Niel through a translator in the middle of the interview. “Scream loud and get excited.”

Starting off the night draped in passionate red suits with “It’s No Joke (Rocking),” the six twenty-something K-pop idols launched into their two-hour long set that switched off between frenetic dance songs, crooning ballads, and some show stopping hip hop numbers. The connection between the group and their fans was apparent as purple fanlights waved by hundreds of Angels, Teen Top’s official fanclub, lit up the concert hall as Teen Top performed old and new hits alike. The energy was clearly there, living up to a promise made by Teen Top earlier that evening.

“What’s different from our last time we were here [is that] we’re promoting our new songs and on top of that each individual has songs that they’ve written or produced so we want to perform that to for the fans in NY,” said Teen Top ahead of taking the stage. It was a lot to promise, considering that many concertgoers had seen Teen Top perform during the group’s 2014 tour and twice in 2015, during a free concert and KCON NY.

Also on KultScene: HISTORY Talks Teamwork & Upcoming Releases [INTERVIEW]

The six members of Teen Top carried through on their words, with each song, from the beautiful rendition of ballad “Day” to the debut New York performance of their newest song “Warning Sign,” were presented in a fresh way, highlighting Teen Top’s maturity as a K-pop act that had reached the sixth year of their career. Although they were suffering from jetlag, Teen Top had Angels cheering with delight through songs like pump up anthem “Hot Like Fire” and the fan-dedicated “Angel.”

“This tour, we’re looking forward to providing energy to our audience,” said Teen Top. “We want to return the feedback we’ve gotten from our fans and give it back to them.” And Teen Top did just that, despite being visibly exhausted from their transcontinental flight and hectic tour schedule. Interspersing powerful group numbers with individual solo stages, Teen Top took the night at a steady, businesslike pace while offering up a variety of different interpretations of their iconic sleek sound and style.

The highlight of the night was clearly the solo performances. While coming across as a cohesive group during their group routines like “Ah-Ah” and “Don’t Drink,” Teen Top’s individual members spent much of the night reminding the crowd of the specific skills that make Teen Top’s members worthy of being members of a popular idol group.

L.Joe’s English took center stage as the rapper MC-ed the night, broken into group performances and solo stages, like Niel’s springtime “Affogato,” Chunji’s melancholic power ballad “Dream of a Doll,” Ricky and Changjo’s cover of Crush’s R&B tune “Sofa,” Changjo’s solo of “I Fancy You,” and C.A.P’s powerful ad-lib filled take on Action Bronson and Chance The Rapper’s “Baby Blue.”

With 27 songs, including encore song “Clap,” Teen Top’s show took New York Angels on a journey that ended far too early. But the fans there at the intimate concert that night were some of Teen Top’s most dedicated fans this side of the world and are sure to remember it for the rest of their lives.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Our interview with Teen Top below.

KultScene: Welcome back to New York City. You’ve been here several times. How have you prepared something new for the Red Point tour?
Teen Top: What’s different from our last time we were here [is that] we’re promoting our new songs and on top of that each individual has songs that they’ve written or produced so we want to perform them for the fans in NY.

Also on KultScene: K-Dramas Continue to Explore LGBT Themes With Coy Devices

KS: Can you tell us a bit about “Warning Sign” and how it’s something different from your other singles?
Teen Top: The difference between our new song and our previous songs is that they have different characteristics and different styles of music and different physical concepts.

KS: What are you looking forward to this trip?
Teen Top: What we’re looking forward to this tour is providing energy towards the crowds, we want to return the feedback we’ve gotten from our fans and give it back to them.

Niel: Are you watching our performance today?
KS: Yes.
Niel Scream loud and get excited.

KS: What does Teen Top have planned for the rest of the year?
Teen Top: For the rest of 2016, you can expect individual members to perform solos and star in dramas and musical. Very excited to see individual performances.

What do you think of Teen Top? Have you ever seen them perform live? Who else would you like KultScene to interview? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

5 Songs to Prep You for Dynamic Duo’s ‘The Grand Carnival 2016’ U.S. Tour

March 3, 2016/in Events /by Tamar Herman

If you’re ready for something Dynamic, this Duo is what you’ve been waiting for. Puns aside, the iconic Korean hip hop act Dynamic Duo is making its way stateside this March. Beginning with a show in New York City on March 11, Choiza and Gaeko are heading to Chicago on March 13, Atlanta on March 16, and completing the series in Los Angeles on March 19.

The two have been together for more than a decade and are at the forefront of Korean as the founders of the hip hop label Amoeba Culture. With so much experience, there’s a large repertoire of songs that Dynamic Duo will perform during the tour and there’s so little time to listen to it all. Our list features a few songs that will familiarize even the most casual fan of K-hip hop with the pair’s sound.

