SISTAR19 "Gone Not Around Any Longer"

        Popular subunit Sistar19 consisting of rapper Bora and main vocalist Hyorin returns with a new single called "Gone Not Around Any Longer." With the hit success of their prior debut track "Ma Boy," fans are more eager than ever to see the girls strut their stuff in the comeback. "Gone Not Around Any Longer" hit the #1 spot on many music sites and currently continue their top reign in digital sales. The song itself is a slow-tempo, sensual track maxing out Hyorin's deep vocals and Bora's seductive stage presence. Think of it as a slower, more provocative version of Sistar's "Alone" track, though maybe not as tastefully done. Below are some perplexing MV details:

• There's a bath that isn't bathed in. 
• A table that's used to dance/stand on.
• Platform stilletoes worn indoors.
• A car that will never actually move (but the concept repeatedly appears in many, many K-pop MV's).
• An unused (useless) payphone prop.
• An otherwise casual outfit bedazzled to its limits: Furry booties worn with short-shorts and heavily encrusted denim shirts (all for the sake of fashion... I guess).
• A transparent white piano that is never played.
• Two male back-up dancers appear only for 12 seconds.
• Only fifteen or so seconds of Bora's voice (I thought this was a sub-unit, or is Bora just featured? Still, Bora's rap made a strong impression despite her short singing part).

Sistar19 "Gone Not Around Any Longer" (Eng Sub)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMWBl61HoBs

Sistar19 "Ma Boy" MV (Eng Sub)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTJGDry6XTE

The song is generally very catchy and appealing, but my ears reeled at the part where Hyorin stands on the table and raises her octaves going, "Eh eh eh eh ooOH!" The dissonance of the 'e' sound disrupts the mellow vibe. They could've exchanged the "eh" for "babe" and the crescendo would've sounded mollifying and even suggestive. (Two birds with one stone!)

This deserves its own paragraph, because it bothers me that much: If you're going to title a song, it's always best to make it short (it's efficient and easier to remember). If English has to be incorporated, at least use it wisely.  The definition of "gone" also encompasses the meaning "not around any longer," so it would be proficient to just name the title "Gone" (and the save time of those who wish to blog about it, thanks).

Though many people are praising Sistar19 for being so classy yet sexy, I personally don't like the beginning choreography where Hyorin's singing, "Hoo hoo ahoo..." and the two look like their sliding across the transparent table. It honestly looks like they're wiping dirty bottoms on a clear glass, and my first impression was of disgust. When my roommate later informed that they're not actually touching the table, we both still agreed that it looked like they were taking a number 2. (If you didn't see that before, I'm sorry for the image). Sure, their expressions look attractive, and the wavy movement is nice, but I still can't help feeling a bit nauseous.

Their stylists missed the mark this time around. Though the tight black attire with the golden necklines (and chain belt) were appropriate, the other ensembles had me scratching my head. It's unnecessary to bedazzle your loose denim shirts that much to create intrique. There's so many pearls and gems on those button-ups that the added chunkiness competes with the ladies' smooth moves. Then comes the unflattering, hot-pink pleated skirt/mid-length dress with biker jacket that makes Bora look like a thicker throwback extra from Grease and Hyorin uncomfortable displaying a camel toe. Later on, the two unexpectedly appear in baggy sweatpants with a white tank top and rhinestone cap that make them look like back-up dancers instead of the main performers. If they're trying to incorporate color because of the grey-blue filter, they're going about it the wrong way.

All in all, it was a mess of things that didn't come together well. For a song that is strong in its subtlety, the directors should have gone for a simpler, more focused approach. For example, if Hyorin was by a steaming shower, put her in it later with romantic candles and dark flower petals, brooding over a glass of wine. If Bora's supposed to be cuddling a guy, make it more interesting by having her watch the scene and then have it fade away like a wisp of memory. Also, stick to the concept, people! Even if there's no set storyline, I shouldn't be confused over the small stuff.


Check out their stirring live stages below:
(The indication of popularity is in how long and often they're asked to perform on music programs).

KBS Music Bank Comeback 130201 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ve5eCDkybVA
MBC Music Core 130204 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xL4i8qZEQ-Q
Music Triangle 130206 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPKeTYEXVdA
Mnet M! Countdown 130207 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBi-sjJio6c
SBS Inkigayo 130210 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgrpd7JfqR4
MBC Music Core http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7sqOY5MS0k
Mnet M! Countdown 130214 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLIRPr-Zk5A 
KBS Music Bank 130215 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXzy1WakXQU
MBC Music Core 130217 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wl7ie1tbBmM
Mnet M! Countdown 130221 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6IqhN40aHo
KBS Music Bank 130222 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxT7XRtHkFg&list=UUDrCsMjtCr6Yx42OBrXnyPQ&index=3

"Crossing the line between girl and womanhood" my butt. They're already there!

