Why DJs Play "Old Songs" More Than Current Music - Steezy
This was a fun watch because it was nice to hear what a DJ's explanation of this phenomena is. When you look at the landscape of the music scene and how quickly music can leave the zeitgeist, you can almost come to a similar conclusion as Steezy. The thing that was interesting to hear was just how it affects events where people are gathered for the purpose of dancing to the setlist. Popular music really doesn't have the same reach as it used to, even if it's popular due to the democratization of everyone's listening habits. It's truly fascinating, but better presented in the video above. Why not give it a watch?
Favorite Comeback
Assemble25 - tripleS
I will never tire of tripleS when they always bring a sound that's so captivating. The title track "Are You Alive?" is really eerie, yet driving the piece that continues the trend of catchy "la-la-la's" to the eardrum. While the rest of the tracklist brings more various sounds that the girls are known to deliver from pop-rock, garage, drum n bass, and R&B. So many standout tracks on one project allows me to put the album on repeat for hours without a single skip. This is the perfect follow up to last year's OT24 debut Assemble24.
Favorite Interview
Logic | The Really Good Podcast - Bobbi Althoff
Bobbi, with an "i", is certainly a figure who has brought some controversy with her interview style and how she interacts with a lot of black entertainers. Her deadpan and sometimes disrespectful approach is something she does to most interviewees, regardless of ethnic background, but it always comes off less tactful with those from urban upbringing. Therefore, who knew the perfect match for her would be Bobby, with a "y", who can counter her quick quips and comedy bits with many of his own. He almost takes control of the whole interview making it an interesting watch diving into not only himself, but also Ms. Althoff herself. This definitely turned it into an amusing watch, if I do say so myself.
POP PERFECTION! Need I say more? Alright, I guess I'll let you know that I was heavily anticipating Rose's first single for her full length album to come. I knew it would eventually happen with her moving to the Black Label, but I had no clue it would be such an upbeat pop rock jam! Bruno Mars was a fantastic addition to the track and provides the exuberance that the game supposedly brings in Korea. I'm ecstatic to discover what else she brings with this album to come, if we get more stellar music at this level!
Favorite Rap Album
Chromokopia - Tyler, the Creator
Tyler, the Creator has risen up my list of artists to always check out. This project definitely solidified that spot to not be removed for some time. The album I feel gets even more personal and vulnerable than before, all while exploring the many different styles of production he's done over the years. The features all add something cool to the tracklist and I don't have a single song that I would remove from the experience. I highly suggest giving this a listen if you like hip hop that's left of center.
Favorite Kpop Album
Performante - tripleS Visionary Vision
I can swear by any tripleS project at this point. The consistency of quality is something that I can rely on without fail! The title track, Hit the Floor, brings a cool, old school hip hop feel that makes you want to dance along. Then the rest of the project continues to jump to the many genres that much of the tripleS units have hopped into before, but it never ceases to entertain. In fact, some genres they elevate like with Choom that has them touch the pop rock style, but lends itself to be compared to an anime opening. TripleS continue to prove true to their tagline: Idol of All Possibilities!
How tripleS Became the "La La La" Group - Ben Atmos
There's been quite a few kpop essay videos from Ben Atmos that I've enjoyed lately, and the cross section of him and tripleS was certainly one I was happy to indulge in. This group definitely has a sound that carries through much of their discography which makes them one of my favorite 5th gen groups. This video in particular covers one of those characteristics that most easily identifies tripleS in the public eye and how it has been used to great effect. If you think you'd like to learn more about the group or see if you agree with his opinion, I highly suggest giving this a watch.
Favorite Comebacks
Rockstar - Lisa
It's her first solo free of YG's influence and it's a banger! 'Nuff said? I think so. Just in case, though, I love to see how ill the camera work and editing was in the video. Plus the song itself sees her kind of dabbling in the hyperpop genre in a way that truly suits her. It's easy to put on and just jam the whole way through. Ultimately, you'll end up singing along and feeling like Lisa; A ROCKSTAR!