1. “Jam”

Dynamic Duo’s “Jam” (“Honey Jam” in Korean) is the group’s latest popular single and was released last November. The innuendo-filled song and music video fit right in with the current groovy trend invading Korea’s hip hop scene. The pounding, sexy “Jam” is all about being together and getting it on like bees do. “Honey jam, tonight’s super fun,” the pair sings as they compare themselves to hard working bees trying to get honey from the ladies. With a cameo from Honey Lee and a parody of BIGBANG, the music video is a lot of fun and different from many other videos Dynamic Duo released last year.

2. “Ring My Bell”

The song, featuring vocalist Naeul, was released in 2004 and is a remake of Anita Ward’s “Ring My Bell” from the ‘70’s. The Dynamic Duo song a more old-school hip hop style than some of Dynamic Duo’s more recent, R&B focused songs. They definitely have a fond spot in their hearts for their debut song, and they’ve performed it over the years so even though “Ring My Bell” has a bit of a dated style, the song is a surefire banger that will get everyone moving.

Also on KultScene: ‘Cheese In The Trap’ & ‘Answer Me 1988’: tvN’s 2nd Male Lead Problem

3. “BAAM”

Dynamic Duo was caught by the exciting woman that makes them exclaim “BAAAM” back in 2013, but we’re still singing this funky song a few years later. The beat-heavy song pulls out all of the guns with a variety of different genres explored throughout the track. The pair raps about the heartfelt feelings of a man who admires and loves a woman who is driving him crazy with her carefree lifestyle in this smooth, synth heavy song. With a variety of beats and vocal styles, including a really cool vocoder performance from UV’s Muzie, “BAAAM” was ahead of its time and seems more like a song that came out last month than one that came out three years ago.

4. “J.O.T.S” feat. nafla

While “Jam” was the more popular single from “The Grand Carnival,” but the pair also released the dramatic single “J.O.T.S” last November. “J.O.T.S” stands for “jump over the slump” and, fittingly, the song is all about hardships. The lyrics are raw as Choiza and Gaeko rap about their personal struggles; Gaeko raps about difficulties he’s faced as a musician, comparing writing lyrics to solving difficult math equations as Choiza raps about struggling to live while finding happiness. nafla joins the pair in the aggressive, take no shit chorus of the song that declares “my future’s so bright.” The music video is a gritty, old-school style video that is a must see for any Dynamic Duo fan.

Also on KultScene: Artist Spotlight: 4TEN

5. “Dodoripyo”

“Dodoripyo” doesn’t appear on the setlist that MyMusicTaste shared from the upcoming tour, but it’s still a personal favorite so a must for this list. The title, which means “repeat sign” in English, demands to be listened to in a car on a night when you have a lot to think about. While the album is called “The Grand Carnival,” songs like “J.O.T.S” and “Dodoripyo” suggests that there are some dark clouds surrounding the fun times. The stripped down rap and laid-back instrumentals make it easy to imagine that the Duo earnestly put pen to paper and wrote the song in a matter of minutes while talking casually about their everyday headaches. Gaeko raps about the struggles of managing Amoeba Culture and the need for money to pay bills, alluding to his marriage and child, while Choiza mourns to go back to the past when life was easier and less hectic. The chorus is all about the desperate, repetitive life that they find themselves living in. It’s dark, but “Dodoripyo” is Dynamic Duo at their most earnest and a song that everyone can relate to.

Want to attend? Tickets for the the Los Angeles show at Nokia Theater and the New York show at Playstation Theater are already being sold through AXS, while tickets for the Chicago show at Vic’s Theater can be bought through ETIX. Fans who want to see Dynamic Duo at Atlanta’s Loft theater can buy their tickets through Ticket Alternative.

What Dynamic Duo song do you want to see performed live? Share your favorite Dynamic Duo in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

Fans Go ‘Psycho’ At HISTORY’s London Concert

February 26, 2016/in Events /by Eve Backhouse

We all know how passionate K-pop aficionados can get about their stars, but when Korean boyband HISTORY came to London on Sunday, February 21 the enthusiasm of the fans bordered on hysteria. By 11 that morning, a humored crowd had assembled outside the O2 Academy Islington and were singing the band’s hits, as well as signing a huge Union Jack flag to present to the members of HISTORY.

The venue opened its doors at 5 p.m. and the diehard fans, officially acknowledged by History and their management as Storia, filled the 800 capacity hall in no time. With the show scheduled to start at 6 p.m., the audience sang, chanted, and waved fluorescent green glow sticks in feverish anticipation of seeing their favorite K-pop idols. Several well-crafted fan banners were also seen in the crowd and were so large that the band couldn’t possibly fail to spot them.

