Page 55 – KultScene

8 K-Pop Girl Power Anthems Pt. 5

August 25, 2015/in Entertainment /by Alexis Hodoyan-Gastelum

Even if rare, K-pop songs that embodygirl power do exist, as we’ve noted in our four past versions of this list. And if this latest version of anthems is indicative of anything is that more and more women empowerment songs are coming out nowadays.Which is great! Because how many more silly songs about being head-over-heels for a guy and then completely devastated over a breakup do we really need? We do, however, need more songs that make women feel badass and capable, like the songs on this list.

1. Lee Hyori “Miss Korea”

In most of our K-pop girl power anthems installments, the queen Lee Hyori makes an appearance because women empowerment is one of the many things she embodies. And this time it’s time to talk about “Miss Korea.” Sure, beauty pageants don’t necessarily represent the most positive messages to girls, but Lee Hyori isn’t talking about competing with other girls over looks and “talents.” Oh no, the singer calls herself and anyone who is confident in herself “Miss Korea.”

Her opening line, “Hey pretty lady in that glass mirror, is something wrong?” is a bold and powerful statement, given that many girls don’t necessarily see themselves in a good light when it comes to their looks. “Miss Korea” builds up confidence in one’s looks, because even if it’s superficial, everyone has the right to feel pretty and desired and like they’re “the best girl in the world.” This song isn’t about her being the prettiest, it’s about everyone being “Miss Korea.”

2. 4Minute “Crazy”

Another song celebrating the self is 4Minute’s “Crazy.” In the song, they own and reclaim the negative term “crazy” and use it in their favor. People call you crazy? That’s fine because they think so too and they don’t think it’s something bad. To them, “crazy” equals being fun and having fun. By reclaiming the term that is often attributed to women when they display any kind of raw emotion, they’re really saying that your feelings are valid and being oneself is the only way to be. “Find your hidden self in the world before you tonight,” they sing, meaning that knowing and liking you who are is key.

Also on KultScene: Girls’ Generation’s “Lion Heart” & “You Think” Song Review

3. Amber “Beautiful”

Being a woman is a burden. We’re expected to act, dress, talk, and just overall be a certain way that society dictated a long time ago. And even with all the social changes and technological advances we’ve experienced over the years, some women are still being looked down upon for being “different.” No one encapsulates this feeling better than Amber with “Beautiful.” In the song, she talks about feeling trapped and words cutting deep into her heart, and yet, enduring it all. Because being a woman also means being strong. Despite the hate, Amber talks about rising above it all and continuing on, and there’s no more powerful message that a woman can emit than “I am happy to be myself.” Beauty standards, misogyny, racism and everything else can be against you, but if you’re comfortable with yourself, you have one less important battle to fight.

4. KARA “So Good”

There’s something very problematic about raising girls telling them they need to be “good girls.” But what does a “good girl” even mean? Is there a concept? A consensus? Probably not. So if a confident woman with agency attributes her own definition and owns it, it works out fine. Case point KARA with “So Good.” People talk about them because they’re confident in themselves and their looks. And it’s not that they’re cocky when they say they have “the most charm” or are the perfect girl with no imperfections and flaws. It means that, in a world where every magazine, movie, TV show or whatever makes you feel ugly, you laugh it off because you know you’re fabulous just the way you are and don’t have time for the haters.

5. Wonder Girls “Stop!”

Knowing one’s self comes with also knowing one’s worth and being confident, especially when it comes with dealing with the opposite sex or the same, depending on your preferences. Like 4Minute, people call Wonder Girls “crazy” for pushing away what they perceive as a “good guy” in their song “Stop!” “Stop!” is the song most leading ladies in romantic comedies should be singing because no one understands where this “love” came from all of a sudden. The girls don’t believe the guy truly loves them because they haven’t even know each other that long, and because of that, they’re telling him to swerve. But like every other entitled guy, he’s a pest and doesn’t respect their decision so Wonder Girls are left to tell him to just stop. Stop loving them, following them, having interest in them, and thinking about them because they don’t like it.

For some, being able to tell someone to piss off is second nature. But for a lot of women, this comes difficult to them, especially if the other person isn’t complying. So having agency and the confidence of saying all this is applaudable.

6. EXID “With Out U”

While on the topic of boys as significant others, more often than not, girls are the ones who get the short end of the stick. So if you need an f you song that’s unapologetic and shows a break up is not the end of the world, EXID’s “With Out U” is a good option. Because if you feel cheated (which is very valid, whichever the case!), you’re certainly entitled to let your dissatisfaction known. And what’s more satisfying than telling that boy you’re freaking good without him and moving on easily?

Also on KultScene: 4 Female K-Pop Idols With Unique Beauty

7. Michelle Lee “Without You”

Few songs in K-pop embody intersectionality, which studies intersections of oppression, as Michelle Lee’s “Without You.” For this song, Michelle put out her life’s struggles for everyone to see. If you listen to this song and think it’s about a significant other, listen again. Michelle actually sings about growing up as a black Korean and being discriminated for it and acknowledges the pain it all caused her. However, she declares boldly “I’m beautiful without you/ I’m meaningful without you/ I’m still beautiful even if I wasn’t loved by you.” Having an ethnic background different than the norm of the country we reside while being a woman only adds to the grievances of our life experiences. So “Without You” represents those struggles for Michelle, while telling society to go f themselves because she’s much more than what they reduced her to. She knows she’s different, but still beautiful, inside and out, and she fully understands that now.

