Building off my “Most Epic Days in K-pop” feature, I thought I’d spotlight some of the most epic weeks in K-pop history.
K-pop is usually a Monday through Friday affair (at least in my time zone), with some weeks stuffed to the brim with releases. But, not all include multiple 9+ rated songs. This feature will take you through some of these blockbuster weeks, day by day.
Epic Days: July 14, 2014 // June 22, 2015
May 6-11, 2013 MONDAY: B1A4 – What’s Happening?
Oh, how I miss Jinyoung’s songwriting perspective in K-pop! What’s Happening is sheer perfection. Not a moment is wasted in this series of perfectly-realized hooks. It’s quirky and unique, but envelops you with its warm melodies and bright energy.
The first of two title tracks released this week, Come Back When You Heart This Song goes for the anthemic jugular with a soaring chorus and surging dance beat. Even so, the melody has the character of a great ballad, harnessing agency-head JYP’s signature style for a new era.
Lee Hyori’s big comeback album wouldn’t be released until later in the month, but she pre-released the beguiling Miss Korea to great success. The song takes her music in unexpected directions, delivering a bluesy swipe at beauty standards and unrealistic expectations.
Nine Muses were still chugging along their Sweetune-fueled imperial phase with the incredible Wild. The song strikes a balance we rarely hear today: totally badass but completely melodic and performed with the perfect blend of fire and restraint. They don’t make ’em like this anymore!
LC9’s career didn’t really go anywhere after this track, but Mama Beat is still an underrated classic. From its glitchy electronics to its furious beat drop, the song paints a picture of a time when K-pop producers weren’t afraid to experiment with unique sounds and textures.
N-Sonic are another underrated group, though their career bore more music than LC9’s. Lie is very much a product of its time, which is a good thing! The beat chugs along with a welcome intensity, powering exciting verses and an earworm chorus.
Come Back When You Hear This Song was a fantastic opening salvo, but A.D.T.O.Y. stands as my favorite 2PM title track. The melody is exquisite, the build and tension are palpable and the whole package feels unique and incredibly assured.
Ballad group 4men added a funky swing to their repertoire with Thank You:
