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 F-VE DOLLS (also known as 5Dolls)!
Career timeline: 2011-2013
Overall sound: From chirpy electro pop to melodically-focused retro pastiches.
6. Deceive (2013)
This ended up being the group’s disbandment song, though I doubt they knew that at the time. The truth is, F-ve Dolls had already gone through several line-up changes by this point. As with most disbandment songs, this isn’t the most exciting track in their arsenal.
Rating: 7.75
5. Lip Stains (2011)
There’s this specific synth texture and vocal affectation that instantly dates a K-pop song to the 2009-2011 era. Lip Stains hinges on both of these elements, making it more of a time capsule than an enduring hit. The song’s catchy, though.
Rating: 7.75
4. Your Words (2011)
Your Word’s surging electropop sound supports a robust series of melodies that feel quite nostalgic. The production is still very dated, but I really like the heft of the chorus.
Rating: 8.25
3. This Or That (2011)
F-ve Dolls made a very quick comeback after their debut, but their music changed substantially in that short time. This Or That’s bounding instrumental and powerful hooks remind me of something soloist Ailee might have released.
Rating: 8.5
2. Can You Love Me? (2013)
This is a very beautiful mid-tempo – the kind of belt-it-out showcase we don’t hear from idol groups much any more. The surging chorus is a career highlight for sure.
Rating: 8.5
1. Soulmate #1 (2013)
F-ve Dolls get a retro makeover for this sparkling synth highlight. I’m always weak for this sound and Soulmate #1 reminds me of something T-ara would have sunk their teeth into during this era. The repeated synth riff is very reminiscent of the 80’s hit Funkytown. I’m not sure if it’s a direct sample, but it’s close.