8. Kisum “#WhiteStyle feat. Kim Ho Yeon”

Unlike boys, girls aren’t born with automatic privileges. In some ways, being a woman can be a disability in some eyes (cough, cough, medical industry), so of course women need to be heavily encouraged. Telling girls they’re beautiful, capable, intelligent, strong is not feeding their ego, it’s reinforcing notions that we all need to strive in life, especially since society tell them everything but a lot of the times. And that’s what Kisum’s “#WhiteStyle” does. Even if the song is a CF for tampons and tells girls to be confident during their periods and wear white clothing, if we take the tampon context out of the equation, it’s still a pretty encouraging song. Girls need to be told from a young age and throughout adolescence that they’re stars and to have confidence always. “#WhiteStyle” is basically Kisum being a cheerleader for us all, and hey, some of us do need encouraging words and support.

Is there any other K-pop girl power anthem you like? Share your picks 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.

[Renders: hihyenmi, KseniaKang, VipArmy, KimYiSeol]

August’s Best K-Pop B-Sides

August 24, 2015/in Entertainment, MUSIC /by Joe Palmer

As another month comes to an end we can safely clock August as another great month for K-pop. To celebrate I’m going to look back at some b-sides that might have unfortunately gone unnoticed. With another slew of high profile releases there’s plenty to discover. This month we have lots of retro goodness, with influences coming from all over the world giving a new lease of life to K-pop.

Primary feat Sunwoo Jung-A and Gaeko “Paranoia”

If there is one artist continually releasing great work this year it is Primary. He’s had songs out nearly every month since the start of the year and there has always been something interesting amongst them. These have culminated in the fantastic album “2” and my favourite from it “Paranoia”.

“Paranoia” is a wonderfully slow and restrained piece of trip hop. Primary has never been afraid to show off his parade of influences within the genres he has worked in. He invigorates these with a new modern life while never forgetting what made them special in the first place. This time he takes on that very British style of trip hop. The echoey drums recall Portishead and give the song its gloomy feeling. What really makes it though is Sunwoo Jung-A’s mournful voice and Gaeko’s energetic rap.They seem to be directly referencing the British artists of that time like Thom Yorke of Radiohead and rapper Tricky. It lends an authenticity but mostly makes the song work totally.

Also on KultScene: Sunday Playlist: K-Pop Beach Songs

B1A4 “You Are A Girl, I Am A Boy”

More 90s alternative influenced music here with B1A4’s “You Are A Girl, I Am A Boy”.

Okay that may be a bit of a stretch this time but it was the first thing that came into my head when I listened to this track. The reverb laden guitars immediately brought Sonic Youth to mind. This thought was quickly dispelled but that doesn’t lessen the effect of the guitar. It’s an entirely new sound to be found within K-pop and is why this song is on the list. This use of the live band sounds are what set apart B1A4 for me. Amongst many samey hip-hop influenced boy groups they stand out thanks to this and their distinctive voices.

SHINee “Chocolate”

Retro was certainly a major theme for august. SHINee as always delivered an amazing throwback with the whole of the “Married to the Music” album. Jonghyun’s effortlessly sexy “Chocolate” stands out.

“Chocolate” goes for retro synths in a big way. They sound almost 8-bit and hit with a strong but smooth force. There’s layers to them that feel almost physically tangible. The verses that change tempo and general intricacies of the song make it something more than your average album cut. It’s clinically sexy yet has delicate touches that elevate it above other sexy sounding songs.

Also on KultScene: June K-Pop B-Sides That Should’ve Been the Lead Title Track

Wonder Girls “One Black Night”

Speaking of retro, I don’t think any K-pop group has ever pulled it off as well as Wonder Girls have with “Reboot”. With that “Reboot” and “I Feel You” they have released probably the best album and song of the year all while also learning and playing instruments for it.

With an album this good it’s hard to pick just one b-side. So I’m just going with my mood right now which means “One Black Night”. Ever since I first listened to “Reboot” I felt like it was a soundtrack album to some amazing 80s movie that never existed. If so then “One Black Night” would play when the main character is at their lowest point so they go out to get totally wasted for one black night.

The song starts off slow with a plodding piano and stripped back drum beat. It recalls member Yenny’s solo work as HA:TFELT, mixing solemn piano melodies in the verse with crashing electronic sounds in the chorus. The emotions are also similar, ones of pent up angst finally being released in cathartic acts. In this case drinking and embracing.

Girls’ Generation “Bump It”

Girls’ Generation came back again before the summer officially ended with their album “Lion Heart” and there’s a lot to get stuck into. Most may have assumed that with a double single release there wouldn’t be much left of interest. They would be wrong.

