INFINITE & TEEN TOP Special stage on Music Bank

         

 Infinite & Teen Top backstage on KBS Music Bank "Half Year Special"

       
          Imagine my shock this morning when I found out Infinite is performing yet another live stage even after their goodbye stages for "The Chaser", and this one happens to be on KBS Music Bank as a "Half Year Special" stage shared with Teen Top. Imagine my greater surprise when, halfway during the performance, Infinite turns away and the camera zooms towards the elevated stage in the background, where Teen Top takes over the middle half performance of "The Chaser" with live vocals, dance and all. I squealed- that could only mean one thing. Once they were finished with "The Chaser," the first version of Teen Top's latest R&B hit "To You" would be performed by Infinite. Now, I love "The Chaser" and I like the dance, but I loved it even more when Infinite danced the smooth, sexy dance for "To You." Fan-girls all around the world must be agape at Infinite's awesome rendition of the body wave, because I was definitely one of them.

Infinite & Teen Top in previous years

Also, is it just me, or are the live voices even clearer than usual? You hear each member's vocals clearly and distinctly, and I know this is one performance I wouldn't even have to consider a "Mr. Removed" video. The vocal performance was very strong with both groups, but I'm glad this is only a special stage and they wouldn't be trading songs in the future. When it comes to dancing, "The Chaser" felt wrong without Infinite's sharp synchronization, and "To You" felt off without Teen Top's suave hip-hop swag. Still, as a fan of both groups, that definitely was the best half year special stage yet. I'm surprised either groups even had time to learn each others choreography at all- especially when Infinite hasn't had a free day in at least two weeks.

I really enjoy seeing this fusion of different styles from each group, because they are both so different in their group identities, it actually highlights individual strengths. Even though all members of Infinite are older than any of the boys in Teen Top, I find it interesting that Teen Top seems older because of their intense, mafia-gangster vibe (and I mean that in a good way). While Infinite radiates a milky, perfectionist-type eagerness, Teen Top simmers with a steely, quiet confidence.

Hallelujah for HD everyone! Check out the performance below! 

Teen Top & Infinite "The Chaser" + "To You" (120629)

Infinite "In the Summer" KBS Music Bank (120629)

I included a performance of Infinite's "In the Summer" above, which I find so adorkably cute. Not only have their live performances improved greatly, but you can see how very cute and cuddly these boys in their natural, floppy dancing state. Also, who would've thought that Woollim would give Sungyeol an actual singing part and have L sing an main-vocal-ly type high note?

A-PINK back with a Third Season of "A-Pink News"

       Due to high demand from A-Pink's "Pandas" (fans), A-Pink is back with a third season of "A-Pink News," their very own reality TV show that documents their going-ons behind the scenes of comebacks, dance practices, shows, promotions, and overall interactions with each other. Their first episode aired on June 22nd. This time around, the producers are set to give a deeper look into the girls' everyday lives, and the girls will have more regular opportunities to show their cute charm as they produce, organize, film, PR and MC for the show.

Why should you watch A-Pink? Last year was their break-out year, as they achieved an all-kill for four Rookie Awards. This year, they are vamping up their "cute and fresh" image with "Hush Hush," which have charted in the top ten list for weeks. Personally, I think the girls are pretty down-to-earth, and though they are self-conscious of their girly image, they can't help but let their inner silliness shine through in not-so-feminine ways (and I consider this a good thing). What sells the show for me is how easily they can laugh at themselves and at each other. Furthermore, they blur the lines between laughing at them and laughing with them.

Stay tuned! I'll post more raw and English-subbed episodes as soon as I find them:

"A-Pink News" Season 3 Ep. 1 (Raw)

SISTAR Comeback with "Loving U"

       Junior girl group Sistar is coming back with a new track titled "Loving U" from their "Sistar Summer Special Album". After the hit success of songs like "So Cool" and "Alone," 2012 is turning out to be a truly progressive year for the four-member girl group. Starship Entertainment is placing an even greater investment in their leading ladies, as the girls are flown to Hawaii and 172,000 U.S. dollars are expended to film the music video for "Loving U." Not only is Sistar filmed in the U.S., but gorgeous models and surfers are also hired to make appearances in the video. The music video shows the girls playing around, roller skating and overall enjoying their time on the island, while surfers are performing tricks and models are lounging in the sun.

