Unboxing: Violet KPop Haul 2

Fair Shake Reaction: Devil - Max Changmin

Devil - Max Changmin

(Genre: Kpop)

The Devil in the detailed links:

Devil (Music Video)

Maniac (Music Video)

Fever (Stage Video)

JREKML Reaction

No Prepare (Variety w/ Lee Young Ji)

Fair Shake Reaction: Chocolate - Max

Chocolate - Max

(Genre: Kpop)

Top 10 Recommended Music Videos

"Just Right" by GOT7
I love this group so much and this music video made me love their charm even more! This is definitely one of my favorite songs and videos from this group from last year. It has a great message and amazing choreography. Honestly, I think they can only go up from here. This catchy, sweet song proves that GOT7 is just going to keep growing in the right direction. I love the colorful concept and the interaction with the little girl. If you've seen this from the Fine Bros. channel, it would be best to turn those captions on and I promise you that this is a lot less creepy than it seems. Also, if you're having a cloudy day, this'll definitely lift your spirits and make you feel all warm, fuzzy, and special inside.



"Champagne" by Yunho (DBSK)
I believe this was released before his and Changmin's military time. I'm still not super into this duo, but I do enjoy their music from time to time and Yunho is my bias, so I had to check out this song when it was released. I wasn't expecting such a vibrant, fun, charming, and catchy song. It has so many set changes and variations in style with the visuals, costumes, and sound. It's different from the DBSK duo material, but still has a tiny hint of it in the music/dance break. I'm looking forward to listening to more Yunho solo material when I get around to it.



"You & Me" by Kisum feat. Jooyoung
Thanks to Unpretty Rapstar, which I'll review and rant about at some point, I was interested in this lovely and talented young lady. I'm glad the show gave her a launch pad to showcase her talent to the world. This video and song really shows off her cute, playful, and sweet side that you don't see in a lot of Korean female rappers that doesn't infantize them. Jooyoung's vocals work very well with Kisum's rap verses. They have good chemistry together and everything about this music video gives me the warm fuzzies.



"XOX" by Z.HERA feat. Eun Ha (Dal Shabat)
Anytime I see new music from Z.HERA or ANDA, I instantly get excited and keep hoping that more people discover their fresh, shining talent like I have. In this colorful and animated video, Z.HERA channels another part of herself and lets loose of the more serious work she's done. I love the colors, fun choreography, and the upbeat tone of the music. It really looks like she's having fun. While I don't think Eun Ha was all that necessary to the song, her contribution with Z.HERA worked well. I kinda wished they interacted a little more, but they look and sound good together.



"Don't Be Shy" by PRIMARY feat. ChoA (AOA) & IRON
Even though I'm far from a fan of AOA, I do like ChoA. Something about her makes me happy and I enjoy watching her in AOA music videos. Seeing her in a PRIMARY video with Show Me the Money 3's personal heartthrob IRON made me excited. PRIMARY's music and videos are always unpredictable and that's something I love about his work. This music video is no exception. It combines dark and artistic elements and uses a believable vintage aesthetic, then fuses them with modern color tones and imagery that current kpop fans are used to, even though it is a strange, supernatural narrative with a romantic, laid back musical tone. I love ChoA's vocals on this reggae inspired sound and of course that's IRON's element of expertise, so I wasn't worried about his contribution.



"Married to the Music" by SHINee
This group has really grown on me since "Lucifer". Perhaps I've even become...a fan. *gasps* Anyway, I must admit that I enjoyed "View" as a song more than this one, but the video doesn't have as many visuals that'll stick in your mind as this Halloween appropriate house of hilarious horror. It gives that playful, upbeat haunted house vibe that I remember getting from Backstreet Boys' "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)". I'm really happy that SM Entertainment gives this group so many creative and fun concepts and visuals compared to some of their groups. The guys look like they're having a lot of fun and the video really shows off their chemistry with their goofy acting, choreography, and vocal harmony. I'm honestly impressed with the production. Good job, everyone!



"My Number" by Cheetah
After Unpretty Rapstar and seeing the teasers for Cheetah's first solo rap video, not only was I excited, but many fans were too. Some were disappointed in the lack of hardness and mainstream sound choice, but I think we're alright with it. I understand the disappointment as this was nothing I thought it would be, but I'm not shunning this effort obviously. I still managed to enjoy this neon colored, genderbending, street inspired imagery. The lyrics and delivery still reflect Cheetah's fierce and dominating personality and that's what's really important. I'm looking forward to more from her like Kisum.