The roof very nearly lifted off the venue when the members of HISTORY first appeared on stage, and the guys looked bemused and delighted in equal measure by their rapturous reception. Immaculately dressed in black brocade jackets, black trousers, and casual shoes, the band opened with “Dreamer,” their debut song from 2013. HISTORY immediately wowed the crowd with their harmonious vocals and slick choreography, making full use of the entire stage area to showcase their dance skills.

The concert consisted of HISTORY performing songs from their Korean discography along with the addition of their most recent Japanese single, “Lost.” Songs like “Torn Apart,” a melancholic acoustic ballad, “Tomorrow,” an upbeat song with a Latin/Swing vibe, and “Nobody Nowhere,” a mid-tempo number featuring prominent Spanish guitars, really stood out throughout the course of the night.

Do Kyun’s solo stage was noticeably the only point in the show when the noise from the crowd subsided, and during his heartfelt ballad you could have heard a pin drop. He enthralled the fans with his powerhouse vocals, which seemed incongruous with his shy and quiet persona, and received rousing cheers and applause for his efforts.

“What Am I To You” followed the ballad with its infectious, upbeat Latin rhythms and was a real crowd pleaser. The song perfectly showcased HISTORY swaggering dance moves and flawless synchronicity; it had the audience singing along and screaming loudly throughout the entire performance.

Also on KultScene: EXO Made The Audience Feel Like One At EXO’luXion New York

Between songs, HISTORY maintained a high level of interaction with the audience and entertained everyone with some hilarious comments, relayed in English by a female translator. Jae Ho remarked that he found the girls in the UK very pretty and was immediately ribbed by leader Kyungil, who told him: “You will say the same thing in Paris!” Tongue firmly in cheek, Kyungil also informed us that in Korea Jae Ho was dubbed quite the Casanova.

The crowd went wild anytime Kyungil displayed his brotherly affection for youngest member Yi Jeong, prompting the pair to play up to this with good humor by hugging and kissing each other on the cheek. Jae Ho also elicited a similarly enthusiastic response, when he said that it was HISTORY’s first time in London and he wanted anyone who saw them sightseeing in the city to come up and say hello.

Predictably, “Psycho” drew some of the loudest screams of the night, with its erotically charged choreography and menacing vocals, during which Kyungil teased the audience by giving the impression he would perform the infamous hair pulling move on Yi Jeong earlier than expected and brought the house down when he eventually performed the movements of the group’s iconic dance. Si Hyoung then told us that HISTORY would perform a track exclusively for the London audience from their upcoming album, but drew a loud laugh when he swore us all to secrecy before the group performed the mystery track. Yi Jeong mesmerized the concert goers with his fantastic vocal range and sensitive solo, which was promptly followed up by two performances comprising of smaller units of HISTORY, the former featuring Jae Ho and Do Kyun and the latter Yi Jeong, Kyungil and Si Hyoung.

HISTORY broke for a question and answer session towards the end of the concert, during which Jae Ho tried, unsuccessfully, to quiet the crowd. Consequently, it wasn’t always possible to hear the questions and answers relayed by the translator, but there were some standout moments. For example, when Kyungil was asked by one female fan: “Why are you so handsome?” she was visibly shaken when he fixed her with a smoldering gaze and responded flirtatiously: “Why are you so cute?”

Si Hyoung was given a rousing cheer when he told us that HISTORY had come to give the audience energy, but the band had actually drawn more energy themselves from our enthusiastic support. It was during this time that the guys sat down on the stage and instructed their Korean staff members to take photographs of them with the entire audience as a backdrop.

Also on KultScene: 8 Misheard K-Pop Lyrics Pt. 4

The boys subsequently performed the highly anticipated and notoriously raunchy “Might Just Die” to the obvious delight of the assembled Storia. The routine’s most suggestive dance moves provoked the biggest uproar of the night and left the fans loudly chanting HISTORY’s name in the hope they would return for encores. In a show full of strenuous and demanding choreography, the boys returned to perform both Yi Jeong’s composition “Ghost” and their second Korean single “Tell Me Love” with their boundless energy and enthusiasm still intact. Just as well, because HISTORY had a meet and greet event scheduled immediately afterwards!

At the end of such a memorable evening, the crowd was understandably reluctant and sad at the prospect of having to bid farewell to the band and many dedicated fans were still waiting around outside the venue at 9 p.m., hoping to see HISTORY’s final departure after a night full of memories.

Moreover, KultScene had the opportunity of interviewing HISTORY, so be sure to check back for that in the next couple of days!

