Tag: K-RnB

My First Time Listening To Jamie as She Returns With ‘Apollo 11’ (Feat. Jay Park)

Yesterday, Jamie returned with a new single titled “Apollo 11” (Feat. Jay Park). This review marks my first time listening to anything from Jamie, but I’m excited to see what she has to offer.

Park Ji-min, popularly known as Jamie (formerly Jimin Park), is a South Korean singer-songwriter and television host born on July 5th, 1997. In 2011, she participated in K-pop Star S1 and emerged as the winner. She then got signed to JYP Entertainment and debuted as part of the duo act called 15&. Eventually 15& went on a hiatus, and Park Ji-min made her official solo debut with the single “Hopeless Love” in 2015. She is also currently a member of the project group – M.O.L.A. After her contract with JYP Entertainment expired in 2019, she signed with Warner Music Korea and changed her stage name to Jamie.

(Please note – this is a real-time review, meaning I am typing down my exact thoughts while listening to this song.)

Reaction to Official MV:

  • The visuals and lighting for the music video are stunning.
  • Jamie has a lovely vocal tone. Her voice is giving me strong R&B vibes, and I always enjoy listening to such artists.
  • Also, she is pretty.
  • “Apollo 11” is a smooth but quite groovy song.
  • I am living for that soft beat drop during the chorus.
  • From now on, I need to pay attention to Jamie. This track is such a solid R&B jam.
  • Ooo, I thought Jay Park was going to rap, but then he came in singing!!! I get butterflies whenever he sings.
  • This song is, for sure, going on my playlist.
  • I enjoyed the chill vibe + the vocals are beautiful.
  • Hence why “Apollo 11” by Jamie gets a 10/10 from me.
  • I am so happy that I have been getting good music back to back throughout this week.
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Get Groovy with Chancellor’s AUTOMATIC (Feat. Babylon, twlv, MOON, BIBI, & Jiselle)

This week’s chosen song is “AUTOMATIC” by Chancellor, Babylon, twlv, MOON, BIBI, and Jiselle. What a stellar collaboration because every artist on this track is a solid vocalist.

I fell in love with “AUTOMATIC” from the first listen. This song’s sultry vibe is right up my alley + the perfect balance of male/female R&B voices hits home for me. Every artist brought spice to “AUTOMATIC”. Though, when MOON came in, something about how she said – “I’m a savage” took the song to a whole other level. Then BIBI followed up with more vibes, and Jiselle gave a sweet closing. I seriously wouldn’t substitute or remove any artist on this track but the LADIES!!! definitely brought their A++++++ dynamic SAUCE!!! to this one.

I needed to take in some good vibes lately, and this song came through on repeat. So I hope you all enjoy listening to it as well.💕💕💕

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BIBI X Dingo – she got it (cigarette and condom): Music Review

This collaboration between Dingo x BIBI was released yesterday. Of course, I am here to show some love, so let’s get right into this.

Oh, by the way, Dingo ain’t no artist. It’s a Korean entertainment channel on YouTube. I just wanted to clarify for anyone confused.img_2594

(Please note – This is a real-time review, meaning I am typing down my exact thoughts while listening to this song.)

Reaction to Official MV:

  • I know she’s about to bless me with some smooth vocals.
  • I am excited!!!
  • I love the soft pink colour palette for this music video.
  • Those signature red dots under her right eye are gorgeous.
  • I just knew it. The beat is a groove, and I live for BIBI’s scrunchy R&B vocals.
  • Definitely wasn’t expecting her to say the ‘cigarette and condom’ in English but okurrr girl.😂😂😂
  • You all better be of age before listening to this song. I don’t have English lyrics, but I know this is not a child’s story.
  • I will get the translation after this review.
  • Lol, the condom pack is actually candy.
  • This music video is simple but so pretty. Dingo did a great job.
  • BIBI looks beautiful, and she’s a goofball.
  • All the soft and floating background runs are blessing my ears.
  • The entire song is a chill-groove type of vibe. I LOVE IT!!!
  • “she got it (cigarette and condom)” gets a 10/10 from me, and it is for sure going on my playlist.
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Eric Nam – The Other Side: Album Review

Honestly, procrastination has been my second name recently. I have been chilling without allocating time to work on this blog. Henceforth, I refuse to fall to that disease, so here I am. Let’s check out Eric Nam’s new album🎉🎉🎉. On July 30th, he came back with his fourth mini-album called The Other Side. It has five songs, including the title track – “Paradise”. I have been looking forward to this release!!!