Interested in sub-unit Sistar19 or the original Sistar? Check out related links below:

Sistar Official Site: http://www.starship-ent.com/sistar/
Sistar Official Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLC3A975A388190AE1

B.A.P. Comeback with "One Shot"

Image from allkpop.com. (From left: Jongup, Youngjae, Himchan, Yongguk, Daehyun, and Zelo).

           The 'Super Rookie' idol group of 2012 is promising an even bigger splash for 2013 as B.A.P. returns with mini-album "One Shot" with a title song of the same name. B.A.P. (an acronym for Best Absolute Perfect) is a six-member group debuting in February of 2012 under TS Entertainment, which also houses artists like girl group Secret and hip-hop duo Untouchable. I never heard much about TS Entertainment, but this new six-member group is turning tables on the K-Pop scene.

For their comeback, B.A.P. released an R&B ballad called "Rain Sound" prior to their release of title track "One Shot." "Rain Sound" is a slower song about past memories with a lover, and the members perform the song coolly while casually sitting in some chairs. Usually, I would be against artists performing while sitting unless they're playing a musical instrument (or if you're Taylor Swift), but B.A.P. exudes charisma no matter how they're perched. With the release of "One Shot" and it's MV, the boys are setting out to scrap any competition. As of February 21st, they've reached the #1 spot on Billboard's 'World Albums' chart!

 B.A.P. "Rain Sound" MV (Eng Sub) 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MF5Ho3mXsYY

B.A.P. "One Shot" MV (Eng Sub)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G39ha_QXAVk

The MV for "One Shot" was revealed to cost around $990,000 USD, and that completely boggled my mind coming from any entertainment company other than SM, YG or JYP (and later, Starship Entertainment) for any rookie group, but it was a well thought out move. While most idol groups simply return with a change of song and concept, B.A.P. came back bigger, badder, and more explosive than ever. The MV acts like a short movie, the introduction music being a dynamic mix of clips from track "Punch," "One Shot," "Coma," and  back to "One Shot" again. Member Youngjae is kidnapped by a rival gang for ransom, and the other members figure out how to rescue him. In the end, the members agree to the $10 million (!), but Youngjae is shot in foul-play by the kidnappers as he is released. This ensues in a free-for-all shooting, where each side literally bites the dust in a shower of bullets. Just when you think everyone is dead, the scene rewinds and the actions get played out again, with an alternate ending. This time, no one dies- but there's plenty of betrayal. The ending has the boys down and dirty- they either duel it out no holds bared, or grit their teeth and face the outcome. You really can't get much manlier than that in K-Pop (with the exception of having a family). My only issue with the MV was in the early acting, where all members are sitting on the yacht. Maknaes Yongjae, Jongup, and Zelo look very young and excited. For veteran gangsters that supposedly experience luxury often, their expressions should say, "This is nothing new." Understandably, these guys are only 16-19 years old, so I can't blame them for so eagerly sipping grape juice on a yacht.

Though Sistar19's "Gone Not Around Any Longer" is solidly winning the #1 spot for digital sales, B.A.P.'s popularity manifests in their successful record sales.

 B.A.P. is truly a mix of talent, charisma and superb marketing strategy surprising coming from a smaller entertainment company. Their group image is as clear as day: six strong, masculine and tough young men that use eyeliner to showcase their seriousness, not their pretty. Their choreography is not only difficult, interesting and energetic, but it highlights a brusque roughness rarely seen with the latest pretty-boy bands. It's even more meaningful that their hip-hop style music with hardcore beats is inspired by their own interests and personal interpretation of hip-hop music through inspirations like Chris Brown, Kanye, and Will.i.am. Leader Yong Guk also actively participates in writing lyrics, which give credibility to their talent when tracks like "Warrior," "No Mercy" and "Voicemail" are well received. Ontop of all this, their stamina on stage is no joke. Despite complex choreography, members manage to aggressively emanate charisma with strong vocals. The only two male group stage performances that have engaged me this much (thus far) is Infinite's "Before the Dawn" and BtoB's "Wow," which subsequently turned me into their huge fan. If I have to describe B.A.P.'s live performances, I would use words like "absolute confidence" and "powerful." Offstage however, they're just normal, diligent boys working endless months of promotions. Their only weakness may be in acting and variety now, but the future is looking bright for them already.