What do you think of HISTORY’s show? Did you attend any of the European stops on HISTORY’s tour? Share your experiences and thoughts and what you’re wrongly hearing in K-pop songs in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

EXO Made The Audience Feel Like One At EXO’luXion New York

February 24, 2016/in Events /by Tamar Herman

EXO’s first ever North American tour came to an end on Sunday night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. But while the performance was the fifth and final stop of the North American leg of EXO PLANET EXO PLANET #2 – The EXO’luXion, it felt like the start of something new for many in the crowd. With EXO and their East Coast fans coming together for the first time ever, the night was one filled with euphoria as the audience and artists built a bond through the night.

Amidst an outpouring love from EXO-L’s (EXO’s official fanclub), the energy was intense as EXO took the stage. Even prior to the start of the show, the excitement was palpable as fans screamed every time a picture of their favorite EXO member flashed on screen, with the loudest cries dedicated to MIA member Lay who is resting from an injury from a television shoot in China.

The Prudential Center filled up near maximum capacity with a white ocean of fans waving official lightsticks, chanting along to EXO’s songs playing prior to the concert. The show kicked off with a video highlighting the mythology of EXO’s members being extraterrestrial beings with supernatural powers, hyping the audience up for the energy EXO was about to showcase.

Also on KultScene: 8 Misheard K-Pop Lyrics Pt. 4

Throughout the next few hours, EXO showed the audience what made them worthy of that place in the Korean music scene. Despite the language barrier, EXO and EXO-L’s alike understood one another through shared passion as soon as EXO took to the stage. Beginning with “Overdose,” decked out in gold form fitting jackets, EXO performed the powerful dance track as fans let loose their frantic cries of adoration. The song, the group’s final single before several member departures, had been reworked artfully to accommodate the eight present members. While there were fewer members on stage than the dance initially called for, there was no lack amongst EXO’s introductory performance.

After the bombast of “Overdose,” EXO launched into two early songs, pre-debut track “History” and their debut song “MAMA.” Reigniting nostalgia for EXO’s early days, “History” and “MAMA” acted as a gateway into a journey through the group’s repertoire. The performances of older songs so early in the night set the tone for the rest of the concert, as the members reassured fans that they will continue to live up to the group’s slogan to always be there: “We are one.”

Following the three intro songs, EXO’s members took to the center of the stage and introduced themselves to the audience to their New York-New Jersey audiences for the first time. Giddy with excitement, the members showed off a bit by singing their names and a short rendition of “Empire State of Mind.” Several members spoke in English, with leader Suho taking on much of the MCing throughout the evening.

However, one recurring issue relating to EXO’s popularity and their intense fan base came to light. The introduction ended with one of multiple request by the group to the crowd in the standing area, with the members leading a chant of “One step back” as EXO urged fans to allow for breathing room and safe conditions amidst the pit. While security was ample and doing what it could, throughout the night, numerous fans in the standing area fainted and were injured in the struggle to get closer to EXO. Aware of their influence, the members raised awareness to the situation numerous times throughout the night, urging the fans to take care of one another to ensure that everyone was able to enjoy the performance in a safe manner.

EXO went into a series of their B-sides that showcased the group’s wide-range of skills, beginning with an interpretive dance-driven rendition of “Don’t Go (Butterfly Girl),” that showcased the group’s softer side as Chen was able to display his belting powers for the first time that evening. After breaking up into pairs to perform the sensual song “Playboy,” EXO followed up by the emotional ballad “Baby Don’t Cry,” which featured a dance routine featuring Kai and Sehun. After the dancers were joined by the rest of EXO, it was time for the first performance without the majority of the members, as D.O., Baekhyun, and Suho performed “My Answer.” Even though there were cases of overusing backing tracking throughout the night in order to ensure more perfect performances, the group’s talented vocalists didn’t disappoint throughout the night. While D.O and Baekhyun are two of the best singers in EXO, leader Suho surprised the audience by holding his own alongside the vocal giants. Despite a minor crack during a solo, Suho more than exceeded expectations.

EXO displayed a wide range of musical styles that best proved to the American crowd what the K-pop act had to offer. Newer songs like the jazzy “Exodus” and the seductive power track “Hurt” got the crowd riled up, while sweeter songs like “Peter Pan,” “XOXO,” and “3.6.5” had the audience swaying in their seats singing along to the music before hundreds of eyes watched as EXO changed on stage between stage outfits, hidden only by white paper, during “Lucky.”