If you need a profile for this artist, use this link 👉🏼 Eric Nam – BEFORE WE BEGIN: Album Review.

(Please note – This is a real-time review, meaning I am typing down my exact thoughts while listening to each song.)

Reaction to Official MV/Title Track:

  • The intro melody is catchy, and Eric Nam’s voice is beautiful.
  • Nice drumbeats. I love how they intensify as the song progresses.
  • The chorus also has the same heavy drums but with an EDM feel. This instrumental is interesting.
  • I guess “Paradise” is a virtual reality game?
  • Hmm, I don’t see multiple Erics🤩😍🤩.
  • He looks good in that flower suit. I honestly can’t believe this man is 32.
  • Unfortunately, this video lacks English subs, so here is a link for the Romanized and English lyrics 👉🏼 Color Coded Lyrics: Eric Nam-Paradise.
  • The music video’s visuals are not anything mind-blowing, but they are alright for the given concept.
  • I don’t know why this song felt short to me. Let me listen to it again before giving my final thoughts.
  • “Paradise” is great, but it took a few listens for it to actually kick in. Maybe I would have enjoyed it more if I was in a very hyper mood, but overall, it’s definitely a grower.

Album Review: img_1463Here is the full album – 

  1. Trouble With You – Wow, this song started right away. No instrumental intro or anything, just Eric’s voice instantly, and I don’t mind. “Trouble With You” suits my current vibe more. It’s upbeat but still has a chill melody. The background vocals are incredible. Eric Nam sounds fantastic on this track. The breathy notes are so lovely to hear, and the tune for this line – “trouble with you…” is very catchy. Oh, I will be overplaying this because it’s way too short. How could he make it only 2 minutes and 33 seconds long? It’s always the best songs that artists decide to leave us wanting more on. This is my first favourite.
  2. Paradise – Since I am used to the tempo, it sounds great.
  3. How You Been – I love the intro for this one. It gives off a tranquil vibe, and since it’s late over here, I am all about this type of energy. Oh, I wasn’t expecting the tempo to change. Anyways, excellent progression and Eric Nam’s high notes are flawless. The instrumental build for this song is heavenly. This is another favourite of mine. Just like “Trouble With You”, this track is upbeat but chill. Although I feel “How You Been” is way smoother. Yet another song on this EP that it’s barely 3 minutes long. Why is Eric Nam giving me short bops?🤦🏼‍♀️
  4. Down For You – This sounds like a classic R&B summer bop, and I am already dancing. Okay, whoever makes Eric’s beats is very innovative. If he does it himself, then kudos👏. The tempo variations in this EP always caught me off guard, but that made each song exciting. I am living for the jazz influence on this track’s instrumental. It is bassy and really groovy. Right from the start, I was moving my body💃🏼💃🏼💃🏼. YESSS!!! Eric, please bless me with those smooth vocal runs. This song is a whole vibe.
  5. Love Die Young (Korean Version) – This is from his English album – Before We Begin, so there isn’t much to say because it was one of my faves on that record. I’m just going to enjoy my time here – “Please don’t let this love die young…If I’m going to love someone, then let it be you.” Lol, I am used to the English version.