"RESPECT" by Loco feat. GRAY & DJ Pumkin
This is a song that I listen to off and on, but I have found more appreciation for it after hearing it live. The video combines your usual basic studio produced hip-hop visuals as LOCO performs, snippets of story with his friends and working on music, and social media graphics simulating a narrative of his life or something close to reality. LOCO brings a lot of charisma and charm as he delivers his lyrics to this b-boy like beat. It has a feel good, catchy chorus provided by labelmate GRAY. It's definitely a positive feeling type a song that's easy to enjoy by yourself or with friends.



"Beautiful Liar" by VIXX LR
I was surprised to hear that VIXX was making a sub-unit with Leo and Ravi and I was very curious how that combination was going to work. I didn't doubt that it wouldn't be great as I claimed the Starlight name and I love both of these talented individuals. This music video definitely played to all of their strengths. Leo's beautiful, passionate vocals give a great sense of vulnerability, while Ravi's rough, powerful rap delivery expresses pain and conflict that completes the overall atmosphere of this song. The visuals are dark, theatrical, and artsy. Visuals that VIXX are very good at. It really completes the story for our characters and their emotional struggle. I'm looking forward to hearing more from this sub-unit in the future as they work very well together.



"Wet" by Jooyoung feat. Superbee
Honestly, my mind went straight to the gutter with this title and I'm sure some other people's mind went that direction too, but it's not that kind of song. I promise. This is a very emotional and beautiful song that'll have you body rolling and crying simultaneously. I thought this was the first time I've heard Jooyoung's lovely vocals, but this is just the first time he's really stood out for me. The trap-R&B beat and the sorrowful lyrics bring out the strengths in his vocal expression and charisma. Definitely an automatic jam for many, many months for me. I recommend turning on those subtitles, because the lyrics are really beautiful. The visuals are dark, minimal, and perfectly sensual like the tone of the song and beat. It really focuses on Jooyoung's internal struggle and chemistry with the girls in the video and audience.

Top 5 Recommended Music Videos

"Spellbound" by DBSK
Compared to the overproduced "Something", I enjoy this song and video way more. It still has that fun jazzy sound and keeps the theme of that gangster era. Sorry, I can't think of the proper label for it. Sure, this is more choreography focused, but it's still amazing in its simplicity. The choreography is sleek and synchronized. The box set is simple and fits the tone of the song. Although, it is too illuminated in places. It was nice that they borrowed their one-shot techniques from EXO's "Growl" for this video, but the awkward zooms are a little distracting at times. Fortunately, it doesn't take away too much from the overall entertainment factor of this video.



"2 On (Explicit)" by Tinashe feat. SchoolBoy Q
I first heard about this video (and Tinashe) through a post on Arcadey. I queued it up on my YouTube watch list and when I got around to watching the video, I surprisingly really enjoyed it. The music is very minimalistic and doesn't really offer anything new to the genre, especially since a lot of artists are using the same elements in their crappy songs. What makes it enjoyable is Tinashe's voice. It's confident and smooth as silk. She's like a combination of Mya and Ciara. I really enjoyed watching her dance. Unfortunately, SchoolBoy Q's "contribution" is unbearable. It ruins the mood with dumb sexual lines, but Tinashe's Sean Paul reference made things happier for me. Looking forward to listening to more of her music in the near future.



"Turn Down for What" by DJ Snake & Lil' Jon
Oh. My. God! This is the most ridiculously awesome thing I have ever seen and heard. I never thought I missed Lil' Jon so much, but I forgot how much energy he brings to such a simplistic, bass driven beat. The video is crazy. Literally. Nothing makes sense at all. Yet I can't help but grin like a crazy person and revive all the crunk from the early 2000s in my living room. I'm surprised I haven't heard this everywhere. This is the greatest thing ever, people! Make it happen. #MikosGraduationAnthem



"The Worst (Explicit)" by Jhene Aiko
I'm glad I checked out this video, because I've ignored for years after debuting with her cousin, I believe, on a B2K album. Whoa. Her voice is absolutely beautiful. Without watching the video, you can feel the conflict, pain, and desperation through her voice. The video has a simple story that vaguely tells you what happened. It matches the subtle dark tone of the music with the horror-like camera angles, unstable effects, and darkened color tones. Forgive me, Jhene, for ignoring you for all these years. I'm gonna listen to your new album real soon.