After the stream of songs, EXO’s members once again spoke to the audience, this time relaying their experiences exploring New York City. A casual comment about visiting the Disney Store in Time Square and Chanyeol expressing his love of Elsa, which led to EXO singing bits and pieces of the “Frozen” soundtrack. While it didn’t appear pre-rehearsed, the “Frozen” reference segued into EXO performing several out-of-season Christmas themed songs from their special winter albums, ending with the highlight of EXO’s most skilled vocalists – Chen, D.O., and Baekhyun- coming together to perform “Miracles in December.” Coming three months after the holiday, the theme seemed out of date, but fans ate up the concept and the elf-outfits.

EXO continuously made efforts to interact with their foreign fans as the night carried on, continuously joking around and playfully joking with the audience. Following the Christmas-themed portion, Xiumin and Chanyeol came out to teach a responsive Korean chant to the English-speaking audience. Even though many people in the crowd had no idea what they were saying, it was clear that by the time EXO performed the pump up song “Drop That” that the language barrier didn’t keep everyone from understanding their passion.

The highlight of the night was easily their hit song, “Growl,” as the audience jumped on EXO’s most well known song and took the opportunity to join in, singing along. Even though “Growl” is EXO’s most popular song to date, the group kept it fresh and exciting by putting their all into the performance. Following it up with their newest songs “Love Me Right” and “Call Me Baby,” EXO ended the concert with the bright, upbeat attitude of their new songs as they said farewell to the East Coast audience and promised that they will get through all future hardships thanks to the love and support of their fans.

“It’s been a healing moment for all of us,” said Xiumin about the concert. “You guys are really so hot, so perfect, so beautiful, so lovely.”

“We will come back for a happier time,” Baekhyun promised.

Also on KultScene: Jo Kwon’s ‘Crosswalk’ & Seulong’s ‘On The Way To Love’ Are Reminiscent of 2AM

“I feel like we finally became one through our music show,” added Suho. “Don’t forget today. I will not ever forget today forever.”

But no K-pop concert is ever really finished the first time around, and EXO came back on stage to perform two songs released at the end of last year, “Sing For You” and “Unfair.” As if an extension of their earlier promises, the group displayed their tenderness and love for their fans through the ballad “Sing For You.” They then brought the evening to a close with the upbeat, final song of the evening, “Unfair,” as the members played with confetti and stuffed animals fans were throwing onto stage as gifts.

As EXO left the stage for the final time, there was a sense of sadness from the crowd that the evening had come to an end, but also the utter happiness at being able to see the popular K-pop act in person and the knowledge that they were one of the many people to share in something special with EXO that night.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

What do you think of EXO’s show? Did you attend any of the stops on EXO’s North American EXO’luXion tour? Let us know! Share your thoughts and what you’re wrongly hearing in K-pop songs in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

5 Songs to Get Ready for Rock Bottom Crew’s Show in London

February 10, 2016/in Events /by Joe Palmer

Rising from the ashes of forgotten rap crew Daenamhyup and featuring a number of former idol trainees, Rock Bottom Crew have a good base to start off, but some work to do to set themselves apart. Rap crews springing up is no surprise given the mainstream popularity of rap in Korea at the moment . Now that being a rapper in an idol group is not as frowned upon as before, turning back to the underground after not getting into a group also gives some artists a second chance. This is the case for Supreme Boi and Kidoh of Rock Bottom. Supreme Boi is known for being a pre-debut member and current producer of BTS. Kidoh is a former member of Topp Dogg who seemingly left on good terms, just wanting to pursue his personal goals.

While trawling through their back catalogue, it’s easy to see a certain sound that captures what Rock Bottom is. Modern vaporwave trap permeates throughout their tracks. Even with few songs that feature all of them it’s easy to hear the throughline. Clearly influenced in sound and flow by the ‘90s Atlanta hip-hop scene (or Keith Ape and the Underwater Squad), trap beats hold together the songs as the crew let their vocals loose. It’s the addition of floaty synths and retro samples that really draw the attention though. Giving them a slightly softer edge than your average try hard Korean rapper.

Along with the aforementioned Supreme Boi and Kidoh, Rock Bottom bring fellow BTS trainee i11evn, producers Hashmate and Type-C, and Don’t Call Me A Dog (who may be a rapper or a model or a producer or all of the above, I’m not really sure to be honest), to London, UK, for a one-off concert. The show will be at Camden’s The Underground on April 14. Tickets will go on sale at the end of February and range from £15 for presale, £20 standard, £35 early entry, and £45 main show + after party.

Now time to get excited, here are five of Rock Bottom’s best and most well known songs.

Also on KultScene: 5 Female K-Pop Acts Taking On Sexism

“Nicki Minaj Girls” by Rock Bottom

Every crew needs their signature song. Something simple enough that each rapper can spit over it in their own style while still having enough of a hook to work as more than a showcase of talent. For Rock Bottom this song is “Nicki Minaj Girls.” It is their call to action; each member brags and disses in typical fashion. The music as well is typical of this type of song, carried by a trap beat, it has inflections of ringing electronics and bassy synths. The passion and anger they bring serve to sell the song. Supreme Boi shouts “Rock Bottom place to be.” It’s hard not to take his word for it.

