By Júlia Henn Giving up when something does not go the way we hoped it would might be most people’s first instinct. Well, not for the members of Spire Entertainment’s newest boy group, Omega X. All 11 of them come from the same scenario in the K-pop industry: they were part of groups that are […]
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By Stitch pH-1 has been one busy guy. Incredibly active since his 2017 debut The Island Kid, pH-1 has become a staple in Korean hip-hop thanks to his solid back catalog and excellent collaborations with a wide range of equally talented performers in and out of his label, H1GHR MUSIC. Looking at his discography over […]
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By Júlia Henn Giving up when something does not go the way we hoped it would might be most people’s first instinct. Well, not for the members of Spire Entertainment’s newest boy group, Omega X. All 11 of them come from the same scenario in the K-pop industry: they were part of groups that are […]
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By Stitch pH-1 has been one busy guy. Incredibly active since his 2017 debut The Island Kid, pH-1 has become a staple in Korean hip-hop thanks to his solid back catalog and excellent collaborations with a wide range of equally talented performers in and out of his label, H1GHR MUSIC. Looking at his discography over […]
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Giving up when something does not go the way we hoped it would might be most people’s first instinct. Well, not for the members of Spire Entertainment’s newest boy group, Omega X. All 11 of them come from the same scenario in the K-pop industry: they were part of groups that are currently inactive or have disbanded, or, in some cases, never even got the chance to debut.
Each of the 11 has a particular story in this industry, but some of them were not strangers to each other before joining Spire Entertainment. Xen and Jehyun were members of the group 1TEAM, which disbanded on March 2021; Kevin, Junghoon, and Hyuk were part of the group ENOi, which also announced disbandment early this year; Jaehan, – the eldest in Omega X – and Taedong were both contestants on the second season of the K-pop survival reality show Produce 101, placing 75th and 30th. Also, they were also part of the now defunct boy groups SPECTRUM and GIDONGDAE, respectively.
As for the remaining members, Hwichan is still part of the currently inactive group Limitless; Sebin is a member of the inactive SNUPER; Hangyeom placed 6th on the survival reality show Miximine – which later canceled the debut of the winning contestants –, and was a member of the now disbanded Seven O’Clock; and the maknae, Yechan, ended up in 4th place on the reality show Under Nineteen, debuting as a member of the group 1THE9, which had its disbandment announced on August 2020.
In a business as competitive as K-pop, where young people with a dream train for years for the opportunity of someday making their big break, where new groups debut (and fail) every day, it is hard enough to secure a first chance when it comes your way. But a second chance, it is practically a miracle, and the boys of Omega X are eager to prove they deserve it.
Now, they finally have the opportunity to prove themselves and show the world what they are made of with Vamos, their first minialbum that brings together heavy hip-pop and EDM beats along with Latin rhythms. About the group’s expectations, Jaehan says on the group’s press release, “The 11 of us are thrilled about the release of Vamos, our new start, and meeting the fans.” Regarding the process of making the album, he adds: “We poured our hearts into this album, and now we’re ready to share that energy with our fans.”
With only five tracks on the EP, each of them showcases a different layer of the group, each song allowing the listener to understand a bit more who Omega X are. For those who are just being introduced to them, it is a chance to get to know their personalities and particularities; for old fans of the boys, it is a chance to appreciate a different side of them in a new journey.
The first track is “OX Win Ha!,” which if you have watched their Youtube reality show Loading – One More Chanx, you might have recognized it as their group slogan. This is an instrumental track filled with energy and featuring samples of shots being fired, which make you feel like you have been hit by the intensity of their music. In mere 42 seconds, Omega X already manages to make a statement of their power and intensity.
Next we have the title track “Vamos,” filled with strong beats and a melody that mixes Latin rhythms, hip-hop, and pop together, which is reflected in its multilingual lyrics, with parts in English and Spanish, besides Korean. It is a dancing track that presents the best the group has to offer – be it vocals, rap, or choreography, as it is noticeable from the music video. The music video for the song is a celebration in itself; colorful, stylish, and fast. It doesn’t offer a storyline but, instead, quality entertainment.
The third track on the album is “Ice Tag.” While still keeping up the energy the group has already made it clear it has to spare, this album cut is not as intense as the two previous tracks — it’s sexier. Both in rhythm and in lyrics, which might feel like a call back to the sensation of flirting with someone at a party, a feeling more perceptible in parts such as “Before the city lights go out, let’s run away just the two of us.” Arguably the most romantic song on the album, “Ice Tag” is a banger.
The second-to-last track on the EP is the self-titled “Omega X.” This EDM piece is a sibling to “OX Win Ha!” Both songs fulfill the same role, which is to show the world who are Omega X in all their powerful, intense, and determined glory, reminiscent of a group that so wishes to prove themselves. Thanks to the confident lyrics and the crowd vocals effect present in the chorus, giving an epic feeling to the tune, “Omega X” is even more powerful and successful in its mission than the album’s first track.
