BM5's July 2020 Favorites

Favorite Anime Discussion

Monster Review - Glass Reflection

This show is one of the most hidden gems these days. That's partially due to its hard to find nature in a legal manner. It's one of my top 5 anime of all time and I find that not many people bring it up. I was so glad to see Arkada of Glass Reflection shedding some light on it, though. The great thing about it is that I was recommending it to a coworker when later that day he released his review. I can't recommend this show enough to people who enjoy seinen dramas that love to dive into questions of morality and psychological manipulation. Need more convincing, let the man above speak to you! Haha.

Favorite Music Discussion

How Pop Music Got Too Personal - The Take

This channel is one I occasionally watch and this topic really caught my attention. We all know that popular music does a really good job of keeping things relatable to the general public, yet there are certainly a wealth of superstars whose careers are full of personal hits. The way songs have increasingly became more like peeks into artists' diaries has been an interesting trend to look into. This video did a decent job of doing such a thing. Now the question becomes whether it's best for us as consumers to love it simply for the sake of the "tea" or to empathize/sympathize with our celebrities.

Favorite Song

Selene - NIKI

NIKI is an artist that I've fallen in love with over the years. As a singer-songwriter in the pop/R&B field she's slowly been growing her skill set and expanding her appeal. With her release of "Switchblade", she announced her next project, Moonchild, to be a conceptual full album. This had me excited as her EPs have ranged from a few different styles and the visuals for the single were stunning. The only caveat was the fact that the single didn't blow me away. This second single, "Selene", though...COMPLETE OPPOSITE! Haha!!! The funky almost disco joint had me captivated for weeks which is fitting due the theme being "possessed" by Selene. NIKI's vocals and lyrics are so playful and seductive, then having them paired by the funk bass licks and beautiful horns throughout. It's truly a thrill ride for the ears that you can't help but move to. NOW, I'm highly anticipating the album!

Favorite Music Video

 Naughty - Red Velvet: Irene & Seulgi

When I did the reaction to this Monster mini album, I only heard everything but this CD exclusive/subtitle track. I loved every single song, but knew that I had to wait for the music video to hear "Naughty". When I saw it drop, I was extremely hype, especially since I watched an interview where Seulgi mentioned that they had to learn tutting for the comeback. I was slightly confused, because I couldn't see that being too necessary to learn for "Monster". Yet, the choreo for "Naughty" shut me up! Nearly the entire routine is based in the dance style that I know for a fact is very difficult to master. It's not simply basic techniques that they have to execute either, making me thoroughly impressed. I've had to learn a bit of style in a few dances and I can attest to it not being easy to do with the quality of synchronicity and consistency that these women have done in the video and live stages. It doesn't hurt that the song is great, but I can honestly say that the video is what makes this release spectacular!!

Full July 2020 Favorites Playlist: click here