“Hawaii” by Supreme Boi

Supreme Boi tones it down slightly on “Hawaii,” his soundtrack for spring break hangovers. His aggressive delivery remains in parts but the song floats on its dreamy vocal samples and house sounds. In between his raps, pianos mellow things out creating a vibe that is a first relaxing, but with continued raps becomes creepy and unsettling. In other words, perfect for that morning after “Where the fuck am I?” feeling.

“Siwi” by i11evn

i11evn continues with a chilled out sort of vibe on last year’s single “Siwi.” It’s three and a half minutes of pure rap skill. The song spins cycles with retro muzak remaining for the whole song over a trap beat. i11evn provides the variations with laid back flows interspersed with whines and shouts.

Also on KultScene: ‘INFINITE Effect’ in Los Angeles was Anything but ‘Bad’

“PRETTY MOF#CKA” by Kidoh

If “Hawaii~” and “Siwi” show the vaporwave side of Rock Bottom, Kidoh’s ”PRETTY MOF#CKA” shows us how they do trap. That is, just like everyone else. At the first few beeps of synth you could even mistake it for “It G Ma.” As a song to upload onto your Soundcloud, it works quite well though. Kidoh shows an agitated angry side to him that maybe someone who knew him as a member of Topp Dogg would never have seen. Best of all it could be an absolute frenzy when played live.

“Jong-Ro” by Hashmate

Something that might not be heard at the concert but could be a great warm up track is producer Hashmate’s instrumental “Jong-Ro.” It brings new meaning to term vaporwave by being as ethereal as a plume of smoke. The synths are ultra smooth and envelope you as it drifts along with its slow tribal drums. That is, until it becomes a house track towards. Drums kick in and break you out of your trip providing a banging end to a chilled out track. This combo of heavy and light is a clear theme with the music of Rock Bottom and could prove to provide an electric night out.

Do you plan on going to Rock Bottom? What are your favourites from them? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

‘INFINITE Effect’ in Los Angeles was Anything but ‘Bad’

January 16, 2016/in Events /by Alexis Hodoyan-Gastelum

Three years ago, INFINITE got one of the worst — if not the worst ever — send offs for the U.S. leg of their first world tour “One Great Step” in New York. Crowds of fangirls in the pit pushed and shoved each other to the point that some fainted and the members themselves had to try to appease them in between songs. With the Los Angeles stop of their INFINITE Effect world tour at the Microsoft Theater on January 10, the first of two shows in the States, the stakes were at an all time high to start off in a good way, both for the fans’ behavior and the group’s smooth performance.

The evening started out the usual way: INFINITE’s music videos were played on the screens, which fans sang and danced to while they waited for the show to begin. But after the “Bad” music video and the opening concert videos (VCRs) played, the lights went out and the member’s silhouettes appeared behind a white screen. Screams and loosing-of-shit ensued. When the curtain finally fell, the INFINITE boys, decked out in white costume suits, immediately proceeded to perform “BTD,” “Paradise,” and “Be Mine” together with a live band.

In K-pop, the usage of live bands in concerts is rare. Bringing musicians and their instruments along for the trip with the rest of the crew is expensive. In my experience, I’ve only seen huge groups like 2NE1 and BIGBANG have musicians play their songs live during their shows. Plus, most K-pop songs are produced entirely in computers that only require a sound engineer to hit play. INFINITE’s sound, however, lies somewhere in between the two spectrum of eclectic instrumentals and retro beats. Believe me when I say you have not fully experienced songs like “Destiny” and “The Chaser” until you hear it with live instrumentals. And INFINITE’s management knows this for they’ve continuously brought bands on their world tours, like any world class artist would.

Also on KultScene: Video of the Top 25 Korean Songs of 2015

If the live music is what brings INFINITE’s songs to life, their vocals are what nourishes them. They were simply too damned good. In fact, I thought they were lip syncing throughout the show until Woohyun was noticeably caught up in his feelings during “Footsteps” and “Love Letter.” Actually, all of the members seemed visibly tense throughout the first portion of the show. It wasn’t until the solos and sub-unit performances that the guys finally loosened up. Sungkyu kickstarted our feels with “Kontrol,” Woohyun poured his soul onstage with his self-composed song “Everyday,” INFINITE H got everyone pumped with “Sorry I’m Busy” and “Pretty,” while INFINITE F sent us into diabetic coma with “Heartbeat” and “My Girl.”