I like how the producers capture the most exciting, fun parts of summer in the music video. The girls are seen always laughing and playing, while their colorful clothing compliments the bright scenery. The rollerskating part was cute, and I particularly liked the part where their car broke down and they were trying to hitch a ride. I could've done with just one scene where Bora is dancing ontop of the muscle car in the sunset, instead of seeing all of the girls grinding away around the car, but I still considered it a successful video. It was a really fun treat for my eyes- the scenery, color quality and cinematography was refreshing, and it makes me want to take a road trip to the nearest beach destination.

Check out the tracks from their "Summer Special Album" below: 

Sistar "Loving U" MV

Sistar "Holiday" track

Sistar "Alone" (Smells Remix)

Sistar "So Cool" (DJ Rubato Remix)

 Sistar "How Dare You" (Demicat Remix)

Sistar "Push Push" (DJ Rubato Remix)

View their gorgeous teaser photos for "Loving U" below:

Hyorin

Dasom

Bora

Soyou

2BiC Releases "Love Again" featuring Ailee

      2BiC is one of those groups that you can truly be in awe of for their talents, and they have released a new track called "Love Again." It's my newest 'on repeat' song, very similar to Spica's "Painkiller" in terms of R&B sound and awesome, soulful high notes. The addition of Ailee's English intro, rap and overall powerhouse vocals brings the song over the top. Their previous song, "Made Yet Another Woman Cry" was another amazing track filled with Jih Wan and Jun Hyung's powerful vocals, astonishing Netizens with their powerful live performance. Check both songs out below!

2BiC featuring Ailee "Love Again" MV (Eng Sub)

2BiC "Made Yet Another Woman Cry" (Eng Sub)

2BiC live performances:

"Made Yet Another Woman Cry" on Music Bank

"Made Yet Another Woman Cry" on Yoo Hee Yeol's Sketchbook

AFTER SCHOOL returns with "Flashback" maxi-single

           Pledis' popular veteran girl group After School is finally back with their their fifth maxi-single titled "Flashback." Here, fans can anticipate a dark and sexy concept from the long-legged girls of After School. This time around, Park Kahi will be leaving the group as a "graduate." As the next eldest member and one of the original debuting members of After School, Jung Ah will be replacing Kahi as the leader. Also, new 17-year old maknae member Kaeun will be promoting with the group for the first time. Though fans from each group hate to mention it because it just leads to further squables, I'm too tempted not to bring it up. Can long-term rival After School come back with a sexy edge that will give SNSD a run for their money? After all, After School is known to be sexy and bold, while SNSD has always been known for their girliness and glamour. Throw in Wonder Girls' hip, Americanized swag amidst their own "Like This" comeback and you got yourself a full-out rivalry to end all rivalries.

 

After School "Flashback" Teaser Video

I was excited about After School's comeback, because they always make a point to be confident, fierce divas without trying to fake cuteness. So when I finally did view the music video, I was disappointed to find that neither the song nor the music video was anything special. Sure, the girls looked gorgeous in their corsets, volumed hair and killer silhouettes, (especially in the opening shot when the door opens) but other than the cool sexiness of the girls themselves, I couldn't garner more interest than what I had started with originally. Since this new track is a maxi-single, I thought it would be a strong performance that could stand on its own. Turns out, the song is weak, and the dubstep style doesn't make it any catchier. Not to mention, the members' vocal abilities are not highlighted nor distinguishable in the song. The whiny, chanting intro made me wince, the lyrics are very mediocre, and even the concept of lover boy as a hostage and eventually shot made me roll my eyes. Unfortunately, without a strong track to back it up, the music video just seemed like a subtle pass for soft porn.

After School "Flashback" MV (Eng Sub)

Though After School is a more notable veteran girl group, the endless member changes makes the group look steadily less cohesive, and the departure of their previous leader Kahi and another one of their strongest performers, Bekah, does not help that deterioration. It's possible that I'm being too harsh. Maybe their live performance as a group will negate my wish for the return of the earlier After School. We'll just have to wait and see.


Check out their other new track releases below:

Nana- "Eyeline"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--VfyKz7Tfs

"Wristwatch"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_McYEt99Y0

"Rip Off" (High-energy, beat-catchy song)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kVfJgY9kyI

Raina & Jung Ah- "Timeless"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAlCXK_fkms

 Concept teaser photos for their maxi-single "Flashback":

Left to right: E-Young & Ga Eun

Jung Ah

Ju Yeon

Lizzy

Uee

Nana

Raina

After School's comeback on M! Countdown was better than I imagined, and I liked that they performed "Rip Off," which is a catchy song in itself. I wish they didn't lip-sync for their first performance, but I understand that many artists do just to make sure the performers are comfortable with the stage. With the actual choreography and the presence of the girls themselves, I'm finding redeemable qualities for "Flashback" after all.