Final Thoughts:

Here is my ranking for this EP –

  1. Love Die Young (Korean Version)
  2. How You Been / Trouble With You (Don’t mind me, I couldn’t decide😊)
  3. Down For You
  4. Paradise

I absolutely enjoyed listening to this album. The production of every song is of high quality. Eric Nam sounds flawless as expected. His voice is the perfect R&B flavour that never fails to bless my ears. The only song that I can say fell a bit short for me at first is “Paradise”, which is why it’s that low in rank. Nevertheless, the entire body of work is solid. Therefore this fourth mini-album – The Other Side gets a 9.5/10 from me.

 

 

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Catching Up With Recent Comebacks: EXO-SC|Crush|JEONG EUN JI

(Please note – This is a real-time review, meaning I am typing down my exact thoughts while listening to each song.)

“1 Billion Views” by EXO-SC (Feat. MOON)

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Reaction to Official MV:

  • I love their drip and outfits. They both be looking good.
  • Chanyeol’s voice at the beginning tho, It’s so deep and sexy 😏🤭.
  • I appreciate the vocal layering on this track. It feels like an eargasm😂.
  • As the two rappers in EXO, I was expecting them to take the hardcore rap route, but they are giving us smooth retro vocals.
  • My favourite outfits are the blazer looks.
  • I love the music video’s visuals and the arcade concept.
  • This line  👉🏼”I cry I cry, I cry…” is so catchy. The entire chorus makes me want to sing along.
  • Oh, I forgot that this song has a featured artist until she came in. I love her voice; it blends well with Chanyeol and Sehun.
  • Finger clicking in any song instantly captures my attention, and this one makes me want to dance.
  • I don’t need to say much, I LOVE “1 Billion Views” from EXO-SC.
  • It gets a 10/10 rating from me.

Reaction to pre-release single “Telephone” –

  • Love how this started right away, and the instrumental is bouncy.
  • Honestly, the vocal layering on both songs is so seamless.
  • It’s also lovely to hear how well Changyeol and Sehum harmonize.
  • The animation for this music video is charming.
  • I live for when Chenyeol goes into his lower register. It’s so sensual.🥰
  • I want Sehum’s colourful sweater.
  • “Telephone” is the perfect head-bopping song.
  • Okay, that black sweater look on Sehun is a grand mood, and let’s not even talk about how fine he looks with his hair slicked back.
  • WHAT??? I was not expecting the featured artist once again. 10cm just blessed me with his high pitched voice.
  • It is such a sweet background vocal to Chanyeol and Sehun’s harmonies.
  • I enjoyed every minute of this song; therefore, it gets a 10/10.
  • Now let’s check out their album.

Album Review: The album is also titled 1 Billion Views and has nine songs. Here is a preview –

  1. 1 Billion Views (Feat. MOON)
  2. Say It (Feat. PENOMECO) – This also follows the same upbeat flow and singing style. “Say It” is a BOP, and I am already grooving. Since this is a compiled post, I don’t want to write much, so I will just end on the fact that I enjoyed this song.
  3. Rodeo Station – I love the melody, and the background vocals are soothing. The beat also follows the same retro influence. The production on all four tracks I have heard so far is excellent, most notable with the vocal layering. It is so fascinating to me. “Rodeo Station” is another great track on this record.
  4. Telephone (Feat. 10cm)
  5. Jet Lag – Now, this has a slower tempo compared to the rest. I can’t stop ranting about the vocal quality of this album. “Jet Lag” might just be my favourite so far. The chorus is captivating. I appreciate the smooth and chill vibe.
  6. Fly Away (Feat> Gaeko) – The start for this is quite enchanting. I love the rap-talking style on this track and vocals…WOW. Gaeko is blessing my ears. No song on this album has disappointed. It keeps getting better as expected from EXO members. All I need now is a light stick to fully jam out. THE PRODUCTION!!!… I feel like I’m actually flying.
  7. Nothin’ – The instrumental for this one stands out a lot from the rest, but it still fits the album concept. Already, I LOVE IT. The guitar on this track goes off, and I am here for all that energy. I honestly don’t want to analyze these songs so much because I might write too much since they are all equally amazing. Chanyeol and Sehun deserve an A+++++++ for this album.
  8. On Me – OH JUST FROM THE INTRO, I KNOW THIS IS ABOUT TO BE 🔥. This one is the hardcore rap track on a classic trap instrumental. I am in cloud nine right now, all I need is a speaker because it is party time 💃🏼. It’s not heavy EDM, but it just makes me want to turn up.
  9. 1 Billion Views – Instrumental