Throughout their career, INFINITE has been known for their elaborate costumes. However, with their latest comeback, the guys are being styled in a more modern and urban style. That look carried was carried the tour as INFINITE was decked out in several Versus, Off-White, and Astrid Andersen numbers. The only other costume look they wore was for the encore and it was a simple black and red blazer and pants look. Truth is, when wearing the casual outfits, the members seemed more relaxed and delivered fun performances of “Nothing’s Over” and “Entrust.” For “Cover Girl,” INFINITE even risked their lives and came off the stage and onto the different aisles of the venue where fangirls mobbed them. It was cute, completely unexpected, and nerve-wrecking, considering American Inspirits’ notoriety.

Actually, the members didn’t shy away from interacting with fans throughout the whole show. Dongwoo sang to fans directly, held their hands during songs, and even had conversations while the other members spoke to the audience. L kept it cool and swooned more than one fangirl with his winks. Hoya thanked fans for their support through his recent knee injury and assured he was fully recovered. Sungjong and Sungyeol took many phones from the audience to record videos, and Sungkyu even took selfies with a few others. Woohyun, who started out the concert looking a little down, was all smiles and seemed very proud of himself when talking about “Everyday.”

For the last part of the show, INFINITE definitely saved the best for last for they delivered stellar performances of their recent hits “Back” and “Bad,” and, of course, the classic and ethereal “The Chaser.” And even if the set list excluded jams like “Man in Love,” we got a good compromise with “Moonlight,” off of their newest album. Moreover, they performed only a couple of ballads. But rest assured, INFINITE only needed one shot to show their vocal strength and growth, and that was with the flawless interpretation of “Between Me & You.”

But, as we all know by now, the show doesn’t end when they say it does. Quite fittingly, the boys came back for their encore to the sound of “Come Back Again” and bade farewell with “Together.” For their closing remarks, the boys thanked everyone involved in “INFINITE Effect” and the fans as if they had won an award. They even hinted at an INFINITE F comeback and promised fans they would come back sooner than they did this time.

Also on KultScene: Top 30 Korean B-Sides of 2015

I’m sorry for other K-pop acts for saying this, but INFINITE is the real deal. Not only do they sing really good live, but they dance in perfect synchronization without missing a beat or ruining a note. Moreover, the live band enhances the whole experience by bringing out the elements of what makes Infinite’s sound great. With all this in mind, it’s impossible to limit them to the generic and plastic box of the forgettable boy bands that are just pretty faces who barely sing. INFINITE are true artists and performers, and “INFINITE Effect” is the testament of it.

Did you attend or plan on going to “Infinite Effect?” Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

VIXX or GOT7? Which Toronto K-Pop Con Headliner Are You? [QUIZ]

January 13, 2016/in Events /by Tamar Herman

Toronto K-Pop Con is a few months away, and organizer Pop Goes The World recently announced that VIXX and GOT7 will be headlining the three day event, along with two other currently undisclosed acts. While both K-pop boy bands will be performing in Toronto next May, VIXX will kick off the event on May 20, and GOT7 will perform on both May 21 and May 22.

While we definitely hope that every K-pop fan will attend both VIXX and GOT7’s shows, we know that people have biases towards one group over the other. It’s just how K-pop works. But do you know which group you really should like? This quiz will help you figure things out.

Tickets to see VIXX are already on sale, while tickets to see GOT7 go on sale Friday, January 15, 2016 at 8:30 PM EST on Toronto K-Pop Con’s official website. (Bonus: VIXX tickets come with free admission to all three days of the con.) Toronto K-Pop Con also just added Day6 to the line up so make sure not to miss out!
Visit: www.torontokpopcon.com/Tickets

Are you more like GOT7 or VIXX? Are you excited for Toronto K-Pop Con? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

5 Everyday EXO Looks We Love [+ North American The EXO’luXion Tour Information]

January 13, 2016/in Events, Fashion /by Tamar Herman

As far as K-pop acts go, EXO has kept it pretty simple when it comes to their stage outfits. While SHINee is the SM Entertainment poster boy for colorful skinny jeans, EXO is the company’s spokesperson for varsity prep fashion.

EXO keeps it typically pretty safe with less than shocking outfits (a la VIXX’s “Chained Up”), but they make the least-embellished outfits seem high class with a few key touches. Throughout much of last year, we’ve seen EXO keep it simple in the best way possible.

Jean on Jean

Jean on jean may make you think of Britney and Justin, but wipe that image from your mind and replace it with EXO’s take on the 2001 style. Because during their “Call Me Baby ” performances, EXO showed off a variety of different ways to wear the basic jeans and t-shirt combo.