"Mr.Mr." by SNSD
It pains me to admit that...I actually genuinely like this song and the video is surprisingly good. It's a different look or at least concept I've seen from them. Please don't try to argue that with me either. The song is subtly earwormy and has an easy electro-pop beat. It might sound a little droney, but the high vocals lighten it enough that the song doesn't end up in the gutter. It has a deceively sweet tone to the vocals and even in the imagery, but it also has a tiny dark undertone. Something that makes it feel that this song isn't as sweet and cute as it seems. Despite my praise and repeat abuse for this song, I still don't see myself falling for SNSD's "charm".

DBSK's "Something" vs. Girl's Day's "Something"

Ah, it feels like forever since I've gotten around to one of these music comparisons. Don't worry, I have more in store for you, guys. Also, if you want more, please let me know by voting in the poll to the right as well as anything else I should post more of. Today is [obviously] a comparison between the two "Something" releases. I guess they're running out of titles.


Lyrics
Where to begin with these lyrics? Honestly, I really don't know. I feel like I'm missing "something" to understand what's going on in this song. I think I got the gist of what they're trying to convey, so don't yell at me too much if I'm completely off base. The song is about this woman who keeps hanging around them and has some sort of feelings or interest toward them, but is hesitant or shy about doing or saying anything. The guys want her to speak up, if she doesn't, she's wasting their time, even though they don't mind giving her chance. They want to give her a good time, make the night the best night of her life, but they're not going to do anything if she doesn't make a move first.

Music
The sound is a nice step away from the usual SM electro-pop/dubstep fusion. It has a nice big band sound with a nice swing beat. It's a bit refreshing from everything else. It's smooth, fun, and sophisticated. The melody goes well with the lyrics and the chorus is easy enough to stick in your head without getting on your nerves like most earworms.

Visual Content
Honestly, I was dreading having to re-watch this video for this post because of the visuals, but I'm going to try not to make this too review-like. The guys wardrobe pleasantly matches the tone of the song and lyrics as the classy, mature men with a slight edge, even though the fake tattoos look super tacky. The scenery also matches the tone very well, along with the mix of sophisticated male dancers and sexy, dangerous female dancers. Despite all those positives, with it's puppetry choreography, it's not that interesting at all. It's negatives bring it down a lot and brings that dread I mentioned before. God, I hope I never have to watch this MV ever again.



Lyrics
Thank you, Girl's Day! I understand your lyrics with no hesitation. *grumbles* This song is about a cheating lover and the girls notice that "something" is off about them. There's a strange scent, they're acting odd, etc. In typical cheat songs sung by women, they wonder why. Was it something they did? Did their lover think their feelings were fake? It's well put together and *yells at DBSK's songwriters* easy to understand.

Music
It was interesting that After School put out another version of "First Love". No, no...it's true. They sound almost alike, but fortunately, I like that song and this one was pretty decent. It has a simple beat that I bet would sound amazing live with real instruments. It's easy and familiar whether you listen to kpop or not. It's a simple fusion of R&B and electro-pop.

Visual Content
Once again, I have to call Girl's Day out on their appearance. This is totally some SISTAR's "Alone", but more risque. I think they had to change their outfits for certain live performances or "something". Anyway, the video is a pretty basic choreography and story switch. You have the girls dancing, playing with their feather rings and slits in their skirts, and doing some weird bounce movement. I thought they had to pee. The story simply features typical beauty shots of the girls emoting disappointment, subtle anger, and sadness in various rooms of a home.

Looking at what I had to say about both videos, it's probably obvious which one I would pick as the winner, but I must admit I'm not a big fan of either of these groups or songs. On the plus side, DBSK has "something" different than majority of what kpop groups are putting out. They made a bold move by turning their dubstep dance break into a big band interpretation of that sound. Unfortunately, their biggest downfall was their visuals. Aside from the obvious [and annoying] use of white women as a luxurious accessory, the wardrobe made me uncomfortable, the tattoos were silly, and the sets seemed cluttered with effects and people. For Girl's Day, they stuck with typical sounds and visuals and don't offer anything new or even slightly different like DBSK. But I think I could listen to their song every now and then without cringing and their video is easier on the eyes too. Therefore, the winner is Girl's Day!

What do you guys think? Do you agree with me? Or do you think that DBSK has "something" more than Girl's Day? Leave a comment and tell me your thoughts on this musical comparison.