M! Countdown "Rip Off" + "Flashback" Comeback Stage (120621)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmCdQ7Dmv6U

Inkigayo "Rip Off" + "Flashback" Comeback Stage (120624)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULHsRtI2qqk

F(x) Comeback with mini-album "Electric Shock"

              The girls of F(x) are back with another exciting dance title track called "Electric Shock" from their mini-album of the same name. The response for the song is huge, as the music video hit 10 million views in less than a week since its release on June 12th. Considered as SM Entertainment's underrated experimental group, F(x) is finally starting to hone in on their group sound. Though "Electric Shock" is not much different from their previous, heavy-trance synth, hook-heavy dance tracks such as "Nu Abo," and "Pinocchio," it's nice to see the girls sticking with a sound and concept that's consistent with their previous image. Though the 'experimental' description makes them sound like the dark horse in such a large, polished company like SM, I like that they stand out from the rest of their label-mates. While DBSK, SNSD, Super Junior, and currently EXO-K/M are well received in their respectable ways, F(x) brings an unexpected funky edge to what may otherwise be just another elite group of ready-born royalty. The newer though no longer veteran group has experienced the temporary loss of their main rapper Amber, done so with the company plan to convert their image into a more cute, feminine one. Thankfully, fan protests were overwhelming enough that Amber was brought back into the group, and their original bold and high-hype image was retained. That's why, though extremely addictive track "Electric Shock" doesn't bring anything new to the table, at least it strongly resonates F(x)'s original style.  

From Left to Right: Luna, Sulli, Krystal, Victoria, Amber

As for "Electric Shock" the mini-album, it came as a pleasant surprise. The songs were all very catchy, possible dance tracks with catchy beats and hooks. The weakest track for me had to be "Jet," because it sounded like constant rave chaos without a distinguishable chorus. Otherwise, I liked the interesting, heavy percussion sounds in "Zig Zag," the subtly Americanized 90's pop beat with a modern twist from "Beautiful Stranger," the upbeat and unpredictable "Love Hate," and the almost Jamaican, fun vacation-sounding track for "Let's Try." If I had to rate how much it enjoyed this mini-album, it would give it a A-, which is pretty darn high in my book. The only thing this album is missing are poetic, meaningful lyrics, but otherwise, my ears are happy.

Promotional teaser photo for "Electric Shock" mini-album

Check out the tracks from the "Electric Shock" mini-album below:

"Electric Shock" MV (Eng Sub)

"Jet"

 

"Zig Zag"

 

"Beautiful Stranger"

"Love Hate" (Weirder, surprisingly catchy)

"Let's Try"

Also check out their live comeback stages below:

F(x) "Electric Shock" + "Jet" Comeback on Mnet

F(x) "Electric Shock" + "Jet" Comeback on KBS Music Bank

F(x) "Electric Shock" Comeback on SBS Inkigayo

Woollim's upcoming girl group!

Photo from allkpop.com

           Woollim Entertainment is known for being the unique hipster, humble but cooler-than-thou entertainment company that hosts popular but alternative artists like Epik High, Nell, and dance group Infinite. I use "alternative" not to refer to the music genre, but how they distinguish themselves from other entertainment companies. Woollim Entertainment is known to be thoughtful, focusing more on the music, meaning and messages than hype and glamour. They really try their hardest for the integrity of the music and the love of the fans. Their portfolio of artists is not a huge one, and generally contains male artists with one of their exceptions being their recent debut of Baby Soul and Yoo Ji Ah, the latest two-girl singing act. Subsequently, what Netizens are anticipating most now is the debut of their first girl group, and there have been rumors for at least a year speculating the identities of the members. Netizens have guessed that Yoo Ji Ae, their "younger sister" in Mnet's! reality show "Infinite! You are my Oppa" is one candidate even though she had initially applied to be an actress, and also the blonde-haired girl from Infinite's "Be Mine" music video. More concrete details are being released now, as three of Woollim's female trainees are appearing in cameos as high school students on SBS's Running man. Most people are referring to them as "Woollim girl group," and one of the trainees is identified to be Yoo Ji Ae. We'll just have to wait and see, but what is confirmed is that these trainees will be debuting sometime this year.

