K-pop’s title tracks might gain most of listeners’ attention, but many album tracks are worth equal spotlight. I call these “buried treasures.”
Beyond this, K-pop’s albums deliver thousands of additional tracks that settle for a more limited audience. It’s these songs that will become a part of my “battle of the b-sides” feature.
In this feature, I’ll be putting on my A&R hat and taking a listen to five randomly-selected K-pop b-sides. I’ll write a mini review for each, including a Bias List rating, and rank them from least to most favorite. The winner will join a special Bias List B-side playlist. Think of it like my own little agency, hand-selecting songs I’d like to pitch to my nonexistent artists!
You can check out all rounds of my Battle of the B-sides here!
Battle of the B-sides: Round Sixty-Seven
g.o.d – Say g.o.d (1999)
If you really want to step into a time warp, put on any of g.o.d’s early albums. They’re so rooted in their era (late-90’s/early 00’s) in a very satisfying way. But beyond the obvious hip-hop trends of that time, the songs themselves have weight and groove that still make them fun to listen to today. Say g.o.d is a bit throwaway, repeating oft-used hip-hop clichés for its chorus, but the energy is upbeat and goofy in a way that’s bound to have you smiling and nodding your head.
Hooks
7
Production
8
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
7.75
Red Velvet – Take It Slow (2015)
For me, Red Velvet’s b-sides didn’t really hit until their excellent 2015 album The Red, but then again I guess they didn’t even have many b-sides up to that point! Take It Slow is infinitely pleasant, painting a warm, brassy tone that emphasizes their fantastic vocal blend. It’s a case of the execution being stronger than the actual song, as Take It Slow’s hazy melodies pass by without much punch. Still, I appreciate the track’s simplicity and texture. It makes for a nice, relaxing summer backdrop.
Hooks
7
Production
8
Longevity
8
Bias
7
RATING
7.5
GOT7 – She’s A Monster (2014)
GOT7’s output was so different back in their debut era. They hadn’t yet taken as much creative control as they later would, relying instead on agency-chosen songs. However, this era spawned much of my favorite GOT7 material. She’s A Monster hearkens back to mid-2000’s R&B with its blend of instrumental drama and smooth melodies. It’s a fun throwback that casts the guys in a very theatrical light. I probably didn’t appreciate it as much as I should have in 2014, but time has been very kind to this track. The production is excellent, from the searing electric guitar to the sudden tempo shift at the song’s climax.
Hooks
8
Production
9
Longevity
9
Bias
8
RATING
8.5
SF9 – Play Hard (2019)
SF9 have become known for having strong b-sides – often more exciting than their title tracks. Play Hard fits within this category, chugging forward with synth-powered energy and a big brass breakdown. This breakdown takes place of a proper chorus, which is a bit of a disappointment. However, every element swirling around this centerpiece is quite satisfying. I love the rugged electro textures of the second verse and the house keys that underline each pre-chorus. Play Hard maintains a welcome sense of intensity all the way through.
Hooks
8
Production
9
Longevity
8
Bias
9
RATING
8.5
Dreamcatcher – 4 Memory (2023)
It’s funny that this song popped up randomly after Dreamcatcher’s sub-unit UAU made their debut this week with a lesser version of this sound. 4 Memory moves away from the group’s usual rock template to give them an electronic (vaguely “tropical”) style. This isn’t my favorite guise for Dreamcatcher, but the track has a nice blend of relaxed production and more robust vocal turns. It builds toward a welcome – if brief – climax.
Hooks
7
Production
8
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
7.75
My Verdict:
Fifth: Red Velvet – Take It Slow
Fourth: g.o.d – Say g.o.d
Third: Dreamcatcher – 4 Memory
Second: SF9 – Play Hard
First: GOT7 – She’s A Monster
Congratulations to GOT7’s She’s A Monster – the sixty-seventh winner of my Battle of the B-sides!
Readers, what do you think? Did you discover any hidden gems? Leave your own ranking in the comments!