Playlist Sunday Archives - Page 7 of 16

Weekly K-Pop Faves: June 20 – 26

June 26, 2016/in Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

Every day there is new music coming out of South Korea and each week our writer’s pick some of their favorite releases to feature in our weekly K-pop faves playlist. This week, Kultscene’s staff discovered some songs from a rising boy band, the competitors on this season of ”Show Me The Money”, and a surprise hit from summer’s favorite girl group.

“Emptiness” by MADTOWN (Released June 21)

For those who’ve listened to MADTOWN before, we can all agree that “Emptiness” was quite the unexpected change for the idol group. Having debuted with a lively and swagged out track “Yolo,” to then following up with a high energy dance track “New World” and funky “OMGT,” to see them transition over to a mellow ballad was rather refreshing. “Emptiness” showcases tranquility and sorrow, both of which are things we haven’t seen with MADTOWN’s past comebacks. There are moments of despair, moments that make you want to clench your chest due to a surge of heartache (yes, Jota, I feel your pain), to moments where all you want to do is run into a significant ones arms.

–Tam

Also on KultScene: Let’s Discuss: Park Yoochun & The Changing Perception Of Leading Men in K-Dramas c

“Comfortable feat. Simon D and Gray” by One (Uploaded June 24)

Despite the fact that I’m way behind on “Show Me the Money 5” (no pressure, lovely subbers!), that doesn’t shield me from videos from the performances popping up on my news feed. Such was the case with One, [Spoiler alert] who went on the AOMG team with Simon D and Gray. Other than his looks, I don’t care much for One. However, who can resist Gray and Simon D’s vocals and rap? I know I can’t, since I clicked on the video as soon as I realized they were both on the track. It’s unusual to see these two established rappers and producers singing sweetly at the beginning, but interesting nonetheless. I still think they’re better at rapping, but I now know what a Gray and Simon D ballad sounds like.

— Alexis

”I Like That” by Sistar (Released June 21)

If you had told me last week that I would ever be a fan of Sistar, I would have laughed at you. Their songs had never done it for me. Then came “I Like That,” the group’s latest song. With nearly 5 million views on YouTube in a little under a week, it’s clear that I’m not that only one that likes this song. Even though it’s less upbeat than their more recent hits, “I Like That” takes the best of Sistar’s sexy side seen in “Alone” and “Give It to Me” and combines it with the catchiness of their summer hits like “Touch My Body” and “Shake It.” The song is sultry to the extreme, but has a hook-filled chorus and also incorporates a cheesy cheer number halfway through to ensure it’s addictiveness. Combined with the music video, this is Sistar at their very best.

— Tamar

What was your fave K-pop song this week? Share your picks and 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.

Weekly K-Pop Faves: June 13-19

June 19, 2016/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

After last week’s domination by EXO, the K-pop scene remained a bit sleepy this week with only a few songs coming out over the past few days. But that’s fine- our writer’s still were able to pick out a few new releases that all K-pop fans should be aware of.

DIA “On The Road” Released 14 June

DIA’s “My Friend’s Boyfriend” was a seriously underrated gem of last year. Thankfully with help from “Produce 101” and member Chaeyeon, the group gaining traction on the charts. To capitalize on this they released “On The Road.” “On The Road” is reminiscent of GFriend’s cute energetic sound and look. It’s hard to properly criticize DIA for this similarity, given that it’s expected for copies of popular artists and GFriend aren’t even the originators of this sound. What DIA do bring to this sound is a distinct sense of humour in that weird opening to the video. Maybe it’s not supposed to be funny, but it is. I also love the vocal rhythms in the chorus and the rap.