As for the actual statement, a staff from Woollim asserted, "A few girl group members form our company who are preparing for their debut were featured on 'Running Man' as high school students. Three members in total made an appearance on the episode, and they are all girl group trainees."

From left: Yoo Ji Ah & Baby Soul

I happened to stumble upon a song by Baby Soul one day, a track called "Strangers" featuring male solo artist Wheesung. The song had a wistful, flowy and catchy piano sound with awesome use of water-drop sound effects. I easily got hooked to the song, and from there found out that she was from Woollim Entertainment. Soon after, she debuted as a duo alongside Yoo Ji Ah in a music video featuring Dongwoo from Infinite called, "She's a Flirt." Check out the music videos below, and anticipate Woollim's new talents!

DAL SHALBET Comeback with "Mr. Bang Bang"

        
           Girl group Dal-Shalbet has made their official comeback with the release of their music video for "Mr. Bang Bang." In the video, the girls attempt and succeed at a bank robbery, cowgirl style. The song itself is bright, cheery and simple melody which makes it easy to sing along to, however, the rest of their album is not very different or particularly catchy. Other than "Hit U" and "Mr. Bang Bang," nothing interested me, and most of the album is a compilation of their previous songs. I dislike their English speaking intros on certain songs, because it's irrelevant to the rest of the lyrics and discourages me from listening to the rest of the song.  

Dal Shalbet is a rookie girl group from Happy Face Entertainment who seems to still be searching for their distinguishing identity. Physically speaking, they are the second tallest girl group (in averages) after model group Nine Muses, and the shortest members are at least 5'5. They can easily use their slender forms and long legs to highlight a sexy and sophisticated image. Sure, this may not be unlike Rania, who also happen to be the third tallest girl group. However, unlike Rania, who have a more sexual, Rihanna-like appeal, they can play out the more mature, solemn sexy vibe. This time around, with their comeback stage for "Mr. Bang Bang," they are trying out a more fun, flirtatious style. I have nothing against groups exploring new styles and trying different genres, but it's too common that girl groups change concepts 180 degrees from cute to sexy between tracks, so I find it smarter when entertainment companies make more related concept transitions to allow time for the group to establish an identity among its fans. With the new group photos for their first full album comeback, I really like their sultry angel look, and no doubt it would look awesome onstage with an acoustic yet upbeat song.

Check out the tracks for their first full album "Mr. Bang Bang" below:

1. Enter Dal Shabet (Intro)

"Disco Time"

 

"Supa Dupa Diva"

 

"Pink Rocket"

"Bling Bling"

"Hit U" (featuring Bigtone)

"Girls Girls Girls" (featuring Makustle)

 

"Love Shake"

"Many Boys"

 

"Mirror"

 

"Mr. Bang Bang" MV (title song)

"Without You, I"

"Come to Me/Try to Come Closer" (featuring Nassun)

"Mr. Bang Bang" (Instrumental)

 

 Check out their live comeback stages for "Mr. Bang Bang" below:

M! Countdown "Mr. Bang Bang" Comeback Stage 

 

KBS Music Bank "Mr. Bang Bang" Comeback Stage

BIG BANG releases "Monster" MV

       Popular hip-hop and R&B group Big Bang officially released their latest music video "Monster" for their special edition album "Alive." The song has the catchy, upbeat tempo reminiscent of hit song "Haru Haru." Their voices also channel similar sentiments. "Monster" may not be one of their best songs since they've had so many notable ones, but no doubt it will climb its way to the top of music charts. In the music video, the members sport crazy, high-fashion hairdos and light-colored eyes. The effect is creepy and also strangely alluring. With the weird hairstyles and eerie clothing, T.O.P. looks the part of a monstrous, inhuman being, especially in his grey floppy hat outfit and dark coat. Even without the hat, his Spock-like haircut accentuates his light contacts- making him look sexy and frightening all at once. I also enjoy the intro, it had me curious and gasping aloud during the sudden noises. The song is about a man asking his lover not to look at him like some sort of sick monster, though the tone indicates that he is nearing insanity.

 Big Bang "Monster" Teaser (Daesung)

Big Bang "Monster" Teaser (Seungri)

Big Bang "Monster" Teaser (G-Dragon)

Big Bang "Monster" Teaser (Taeyang)

Big Bang "Monster" Teaser (T.O.P.)

Big Bang "Monster" MV

Seungri

Daesung

G-Dragon

Taeyang