Album closer “Bump It” is the highlight as it cleverly walks the line between the Girls’ Generation we know and love and the Girls’ Generation many want to exist. By that I mean it starts off like a fairly standard sweet ballad before turning urban pop at Tiffany’s request. With the singles being a great signifier of what Girls’ Generation can be, this is the perfect song to close out the album.

What it does really well is using both styles within the song. Once the ballad part at the start ends it would have been easy to leave out but the piano remains and reinvigorates the song at the chorus. Similarly towards the end when Taeyeon is about to begin her crooning, Sooyoung cuts in with a rap to make sure one style does not win over the other. Girls’ Generation are at their best whee unpredictable like this.

Is there any other August K-pop B-sides you loved? Share your picks 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.

Sunday Playlist: K-Pop Beach Songs

August 23, 2015/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

If you’re lucky enough to have warm weather during the summer in your neck of the woods, going to the beach is a must. Whether it’s sun bathing, swimming in the ocean, playing in the sand, a good time is most likely guaranteed. And since the weather has been the perfect beach weather for some of us, this week’s playlist is dedicated to it.

Even if the song’s actual meaning has nothing to do with the beach (it’s actually about longing after a love interest), Hyukoh’s “Mer” sounds as if it were recorded underwater. This creates an instant incredibly mellow pleasantness when listening to it. Every time I listen to it, It always makes me think about that scene on “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” when he goes into the bathtub with the egg and listens to the mermaids’ chants (underwater, of course!). That’s what “Mer” sounds to me, mermaids singing underwater.

— Alexis

Also on KultScene: KCON 2015 NY’s M! Countdown Concert Recap

What I’d give to be one of the girls sitting on Baker Beach watching Fly to the Sky in “Sea of Love” as they play tag football (alongside some hunky shirtless guys). It’s not too often that we see a music video be filmed in correlation with it’s lyrics, so it’s always a sweet surprise for me whenever I watch a music video that was filmed with the thought of the lyrics in mind, even if it’s the slightest bit. In “Sea of Love,” Fly to the Sky sings about a shriveled up love that’s been dumped off at sea and although there wasn’t anyone to play the love interest, instead of moping around about a love long gone, Hwanhee and Brian (FTTS members) displayed a playful side by having a good time at the beach with the guys and better yet, enjoying each other’s company. Hey, if that’s what it takes to get over a broken relationship, then why not right?

— Tam

Take a cutesy trip to the beach with Secret before the summer ends. In the video for “Yoohoo” we see them washed up on a tropical island beach. They look for a way off and naturally enough cute and fun adventures ensue. “Yoohoo” was a slightly larger success than Secret are used to now. The cute sound and image are consistently popular in Korea, so it’s easy to see why. Internationally though, most saw them as being too old to be doing this sort of thing, as if that actually matters in pop music. Mostly it is a super fun song that perfectly suits its concept. Which means if you don’t like cute K-pop songs, steer clear. If you do, then please join me on the beach as we rejoice over Song Jieun’s perfect voice.

— Joe

To get a little sexy while at the beach, there’s no better K-pop group than SISTAR. “I Swear” is all about wanting to hear the words “I love you,” but the upbeat, horn-infused song is perfect for the beach, and the music video and lyrics of the song highlight that. The music video takes SISTAR to a variety of situations, including them dancing on the beach. “I’m waiting for you, writing your names down on the sand,” SISTAR sings, luring us into imagining ourselves listening to this song while laying on the sand.

–Tamar

Also on KultScene: Girls’ Generation’s “Lion Heart” and “You Think” Song Review

Even if you don’t have time to make one last trip to the beach before the summer comes to an end, Super Junior’s “Carnival” will instantly make you feel like you are at one. This fun Caribbean number features an amalgam of tropical instruments, including the xylophone and drums, perfect for the theme of the song which centers around creating happy memories with a lover at a sandy resort. Even the lyrics “have fun with this song” invites us to let go and take off on a well-deserve getaway. “Blue ocean and white sand, warm sunlight; that’s Coconut Island,” the group continues to sing. Super Junior need say no more. I’ll have a one way ticket to this “Coconut Island,” please.

— Shelley

What’s your favorite K-Pop beach song? 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 Underrated Male Korean Idol Rappers Who Caught Our Attention

August 22, 2015/in Entertainment, MUSIC /by Shelley Foo

When we think of K-rappers, the usual soloists comes to mind – Jay Park, Tablo, Verbal Jint, San E – and for good reasons. Their sick flow and quick wit are second to none, so I suppose that’s why they are featured as judges in rap competition shows such as this season of “Show Me the Money.” But rarely do we consider the Korean idol rapper line in our musings, and when we do, it’s the well-known Zico’s, G-Dragon’s, and Rap Monster’s of the K-pop world. With an association with their boy band images, Korean idol rappers certainly have it tough and are not taken seriously enough. Fortunately for them, this Kultscene writer is able to look past the “idol rappers aren’t real rappers” stigma in order to give them the recognition they deserve. Here are just five talented yet underrated male Korean idol rappers entitled to some more loving.