Sticky - Kiss of Life
Kiss of Life is the other contender for favorite 5th gen group and both the title, Sticky, and Te Quiero are testaments to why that is. The music video for Sticky is so wonderfully shot with the "one-take" style of direction. The choreography is quite well done with the members and dancers involved, with all of the afro-inspired roots. The song itself is also quite a treat for the ears that immediately left me elated. Yet, the track that left me floored was Te Quiero, another English song from the group. The production and vocals in this one made me awestruck and instantly pressing replay. If you haven't gotten into Kiss of Life by now, what are you waiting for!?
Man, Wynne did it again. She brought together a really dope metaphor and strung it through the whole piece in an awesome way. She also displayed it in a neat way over a hot beat. What else could you ask for? Oh yeah, another album. When's the next project, Wynne!? Hahaha.
Favorite Kpop Comeback
ASSEMBLE24 - tripleS
Above will be the music video for the title track for this album which in itself is an incredible piece of art. The message and imagery used to convey it on this song is incredible to witness. Yet, that's only the beginning! Dive into the full OT24 album and you will be welcomed to some spectacular music that is going bring you to the world of tripleS. The production, collection of "La's", and memorable melodies solidifies their place as one of my top 5th gen groups, and another group with one of the best discographies so far. I advise you to give them a chance if you haven't yet. I believe no one will regret it!
Favorite Interview
NIKI - Zach Sang Show
As we get close to the release of Niki's 3rd album, Buzz, she made a stop to the Zach Sang Show. They cover a good amount about what's been going on in her life since the 2nd album, Nicole. Alongside that, we also get to hear a bit about what we could expect from Buzz and what sound we should expect. Their conversation is such a delight as they meander into other personal tangents, but it never bored me. It's just a great little talk that I feel Zach always is able to bring out from each guest. Niki is just one of those guests who also make it amusing to hear from, too. What do you think?
What This Deep Cut MJ Song is ACTUALLY About - Digging the Greats
Subscribing to this channel has been one of the best decisions I've made this year. Plus this look into this Michael Jackson joint was super fascinating. Every video on this channel just goes into the history of each topic in a way that's so engaging and rich with knowledge. I highly suggest giving this a watch for a great entry point to the channel and some cool info on Michael Jackson's craft.
Favorite Single
This is Love - Queenz Eye
I decided to give this group a chance with their first comeback before this and saw some potential. Yet, this comeback with this single was so up my alley that I had to share it here. This just has the groove and vibe I live for. Their vocals over the production is on point and I like the choreo over the dance track. I'm curious to see what we'll get next from this group, but they keep improving despite being in a small company.
Favorite Mini Album
Mujuk - tripleS EVOLution
Invincible is a great title track for this release, but when it comes to the b-sides!! TripleS has truly been one of the groups to watch this entire year, and this album (plus LOVElution) is evidence of why. Although, Rhodanthe is extremely similar to IZ*ONE's Fiesta the following 4 track run is one for the ages. The complete EP is one that I can put on repeat for hours and not get tired. Therefore, I debate every day which one of those will most likely be put on my Top 25 songs of the year. Get a load of it and soon!
As their first comeback as a group of 6, I was slightly nervous. Yet, I shouldn't have worried as they brought a tune that just creeps into your mind. They killed it with the vocals and choreo as they always have. It's been something I've been able to throw into rotation the whole month. Has it been in yours?
Rising - triple S
Now, we move onto the debut of the S1-S10 unit from triple S. This release had me anticipating since participating in the voting process of the title track. They didn't disappoint with this lovely tune that just makes you move. They bring a vibe that's hard to fight along with the awesome choreography. This was also paired with a great EP that is equal in quality. I'm still looking forward to the bright future of this NCT-esque structure of a girl group.
Favorite Rap Song
Love Twice - Tim Chantrangsu
Tim has been an entertainer that I've followed for a long time. This includes his music and he's been very sparing with releases for a few years. Yet when he does, it tends to be some rather quality material, such as this dedication to his daughter. I was touched by his witty, yet heartfelt lyrics showing his love to Veyda and I hope he can continue to write even more on his maturity.
Favorite R&B Song
Float - Janelle Monae
Janelle is back and never missing. Once again, she comes with a confidence that is undeniable. As soon as the song dropped, I got out the headphones to tune in. I was met with a fun, smooth instrumental and her cool vocals, whether singing or rapping. I only pray this leads to a new album rollout, for it has been too long since Dirty Computer. Do you share the same thought?