Quick Music Review

SHINee - 3집 Chapter 1. `Dream Girl - The misconceptions of you` (2013, South Korea) Rating: 2.5/5
Favorite Tracks: Dream Girl, Dynamite
I guess SM Entertainment learned how to properly compile all the tracks featured on the album as opposed to making it seem like a never ending song. *coughs*Sherlock*coughs* This track opener is called "Spoiler", which features bits and pieces of the tracks on this CD with some other stuff. I don't suggest doing this all the time, but it does work better than "Sherlock (Clue+Note)", "Clue", and "Note" following one right after another. "Dream Girl" is the promo track for this album. It took me a while to appreciate this song, but without having the visuals from the music video made me enjoy the retro sounds combined with booming electro-pop. It was something fresh, but familiar in the SHINee discography...at least their recent material after Lucifer. It's a fun, upbeat song with a good vocal composition that utilizes the boys' talents which I'm surprised by. Good job, SMEnt, you did something right! "Hitchhiking" has a slightly odd synth-trumpet thing going on and a lot of experimental electronic sounds. It almost feels like a combination of the previous track and "Sherlock", but it doesn't quite fit in certain places. "Punch Drunk Love" brings out the most simplistic beat of R&B of the 80's and tries to make it charming, but it comes off as cheesy and dated in the worse sense. "Girls, Girls, Girls" is a simple, upbeat melody with lots of feel good elements. Unfortunately, it doesn't make me feel good. It's too sweet for me! "Aside" departs from the cheesy vintage sound to a mature piano and acoustic combo of a love tune...at least I think it's a love song. "Beautiful" brings back the electronic sound ripped straight from capsule, but softened up to make it more endearing than in your face. Must admit "Dynamite" is my favorite track on this album, hands down. It's odd and quirky in some ways. It mixes retro and has a give and take electronic addicting sound to the melody. It flows more easily than "Hitchhiking", but the melody drop moment is a little questionable. It's not too bothersome to ruin the song, fortunately. "Runaway" closes out this album with more recycled capsule leftovers! This is practically Johnny's Entertainment C-side material. Nothing super interesting. Well, this album was definitely less annoying than Sherlock. Looking forward to listening to chapter 2.



B.A.P - One Shot (2013, South Korea) Rating: 3/5
Favorite Tracks: One Shot, COMA
This was a request made by one of the readers and luckily I can easily comment on this mini-album. "PUNCH" has a grand opening of brass and hip-hop. It tries to be as tough as "Warrior", but comes off as weak as "POWER" and "NO MERCY" with a weak vocal aggression and a partially recycled beat. "ONE SHOT" is the main reason I was excited to listen to this mini-album. A lot of the group's releases have been pale comparisons to their debut song and usually it's the other way around. This track brings back the essence and attitude of "Warrior" with something new...even if it's only slightly. I love the vocal arrangement and how the rap and singing is balanced out perfectly. The bridge is beautifully delivered and flows effortlessly into the repetitive and simple chorus. I hope the group takes a little break and brings more of this sound to their harder tracks. "빗소리" is a softer, acoustic track that actually works. I haven't been fond of the group's slower tracks, but they found out how to make rapping and singing work for this steady and confident track. "COMA" is the other track that was slipped into the music video for "ONE SHOT". It's a more intense track with a tough rap delivery and a pleading tone to the vocals. Somehow, this song works as well. I have no problems with it and I even listened to it more than once which is a feat. This track definitely shows the group's growth for more vulnerable, emotional tracks. "0 (ZERO)" is the weakest track on this mini-album. It's upbeat, has a slightly poppy acoustic, and tries to be fun and hip-hop, but it comes off as an awkward inspirational song.



Dir en grey - Rinkaku (2012, Japan) Rating: 3/5
Favorite Tracks: Rinkaku (Eternal Summer Mix)
It's been quite some time since Dum Spiro Spero and, of course, any release from this band is an exciting one. "Rinkaku" is a beautiful, heavy song that reminds us that Kyo can indeed sing. I have no idea why people keep saying that all he does is scream. The delivery of the verse and part of chorus is calming and almost entrancing to the mind. It almost counters the heaviness of the guitars and bass, but it is skillfully balanced. "Kiri to Mayu" has been revived from it's MISSA era to the year 2012. The song keeps the foundation of the original and pumps it with growls, guttural screams, and hardcore instrumentation similar to the "ZAN" remake. "Rinkaku (Eternal Summer Mix)" was a track I was most excited for and I know a few of my friends were looking forward to it as well because it is remixed by Akira Yamaoka (a.k.a the composer of the Silent Hill game series). This remix definitely sounds like something straight out of Silent Hill with the perfect touch of softness and vocal performance from Kyo's end. It doesn't sound overly Silent Hill either. It has an ambient Dir en grey sound lingering in between the melody. I don't know if it's because of my bias, but I enjoy this more than the original. It's just beautifully haunting. They should do more collaborations!