–Joe

Also on KultScene: Podcast Guide For Fans of All Things Korean Pop Culture c

Younha “Get It?” feat. HA:TFELT and Cheetah

If you’re a fan of retro alt-rock and girl power, then here you are. The fierce trio put together this synth pop attack on men who break their hearts. And it’s glorious. This take-no-shit single (and video) is playful in its aggressiveness and sounds like something straight out of the ‘80s. While an atypical sound for Younha, the styles of each of the three artists meld together as they demand mercy- Younha’s sweet tone contrast with the sultrier style of HA:TFELT (Wonder Girls’ Yeeun, who sports amazing purple hair in the video) and Cheetah’s tongue-in-cheek rap. (That said, I’m a huge fan of Younha’s former musical sound so I’m still a tiny bit saddened by the extreme shift.) The allusions to con artists and literary characters are something more K-pop songs definitely need. Hopefully this trio will reunite for similarly-styled songs because this was wonderful.

Also, I want to give a shout out to Bada’s special 20th anniversary release, “Flower” feat. Kanto.

–Tamar

Weekly K-Pop Faves: June 5-12

June 12, 2016/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

Let’s just admit it. No matter how much we praise the K-pop songs released this week, they will all be overshadowed by EXO. Not to say their singles are the best, but they definitely have all the attention. Nevertheless, here are a couple other of our faves this week.

“Heaven” by EXO (Released June 8)

This track from EXO’s third album “EX’ACT” stands out instantly amongst the darker tracks in the album and is alluring from the get go thanks to Chen’s honey voice. The smooth transitions between the raps and the vocal parts in “Heaven” flow perfectly with the constant melody and rhythm of the song, making for an enjoyable listen. The light-heartedness of the instrumentals suits the sweet and cheerful lyrics of the song to a tee.

— Anna

Also on KultScene: Tips on How to Maximize Your KCON 2016 Experience

“Heartbreak Hotel feat. Simon Dominic” by Tiffany (Released June 9)

SM Entertainment’s Station project has been an interesting thing to follow. Most releases have ranged from generic to weak. At its best though, it offers some of their artists a chance to shine by themselves (Amber is still trying, bless her heart). With “I Just Wanna Dance,” Tiffany already proved herself capable, but with “Heartbreak Hotel,” she keeps up the pace. Her voice is at its best in the mellow verses, containing a melancholic tinge that she rarely gets to emote. Along with simple piano melodies and shimmering synths this space of torn hearts is created well. I can even forgive the rap because Simon D is good and the beat changes effectively before kicking back in before he finishes.

— Joe

Also on KultScene: K-Pop Reactioner MRJKPOP talks YouTube, Producing, & Analyzing Korean Music

“Stalker” by U-KISS (Released June 6)

U-KISS break my heart. For such a long career filled with strong releases, they should be more popular than they are. But the resilience and innovation shown in “Quit Playing” is back with “Stalker.” The song is reminiscent of what Timbaland was doing for artists like Justin TImberlake in the mid-00s, and I live for it. Not to mention that each member was given the perfect part for their vocal range, so the song has no low moment. I especially love how they didn’t butcher it with a rap (sorry Eli). It’s a damn shame that they put out this song on the same week as EXO and has not even reached 200 thousands views in the six days since released. U-KISS will forever be an overlooked gem.

— Alexis

Weekly K-Pop Faves: May 23-29

May 29, 2016/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

The final (full) week of May brought a lot of returns from some of our team’s favorite artists. Girl groups, boy groups, solo artists, and a wide variety of genres are represented in this week’s KultScene weekly K-pop faves.

“Windy Day” by Oh My Girl (Released May 25)

With “Windy Day”, Oh My Girl threatened us with a most dreaded coffee shop ballad. I nearly stopped listening after twenty seconds due to intense disappointment, especially this being the best and most exuberant of all rookie girl groups. I perked up by Yooa and Binnie’s angelic pre-chorus and was absolutely hooked by the Middle East-inspired break after the chorus. Between these parts, the song is driven by Oh My Girl’s perpetual dynamism. First by the chorus vocals in which seven of the members participate in and then by those wonderful strings (might be an Oud) and choreography. No group has exuded such youthful apathy towards musical norms quite like Oh My Girl. They are the rightful heirs to Girls’ Generation’s throne.

