K-Pop Playlist: Iconic Line-up!
The end-of-school whirlwind prevented me from keeping up with ALL the new releases over the last couple months. (Seriously, there were well over a hundred new songs to check out!) But now that I am free from morning alarms and endless daily schedules, I am excited to share my recent K-Pop discoveries. This week features an iconic list of artists with fantastic new bops and ballads, to help us launch into summer! Ready to hit play?!
SUPER JUNIOR L.S.S. – ‘PON PON’
I love when groups don’t take themselves too seriously! Super Junior unit, L.S.S (LeeTeuk, ShinDong, and SiWon), brings a retro techno-beat in their first Japanese single, ‘PON PON’. Rocking an over-the-top, opulent MV concept, while singing about “rock, paper, scissors” is just a crazy, fun vibe!
KAI – ‘Wait On Me’
KAI IS BACK!!! He didn’t waste any time dropping new music, after returning from his military service — I am completely captivated by his sultry, afro-beat-style title track. Kai’s choreography not only matches the heavy percussive notes, but also flows smoothly along the spaces in-between. I could just watch him dance ALL. DAY. LONG!
TXT – ‘Love Language’
This new upbeat bop from TXT is the perfect way to launch into summer! The push-and-pull between verse and chorus keeps the music flow fresh, while the Italian villa concept of the MV is charming and bright. And as always the choreo is both detailed and energetic — I love it! (Am I the only one craving lasagna and gelato now?!)
CHEN – ‘Broken Party’
Alongside Kai, fellow EXO member Chen has also claimed a spot on my playlist this week! His recent single drop is an unexpected departure from his usual, classical ballad stylings. However, I fully support this angsty, rock-ballad track! ‘Broken Party’ beautifully combines Chen’s gorgeous vocals with an edgy sound that is absolutely magnetic — I need more!!
JIN – ‘Don’t Say You Love Me’
Following Jin’s previous album, Happy, his new follow-up release, Echo, is true to its name — who else is excited for more excellent songs, featuring everyone’s favorite “World-Wide Handsome”?! ‘Don’t Say You Love Me’ is an all-english track, making it easy to sing along with this pop-rock bop. The MV concept might be tinged with regret and sadness, but it’s a beautifully filmed story that compliments the mood of the music!
SEVENTEEN – ‘THUNDER’
I’ve been eagerly anticipating the newest Seventeen album, Happy Burstday — with three group tracks and a solo from each of the 13 members, it’s an absolute flood of new music!! Title track ‘Thunder’ is a LOT to take in on the first watch, and I’m still not entirely sure what’s going on after repeat viewings. BUT I’m totally loving the EDM, dance vibe and the electric chorus — count me in for this party!!
IU – ‘A Beautiful Person (feat. Balming Tiger)’
From IU’s new album, A Flower Bookmark, Pt 3, I was most captivated by the B-side track ‘A Beautiful Person’. This cover of a classic Korean rock song, is delivered with a folksy, newtro flavor and offers a delightfully unhurried, melodic journey. I also might have squealed over the cameo reveal at the end of the MV! I’m looking forward to exploring all of IU’s new songs!
Which summer comebacks are you anticipating most?! Share with me in the comments below!
Until the next playlist,
화이팅!
MiataMama
Dramas with a Side of Kimchi