From the members who kept it simple with a button down shirt paired with their jeans, or the more daring approaching like Xiumin’s vest-shorts combo and Kai’s zippered short-sleeved jacket, this may not be for everyone, but it works for EXO. (Except Chanyeol’s jumpsuit. Nobody should ever wear a denim jumpsuit except under threat of death.)

College Prep

Needless to say, 2015 was a busy year for EXO. So keeping it cozy was probably the best way to play it. They definitely did just that with their promotional images for their Japanese release of “Love Me Right.”

With button down shirts, sweatshirts, denim letterman jackets, jeans, loafers, and white socks, EXO could be mistaken for extras in a 70’s college film (“Animal House,” maybe?) Retro is the trend in K-pop, and this “Love Me Right” promo pic makes it blatantly obvious why. You take the style of the past, make it comfier for the present, put it on nine of the most popular men in Asia, then looking good is easy as 1,2,3.

Also on Kultscene: Whales & K-Pop: EXO, BTS, & The Loneliest Creature In The World

Black, Black, and More Black

If other looks donned by EXO this year were low key to the nth degree, their ad campaign for KFC had the members of EXO back in black. This urban take on their jacket and jeans concept had EXO looking a bit like a group of biker wannabes, and that’s okay.

High tops and ripped jeans kept it comfy, but the different styles of black jackets and black shirts showed off the individuality of each EXO member. The detailing is nuanced, but appropriate for each member: Suho (peddled as the most high brow of the group thanks to his family background) still has a blazer on, while the rappers are in similarly draped jackets.

Colorblacked Shirts

Perhaps it’s not color blocking if it’s just a few parts of their shirts, but whatever it is, EXO looks good. Tight leather jeans aside, putting the EXO members in what could be boring button downs is one of the best things SM Entertainment’s stylists have ever done. Offering a new take on a simple, old school style is one of the things that EXO (and their stylists) are the best at and this is a look EXO should hold on to.

The shirts, each of which is differentiated to highlight each member of the massive group as individuals, are all white bases with black portions. Some come off as being more traditional, with just the collar or arms blackened, while others offer up a post-modern take on the white collar style. In the picture, Suho and Chen are in traditional white suit shirts that have been heavily altered, while Baekhyun’s shirt, with its rolled up sleeves and mostly black portions, looks more like a simple button down than something meant to be worn under a suit jacket.

Also on Kultscene: Playlist Sunday: Dystopian K-Pop Music Videos

Twenty-Something Chic

EXO’s members definitely don’t pick all of their own clothes out, so it’s nice to see what they wear in between the live shows and in front of the paparazzi. SM Entertainment provides regular photos of its artists behind the scenes, which means that this is EXO camera ready, but on their own terms.

The outfits are all similar to what EXO wears on stage (likely because of personalized corporate gifts and sponsorship). There are the varsity tees, jackets, and button downs. But they look comfortable, and each member of EXO is doing his own thing, looking like the 20-somethings they are. Their personalities are obvious; it’s easy to tell which member doesn’t care at all about being anything but cozy (spot the member in sweats) while other members practice in leather jackets, dress shoes and/or parts of their stage outfits.

Speaking of stage outfits, some lucky North American fans are going to see EXO for the first time next month at EXOPLANET #2 – The EXO’luXion – in NORTH AMERICA. MyMusicTaste is working with SM Entertainment to bring the group on their first ever North American tour, and tickets are going on sale later this week.

Here’s all the information that you need to know if you’re interested in buying tickets. Seating charts have yet to be released, but MyMusicTaste shared ticket prices through their Facebook page.

All tickets go on sale Saturday, Jan 16 at 8PM EST/5PM PST.

Feb. 10 Verizon Theater [Dallas, Texas] — Tickets on sale through Axs
Section A: 195 USD
Section B: 165 USD
Section C: 110 USD
Section D: 75 USD
Feb. 12 Thunderbird Arena [Vancouver, British Columbia] — Ticketmaster
Section A: 195 USD
Section B: 165 USD
Section C: 110 USD
Section D: 75 USD
Feb. 14 Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena [Los Angeles, California] — Ticketmaster
Section A: 195 USD
Section B: 175 USD
Section C: 160 USD
Section D: 130 USD
Section E: 80 USD
Section F: 60 USD
Feb. 19 Rosemont Theater [Chicago, Ohio] — Ticketmaster
Section A: 195 USD
Section B: 165 USD
Section C: 110 USD
Section D: 75 USD
Feb. 21- Prudential Center [Newark, NJ] — Ticketmaster
Section A: 195 USD
Section B: 175 USD
Section C: 160 USD
Section D: 130 USD
Section E: 80 USD
Section F: 60 USDWhich EXO look do you like the best? Are you going to their tour in North America? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.