— Joe

“Life in Color” by Beenzino (Released May 26)

After the lackluster that was “We Are Going To,” it’s comforting to see that Beenzino is back at it making up for the lost momentum after his “Up All Night” album. It’s no secret that Beenzino is #artsy: one of his most artistic music videos is last year’s “Break.” Continuing the concept and, with another Digipedi music video, comes “Life in Color.” The track is more on the experimental, hypebeast hip-hop side rather than the Southern rap stuff Illionaire regularly does, which makes it that more refreshening. Korea is all about making rap music that doesn’t sound like rap music (mainly slow tempo tracks with a singer at the chorus), but Beenzino mastered this practice by creating something interesting and new while keeping it upbeat. I for one am now highly anticipating his new album (which drops tomorrow!) and hope we see more songs on par with “Life in Color” rather than “Break” and “We Are Going To.”

— Alexis

“so-so” by Baek A Yeon (Released May 23)

I accidentally came across this song while scrolling through Youtube. Baek A Yeon’s soothing vocals blended with the soft melody is easy on ears. This ballad track has R&B and soul effect to it which portrays the feelings of being single and lovesick. The lyrics are quite relatable and hold some bitter reality to them. The subdued effect of the song is neutralized by using pastel shades for the video. The music video has a cute concept and is pleasing to eyes. Baek A Yeon’s “So So” is skyrocketing the music charts, like her previous hits.

— Sana

”Monodrama” by Lay (EXO) (Released May 26)

I really missed hearing R&B from EXO, and even though he only makes up a ninth of the group, Lay’s “Monodrama” was enough to satiate that musical craving. Performed in his native tongue, this song is exactly what I imagine when I think of Chinese R&B. And like all quintessential R&B slow jams, this too makes generous use of layered claps and sensual guitars, giving it a very classic, old school sound. I don’t have to read into the lyrics (I mean, I did) to understand that this isn’t exactly a celebratory song because the instrumentals more than expressed the heartache that “Monodrama” is all about. Lay may not be the strongest vocally in his group, but with this comeback he definitely was able to brandish more than he did when he had to share lines with eight other members. Those several laudatory high notes alone probably made this one of SM Station’s best releases yet.

— Shelley

I was thoroughly absorbed in the music video for “All In” when I heard it the first time, to the degree that I honestly missed much of the song and had to go back to listen again. This music video, which appears to set up a dystopian trilogy featuring some of the members of Monsta X committing suicide, had me thinking of Nazi Germany, The Lord of the Flies, Japanese-occupied Korea, The Walking Dead, yaoi manga, and at least ten other K-pop music videos from the past decade. All at the same time. That said, because of the convoluted plot I feel like the music video honestly didn’t suit the song. As with all Monsta X singles, “All In” has an aggressive sound. Despite the pounding chorus and horn-heavy raps, the song isn’t actually about war or anger, so I feel like it should be accompanied by a music video about sports or some other difficult to achieve goal rather than a fight-for-life plot. The lyrics reflect being all in a relationship; translating this to being all in on a team or a competition makes sense while depicting it through revolution seems off the mark. But, back to the song, within two listens this pounding beat got stuck in my head and I really enjoyed the raps; It’s their most diverse single to date, while still retaining their specific style.

—Tamar

What song was your favorite of the week? 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.

Weekly K-Pop Faves: May 15-22

May 22, 2016/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

As summer nears in, K-pop releases are turning up the tempo. So for the faves songs of the week, most of them got us dancing and vibing. Check them out!

“10 Seconds” by AOA (Released on May 16)

I think everyone was at least a little bit disappointed by the AOA’s comeback “Good Luck”. It doesn’t seem to have the growing power of “Heart Attack” either so we can be thankful that the mini album has a couple gems. Best of the bunch is “10 Seconds”, a glistening synth pop track that plays up AOA’s strengths. It’s the perfect soundtrack to an 80s erotic film with a slower pace that allows for sexier vocals and choreography than anything AOA have done yet. Main vocalists Choa and Yuna shine with whistling ad libs while the other members need not exert themselves, favouring sensual whispers.