BTOB’s Jung Ilhoon

Many may remember him as the guy who started the whole Gwiyomi player trend, but one listen to BTOB’s Ilhoon’s spit-fire raps and listeners might divorce him from his iconic aegyo (cute display of affection). Like his Cube Entertainment label mate Yong Junhyung of Beast, Ilhoon has been featured in numerous tracks, including HyunA’s latest single “Roll Deep,” where he turned up the swag, and G.Na’s hit “Oops,” where his smooth as silk raps made G.Na sound like his back-up singer.

As one of the most versatile rappers in the K-pop industry, it always baffled me that his rap skills are not acknowledged more often. He’s got the speed, rhythm, and emotions to make it as a soloist so why not, Cube? And after he had the honor of closing his group’s first full-length album with his lulling outro “Everything’s Good,” it only proved that he has the competency to.

Also on KultScene: The Future of Virtual Reality in K-Pop

BTOB’s Lee Minhyuk

BTOB seems to be really popular in the rap department because their other rapper also made the list. Also known by his pre-debut stage name Heota, Lee Minhyuk has a style similar to Ilhoon’s, especially when it comes to some of his more aggressive works. His deep voice when he delivers his raps betrays his boyish, good looks; he is a man more about the power than the agility. So perhaps it should not come as a surprise that Minhyuk/Heota used to collaborate with Block B’s rappers Zico and Kyung during their underground rapper days.

Recently, Minhyuk returned to his roots as Heota when he featured in Postmen’s track, “I’m Ok,” which also marked his first time lending his voice on another artist’s track since debut. Besides complementing the ballad with his bold raps, he also demonstrated his talent by writing his own lyrics.

Block B’s Kyung

Speaking of Minhyuk and his fraternization with Park Kyung, the now Block B member is yet another rapper that deserves more props for his artistry. Although leader Zico often steals the limelight as main rapper, thereby overshadowing his role as the lead rapper, Kyung actually captivated me slightly more with his familiar rap style that is a bit reminiscent of Jay Park’s. The two may not have the gruffest of voices to suit the genre, but their wordplay surely makes up for it. I mean, just listen to his song “Energizer,” off of his pre-debut mixtape with Zico, where he low-key disses Jay Park’s former group by declaring that he’s “not a 2PM fan, but [he’s] the Hottest.” With clever lyrics such as these, Kyung is one rapper that fans should continue to look out for.

BTS’s Suga

BTS’s Suga is still another case of what happens when your leader is usually regarded as the group’s best rapper instead of yourself. This is a bit puzzling seeing as how Suga’s raps are just as dynamic as Rap Monster’s. His deep voice and his haughty flair when he spits out his verses is a match made in rap heaven, and if you’ve ever given his old predebut stuff a listen, where he does not have to share the spotlight with six other members, you’d understand. Still unconvinced? Check out his self-produced track “MIX Final” below where he gives listeners secondhand swag with his confidence that is only comparable to American rap legends such as Kanye West. As someone who has consistently contributed his song-writing and producing ability to his group’s albums, Suga is a powerhouse of his own.

Also on KultScene: Unappreciated Singers: Equality Of Line Distribution In K-pop Songs

EXO’s Park Chanyeol

When it comes to idol rappers, SM Entertainment definitely has the worst end of it. They’re a company mostly known for their visuals and friendly pop music, so what would real rappers be doing under SM? Well, if anyone recalls, the company also once housed the now popular Block B’s Zico and Big Bang’s G-Dragon, and is about to once again break the preconceived notion that they can’t produce any authentic rappers with EXO member, Park Chanyeol. He might be an unlikely candidate for this list, but given his meaningful rap that he wrote for and absolutely slayed on his group’s song “Promise (EXO 2014)”, he easily rises to the forefront of SM rappers in my eyes. Even today, I still can’t get over the surge in his voice and how much it was overly wrought with angst.

Moreover, Chanyeol’s bassy voice falls into the same vocal range as K-rapper Simon D, which is why the idol would naturally cover some of his works. Whether it’s bringing the mood up with his rendition of Supreme Team’s “Dang Dang Dang” (poor fellow member Kai never stood a chance against Chanyeol’s booming voice) or bringing it back down with the sultry “Lonely Night,” Chanyeol is able to cover all bases. Even Simon D has commended the EXO member on his execution of his songs. Without a doubt, Chanyeol is the savior of the rapper line within his group and, arguably, his company.

Who’s your favorite Korean idol rapper? 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.

[Renders by: EXOtic-Shinniee, ailacute9704]

5 Tear Inducing K-Drama OSTs

August 21, 2015/in Entertainment /by Tam Huynh

I remember watching my first K-drama series, “Autumn in My Heart,” starring heartthrob actors Song Seung-heon and Won Bin and charming actress Song Hye-kyo in 2001 on VHS with my mom. Aside from crying every other episode as the result of a heartbreaking plot, I remember falling madly in love in with the melodic ballads and acoustic OSTs (original soundtrack). I was young and didn’t want to ask my parents for money to buy the OST album, so as a result, I made my way onto Limewire (once an online file sharing downloading website) and downloaded the 13-track soundtrack and became completely immersed, day in and day out.

