K-Pop Playlist: Light and Shadow
Sometimes it’s a bright and uplifting melody, other times it’s a dark and shadowy beat that speaks to the soul! Today’s playlist is layered in contrasting themes. TNX, Xdinary Heroes, and Stray Kids are just a few of the groups whose music will lift you up, or meet you in the struggle. Curious? Get ready to hit play!
Song SoHee – ‘Not a Dream’
Known widely in South Korea as a ‘gyeonggi minyo’, or traditional folk singer, Song SoHee recently popped up for the first time on my music feed. I was completely captivated by ‘Not a Dream’ — the dip and swell of her beautiful vocalizations are magical, haunting, and uplifting all at the same time!!
Xdinary Heroes – ‘Beautiful Life’
Xdinary Heroes are back with a new album and their title track is quite epic! Combining their signature sound with a classic British rock vibe, ‘Beautiful Life’ is simply brilliant. Bring on the punchy, frantic verses, the dramatic chorus drops, and the prominence of piano during the bridge — these elements all come together for a VERY satisfying listen!!
SeoHo (ONEUS) – ‘Hatchling’
ONEUS’s eldest member, SeoHo, began his military service obligation in February of this year. So when this post-enlistment, solo-single dropped it was an unexpected, yet happy, surprise! I love seeing SeoHo take center stage in this fun and cheery bop — his honey vocals and sweet personality shine bright in ‘Hatchling’!
Bang Chan & HyunJin (Stray Kids) – ‘Escape’
I was quite unprepared for this unit release from Stray Kids members, Bang Chang and HyunJin. But I am loving the powerful, primal sound of this song — foregoing their usual raps, this duo instead showcased their hidden vocal prowess! ‘Escape’ might just be my new favorite track from their recent Mixtape album drop!
TNX – ‘For Real?’
As I get ready to roll into yet another busy weekend, this title track from TNX is just the boost I need to make it through my packed schedule! The combination of this group’s boundless energy, harmonious vocals, and dynamic choreo makes ‘For Real?’ one of those songs you can’t listen to just once!
BONUS TRACK: ASTRO – ‘Memory of the Moon’
Bandmates Astro, friends from Viviz, Seventeen, Monsta X, SF9, Stray Kids (and more), plus sister MoonSua (from Billie), all came together to share this beautiful song, in memory of MoonBin, on his 2nd death anniversary. No words, just tears, as I too remember this sweet soul, gone too soon . . .
Until the next playlist,
화이팅!
MiataMama
Dramas with a Side of Kimchi