— Joe

Also on KultScene: Madeleine Music CEO Dongsoo Lee Shares About His Hopes & Motivations [INTERVIEW]

“All In” by Monsta X (Released May 17)

I’ll be honest, I didn’t have much interest for Monsta X when they debuted (at the time, I was juggling way too many boy groups to deal with another one.) But after seeing then at KCON LA last summer, I can’t help but pinch myself for not having given them the time of day. The groups’ latest release “All In” has entrancing beats from beginning to end, making it impossible to sit still. The song only gets better and better with each listen. Both rappers in Monsta X, Jooheon and I.M add a cool pizzazz and zing to the song making it all the more intense, to go along with the cinematic music video. Watching “All In” is like watching a dramatic post apocalypse movie with a whole lot of great visuals; both in structures and members wise.

— Tam

“Aphrodite” by B.I.G (Released May 16)

I honestly don’t know anything about B.I.G. Since I had included one of their songs in a Misheard Lyrics article in the past, when their video for “Aphrodite” popped up in YouTube, it caught my attention. I can’t say I loved this song or anything, but having zero expectations, it did leave a good impression on me. While the music video and their overall styling seems like something we’ve already seen from other groups throughout the years (I thought of History, for some reason), the song was refreshing in that in evoked a past time in K-pop. The song isn’t swarmed by EDM or trap or even your now standard #Swag hip-hop beats. I was also entranced by the cool contrast in the member’s voices; the vocal line has a high pitch while the rappers have deep voices. I especially like how the song doesn’t go hard a la Monsta X or iKON, but stays perfectly situated within the pop realm where the hip-hop beat is merely an accessory to the overall sound. I don’t think “Aphrodite” is the song that will catapult B.I.G to K-pop royalty, but it’s enough to keep me coming back to see how they’re doing.

— Alexis

Also on KultScene: 5 Tracks To Get You Ready for Sungha Jung’s L’Atelier Concert

“I Remember (How Are You These Days)” by KNK (Released May 16)

If it weren’t for the fact that I scrambling to look for something to write about for our Weekly K-pop Faves this week, I probably would have glossed over KNK’s surprise mid-tempo R&B track “I Remember (How Are You These Days).” It’s a shame really that the group chose not to promote the special release; the easy piano melody and friendly guitars makes it a perfect addition to any springtime themed playlists. It doesn’t go hard like their debut single “Knock” did, and it may be a safe song, but it’s pleasant enough to be enjoyed on its own. The longing vocals, added onto the similar instrumentals and sentimental lyrics pondering old love, reminds me a lot of the more ballad stuff that groups like BEAST has been putting out recently (that is, if they were still active). Throw in a few synths, and you just made yourself a spitting image of BEAST’s “At That Place.” Not to discount the song or the group, though. Despite still being in their awkward rookie group phase, KNK has proven in the past with their covers and now with this that their vocal capacity is anything but amateur.

— Shelley

“Save Me” by BTS (Released May 15)

BTS experimented and blended various genres for their latest album “Young Forever.” I am absolutely in love with the whole trilogy of “the Most Beautiful Moment in Life,” signature trademark of BTS and makes them stand out from the rest of the K-pop industry. “Save Me” is a sentimental track that holds various musical influences. This song consists of various EDM sub-genres from trance to techno and blending in with euro dance. The lyrics emphasize on redemption and desperation of love. For the music video, I was expecting something similar to “I NEED U,” sentimental and pessimistic. But “Save Me” is a dance choreography video with rhythmic moves. The video is shooted on a deserted landscape and gives a gloomy look, but it is aesthetically pleasing. The apparel is simple and elegant similar to the style of the “I NEED U” music video. “Save Me” is a soothing track with catchy chorus which is accompanied synth whistles that create an atmosphere of melancholy. All I can say is that this song is entirely different from “Fire” and I cannot get enough of it.