1 Billion Views by EXO-SC is an excellent album from start to finish, and I will be going back to it a lot. I do have my favourites, but I enjoyed every single song on here, so my rating is a solid 10/10.

“OHIO” by Crush –

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Reaction to Official MV:

  • Oh, I wasn’t expecting an upbeat start. I thought this was going to be a slow song because I didn’t check out any of the teasers.
  • I love the beat, and I feel this is about to be a good one.
  • His voice is fantastic, as always.
  • That little dance Crush did, in the beginning, was so adorable.
  • So this is about him going all out on partying to forget his heartbreak?
  • The melody for this song is catchy and very bouncy. It makes me want to pull out some weird dance moves.
  • Fun fact, Tablo from Epik High wrote the lyrics for this track.
  • I love that little breakdown clapping section. The rhythm is so good.
  • The pianist is also going off in the background. I am enjoying the jazz influence we have going on with the instrumental.
  • Okay, Crush is going off vocally. He isn’t doing anything too crazy, but his flow and smooth vocal runs are such a vibe.
  • “OHIO” is, for sure, going on my playlist. It is such a groovy song, and I already want to sing along.
  • Plus, Crush’s crazy dancing in the video is a delightful visual feast. 😂😂😂
  • “OHIO” gets a 10/10 from me.

Review of B-side – “Let Me (Feat. Dean Morrison)”

  • Oh, I guess this is the softer track.
  • It seems to be entirely in English.
  • This song is so delicate, and I already love it.
  • I approve of the instrumental mix with the keyboard and shallow drum beats.
  • “Let Me” is a romantic track, and I am here for this kind of energy.
  • It reminds me so much of songs I would hear from the 90s American boy groups.
  • Wow, whoever is doing the backing vocals has a rich deep voice. Is that Dean Morrison, or is he just the producer? Kindly let me know in the comment section.
  • Crush’s voice on this track feels like butter melting into my ears.
  • “Let Me” really follows the classic 90s/early 2000s R&B style.
  • I LOVE IT. My rating is 10/10.

“AWay” by JEONG EUN JI –

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Reaction to Official MV:

  • I’m sad.😥 There are no English captions on this video.
  • All the same, I am here for this summery vibe.
  • Her voice is so beautiful, and I love how the instrumental brings high energy into the song.
  • The chorus didn’t drop as I expected, but that makes things more interesting.
  • Plus, I think the melody is catchy and easy to sing along.
  • The cinematography for this music video is stunning. The colours pop with a soft glow effect.
  • I am enjoying the overall vibe, and I wish I could go on a road trip while jamming to this.
  • Jeong Eun Ji’s make-up is pretty. Her make-up artist went in.
  • Vocal wise, her high notes are effortless. I also hear some lovely whistle notes in the background.
  • Eun Ji is very talented and blessed with a powerful voice.
  • “AWay” gets a 10/10 from me.
  • Now let’s check the full album she dropped.