Moon Hee Jun - BEGINS (2012, South Korea) Rating: 2/5
Favorite Tracks: PIONEER, SCANDAL
I was happy to hear that MHJ was making a comeback, but I was not expecting him to abandon his rock sound for the trending electro-pop sound of the idol world. "PIONEER" is full of unnecessary dubstep wubs and wobs. I would've been happy if it was just a pure electronic dance track because those parts work. Even though his voice is slightly auto-tuned, MHJ hasn't lost his touch in the vocal department. "I'M NOT OK" was chosen to promote this comeback mini-album and mixes current and 90's kpop electronic sounds together. It's below the usual level that MHJ reaches for in his music, even lyrically. It's a decent song, but a bit mediocre for MHJ's musical caliber. "SCANDAL" brings back what MHJ is good at which is emotion filled vocals and a nice piano pop mix. It's so refreshing to hear his voice without all the auto-tune accompanied by a less in your face electronic sound. "BLOOD-V" is the final track, if you don't count the instrumental for "PIONEER". It brings back the 90's dance scene in another sub-par song with dubstep sprinkled here and there and, of course, auto-tune. It's a fun track, yes, but MHJ doesn't sound like himself at all. I'm hoping he returns to the rock and ballad scene where he excels or at least bring the bar back up on his pop material.



DBSK - catch Me + Humanoids repackage (2012, South Korea) Rating: 3/5
Favorite Tracks: Catch Me, Insaengeun Bitnatda (viva), Good Night, Humanoids
"Catch Me" is the obvious promotional track and the only reason I even bothered with this album. Ignoring the lack of chemistry in the music video, I can enjoy this song a lot more. It's catchy, has some good build ups, and the vocals are pretty good. It's also very addicting, but I could live without the robotic vocals and the dubstep break. SMEnt, step away from the dubstep! "Insaengeun Bitnatda (viva)" features some possible electronic guitars, deep bass grumbling at the base of the speakers, and a surprisingly catchy chorus. I was shocked that the follow up track would be this good. Sure, there's another dubstep break they could've been left out, but it has a simple beat and the sly, half whispered verses are kinda cool. "Destiny" mixes electronic elements and vintage R&B sounds for the mandatory love track that loses Miko's interest. "Binucheoreom (like A Soap)" takes a new direction with an upbeat tune of happy drums and a sweet acoustic guitar. This might work better with, I don't know, more members, but what they do with the vocals are good too. "I Don't Know" is a straight guitar pop tune that I can hear Britney Spears using...maybe a few years back or even solo Gwen Stefani. "Dream" is a cutesy song that really doesn't fit these men. It's meant for an anime opening. "How Are You" is another lovey dovey, acoustic ballad-y thing. "Getaway" wakes you up with the bombastic rock sound and makes you wonder if you're still listening to the same album, until you hear Yunho (I think) yelling at you. It almost works, but there's a lot of vocal strain. "I Swear" lulls me back to sleepy disinterest with an even softer love song. "Gorgeous" jumps back to the booming electronic sound. It has some interesting musical elements, but sounds like some other kpop rookie group I can't place at the moment. Not a bad song, considering I passed through some rather uninteresting tracks beforehand. "Good Night" surprisingly is a track I really like. It has that cheesy 90's R&B sound mixed with a good balance of electronic elements. The song really compliments the guys' vocals. Honestly, this sounds like a good love making song or something. Sensual and just enough charm. More of their love songs should sound like this. Now onto the repackaged material! Similar to "Catch Me", "Humanoids" is the only reason I bothered with the extra songs. The music video is even more cringe worthy, so it took me sometime to fully appreciate the song. It's a slightly weaker "Catch Me", but has this silly catchy chorus that just earworms into your mind with its electro-popness. "Here I Stand" is a track that tried to be U-KISS, but failed. It tries to be all cool and dynamic with its sprinkle of electronics, vocal levels, and upbeat chorus, but just falls flat.


If there's something you want me to review, check out this post on how you can submit requests.

V-log: Sex, Fights, & Breaking Up

This was a much needed v-log for me. I've been wanting to do one for a while, so the topics might be a little outdated, I'm not sure nor care. Hopefully, I'll record another video about "Gangnam Style". I've been saving and gathering my thoughts on the whole phenomenon. Don't forget that I'm always open for suggestions, questions, and requests.