— Sana

What was your favorite K-pop song this week? Share your picks and 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.

Weekly K-Pop Faves: May 8-14

May 15, 2016/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

This week, we saw a slew of K-pop group and soloist comebacks and debuts. And while this column is all about picking faves, here are the ones that impressed us the most.

“Flower” by Subin (Released May 12)

Solo digital singles by lead vocalist members of idol groups released with little fanfare are my worst nightmare. Nine times out of ten they are the dullest form of ballad you can find. Companies obviously trying to capitalize on their groups’ downtime with a cheap and easy song that could catch on. All of that makes me appreciate Dal Shabet’s Subin so much more for her new track “Flower”. You could probably call it a ballad but “Flower” has enough going for it to make it not just worthwhile but my favourite song of the week. It’s the perfect summer slow jam with a number of musical flairs that bring it up a level. Joe Hisaishi-style pianos and reverbing fingersnaps make up the subdued rhythm of the track with organs and guitars adding the groove. Vocally as well it does not just go for the big moments, Subin whispers over the verses and has a kind of conversational style for the chorus refrain that immediately catches the ear.

— Joe

Also on KultScene: Celebrate KultScene’s 2nd Anniversary in Style With Our BE.ARUM Bracelet Giveaway [GIVEAWAY][CODE]

“Talk” by Tiffany (Released May 10)

I’ve never really cared for Tiffany. I can appreciate some of her parts within a Girls’ Generation song, but her voice is a bit… forced… for me. However, every preconception and bias and prejudice went out the window when I found out Nicola Roberts from the epic now-defunct British girl group Girls Aloud had written “Talk.” Honestly, it could be any idol girl singing this song and I’d like it. However, I will give Tiffany some credit for her interpretation, for she does a sufficient good job on the sexy/longing front. Nicola has been writing songs for other artists for years, much to my dismay, but having her and K-pop collide is mind-blowing and I’m here for it.

— Alexis

Also on KultScene: Win BTS’ “The Most Beautiful Moment In Life: Forever Young” Album for Our 2nd Anniversary [GIVEAWAY]

“Nodding” by Woohyun (Released May 8)

If Sungkyu got experimental on “27” (one of my favorite albums of 2015), Woohyun was set up to be the total opposite. And it is pure ballad perfection. Woohyun’s vocals have always been a mainstay of INFINITE’s songs, and his solo debut song “Nodding” is lyrical expressiveness at its best. His range is all over the place, bringing him to the highest falsettos at points, as he sings of the loss of love. A bit banal of a topic, but Woohyun’s sweet tone is like a warm blanket being wrapped around you when you’re feeling heartbroken. And the music video is so beautifully shot it deserves multiple viewings.

— Tamar

What was your favorite K-pop release this week? Share your picks and thoughts with us in the comment section and make sure to subscribe to the site, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter,Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

Weekly K-Pop Faves: May 1-7

May 8, 2016/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

“U” cover by Seventeen (May 5)

When it comes to Super Junior covers just about every other boy band, and some girl groups, has covered “Sorry Sorry” at some point. Yes, it’s an iconic song with an iconic dance by an iconic group that represents an iconic time in K-pop history, but it’s also a very predictable choice. “U” isn’t exactly a refreshing song to cover either, but done by Seventeen, well, it changes things. No other group can cover Suju better than them, really, since they have the chops, numbers, and talent. I even dare say that they’re an upgraded product of the Super Junior model — and this is coming from an ELF! Because even if they didn’t change the song’s arrangement much or the choreography, it still feels like Seventeen put their own flavor in it. I would’ve appreciated an original rap, but the purist in me also likes it as is. This massive group is proving that they deserve to be one of the next generation’s top tiers and I’m looking forward to even more Super Junior covers.