Also on KultScene: 4 K-Dramas That Discuss Korean Social Stigmas

Going into this drama, I wasn’t expecting to be so mesmerized by the somber songs and tender guitar and piano acoustics considering this was my first time being exposed to the Korean culture and the Korean music. My love for these sappy, heart wrenching, and emotional OSTs surely hasn’t slowed down. One of the reasons why I’m usually drawn to a drama nowadays is because I’ll hear the OST elsewhere, become completely absorbed in the music, and then watch the drama itself. Considering that I’m such a sucker for a great soundtrack, it was quite difficult for me to create this list, but if I let it go on any further it wouldn’t have ever ended. So with that said, here are my top 5 choices. Read more

Help Us Make Sense of this Interview with K-Rock Band GENIUS

August 20, 2015/in Features /by Tamar Herman

If you don’t know know what you’re listening to but it makes you angry, that may be a GENIUS song. When it comes to the Korean music scene, just about everything is based out of Seoul’s Hongdae neighborhood. And then there are the few random outliers in other cities. GENIUS is the Busan-based punk rock band that is out to be the most insane, headbanging K-rock band out there.

The group released “Lucky Mistake” in June and called it “the Ramones pretending to be the Pixies covering Johnny Cash.” KultScene spoke to GENIUS’ members without any editing, by request of the band so that you can get a glimpse of what GENIUS is truly like.

1. Can you please introduce GENIUS to our KultScene audience? Who are you guys, what makes you tick?

Kim Il Du: Hallow. I think we are instinct rock ‘n’ roll band. feel good.

2. You’re from Busan and not a Hongdae-based band like many indie ones. How does that affect your music and career?

Kim Il Du: We can go to beach anytime if we want. We can go into the ocean anytime if we want. We can do something special if we want. Come to Busan, ocean buggers.

Steve C: The inability of people to look beyond Hongdae offers insight into why so much music sounds the same.

3. Can you describe your musical style in three words?

Kim Il Du: I – don’t – know.

Steve C: It’s a surprise!

Lee Chung Mok: Rock ‘n’ Roll?

4. What sort of story are you trying to tell with your music? How do you want people to feel?

Kim Il Du: I wanna say about beautiful things. I wanna make listeners smart listeners.

Steve C: Bathos.

Also on KultScene: KCON 2015 LA’s M! Countdown Concerts Recap

5. How did you guys get started as a band together? I heard something about online ads. What sort of hardships have you faced as a trio?

Kim Il Du: Destiny, I think. Already we spent 5-7 years. Most important time to me. No hardships; always fun and happy.

Steve C: It’s hard to acknowledge that one day we’ll stop.

6. What are the worst and best thing about being musicians in South Korea?

Kim Il Du: About good points, many Korean people love music so much and kind. About bad points, many Korean people don’t care music, cause they have no curious about music, I guess.

Steve C: Unlike in the U.S., clubs here have their own setups so the bands don’t need a van full of gear.

Lee Chung Mok: I like not carrying drums around. Sometimes the drums are shitty though.

7. So, what exactly makes you guys geniuses?

Kim Il Du: Genius know who genius. I know who geniuses. But I’m not genius. I’m one of oldy buggers.

Steve C: We don’t know how to suck. This is important.

via Genius Rock Facebook

8. Other than GENIUS, what music are you guys listening to lately? What is the worst song you’ve heard this year?

Kim Il Du: These days I love Teletubbies theme song. Very good to me. Nothing worst songs.
Cause I don’t listen bad songs.

Steve C: A recent hit compares relationships to bowling. This bowling ball is special though. It doesn’t roll. It’s “running.” It has legs or something. It’s not even in the lane. It’s “running out again.” It’s confused. It’s looking for the tenor of its metaphor. Is it in that Radiohead song it’s copying? And now the woman is a bowling pin and someone’s taking score. This is an actual hit song.

9. What is the most memorable thing that happened to each of you during your career as GENIUS?

Kim Il Du: I met band members’ families in those brothers’ hometown. It’s so special memories.
I will remember that forever.

Steve C: Honestly, a lot of amazing things have happened. But I can’t remember them because I’m an alcoholic.

Lee Chung Mok: Let me think about it.

10. What are your individual roles in making the music? Who is the most involved in the music process? Is anyone a bit lazy?

Kim Il Du: I think I’m lazy. Sorry brothers.

Steve C: We all come up with our own stuff and share, like: “Hey. Want to play this? Is this stupid?”

11. How do you feel about K-pop and the Korean music industry as a whole?

Kim Il Du: It’s beautiful shit.

Steve C: In the 60’s and 70’s, we fell in love with plastic. It was shiny, synthetic, and futuristic. It transcended the natural world of forms and colors, shockingly green, and psychedelically orange, and, preternaturally malleable, could be molded to look like our dreams. It had no history, unlike wood, brass, or leather. In fact, it strove to diverge from history. It could be mass-produced into infinity. But it was toxic. It ages like shit and clutters the world and shards of it linger, forever.
I really like Gu Hara though.

