I first launched my “top ten songs” feature at the beginning of 2016, right as The Bias List was getting off the ground. Because of this, many of the lists created that year are in desperate need of revision. New material has been released since then, and my opinion has changed on older songs.
With that in mind, it’s time to look back at some of these lists and make some changes.
First up is Super Junior! If you’re interested in the old list, you’re welcome to check it out here.
10. Twins (Knock Out) (2005)
Super Junior came punching right out of the gate, throwing down the gauntlet with Twins’ aggressive dance rock assault. Though it’s a cover of a western pop song, Twins thrives on its distinctly K-pop energy. (full review)
9. Don’t Don (2007)
Don’t Don’s heavy guitar distortion may surprise those who have grown used to Super Junior’s more subdued sound these past few years, but this early era was defined by over-the-top bombast. Don is ridiculous in the best way possible, culminating in a dramatic violin solo courtesy of Super Junior-M member Henry. (full review)
8. Black Suit (2017)
After several years away, Black Suit saw a modified version of the Super Junior line-up return with gusto. The track’s forceful dance beat and big band influences feels perfectly-calibrated to the group’s charms, merging refinement with crackling pop energy. (full review)
7. A-Cha (2011)
At this point in their career, Super Junior were churning out angular, rock-infused electro-pop with ease. A-Cha is a highlight of this era, pulsing along distorted electronics, staccato vocals and a satisfying headrush of a chorus.
6. Devil (2015)
Devil is effortlessly smooth, befitting an act in their tenth year of activities. From its catchy guitar riff to that breathy, sing-along chorus, the track showcases a group comfortable in their own skin, embracing their status as K-pop legends. (full review)
5. Sexy, Free & Single (2012)
One of Super Junior’s funkiest singles (as well as a veritable meme machine), Sexy, Free & Single fuses airy melody over a scuzzy electro beat to brilliant effect. Its synth lines are absolutely gorgeous, complimenting the guys’ ultra-rhythmic performance.
4. Mr. Simple (2011)
Mr. Simple bounds forward on an icy synth riff and galloping beat, unyielding in its single-minded intensity. It’s unlike any sound you’d hear in other music markets, using its harsh repetition to its advantage. The song plays like a coiled spring, hiding groovy surprises around every corner. (full review)
3. Bonamana (2010)
Super Junior had much to live up to after the unprecedented success of Sorry Sorry, and Bonamana smartly builds upon that song’s charms. It may not feel quite as iconic, but every element is turned to eleven, climaxing in a mammoth, chant-along chorus that leaves you hungry for more.
2. It’s You (2009)
It’s You harnesses the strongest melodies in Super Junior’s arsenal, gently building to a chorus that can only be describes as “surging” and “majestic.” The song knows how to use dynamics to its advantage, pulling back and rushing forward to offer ultimate pop song catharsis.
1. Sorry Sorry (2009)
Sorry Sorry has become so iconic that it’s easy to consider it more of an experience than a song. But, that would be doing its flawless production and walloping hook a disservice. There’s a reason this smash has stood the test of time. It’s cool and aloof, yet sharp and imposing. The rhythmic chorus is pop perfection, tracing the lines of the groove with a sense of confidence that only a group as skilled as Super Junior could pull off with such ease.
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Publisher: Nick