"One Shot" MV Making (Eng Sub) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOnUXDNFiGE

"One Shot" MV Making (Eng Sub) Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOnUXDNFiGE


See what I'm raving about, check out their live stages below!

KBS Music Bank 130215 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZ5DlOljvtk
MBC Music Core130216 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTULbXAbrcM
SBS Inkigayo 130217 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fygeB6qLEk8
Show Champion 130220 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2AwI97QuzU

Interested in B.A.P.? Check out their related sites below:

Official Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBFBC18E5344FADF4
Daum Fan Cafe: http://cafe.daum.net/TS-ASIAN
YesAsia: "One Shot" Mini-album http://www.yesasia.com/us/b-a-p-mini-album-vol-2-one-shot/1032369936-0-0-0-en/info.html
YesAsia: "One Shot" Mini-album with poster http://www.yesasia.com/us/b-a-p-mini-album-vol-2-one-shot-poster-in-tube/1032369939-0-0-0-en/info.html

VIXX as vampires for track "On and On"

From left: Ravi, Ken, Honbin, N, Leo, Hyuk

         Six-member rookie boy band VIXX (Voice, Visual, Value in Excelsis) is back with another exciting track called "On and On" from their single album released on January 17th. Though the music video has the boys being abducted and sent to space in what would've been a Russian-POW turned martian theme, the concept this time is vampiric. The boys appear in sleek suits, with saturated hair and creepy contacts. Along with the heavy Marilyn Manson inspired smokey dark eye make-up, the boys look successfully deranged and hypnotic. Though the music video wasn't as interesting or comprehensive, the song, choreography and concept come together brilliantly. I can't help thinking that "On and On" is inspired by Rihanna's "Disturbia," a dash of Michael Jackson choreography, and the Cullens' closet. Though 4Minute also displayed a vampire concept in their "Volume Up" track, I feel that VIXX pulls it off with more effect. Their gazes are very convincing with the colored contacts, while the sharp, simple suits paired with skinny tie and single-tone saturated hair makes for quite the impression. I've always had a passive reaction to VIXX before, but this latest track truly grabs my attention. My only regret is that they didn't add fangs too, haha.

VIXX "On and On" MV

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TcXHDJIShI

Vixx "On and On" traditional version

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR2UxaCl7cw

Prior to "On and On," VIXX has released some catchy throw-back type songs with strong dance beats. Though bright, flashy colors saturate almost every current K-Pop music video, VIXX uses it to enhance a retro theme- basic colors that you would expect to see in cartoons like Gundam Wing or games like Tetris. In fact, the set for the "Rock Ur Body" MV features an arcade. What's more, their pop-synth tracks reminds me of American pop music in the 90's in songs like "Super Hero" and "Rock Ur Body" (except for maybe the guitar riffs). My only concern is their unexpected integration of English in some of the lyrics. For example, who else cracked up when main rapper Ravi started the track yelling, "We back again NOW... 'cause I ain't playing AROUND!" Haha. I could neither understand nor take him seriously. Still, the energy was apparent- Ravi was yelling at the top of his lungs. In the very least, I can expect VIXX's tracks to have strong choruses and addictive lines like, "I need therapy, lalalalala therapy..." Really, I can sing that part all day. :)

As for stage presence, VIXX performs with such power and confidence it's surprising that they're still rookies. While N really captured the vampire feel in this concept, shyer Hongbin seems doe-eyed and meek during his live stages. Their choreography hasn't always been the most interesting or inspiring prior to "On and On", but it always requires a lot of energy and movement, so I commend them for being able to steadily sing live. I also wish their background music wasn't so loud sometimes. No doubt the members are actually singing, but it's not always easy to hear.

Got chills?

Other thoughts:

As a group, VIXX has a very versatile but varied look. Members like Leo, Ken, Ravi and even N have very distinguishing features, so I hope they will play up the crazy concepts (maybe a zombie theme next time?) and their take advantage of their slim builds and tall height. (Everyone is at least 180cm, give or take 3cm lifts). Since they've introduced themselves as strong, on-point dancers with a chic, manly vibe, I really hope Jellyfish Entertainment doesn't go backwards and give them 'aeygo' concepts in the future. Spare me, please.

Check out their handsome live stages/stills below, as they make creepy look hot! 

