K-pop is littered with acts who – for one reason or another – didn’t get the full spotlight they deserved. I’ve spent plenty of time ranking and reviewed the industry’s biggest artists, but these underrated acts should never be forgotten.
This feature will take a look at disbanded groups and rank/rate their entire singles run, placing them in the pantheon of K-pop history.
Next up is N-SONIC!
Career timeline: 2011-2016
Overall sound: Aggressive rhythms and a penchant for rock guitar and dramatic strings arrangements.
7. Crazy (2014)
This subdued, jazzy pre-release is a pleasant listen but doesn’t try to compete with the group’s best material.
Rating: 7.5
6. Pop Beyond (2014)
Despite its title, Pop Beyond is far more rock-influenced than you would expect. Its incredibly dramatic – almost symphonic – sound is stronger than the actual song.
Rating: 8
5. Super Boy (2011)
A quirky debut with intricate percussion and an ever-changing structure that melds chanted hooks with a pulsing club beat.
Rating: 8.25
4. Lie (2013)
Somewhat generic compared to 2013 standards, but the jagged electro textures and propulsive energy work well.
Rating: 8.25
3. Run & Run (2013)
N-Sonic take a harder turn with the swaggering Run & Run. The rock stomp of the instrumental compliments with their rap as icy strings stabs add to the song’s bombast.
Rating: 8.5
2. Excalibur (2016)
Talk about going out on a high! N-Sonic’s final single is also one of their most successful, supporting a catchy chorus with a glam rock beat and interesting vocal turns.
Rating: 8.5
1. Black Out (2015)
This is the group’s grooviest single and also their best, melding distorted electronics with a swaggering beat that’s sure to get your head nodding.