12. Are there any GENIUS songs you regret making or have played so many times that you’re sick of performing them?

Steve C: Does Wimpy get tired of hamburgers?

By Lauren Naefe

13. If you wanted one of your songs to make it to the top of music charts around the world, which one would you each pick?

Kim Il Du: Next new songs.

Also on KultScene: Simon D ‘Simon Dominic’ Music Video & Song Review

14. So, I hear you like the Simpsons character Ralph? Why Ralph?

Kim Il Du: Oh..Long time no heard this name. I don’t like him anymore. I can’t be like him. Cause he is too cool.

15. 2015 has a few months left, but it’s almost 2016. What can we look forward to from GENIUS in the near future?

Kim Il Du: First be survive, be good with Casey and Steve together, keep playing, make new songs, go somewhere for playing rock ‘n’ roll.
Steve C: Thanks for the chat, KS! We’ll be splitting a release with Chinese band Yourboyfriendsucks through Nasty Wizard Recordings and thinking more about the next album. Look for it.

Listen to all of GENIUS‘ music on their Bandcamp and check out their live performances here:

Girls’ Generation’s “Lion Heart” and “You Think” Song Review

August 18, 2015/in Entertainment, MUSIC /by Joe Palmer

I don’t know if it’s just me but Girls’ Generation seem to have been slightly forgotten this year. Maybe off the back of Jessica leaving and other controversies people don’t see them as the sweetest girls in Korea anymore. Maybe people are just bored of them being sweet. This is all despite releasing some great music. “Party” was underrated, lots of fun and totally suited to the summer. “Check” is their sexiest song to date, yet no one took notice of it. Even generic banger “Catch Me If You Can” was revitalized by the live stages. They are still successful of course, but the excitement for new material from them is slowly dying.

The release of “Lion Heart” and “You Think” comes a pivotal moment then. It’s a statement of intent as to who these girls, or more accurately women, are. It’s an answer to calls for them to grow up. I, for one, am still excited about what they can still do.

Songs

“Lion Heart” takes a straightforward structure to work in and clutters it with many elements. Girls’ Generation can pull off almost any type of song you throw at them, and this is no different. It is perfectly pop and sweet while still maintaining some more difficult aspects.

The song is built on a simple but weighty guitar riff. It grounds the song in its retro settings and allows it move around lots of vocals without disrupting the rhythm. Instead of the traditional drumbeat for the verse, “Lion Heart” has hand claps and finger snaps which are pushed as one of the loudest elements. They resonate really well giving the song a strong acoustic sound. Musically, the song stays quite simple throughout allowing the vocals to really shine.

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If I were to ever have anything bad to say about Girls’ Generation it would be that their vocals are not that diverse. They have never really had a song to burst out of their comfort zone, continually relying on Taeyeon, Tiffany, Seohyun, and Jessica, when she was still around. “Lion Heart” completely dispels those worries. They don’t just push their ranges as far as they can though, the song is more clever than that.

By using only Taetiseo and Yuri in the chorus, the producers make sure that it always bursts with as much life as possible. The transition from verse to chorus creeps up on you and makes the hook even more effective. It’s a genuine outpouring of joy that makes me smile every time. It gets even better though, as the post chorus brings in the a cappella moments which will become vital to the song. These moments are a rare use of the collective voice in K-pop, where we are used to one dominant voice even in choruses. They give a great sense of unity and depth to a song.

The bridge, as well, uses their voices well as members swap out quickly. Hyoyeon’s deeper kind of rap contrasts especially well against Seohyun’s high pitched part. There’s a lot going on here, but never goes off the rails thanks to the quality of vocals. It also allows the chorus to remain the climax of the song as the bridge is more of a comedown as it leads into the most beautiful a cappella part of the song to lead us out.

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What was that about vocals? “You Think” goes hard too.

“You Think” marks Girls’ Generation’s first full foray into the ever popular hip-pop territory. Like “Lion Heart,” it has hand clap beats except this time in the trap sense. Musically, it’s actually quite simple with these beats taking up most of the runtime. Horns come in every now and then, but there’s little deviation. This is a technique rappers have been using since they started, taking out the middle melody of a song to replace with their raps. Here, it’s to let the vocals of the girls shine once again.

This is why Yoona, Sooyoung, Hyoyeon and, Yuri barely get a look in. It’s one of those times where unequal line distribution is important for the song. In place of them, Tiffany, Seohyun, Taeyeon and, Sunny wail and shout in all manner of ways. Sunny especially surprises with a great energy to her voice, she sounds genuinely angry at the silly boys she’s singing about. It’s a great display of talent but doesn’t save the song. Everything in it works but still, it doesn’t get past being generic. It’s no better than the equally safe “Catch Me If You Can,” but people will like it more because of the bells and whistles.

Women’s Generation

What all this really says to me is that Girls’ Generation still have a lot to offer. They are still in the process of becoming women and it can be seen in their music. These last three releases have shown a wide variety of sounds and looks. They have done this while always sticking to what made them the great group they are today. They are still the sweet, feminine girls we know from “Gee” yet they can be sexy, classy and, fierce too. Girls’ Generation are exploring what is to be a woman performer.

This is seen not only in the visuals but the lyrics too. “Lion Heart” is about a girl who is so obsessed with a guy that doesn’t notice her. “You Think” is about a girl who has had a boy obsessed with them and the girl knows she’s too good for him. Obsession works both ways. Girls’ Generation are seeing things from different sides and refuse to come down one side. They will not be pinned down.

Overall

These two songs show the girls have still got it. You have absolutely no reason to lose interest in Girls’ Generation. More than anything else the girls have matured vocally in impressive ways. With both songs we get belters and interesting new techniques.

As for the songs themselves, I prefer “Lion Heart” over “You Think”. While tonally completely different, they are similar in structure. “Lion Heart” wins out here thanks to its wonderful a cappella. Most of all, I continue to be excited for what Girls’ Generation can produce in the future and I hope they can continue to mature and show us even more new sides to their ever growing personalities.

What do you make of SNSD’s new songs? What kind of song would you like to see them perform in the future? Share your picks 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.

Which ‘Show Me the Money 4’ Team Do You Belong In? [QUIZ]

August 17, 2015/in Fans /by Alexis Hodoyan-Gastelum

With Mnet’s rapping competition show ”Show Me the Money 4” nearing its semi finals, fans around the world are not only picking their favorite contestants for the win, but their favorite team. Because even if SMTM’s (acronym for the show) purpose is looking for Korea’s next hottest rap act, some of the limelight is stolen by the judges. And with characters like Jay Park, Verbal Jint, and Tablo, who could possibly expect the show to be all business? After all, a good portion of the middle episodes were dedicated to showcasing the judges teams — Team YG, AOMG, BrandNew Music, and ZiPal — trying to promote themselves so the contestants would choose them.

And it worked. Whether it was Jay Park and Loco from Team AOMG spending a lot of their own money in their performances or Tablo and Jinusean bringing their YG labelmates on SMTM4 or Zico going all out producing new songs, contestants chose their teams largely influenced by these gimmicks. But of course, the various teams are all starkly different from one another, personality and artistically wise.

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That’s why we created a quiz that will determine what “Show Me the Money 4” team you belong in based on your personality. Of course, we’ve created this quiz ourselves, so the results are only based on our own understanding of the teams and is only meant for fun. Does your passion come from feeling underappreciated like Zico? Do you think that polishing your image with chains and fur clothes enhance your MC status like Jay Park? Or maybe you’re an OG like Jinusean? Whatever the case, we’ll pinpoint it for you.

But if you want to take your fandom for SMTM4 even further, don’t miss out on the two concerts they’ll hold in New York City and Los Angeles. Loco, Paloalto, Jay Park, Verbal Jint, Tablo, San E, Jinusean, and the top four contestants will turn up LA’s Shrine Expo Hall on September 10 and the Best Buy Theatre in New York City on the 12. Tickets went on sale today and you can find them through AXS here and here.

So without further ado, find out which “Show Me the Money 4” team you’d be a part of if you were a contestant this season:

[qzzr quiz=”94367″ width=”100%” height=”auto” redirect=”true” offset=”0″]

What team did you get? Share your results with us 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.

4 K-Pop Songs Casting ‘Harry Potter’ Spells

August 17, 2015/in Entertainment, MUSIC /by Tamar Herman

K-pop may be crazy about “Harry Potter.” The most popular work of fiction in the past era has been, without a doubt, the “Harry Potter” book series. The popular book and film series inspired some of Korea’s top musicians to write songs featuring “Harry Potter” tropes.

XIA Junsu “Tarantallegra” (2012)

When one of the best singers in K-pop tells you to dance, you do just that. The title of Junsu’s “Tarantallegra” is taken from the spell that makes people’s feet dance uncontrollably. The song was Junsu’s first as a soloist, and the title of his first solo album. It’s a dramatic song and music video, with a rap by Flowsik, and Junsu lives up to the name of the song by putting on one of the best dance performances in the history of K-pop.

The song makes it very clear that music is everything for Junsu, as shown by the repetitive question, “what music would you listen to?” and “tarantallegra, be intoxicated with music.” The lyrics were written by Junsu’s twin brother Juno, giving it a deeper personal touch for himu. And as for the music video, well, there’s a magically beautiful woman who makes an appearance when Junsu decides to change things up. Without a doubt, “Tarantallegra” is a piece of wizard art.

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Jo Kwon “Wingardium Leviosa” (2012)

A fast paced, techno dance song from the leader of 2AM was the total opposite of the group’s usual vocally expressive songs. However, the ever flamboyant Jo Kwon is a perfect fit for the bright dance song. Although it wasn’t the title track on his “I’m Da One” album, “Wingardium Leviosa” is built around a “Harry Potter” spell.

In “Harry Potter,” “Wingardium Leviosa” is a levitation spell that helps objects fly. And to Jo, that means an opportunity to play around. “I will make you fly” and “Let’s fly over there, follow me, let’s try, memorize this spell” are pretty straightforward lyrics, but Jo goes above and beyond and turns the spell into a verb, “The mood is wingar.” Whatever that means, we love it and want to be feeling it.