Album Review: This EP is titled Simple and has six songs. Here is a preview –

  1. Simple is the best – I adore the soft vibe of this one. The piano is on it is brilliant. I could listen to just the instrumental on its own and still enjoy every second because it’s that fascinating. I love how the tempo switched up throughout the song but came together as a perfect mix. Jeong Eun Ji also sounds breathtaking on this track, and the overall production is excellent.
  2. AWay
  3. Whoo – This is way more chill compared to the previous tracks. I love Eun Ji’s vocal tone. It almost sounds like a neo-soul style to me. It’s like a breath of fresh air that hits you in at the right moments. I’m swaying from side to side while listening to this track because it’s that soothing with the shallow vocals and soft guitar instrumental. “Whoo” is my favourite song so far.
  4. Stay – This is a full-on ballad with the classic piano entry and entrancing vocals. I think this might be my second favourite. It feels like a lullaby that could quickly put me to sleep, and I live for this kind of relaxing songs. I’m just going to stop typing and enjoy every second of this one.
  5. Moisturising – Another soft track but with a guitar entry. The progression of this is intriguing. It’s not too upbeat but not very slow like “Stay”. The guitar and drums give it a more cheerful essence. I feel like it was too short, or maybe the 3 minutes and 25 seconds just went by too fast for me.
  6. A Slow Child – Oh, this is about to be a whole mood just from the first few seconds. I love the deep rhythmic drums, and the way Eun Ji came in was elegant. This track makes me feel light, almost like I’m floating. Also, the inclusion of classical instruments took the song to a grand lev. “A Slow Child” is my third favourite song from this record.

Jeong Eun Ji truly impressed. The EP – Simple is sold, and it will be on repeat for a while. My rating is a definite 10/10.

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Catching Up With Recent Comebacks: AleXa|BIBI|Bii

(Please note – This is a real-time review, meaning I am typing down my exact thoughts while listening to each song.)

“Villain” by AleXa – img_1287Reaction to Official MV:

  • This marks my first time hearing any song from her, so I have my fingers crossed.
  • Alright, we don’t have any English captions, but I can check for them later.
  • I love the intense instrumental, and she has a beautiful voice.
  • The choreography is also good. AleXa and the dancers are synchronized.
  • I love how they used the two outfits to represent her different sides. There must be a theory for that, but of course, I have no idea.
  • The beat goes hard and actually makes me want to move, but I’m not fully vibing with the song.
  • I’m going to listen to it again before making up my mind.
  • I absolutely adore her vocal tone. It sounds unique to me, and the production on the track is quite okay.
  • Overall, “Villian” is a great song, but since I’m not too invested it right now, it gets an 8/10.

 

“I’m good at goodbyes” by BIBI –img_1781Reaction to Official MV:

  • I absolutely loved her previous single – “KAZINO”, and if you haven’t read my review for that song, use this link 👉🏼 BIBI – KAZINO: Music Review.
  • Now let’s see how this one goes.
  • Wow, the visuals for this video are stunning. Most notably that scene with BIBI lying in the grass.
  • I need that red dress, it’s gorgeous.
  • Already this shows her versatility because it’s completely different from “KAZINO”
  • BIBI is so cute and weird. Talent just overflows from her.
  • This music video… DAMN. Who came up with the concept? The visuals are incredible but surprisingly simple.
  • I just noticed that I do not have English captions, but it’s okay.
  • I love the drum beats and piano instrumental for this song. They are soft, groovy and complement BIBI’s singing style really well.
  • Her voice is calming and always draws me in. Honestly, she is too underrated.
  • Her vocal runs and range are very intriguing. I also love the falsetto runs she throws in once in a while.
  • This is such a chill song, and I cannot wait to read the English lyrics.
  • There’s nothing more to say, I LOVE IT.
  • “I’m good at goodbyes” gives off a very serene and trancelike vibe. The music video is also well thought out.
  • A definite playlist worthy track.
  • BIBI never disappoints. This song gets a solid 10/10 from me.
  • The English/Romanized lyrics are available with this link 👉🏼 Color Coded Lyrics – BIBI (I’m good at goodbyes)

 

“Be Alive” by Bii –

img_0211Reaction to Official Lyric Video:

  • Bii released “Be Alive” to mark his 10th Anniversary, so as one of his biggest fans, I have to give him a review.
  • Already from the guitar intro, I am intrigued.
  • No song has English captions today. WHY???
  • Awww, his voice is so sweet.
  • Oooh, I love the rocker vibe of this track. The guitar is going off in the background, and Bii’s runs are beautiful.
  • The instrumental of this song is incredible. It displays astonishing production, most notably when he sings – “Oh, Oh, Oh… Oh, Oh, Be Alive.” 
  • The drums and guitar strumming during that section are insanely good.
  • I am enjoying every second of this song because it’s very captivating.
  • Yet another substantial addition to my playlist.
  • Wow, the guitar player is mighty talented. I won’t lie, I think I’m in love.
  • Okay, “Be Alive” by Bii gets a bulletproof 10/10 from me.
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LEE HI Is Back And Here To Stay!!!

