With such a busy slate of K-pop releases, I don’t always have a chance to rave about some of my favorite J-pop. This week, I’ll be giving an overview of some of my favorite acts and songs. Hopefully you’ll find a new obsession to add to your playlist!

Why I Love Aladdin (and you should too)

I mean, has their been a groovier groove than this in the past decade? I tend to use the phrase “rhythm inside rhythm” to describe music like this, though I’m sure there’s a more artful, technical term that would suffice. Whatever you call it, this groove is so densely packed and breathlessly alive. Groove and rhythm are the tenants that cause me to worship at the alter of the Jackson family, and Aladdin comfortably sits beside the discographies of Michael and Janet. If you know me at all, you know I don’t say that lightly.

Wednesday Campanella are still active today, though vocalist KOM_I left last year. It’s impossible to imagine Aladdin without her. Her expressive performance is like something from another planet, yet tied to a tautly-constructed pop song that never feels self-indulgent. It’s the perfect match of quirky and accessible, with neither extreme overpowering the other.

Honestly, I don’t see how anyone could sit still while this is playing. It’s such a joyful burst of energy.

I enjoyed this! Where should I go next?

For me, nothing else in Wednesday Campanella’s discography comes close to Aladdin, but their colorful, creative music videos are always worth watching. I recommend Ra and Ikkyu-san. Their newer stuff is also quite experimental and offbeat if you’re into that sort of thing!

Grade: A+