IU “Obliviate” (2013)

Soloist IU is as great as usual in a Latin inspired song “Obliviate.” With whispers of the memory removal spell, the meaning of the song is clear from the very beginning; the singer would like to remove her memories of a past relationship after it is over.

IU takes a bitter take on the spell, singing, “In the end, I cast the nonse spell of making bad memories disappear and having good memories stay” in a tone of voice that implies that it’s an impossibility. “Head, obliviate, heart, obliviate,” she sings. While other artists use “Harry Potter” for inspiration, IU’s song is the epitome of all of us “Harry Potter” fans out there, who wish we could use our favorite spells in our daily lives.

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Crucial Star “Owl” Feat. donutman

Crucial Star’s song is about working hard and being a pioneer to inspire others. and not quite as obviously based on “Harry Potter” as the previous songs in this list. But with a line like “I cast a spell like Harry, ”Aparecium, Alohamora, there’s no doubt that the lyrics take inspiration from “Harry Potter.” According to Harry Potter Wiki, Apercium is the revealing charm “that forces invisible ink or other hidden messages to appear,” while Alohamora is one of the first spells introduced in the Harry Potter series and is used to unlock locks. http://harrypotter.wikia.com/wiki/Revealing_Charm

And, as a fun bonus, even though it’s not a song, here’s Super Junior-M’s Henry getting yelled at on “Strong Heart” for mispronouncing Hermione’s name.

Which K-pop act do you want to make magical songs with? Share your picks 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.

Playlist Sunday: Rainy Days

August 16, 2015/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

We all know that rainy days can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how you view these things. Rain can mean that you cancel plans, but it could also mean that the grass is green and that the crops will grow, while playing around in sun shower is one of the best joys in the world. For this week’s playlist, KultScene’s staff picked all of our favorite rain-based Korean songs that help us get through all of the rainstorms in our life.

Super Junior’s ”Raining Spell For Love” from their ”Mamacita” album is one of my favorite songs by the SM Entertainment boy band. Starting off with a thunderstorm, the slow pop song is an emotional whirlwind that makes the most of Super Junior’s vocals and harmonization. After a rap by Eunhyuk, the song begins in earnest with Kangin, whose voice has always seemed particularly melancholic to me. With individual member’s singing, belting, and breathlessness before coming together in the chorus, Super Junior’s colorful, diverse talent really shines in the song, and the gentle sound, yet pounding beats, is reminiscent of a storm and really reminds me of the depressed feeling that many of us feel on rainy days. While the song has its depressing moments, the Korean title for “Raining Spell For Love” is actually “Love Won’t Stop,” and there are a lot of musically uplifting moments that keeps Super Junior’s song from being too heartbreaking.

— Tamar

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Usually, I try to stay as far away as possible from ballads. They are so profoundly dull and most K-pop groups don’t have good enough singers to really pull them off. I’m glad to say there are some exceptions, namely all of Brown Eyed Girls’ ballads. But for today, I’m going with 4minute’s recent “Cold Rain”. So not just rain but cold rain, cool right? This ballad stands out because of its unpredictable piano and vocal melodies. The piano glides up and down scales seemingly at random. It gives the song an edge over usually monotonous piano. The contrast of 4minute’s voices also help. Between Gayoon’s high pitch, Hyuna’s nasally rap, and Jiyoon’s power, there’s a lot of different tones to hear with just these three members.

— Joe

“Rain” from 2PM’s fourth album “Go Crazy” is an extremely interesting song. Although it is a ballad, it sounds nothing like it with Taecyeon’s rap, the constant drum beats, and vibrant instrumentals. I’m definitely not complaining, especially because the members’ vocals are enhanced and highlighted through this track. Another interesting point would be the lyrics of the song. Rain is often seen as something that is sad and most people would probably prefer to have sunshine. This song, however, is about not wanting the rain to end because that would also mean the end of a relationship. It’s surprisingly depressing, but in a lovely way.

— Anna

“Love Rain” is one of my all-time favorite K-Dramas, so when we picked the theme for this week’s playlist, my mind immediately went to the OST by the same name sung by the leading male Jang Geun Suk. Even if it’s an older song, it makes me feel all warm inside everytime I listen to it. Maybe it’s because Jang Geun Suk’s voice is incredibly delicate and tender, which contrasts incredibly with his usual characters, or maybe because I associate the song with all those sweet moments in the drama where the song would chime in.

— Alexis

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I’ve been lucky enough to have seen B.A.P perform “Rain Sound” five times for both Live On Earth Tours in 2013 and 2014. Surprisingly, the song took on a different meaning every time I saw it. I was able to notice the different facial expressions and subtle changes made by the B.A.P members each time. It goes to show that no matter how often a song is sung and performed, just like your feelings and mood, your behavior can also change. It’s like how the rain can too modify the way you feel; whether it’s the calming sound of the light droplets or the sudden rush of heavy rain.

— Tam

What’s your favorite rainy day K-pop song? Share your picks 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.