Closing out the very first mini album of a group is not an easy task, but “Younger” seems to be the perfect choice for it. With an innocent child’s laugh playing, the track shows it is the most different and personal song on “Vamos” from the first few seconds, and it is also the only piece on the EP with lyrics by the members. A sweet and hopeful melody cradles lines that talk about staying young and enjoying the best moments of our youth. It is a message that certainly carries a special weight for a group formed by boys who are being given a second chance to achieve their dreams.
One thing that gets clear once you get to know Omega X is that they might have preferences but are never stuck in a specific role. For example, Yechan has a great singing voice, but at some moments shares the rapper role with Hangyeom, who shines in the lowest parts of the songs on the EP. Same goes for Xen. Even in a group with so many members, everyone has something to add to the dynamic and shine for their versatility — a trait that will come in handy in determining the longevity of the group.
Overall, Vamos is a solid debut mini album, managing to showcase both the strengths and tenderness of the artists. During their reality show, the boys mentioned they wanted to have a concept that was pure, sexy, and fresh. And with this album, they got their wish granted. Listening to Vamos is an opportunity to get to know a new K-pop group that is bound to be successful, thanks to their determination, talent, and camaraderie.
Omega X's "Vamos"
4.5
How did you like Omega X’s Vamos? Before you dive into the mini album, let us know how much you liked his latest releases! And don’t forget to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.
KultScene is a writer-driven website dedicated to creating a platform where diverse voices’ takes on K-pop can be heard. If you like this post and would like to see more, please consider contributing to KultScene’s writers fund. KultScene’s writers are compensated for their work, time, and insight. Email us for more details.
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Incredibly active since his 2017 debut The Island Kid, pH-1 has become a staple in Korean hip-hop thanks to his solid back catalog and excellent collaborations with a wide range of equally talented performers in and out of his label, H1GHR MUSIC. Looking at his discography over the past five years will make you wonder when he ever has time to sleep because he always has something incredible out.
pH-1’s path to hip hop excellence is an interesting one. Spending his teenage years and young adulthood in Long Island, New York, pH-1 studied biology and initially was on the fast track to working in the medical industry. He even worked as a dental assistant before turning to web development. With an interest in rapping that really kicked into gear during his college years, pH-1’s big break came after Jay Park saw one of his early music videos and reached out. Fast forward to now, and pH-1 is easily one of the most well-known Korean-American rappers in the game.
In the past two years, pH-1 has hopped on remixes with other big names of Korean hip-hop. 2020’s “Gang Official Remix,” a collaboration with Sik-K, Jay Park, and Haon, cracked the top five of the Gaon Digital Chart. Already in 2021, his collaborations have been legendary. First up was “VVS,” an ode to excess that saw pH-1 joining his H1GHR family members on a track that was all about flexing their success. In addition to that, pH-1 shows up on the very fun remix for “Achoo” and knocks that out of the park.
However, his solo releases over the past several years are a must-listen as well. “Nerdy Love,” his January 2020 track featuring Baek Ye-Rin hitting the top 50 on the Gaon charts. 2020 was also a big year for pH-1 because he released his second studio album, X, with H1GHR Music this time last year.
Now, with “365&7”, his latest very spring-appropriate collab with powerhouse vocalist JAMIE, you get another glimpse at his softer side. KultScene had the opportunity to link up with pH-1 to chat about his latest collabs, his creative process, and the future of his music as we get ready to enter the second half of 2021.
This interview was lightly edited for clarity.
“365&7” is such a bright romantic song and it’s absolutely perfect for spring. What did the creative process look like for this song? How did you and JAMIE come up with the theme for the song and the sweet lyrics? Did you work on them together?
pH-1: When I first got the beat, I immediately knew it had to be about love. More specifically, I wanted “365&7” to play around the theme of “time.” Since COVID started, all of our lives have been put on halt in some ways, and we kind of lost sense of time. For example, I remember counting down on New Year’s Eve just a while ago, but it’s already May 2021. This made me realize that time goes by too fast, and we shouldn’t waste any of it — as lovers, friends, or family.
Photo credit: H1GHR MUSIC
Speaking of collabs… your collab with Ace Hashimoto, “GIRLS,” dropped a few weeks ago. How did that collab come into being? Do you have any cool stories from linking up with him for this collab?
I met Ace about three or four years back when he visited Korea. After that we kept in contact, and he asked me to feature on his song “GIRLS”. The song was dope, so I hopped on it. He even came all the way to Korea to shoot a MV with me. But after that, he kind of went on a hiatus. Our management tried contacting him but couldn’t reach him. After about two years, he came back to tell me he was dropping the project. I was surprised but glad that we were able to put a great song out into the world.
When you’re working on your solo projects, do you have a creative routine that always gets you the best results?
It seems to me that all my best songs were written fairly quickly. Whenever I struggle to write a song, it usually turns out not as good as the ones I write fast. I believe that good melodies should come out naturally without having to think too hard.