KBS Music Bank 130118 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wV4X5YHLlaA
SBS Inkigayo 130120 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CYCwsnYyVE
Mnet M! Countdown 130131 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSicdZ5qXjM
SBS Inkigayo 130203 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_Wx4ZUviBQ
MBC Music Core 130213 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPbli2i_gG8
KBS Music Bank 130217 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_-1hxgfCPU

REVIEW: tVN's The Romantic & Idol Season 2

The Romantic & Idol S2, filmed on Jeju Island

         So I just finished watching tVN's Season 2 of 'The Romantic & Idol"... It left me here shaking my head and squealing the patience out of my roommates. Though many fans seem to enjoy the first season more, I actually like the mood of the second season better. Yes, the first season was more serious and 'romantic,' but the second season was more candid and felt like a fun co-ed school trip. The best part? They were all old enough to drink- and drink they did. Oddly, the most memorable part was to see all eight idols sit around a table with their heads slumped, staring at nothing. It's such a frank view of people in their twenties- you flirt, date, there's drama, and then vent over some beers. People may crush, but they also change their minds, and after the show ends and everyone goes home, life goes on. I like that there's so fussing or regrets in a show that's meant to be light-hearted and lovely. Though the first season showcased that 'lovely' atmosphere better, the second season had me on an emotional roller-coaster ride (all in good fun, of course). Curiously enough, I felt like there were some solid lessons in Season 2 that even the cast members may not have realized:

1. First impressions aren't everything. Also, numerous interactions may increase attraction, but it can only go so far once a person sets their sights on someone.
2. Guys will always change their mind. However, once they know who they like, they'll remain honest to their feelings.
3. On the other hand, it's rare that a girl will change her mind on who she likes, no matter how competitive the contender. I wouldn't call it an attachment thing, but... they go with their gut (even if their gut is WRONG...!)
4. It's not love and it's not marriage, so please... no hard feelings.
5. It pays to be the bigger person. Being considerate is the way to go. Viewers are more likely to sympathize and take your side.
6. Older girls (25 and up) have it tough on that show! They should really bring in some older guys to change the dynamic. (Speaking from experience, guys in their early twenties still have a long way to go in order to become a man). 

Eunyoung in final selections (Her poor nerves are so apparent here).

Favorite Moments:
- I squealed so loud when Minhyuk performed his cozy backhug... and even more so when Yewon returned his hug from the front. He may be 22, but his comfort level indicates that he has dated older before. With this pairing, he acts like the oppa. They really are very cute and sweet together. Starting the show, I thought Minhyuk would be the quieter, odd man out in the season, but he threw two girls into a tizzy with his indecisive feelings. What a troublemaker, haha.
- My eyes popped open when N choose Jiwon instead of Eunyoung. Yes, I can see that Jiwon is more feminine and mature, but Eunyoung is just too cute to be denied. She's gullible, frank, and a little bit gorgeous! N! Hello? Those personal interviews will surely crack him up later. 
- I pointed accusatory fingers at my laptop screen when Minhyuk told Jiwon he wanted to change the subject of his filming... just when things were going so well with Yewon! It almost almost seemed like Fate (or, er, the script) was setting things up for Minhyuk and Yewon in the way that Hyunsik and Jihyun keep on getting paired together in Season 1, but it turns out, hearts can falter and sincere admirers like Jonghyun can jump at the chance. It is too bad Jonghyun came on too strong, and also that Yewon didn't return his feelings. Aww. I'm not a big fan of the guy, but man, what a face. Also, my heart pings for unrequited love.

Yewon choosing between Jonghyun and Minhyuk for final selections.