— Alexis

“Oh Ma Mind” by MIXX (released 3 may)

“I’m a sinner captured in a cage called you”

It’s not a sin to desire MIXX, nor do you need this boy to be your hero. You’re not a little princess, just a regular princess who can ride a white horse just as much as a prince. Tired gender tropes aside, MIXX have crafted maybe the best debut of the year so far (in a year of few great debuts). “Oh Ma Mind” is one of those classic K-pop tracks where it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what it is. It mixes vocal and musical styles to create something they can call their own. The vocals are typical for a cutesy girl group, fragile and sugar laced. The music is a funky mix of R&B and tropical synths that gleefully bounce. It also has a wonderfully fetishistic music video directed by production team of the moment, Digipedi. Given their involvement, a closer look at those gender stereotypes might yield some interesting results. But that’s an issue for another time. For now, let’s just bop and play some tennis.

–Joe

Also on KultScene: Girls’ Generation & The (So-Called) Copycat Generation

“Re-Bye” by Akdong Musician (released 3 May)

This comeback by K-pop’s favourite sibling duo may be two years late, but the wait was definitely worthwhile. One of two title songs off of their latest album “Spring Vol. 1/Puberty”, “Re-Bye” is an addictive track that fully showcases little sister Suhyun’s great and improved vocals. The accompanying music video is also a delight to watch, set in an opera house with the two siblings as undercover detectives. It’s both playful and thrilling, part of which can be credited to the arrangement of the piece and also to the vocal ability of the siblings. Their growth over the past two years is extremely evident in the maturity of their album as a whole and this was one of YG Entertainment’s best releases so far. Even though they came back at a time with a lot of K-pop competition, Akdong Musician stands out and will continue to do so in the industry. Here’s looking forward to the next release!

–Anna

“Green Window” by Akdong Musician/AKMU (released 3 May)

Like Anna, I’m another one who is a big fan of AKMU’s album, “Spring Vol. 1/Puberty.” But while the singles were decently solid, it was the b-side “Green Window” where I truly think the brother-sister duo shines. I really hope that they create a third music video to match the upbeat sound of “Green Window,” which I personally think thing is the song that most fits the album’s springtime theme. The song’s production recalls AKMU’s debut album “Play” with it’s almost juvenile instrumentation and hopeful lyrics; it’s almost impossible to listen to “Green Window” without feeling inspired. The song’s rainbow motif reflects the relative age of AKMU (both siblings are in their teens) while the lyrics themselves show insight into the human condition. The song is pretty fast paced throughout, but the staccato build into the bridge’s harmony and eventual synth sound is just inspired.

–Tamar

What was your favorite song this week? 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.

Weekly K-Pop Faves April 3-9: Chen & Heize, Mamamoo, NCT U, & LABOUM

April 10, 2016/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

As we’ve been doing for the past three weeks, instead of our normal Playlist Sunday we’re listing our weekly K-pop faves from this week. With so many releases and comebacks, it was hard to choose. But hey, someone’s gotta make these hard decisions.

“3 Strikes Out” by LABOUM (album released on April 6)

Starting their third year as a group, LABOUM continue with the colourful and cute style they are used to. Since debuting, they have failed to hit the heights of their first two singles, but have been consistently solid. Their latest mini album “Fresh Adventure” does little to change this but has one nice B-side that can be singled out. “3 Strikes Out” is busier than lead single “Journey to Atlantis” with pianos, synths, and all manner of percussion sounds. Each element twinkles with just the right amount of sweetness, never straying into sickly territory. The vocal range is also superior to the single, with similar chants but more variations and some rapping which works well. It also has the best stupid spoken English intro I’ve heard in awhile, “Oh let me introduce my boyfriend, he’s a jerk”.

— Joe

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

“The 7th Sense” by NCT U (released April 8)

Seemingly out of nowhere, SM Entertainment slayed the internet with its newest group NCT U and their single “The 7th Sense.” As a group, they’re a mix of SHINee’s look and tight choreographies, with EXO’s buttery R&B vocals and interactive moves, and iKON’s hip hop sound. Even if the members are kids, there’s just something incredibly sensual about “The 7th Sense” that makes it irresistible. It’s like a The Weeknd-meets-EXO song with better rappers (yes, I went there). Oh, because that’s a new development: SM has good rappers now, yay! Mark and Taeyong are just… *fire emoji x 100* Plus, I don’t know if they’re writing their own lyrics, but I think it’s public consensus that “And that’s a long ass ride” is probably the best English line in a K-pop song ever. Why SM decided to make this a subunit of their of their massive group project thing (does anyone even understand what they really want to do with that though?), and not have these kids promote and be a legit group is beyond me. I am, however, very happy this exists and will take what SM gives me.

— Alexis

“Lil’ Something” by Chen (EXO) & Heize (released on April 7)

The latest weekly release from SM Entertainment, “Lil’ Something” is a delightful track with an adorable music video. Featuring Chen as a lovestruck backstage crew member and Heize as a fashion show designer, the music video showed their developing romance and was successful thanks to the great acting of the two singers. At some moments Chen even gave me Baek Seung Chan vibes (Kim Soo Hyun’s character in “The Producers”). The instrumentals of this song were as rich as Chen’s vocals and Heize’s raps suited the upbeat tempo relatively well. While her raps could have been more prominent in the song, it was a good collaboration and I’m definitely looking forward to the next release.

— Anna

Also on KultScene: Reading The Political Signs of ‘Descendants of the Sun’

“Woohoo” by Mamamoo (released April 4)

Although it’s only a promotional song for LG, “Woohoo” is set to be one of Mamamoo’s most memorable tracks of 2016. The melodious upbeat style of the song suits Mamamoo’s vocal line perfectly while the bright concept matches the spring weather Seoul is experiencing. The funk and synth-pop elements fit in smoothly into the rest of Mamamoo’s repertoire, which has grown immensely in the last few months thanks to this and their latest album. Moonbyul’s rap comes across as anachronistic from the song upon first listen and downright jarring, to be honest. But she doesn’t disappoint even though it’s a bit out of place amidst the overall sunny song the swag-filled rap portion ends up falling in line with the rest of the parts of “Woohoo.” Spring-time songs do well in South Korea (I’m looking at you, “Cherry Blossom Ending”), and the all around musical sound and visual concept of “Woohoo” makes this something I’d love to see doing well.

— Tamar

What’s your favorite K-pop release from this week? Share your picks and 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.

Weekly K-Pop Faves: March 20-27

March 27, 2016/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

Each week, KultScene’s staff introduces our favorite new songs from Korea that were released during the last few days. This week, we introduce songs by Dean, Lyn, KittiB, and Amber.

1. DEAN “what2do” (uploaded March 23)

Along with Crush and Jeff Bernat, DEAN released “what2do” back in January. Each vocalist added their signature R&B flair that made it an impossibly irresistible song. With that being said, without a doubt, DEAN is the best thing about that song. So now that he’s performing it solo, I can’t help but to stan it. Don’t get me wrong, the original version in awesome, but being DEAN biased, him singing the song by himself is a nice treat for this fangirl who melts with the sound of even his yawn.

— Alexis

Also on KultScene: Girl Crush: KittiB

2. Lyn “With You” (uploaded March 23)

The latest addition to the ever-expanding list of original soundtrack (OST) songs for the currently airing hit drama “Descendants of the Sun” is “With You” an exceptional one by skilled vocalist Lyn. Lyn’s voice is at times soft and at times powerful, but she never fails to bring meaning and emotion to every lyric she sings. The instrumentals in this track blend together perfectly to create this song which is full of yearning and passion, befitting of the romance in this drama.

— Anna

3. KittiB “Doin Good” (uploaded March 21)

“Who knew I’d have so much fun breaking prejudices”

Of the small bit of Unpretty Rapstar I watched, KittiB was someone who always stood out. Her small stature hid an impressive strength not just to her voice but to her presence too. “Doin Good” continues a strong run from her with tracks that not just please the ear but are a part of her identity. It’s her angry retort to an ex but has traces of self hatred as well, something that feels a lot more honest that most rappers. Especially compared to the feature of Verbal Jint which works sonically, but his brags about money are tired. The trap beat is good but I really love the autotuned vocals in the chorus. They’re as a sort of mocking nature to the way her voice connects with it. I also really like this trend of purple, pink, and blue lighting in music videos.