Rant: The Great Fan Divide

A month or two ago, I bought tickets to Linkin Park's latest tour with The Prodigy and I was really excited about it. I've been wanting to see LP since their break out takeover with Hybrid Theory, but I wasn't that big of a concert goer as I am now and when I started attending more, my only option was Projekt Revolution (which is equivalent to KoЯn's Family Values Tour, featuring several other bands with them as headliners). I wasn't interested and waited around for that very moment. Unfortunately, the date was postponed to March. I'm not bitter about it at all and this post has nothing to do with the cancellation either. This post has to deal with some comments I've been reading since I added the event on my last.fm account.

I already knew that since the long awaited release of Minutes to Midnight a fan division was formed due to the changes of LP's sound. I thought this would've faded, but the fan hate is still alive. All I saw were constant complaints about how Prodigy fans felt sorry or didn't understand why they would be opening for such a "shitty" band. I was appalled and a little bit ashamed as I am a fan of both bands. I couldn't believe that LP fans were still bickering over the band's experimental choices and jrock fans have stopped months or even years ago.

Now I don't want to strictly keep this centered around LP, I wanted to focus all my irritated energy towards all the bands that caused a fan division. Most of them have calmed down and people have moved on, at least from my point of view, and others, like the example above, have yet to let go. It's partially the reason I have the indies vs. major poll up for the month.

Back in 1997, a talented visual kei band by the name of Dir en grey was born. They brought controversy and thought provoking lyrics to music listeners around the country. They slowly evolved into a less visual creation to a more normal state. After branching outside of Japan, they set their sights on America and became inspired (or influenced moreso) by the bands they were touring with. Marrow of a Bone and it's singles leading up to it were released and caused an uproar within the fandom with their "Americanized" sound. There was an instant divide and people complained about their music, lack of self mutilation in live performances, and their less visual appearance, but soon all things calmed down and Uroboros opened some fans' minds that their roots were still there within their growth and experimentation. Sure, there's still a divide in the fandom, but it has become less rowdy compared to LP's fanbase.

In 2008, Girugamesh released their third album, MUSIC, which caused a divide in their fanbase. They took a different direction with their unique rock sound and added new dance, rap, and a few pop elements to some songs. A lot people wanted them to go back to the emotionally intense sounds of "VOLCANO" or even something that still captured the essence of "Owari to mirai".

In 2007, former An Cafe guitarist Bou left the band and two new members were added, Takuya (guitar) and Yuuki (keyboard). People bitched and moaned over how Yuuki looked like a freak and wouldn't give him a chance just by basing it on appearance. When Kakusei heroism ~THE HERO WITHOUT A 'NAME'~ and Ryuusei Rocket were released, some fans were constantly comparing Bou and Takuya's guitar skills to each other. They would strongly cling to their thoughts that Bou was a better guitarist than Takuya, but honestly, in my opinion, Takuya is better. At least, the above examples I can understand there being a division within the fandom, but an argument between Bou and Takuya is a waste of time.

Last year, Jaejung, Yuchun, and Junsu left DBSK due to contract issues and decided to form JYJ while Changmin and Yunho continued on with DBSK. Now this fan division ranks up there with LP and I'm so happy I'm not a fan of them, because I'd probably be equally annoyed with this division. Fans were torn and felt betrayed. They felt obligated to like both instead of just sticking with whatever they enjoyed without regrets or even just sticking with old DBSK.

Bands change. You can't stop that and deep down you wouldn't want them to. Think about it. If Dir en grey, Linkin Park, and any other band that has evolved into something else played the same type of music, you would be just as annoyed and bitchy about it. It's impossible to please everyone and I'm glad that these fan divisions haven't hindered bands from exploring their creativity. As fans, we need to accept that we're not going to like everything no matter how die hard of a fan you are. You don't have to feel guilty about it either. It won't kill you to admit to yourself or anyone else that you dislike something from your favorite band/artist. Most importantly, we need to stop yelling at each other, because originally we were brought together because we love the band or artist. We need to agree to disagree too.