For Season 3: What cast members would make the show AWESOME?
- Infinite's Sungyeol: There have been rumors that he may be in the third season, but overall, I'm just curious as to how he would treat girls. He's outspoken and spunky, but will he be that way around
actual girls?
- Infinite's L: This guy had never dated before. I mean, he almost did. As in, he thought about it. Then he decided it wouldn't work out. So it never happened. But, you know, he thought about it. Lol. It also means that he's never had a real first kiss (peppero games with fellow Infinite members don't count, guys, nor MV acting). He's so rigid on his ideal girl (innocent girl with long wavy hair) that it would be super funny to pair him up with someone that might blow his mind. Really, no one really knows what they actually do like until they experience their dislikes. Give him some experience- any, I'm begging you.
- 2AM's Seulong: Fetch the guy a bone here tVN, he's turning 26 this year (27 Korean age) and he's still in an idol dating rut- as in, he's still not given a chance to date. There are so many older female idols in the business (AND preferring an older male) and so little older idol guys with spare time AND the 186 cm height to accommodate/exceed their highest stilleto requirements.
 - A-Pink's Chorong: Aside from Eunji, Chorong is my second favorite member in A-Pink. She may be the leader, but she rules with no rules other than those pertaining to her. Though proper in front of the cameras, she's super goofy and immature behind the scenes. The girl is just a hoot and makes whining hilarious to watch.
- Teen Top Changjo: He's so young (17), but he has such a masculine, older look! The growing height, intense work outs, and frustrated nature of maknae Changjo gives Teen Top a fierce, mafia vibe. Within their group, if you're not going to be awesome, you better get out. It makes me wonder, would he act so strong in front of a female? That's the real test of manliness- can he handle a girl? Or will he end up sputtering in the process?
- Tasty 2Wins Daeryong and Soryong: OMG, either of them, or both of them at once, would be AMAZING. Can you imagine the sibling rivalry if they both like the same girl? Not only are they both at an awesome age, (turning 25), but they also have the stellar 184 and 185cm heights to boost their heart-stealing stamina. There's just something about the Dragon Twins that make them seem so cool and swag-heavy (would you prefer swaggalicious?) Anyways, they would make dates fun in a very chill, casual way. They're also unexpectedly cute... how is that possible??
- BtoB Hyunsik: Okay eye-smile guy, do you think you can win all hearts? I really don't think you're as female-suavey as people think you are... and it's time to show it. How incredibly cute would it be to see this friendly-fatale guy fumbling over words with a girl he's attracted to? Would he even show his interest? Would the girl be able to withstand his bashfulness? Or would he turn a complete 180 and turn into a 'nampo namja ga' (the bad boy?)
- BtoB Sungjae: There's something about this middle-school maknae that screams, "Likeable!" Whether it's his energy, stage presence or overall manly appearance, he's just so hard to ignore. Though he acts goofy and immature around his members, there's a vein of masculine charisma that unexpectedly appears when he has to appear 'sexy.' He seems cool enough around the A-Pink members, but what about noonas a couple of years older than him?

What I would change:
- I understand the tight scheduling of K-pop idols, but four days and three nights really isn't enough time to create any solid feelings or decisions. To have the idols do a mid and final selection within four days seem like a huge stretch. It's too temporary to be as confusing as it is, ya know?
- It's also entirely misleading that anyone really has true feelings for anyone else when they might've only dated one person. For that, I'm glad about the free choice date, but I wish it came right after the mid-selection instead of the last day, when everyone is supposed to have confirmed their feelings.
- Casting directors, can you please stop grouping older girls with much younger guys? Or at least, have the majority of girls be younger than the guys? It's disappointing for the viewers and even more so for the idol noonas that expected a more mature cast to guide their attraction. If I have to see another Seungah or G.Na age disadvantage, I might hurl something.
- Have members listen to ALL the song choices before they do their selection. That way, people won't feel like they've missed out because they chose a song prior to listening to other songs. Also, it would only be fair to the poor boys who present their song later and actually expect someone (to still be there) to listen to it. 
- Instead of doing a necklace selection, the boys should already prepare their gifts in advance- maybe a piece of jewelry or accessory they want their significant other to wear instead of just a single pendant necklace. It would be more interesting to see a hairtie, spike bracelet, scarf, etc. In general, it would be nice if the directors made the selection process more unique. A destination or date-type selection would be nice. Even choosing shoes would be an awesome idea, but I understand that would be difficult to coordinate and possibly uncomfortable for the selector. Maybe even have the guys write information about themselves? A favorite quote? Just something more personal, please.

The idols gather around a table to enjoy company and choice liquors.

Extra Update:
For those shippers of Vixx's N and Two X's Eunyoung, the k-pop variety world has a treat for you. Besides their promotions for "On and On" and "Ring Ma Bell" being promoted at the same time (some even joke that it should be "Ring Ma Bell On and On"), the two have reunited on "The K-Pop Show" hosted by Boom. What happens? I initially didn't even view it with subs and I can tell it's pure shenanigans, and so much having to do with the Nyoung couple! You will laugh, you will stomp your feet, and you might even cry. Check it out below!

The K-Pop Show Episode 23 (Eng Sub)
Part 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOGxBjwfiI0
Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6g1gZeQbjo
Part 3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PcdSFT_lro
Episode 24 (Eng Sub)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=672wDnBuMCM