TREI are the latest in an already-robust slate of 2019 rookie groups to debut over the last few weeks. Hailing from Banana Culture (home to popular girl group EXID), the …
Read More »[Review] LOONA’s ethereal “Butterfly” feels like it’s missing a chorus
The other day, I cobbled together a playlist of every LOONA-related song and hit the shuffle button. I’ve had my gripes about their music in the past (mostly tied to …
Read More »[Review] VANNER debut with the appropriately titled “Better Do Better”
The year of debuts rolls on, but not every rookie will hail from a huge agency with tons of pre-debut hype. For every ITZY or TXT, there will be dozens …
Read More »[Review] Monsta X continue to bring the energy on solid, if at times absurd, “Alligator”
Monsta X have made a quick turnaround from last October’s ‘Are You There‘ releasing another full album instead of a simple repackage. Back-to-back releases like this are exceedingly rare in K-pop, putting …
Read More »[Review] AAA’s Nissy gives charismatic performance on the nimble “Addicted”
AAA’s Nissy is celebrating five years since the launch of his solo career with a greatest hits compilation. Never mind the fact that all of his solo work can be …
Read More »[Review] TST deliver pure pop enjoyment with “Wake Up”
Songs like “Wake Up” are easy to dismiss. They’re too hook-y. They’re not self-serious enough. They have no redeeming artistic value. These are the kinds of criticisms that define what are …
Read More »[Review] “Cold” collab between Key & Hanhae for Station is mellow & moody for better or worse
SHINee’s Key is slated for his mandatory military enlistment soon, but before going on hiatus he’s teased a repackage of his excellent debut album. “Cold” is a prelude to that, …
Read More »[Review] INFINITE’s “Clock” is a solid debut as 5 members, hope for better to come
It feels like an INFINITE comeback has been imminent for months now, especially when the group first performed “Clock” on the new year. Fans like me were hoping for an …
Read More »[Review] Hwasa’s “Twit” solo debut keeps it simple, feels limiting
A solo debut from Mamamoo’s Hwasa almost felt overdue. Though each of the girls possess the necessary charisma to drive a solo career, Hwasa’s always struck me as the member …
Read More »[Review] Dreamcatcher continue to evolve beautifully with dynamic “Piri”
Dreamcatcher have seemingly been talking about ending their nightmare chapter for years now, but they thankfully haven’t actually done it, because for my money this era hasn’t produced a title …
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