With so many releases happening each week, we have split our weekly review into two articles to make things more convenient. Our weekly K-music review posts are here to give you a helping hand and a quick look back to the notable releases from Korean artists in a weekly format. This article looks at releases and comebacks from 30 July-1 August 2018.

Dmeanor – Why Do We
Released: 30 July

We haven’t reviewed a K-drama soundtrack in a while, and with the popularity of Are You Human Too? it wasn’t too long until some classic sounds were to come from the series. This release by Dmeanor has everything needed to make your typical sad love song, notably the beautifully controlled and goosebump-inducing vocals, which send a hauntingly cold tingle throughout your body as you listen to the emotion within his voice. The backing track is simple, repetitive, but soft like a hug to the voice. The music video is a little bit of a spoiler for those who haven’t seen the drama yet and shows some key scenes from the latest episodes.

LEO (VIXX) – Touch & Sketch
Released: 31 July

Taking his first adventure as a solo artist and releasing his first solo album, Leo is out to prove why he is one of the main vocalists of the boy group VIXX. Showing off his chiseled looks, bubblegum pink hair, and mesmerizing choreography, the music video tells a story that fits the lyrics really well. Using a contrast of bright and white colours against the danger colours of red and black, the video is visually entertaining. And yes, Leo is known for being some perfect eye candy. Given Leo’s personality, and how easily shy and giddy he can be, the song certainly reflects a whole new hidden side to the singer; a side many fans will want to see a lot more of.

SF9 – Now Or Never
Released: 31 July

Visually this is one of our favourite music videos from the month of July, and we can’t look down on the choreography or song itself either. We have been excited about this release since we knew SF9 were coming back, and we are not disappointed! With a classic dance and K-pop drum beat, there is a mix of electronic post-production added to the song, as well as to the vocals. But the killing point for us is certainly the “Jealous” pre-chorus chant. As a whole package, this is one of those songs that’ll bring a lot of buzz around the group. Maybe now people will stop sleeping on SF9 and give them some well-deserved attention. A great song and great video.

Minje – Do
Released: 31 July

Going deep into the indie/underground scene once again, we have found Minje, another unknown artist to keep close tabs on. With a mashup style between respective artists Zion T and Hyukoh, Minje has a way to pull you into the song using his vast array of vocal tones, singing styles and the ability to create a smooth jazz piece, yet keeps it completely relevant to modern day popular music trends. The music loop in the background has a great vibe and is hypnotising when listened to through headphones, creating a bass for the rhythm by Minje’s vocals. A great song from a new artist.

Villain – Manitto
Released: 1 August

Creating your own sound as an underground rapper is certainly a selling point and a way to bring yourself into the spotlight of fame, but it is not a very easy feat, considering how many artists are competing for their own break into the industry. This time around, Villain has completely created his own sound, vibe and style which is bound to take the music industry by storm. There is such an eclectic mix of sounds throughout this song that it’s really hard to pinpoint the different styles, but something we are smitten with is the backing vocal chorus. It literally sounds like something you would get from a church, and yet it gives a haunting and addictive sound. We seriously can’t wait to see more from this artist, and just hope he keeps thinking out of the box like he has with this release.

MONSTA X – Livin’ It Up
Released: 1 August

Yes, we know this is not the group’s Korean release, but their official Japanese release. Nevertheless, we would love to show these guys some support as they take Japan by storm. There is something about songs released in Japan by K-pop groups where they seem to keep the best songs and choreographies for that specific time. Not that they don’t make great bops in Korea, the songs just have a better beat and a more experimental sound. The music videos feel personal and simple, and we can guarantee that you get some great close-ups of the members as well. This is certainly in our top 10 favourites of 2018 so far, and we really hope they bring the same energy and sound to their future Korean releases. We are certainly living for Kihyun’s high pitched moments throughout the song where he sings “Just Livin’ It Up” – that sound is a pure addiction!

If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the first article for this week’s K-music review and be sure to join us in the future for more K-music week in reviews.

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