Just yesterday, LEE HI released her new single “HOLO”, and I am here to support my vocal queen. I am excited to hear this song because her voice never disappoints. img_1651Lee Ha-yi, popularly known as LEE HI, is a South Korean singer-songwriter born on September 23rd, 1996. She garnered fame after participating in the audition program – K-pop Star Season 1 and finishing as the runner-up. Her official debut was on October 8th of 2012 with the single – “1, 2, 3, 4.” Lee Hi was managed by YG Entertainment up until December 31st, 2019. She is now signed to AOMG, and this new single marks her first release after parting ways with YG.

(Please note – This is a real-time review, meaning I am typing down my exact thoughts while listening to this song.)

Reaction to Official MV:

  • Yes! I have English captions.
  • Oh, no girl, you better not jump. Suicide is not the answer, my love.
  • I feel this is about to be a very heartfelt track.
  • I really missed LEE HI’s voice. YG definitely did not give us enough of her, so I am very excited about this fresh start with a new company.
  • She is stunning and black hair always flatters her features.
  • Back to the song, The lyrics are absolutely beautiful.
  • The piano on this track is soothing and very comforting.
  • Exactly. Sing it LEE HI – “One day, it will stop.” I genuinely believe that no matter what we’re going through, it will pass away, and our happy moments will last for a longer time.
  • Fun fact – LEE HI and I are born in the same year, but I’m a December baby. I just felt the need to share that.😊
  • Her voice always gives me chills because it’s so soulful, and this song is really touching.
  • I love how the instrumental went up in tempo for the chorus. Also, nice touch with choir backing for that section, It created an uplifting aura.
  • Basically, she is the little girl’s guiding angel. Giving her strength to continue living, but I think the little girl also represents LEE HI.
  • This means “HOLO” is a letter to herself to continue fighting the sadness, loneliness, depression, and sad feelings because one day, it will all go away.
  • “HOLO” is, for sure, going on my playlist. It is a lovely song with an important message.
  • It gets a solid 10/10 from me. Good job LEE HI👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
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Golden – Hate Everything: Song Of The Week

Throughout this week, I have been going back to “Hate Everything” by Golden, so it had to be featured.

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Kim Ji Hyun is a South Korean singer-songwriter born on June 16th, 1988. He debuted as an R&B/Soul soloist in 2015 with the EP – Coming Home. At that time, he was signed to JYP Entertainment and known as G.Soul. After leaving JYP in 2017, he signed with H1ghr Music and later changed his stage name to Golden in 2019.

“Hate Everything” is actually the title track of his first EP under the name Golden. This song has two versions – English and Korean. I listen to the English variant more.

His voice on this song is pure bliss. Honestly, Golden is one of the most beautiful/powerful voices in the K-r&b scene. Plus, the emotion he pours into each song is just incredible. I absolutely love the lyrics for “Hate Everything” because they are very relatable and touching. Thankfully with the English version, international listeners can understand everything at once, and the Korean one is basically a direct translation.

I hope you all enjoy listening to this song. If anyone wants something more lively from Golden, try listening to the full EP, which is also titled Hate Everything. You all are bound to enjoy at least two or more tracks on it. Apart from the Korean version of “Hate Everything”, all other songs are in English. If I was to describe this EP, I would call it a ‘Soul Healer’ and rating wise, it gets a solid 10/10 from me.

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Here is the EP on Spotify –

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