If you have to get something done on a tight deadline, how do you make yourself meet it? Do you lock yourself in a studio and write all day or do you do your best writing outdoors? What helps you focus?
Yes, I lock myself in the studio until I finish the project. I have never tried writing outdoors, actually. I think I’d be distracted by what’s going on around me, plus the noise. Mood lights help me focus. I turn off all the lights in my room and only turn on blue LED lights to set the mood.
Your 2018 album Gatsby pulled from the film based on The Great Gatsby. What other movies or books have inspired you lately?
I was very much inspired by the film Joker. The script and Joaquin Phoenix’s performance were outstanding. It made me think about people’s tendency to mock or cast out the ones that are different from us, and that we as humans always find ways to justify our actions, even if they are wrong and sometimes malicious. It also made me try and put myself in others’ shoes before judging or jumping to a conclusion without knowing too much about them. Everybody has a sad story, we just don’t know it.
I was rewatching your interview with Eric Nam from last year where at one point you mentioned that you create songs with a certain message and sound for your local audience and another for international audiences outside of Korea, like in North America. You also clearly put out music that has crossover appeal on multiple levels. How do you decide on the messages you put in your song lyrics? How do you deal with a song in progress that doesn’t fit anywhere?
It’s very hard to explain in words. There are certain types of melodies and chord progressions that Korean people are more likely to relate to, more so than the international listeners — and vice versa. I think it’s because the styles of music around the world are so different that people all have different tastes. I always aim to write songs that crossover both Korean and American sounds because that’s who I am. I grew up in the U.S. as a Korean-American, so I have a good understanding of both cultures and what people like in music. All this to say, I have yet to make a song that does not fit anywhere. I believe that whatever I make, it will always fit somewhere. Someone will relate to it, and that’s all that matters. In terms of lyrics, I feel the most comfortable writing about my experiences and emotions when living my life. The biggest theme for most of my songs is about relationships between people.
So far, how has 2021 been different for you when it comes to how you’ve created and who you’ve created with? Have you hit any goals or milestones at this point in 2021 that you thought weren’t possible in 2020?
The writing process definitely has not been easy. Due to restricted activities and travels, I find myself lacking inspiration. I can’t wait to tour different cities and connect with the crowd. It’s really the source of energy for every artist. As far as milestones go, it’s only May of 2021, so I will have to see. But I am very happy that my following and listeners have been growing in numbers every year (thanks to Spotify stats). I just hope that I never stop growing as an artist and as a person.
How do you navigate a balance between making hip-hop that feels mainstream and music that feels authentic to who you are as a person? Have you struggled recently with that or are you secure in your journey through the industry?
I’m always struggling to find the balance. As an artist that has a certain following and fandom, I often wonder if I should make more mainstream songs to reach a wider audience or just do what I’ve always been doing. It’s a constant battle, but I think I’ve been doing a pretty good job balancing both sides of the spectrum.
Let’s talk snacks. What’s your go-to food fuel when you’re working hard on a new release? What about when you’re celebrating a new release like now with “365&7?” How did you reward yourself for another really great release?
I usually order-in because I spend a lot of my time at home. My go-to food is definitely Korean food. It gives me energy to work and makes me feel like I’m really “home.” When in celebration, I like to wine and dine myself. I recently went to a nice Italian restaurant, ordered some fancy plates of pasta, steak, assorted fruits and cheese, and a bottle of wine.
I feel as though you do a lot of genre blending across your different solo and collab releases. Are there any genres or musical styles you want to incorporate into your future rap releases that you haven’t been able to touch yet? If so, why do you think those genres remain out of reach for you?
I want to try blending Dancehall in my music some time in future. I think that Dancehall has remained out of reach for me just because I feel the need to learn more about it first. It has a very unique rhythm and bounce to it that I want to fully get comfortable with so that I can blend it well in my own flavor.
If you could get your newer fans — like the ones who you’ll get after “365&7” — to listen to one of your older songs, what would you pick and why?
If you enjoy moody, sentimental songs, I recommend you listen to “DVD.” If you’re a fan of hard-hitting rap songs, I recommend “Olaf” and “PACKITUP!”
Aside from your own music, what songs do you keep on repeat when you’re listening to music? What’s the most “unexpected” song that you just can’t get enough of?
Recently I have been repeatedly listening to Justin Bieber’s “Peaches.” I think the most unexpected song that I listen to is Rosé’s “On The Ground.” Unexpected because I don’t know too much about K-pop. Rosé is very talented.
What do you think or hope that the rest of 2021 is going to bring for you? Any big musical plans you can spoil for us a little?
I am going to take a little break because I’ve been working non-stop for the past couple of years. I will be working on my album that will be released within 2021.
How did you like “365&7”? Before you dive into pH-1’s back catalog to listen to all of his great work, let us know how much you liked his latest releases! And don’t forget to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.
KultScene is a writer-driven website dedicated to creating a platform where diverse voices’ takes on K-pop can be heard.If you like this post and would like to see more, please consider contributing to the KultScene’s writers fund. Email us for more details.
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