Quick Music Review

DBSK - Keep Your Head Down (2011, South Korea) Rating: 3/5
Favorite Tracks: Maximum & Our Game

My expectations were pretty much set when I started this album, especially since 1. I'm not a DBSK fan and 2. I wasn't as "wowed" as everyone else with their debut music video as a duo. "Why (Keep Your Down)" was a bit off putting for me considering it featured some heavy rock elements in the beginning and still had that generic kpop sound lingering that they're known for. I still feel a bit iffy about the song, but it's alright (with an added shrug). Just kinda feels like they were trying too hard in places. My mind drifted upon the next track as I'm not a big fan of ballads, but I made it once through just to say I went through the whole album. "Maximum" gained my interest back with its hard hitting bass that they kinda recycled from the first track and some classic oriental intro and break I wasn't expecting. Progressing forward, my interest was waning from thoughts of "oh, this is okay" to "great...another boring ballad *sighs*", until it was gained back once more upon a track with some attitude and a little bit of darkness by the name of "Our Game". I had to seize my journey through this album to repeat it a couple more times, but once I moved forward to the final two tracks, I learned it was back to waning attention until the album ended and I was free to backtrack to "Our Game"...with added volume~



GD & T.O.P - Vol. 1 (2011, South Korea) Rating: 4/5
Favorite Tracks: HIGH HIGH, Oh Yeah, & Knock Out

I was pretty excited for what these two talented yet different rappers would bring to the table. The "Intro" gave me promise with a retro 80's beat and a smooth flow and attitude from both men. "HIGH HIGH" was their debut as a duo and it was easily catchy. A great dance tune with a hip-hop club attitude that you can't resist. Teaming up with label mate Park Bom to add some sweet flavor to this hip-hop, semi-R&B beat and flow. You can't help but say "Oh Yeah" to this track. "Don't Go Home" shared another great retro vibe with trumpets and other elements reminiscent of the 70s. "BABY GOOD NIGHT" is a mind melting R&B lullaby. The last track is "Knock Out" that serves attitude and some fun vibes to keep your head bobbing like a gangsta. This album also features a few solo tracks from G-Dragon and T.O.P. G-Dragon's "Nightmare" was instant love with it's dark underlinings and a somewhat haunting auto-tune vocal track, but "What Do You Want?" made me go "wtf?" with it's country/blues fusion that I wasn't digging at all. T.O.P's contribution made me realize how talented he is on his own. "Oh Mom" was a fusion of rock and a bit of hip-hop, although I think the song would've been better if it was less auto-tuned. "Of All Days" was by far my favorite out of his solo stuff on the album! The auto tune was a little annoying, but I like the drama of the music and how well every line fit with the slightly slow pace of the melody until it gets to the chorus. A good build up that sticks easily. I already was pleased with "Turn It Up" and it probably would've been my favorite solo song on the album, but sadly, I was guilty of overplay. The song is still great, has amazing bass, and very hypnotizing just as the lyrics imply.



Dir en grey - LOTUS (2011, Japan) Rating: 3/5
Favorite Tracks: LOTUS & OBSCURE -2011 ver.-

I was a little hesitant to listen to this single, but it ended up being not so bad. "LOTUS" had the perfect blend of the band's softer side that they introduced us to in Withering to death, but still had a bit of rage in the underbelly that was waiting to be released between the entrancing echos of Kyo's voice. I was pleased with the range that was shown in one song. The new version of "Obscure" had me the most nervous. It was a decent remake and I'm not completely sure why they've been redoing their older songs that are already amazing, especially this one. The music was a little more hollowed out in places, but kept it's original melody with a few changes in the guitar arrangements which made it interesting. Of course, there's more crazy, wild growling and vocal echos that were alright, but the chorus arrangement was a nice little twist. It was a close race, but I might just stick to the old version. "Reiketsu Nariseba (live)" was simply a wasted filler you can hear from the various [unnecessary] live DVDs Diru has been producing for the past couple years, so I don't have much to comment on that.



Seungri - VVIP (2011, South Korea) Rating: 3.5/5
Favorite Tracks: VVIP, What Can I Do, MAGIC

I was really expecting to not like this mini, but I do and I feel a little guilty for it. "VVIP" opens up with a grand introduction into a great dance beat that you can't deny is irresistible. I really enjoyed how the song progressed and changed, showing off the many great points of Seungri's voice that I honestly didn't know about. "What Can I Do" honestly reminded me of Usher's new work. Dance and R&B fusion that you kinda want to dislike, but you can't help but want to repeat it. It has great dramatic vocals and the music is very smooth. There are a few points in the song where his voice sounds a bit strained, but you really have to listen to hear it. Of course you have to slow it down a little and have G-Dragon join in for a moment. "Open Window" is a smooth R&B track that's calming and a bit alluring with heart fluttering vocals. I'm bad and didn't bother to look up a translation to "Magic", but I get this cocky, flirty, but playful vibe from it and it makes me smile a little. The last three remaining tracks were downhill for me and I became uninterested as it progressed.



