A Okay-pop act’s title monitor isn’t at all times the very best tune on their album, even when it’s the one most individuals will hear. Typically, b-sides deserve recognition too. Within the singles-oriented world of Okay-pop, I wish to highlight a few of these buried treasures and provides them the props they deserve.
Throughout the late-00s/early-10s, there was a method of Okay-pop that didn’t sound like anything on the planet. It took benefit of the sound of the Korean language to craft a extremely rhythmic, staccato method popularized by SM teams (and producer Yoo Younger-Jin!) however unfold to varied companies. These songs weren’t simply Western pop that occurred to be carried out by Korean artists. They felt distinctive and particular.
I hear flashes of that on n.SSign’s new b-side Lovely Monster and it makes me so pleased. For me, that is simply the very best Okay-pop tune launched thus far this yr (not that it has a lot competitors) and clears title monitor Funky Like Me with ease. The instrumental is fascinating, fusing electro loops with off-kilter percussion that ebbs and flows with loads of drama. The melodies echo hook songs of Okay-pop’s golden age as each the singing and rap go for phrasing that isn’t merely a copy-and-paste of present traits. There’s a terrifying second after the primary refrain the place it seems that we’re about to break down into some terrible lure breakdown (I might do with out this, tbh) however the tune is smarter than that. It retains its power chugging alongside till we hit an exciting finale.
I would like some new 2026 rookie to make this sound their complete character. How thrilling and refreshing would that be?
| Hooks | 9 |
| Manufacturing | 9 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 8.75 |
Grade: B+