— Joe

Also on KultScene: Battle of the Underappreciated K-pop Groups: A.cian vs. Lip Service

4. Amber “Borders” (March 24)

SM Entertainment’s STATION releases have been a bit overwhelming, but each song has been a gift. Last week’s addition was from Amber of f(x), who released an English-language self-composed track that is one of the most inspirational songs ever put out by a K-pop idol. “Borders” is all about achieving your goals and features Amber both as a singer and a rapper, giving her a chance to showcase her wide-range of talent. The song’s title hints to Amber’s background as a Taiwanese-American artist who moved to Korea to pursue her dream. The song is even more poignant given a message Amber wrote on the YouTube video of “Borders” that shows a new, self-aware element of K-pop: “I’ve been doing this job for a long time and right now I speak not as Amber of f(x) nor ‘celebrity’ Amber, but just Amber. Just plain, simple, human Amber. ‘Borders’ is more than a song; no glamorous concepts, no ‘trying to be cool.’”

–Tamar

What was your favorite song from the past week? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter,Instagram, and Tumblrto keep up with all of our posts.

Playlist Sunday: K-Pop in Wonderland

March 13, 2016/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

Becoming a fan of the K-pop industry is often described as going down the rabbit’s hole that you won’t be able to climb out of. In honor of K-pop fans everywhere, this week’s Playlist Sunday is dedicated to all things ”Alice in Wonderland”. The songs that we included are all based on the concept of the beloved story, whether it’s the story of the song itself or the respective music video.

Seungri’s 2011 solo release “V.V.I.P.” is basically a Korean version of “Alice in Wonderland.” We have cricket, a mad tea party, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, and instead of growing bigger by drinking the antidote, Alice grows older. Seungri’s role, however, is unclear. Maybe he’s the mad hatter or the white rabbit? Moreover, instead of going for the psychedelic colorful scheme, Seungri opted for a more posh and lush color palette, given the song is all about him showing of his fame, looks, and money. Overall, it’s a fun video to watch, even if I’m not sure the relation between the song and the concept.

— Alexis

Also on KultScene: Intro to AOMG [+ Follow the Movement 2016 North American Tour Info]

Boyfriend took the famous “Alice In Wonderland” tea party and card games to another, deadly level in the music video for their song “Bounce.” Painting the roses red while singing about a lover who is hiding holding out on affections, this music video takes its cues from Tim Burton’s haunting version of “Alice,” with life and love on the line as the white rabbit femme fatale taunts Boyfriend with her swinging pocket watch until they follow her down the rabbit hole. Boyfriend’s a stellar, but underrated, K-pop boy band whose music videos since the release of “Janus” in 2012 have been thought provoking with their storytelling and high production value. “Bounce” continues the trend and is one of K-pop’s most solid retellings of “Alice in Wonderland.”

— Tamar

Veteran queen of K-pop Son Dambi offered her own interpretation of Lewis Carroll’s iconic story with her 2012 single “Queen.” It references sparingly with images of playing cards, a big girl in a small room, and lyrics about waking up from fantasies to become the woman you want to be. What most people will get from listening to this song in 2016 is just how dated it sounds. The autotune and synths even sound from previous to that era. If you can get past that however there’s some great sounds to be found. The variety of vocals are wonderful; from whiny raps to angelic singing, Dambi shows a range of considerable quality. She even uses different inflections for different verses. I even love the autotune which, as the song goes on longer, starts to increase turning the song into piece of abstract digital art. The second (and final!) chorus adds auto tune and more electronic wobbles and chips as the song devolves into what could be a remix of what we heard at the beginning. Through the looking glass you might say.

— Tamar

What K-pop song reminds you of going down the rabbits hole? 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.