Kalafina - Magia (2011, Japan) Rating: 3/5
Favorite Tracks: Magia

This Japanese female trio never disappoints me with amazing, dramatic orchestral music mixed with hits of rock elements and outstanding vocal talents. "Magia" definitely meets my standards and beyond of these girls and it feels like a dramatic journey through a sandstorm desert filmed in slow motion of a movie. The music perfectly matches the power of each girls' voice and it's a great track to just lose yourself and sway freely. "Snow Falling" is a beautiful ballad with overshadowed music and more amazing range of vocals. It's not particularly my type of song I normally enjoy, so I found it a bit boring.

DBSK "Survivor" vs. KAT-TUN "Rescue"

Before I start this comparison post, I must make a few notes. First, I am not a fan of either DBSK and KAT-TUN, so please don't attack me if I'm overly critical or don't know all of the guys' names. Second, this is a totally unbiased opinion, despite the fact I have a couple friends or so who listen to DBSK and one or two who like KAT-TUN. As mentioned before, I'm not a fan of either...I'm more of the outsider (i.e. Arashi, KinKi Kids, H.O.T, Backstreet Boys).





Song
I'll admit, I do like a few DBSK songs, and it kinda threw me off when they used the same little pitter-patter effect as they did for "Purple Line", but was quickly disappointed at the slight circus-like sounds and cheesy voice distortions. They really could've left that out. I did enjoy the harmonies and everyone's voices were on point, but I honestly thought of Duffy's "Mercy" once they hit the chorus. In my opinion, not one of their best songs.

Visuals
We have light versus dark, then we have the rubble with few lights against a technologic, pure white world. I suppose that's a bit creative. I like the darker setting more than the clean cut white set up, since it looks natural and kinda fits the mood of the song, but I could be wrong. It is interesting seeing these two worlds cross into each other with the flashes of white light brightening the darker area and the red lights tainting the white scenery.

Choreography
This isn't the best choreography I've seen from these guys. It seems kinda boring, a bit forced, and possibly some over thinking while doing the steps. At points, I swear they're not dancing together, but otherwise, I was disappointed again in this area as well. Perhaps they won't half ass their moves or just get a new choreographer altogether.

Overall Presentation
On a positive note, I thought the concept was an interesting choice and I also will give it credit that it was a clever one as well. The song is pretty decent, but I've heard a lot better and it's not good if I randomly want to listen to a Duffy song, especially since I don't listen to her in general. On the other hand, the video is kinda dull and the choreography is very boring and lacks passion.





Song
Honestly, I wasn't expecting to like this song at all, like most KAT-TUN songs, but I thought I'd give it a try anyway. I wasn't anticipating the singing during the intense heartbeats and the usual boy band harmonies, but the introduction definitely peaked my interest and I actually ended up liking the song. I really like the harmonies and the sectioning they did with the guys' voices. The music is ridiculously catchy and I like how smoothly everything just meshes together. I sadly had to rush to download the song, even if it had a cheesy rapping section and occasionally comical beatboxing in it.

Visuals
I like the black and white contrast to actual skin tone colors in the whole video. Just the whole lack of color was a clever choice for this song. It's definitely dark just like the DBSK video and even the wardrobe is black. I think they put a lot of thought into the environment and incorporating a few little elements from the drama, "Rescue", that this song is for, which is also a smart move.

Choreography
Even now, I still kinda think the choreography is just as cheesy as the DBSK video. At points, I didn't think it was neccessary to have the back up dancers and other times I thought it was interesting to watch, seeing the members and the dancers chemistry. During their individual dance moments in the video, the choreography ranges from cheesy to pretty decent, but it was better than what I was expecting.

Overall Presentation
Despite the fact that the choreography had it's cheesy points and the rapping and beatboxing sections made me giggle, I liked the scenery and concept of the video. It was a good representation of the video and the lyrics, from what I understood, were nice. It definitely made me want to keep an eye on these six talented men in the musical area and not just their acting abilities.

In conclusion, I think KAT-TUN won this fight. It's the first and only song of theirs I enjoyed. I liked the harmonies and how smoothly the music meshed with the mood of the overall concept. As long as Kame doesn't get that weird perm hair again, they can have the win this time and I might actually watch the drama this is for too.