Bang Yongguk’s solo music can be hard to pin down. I often classify him as an artist who mixes rock and rap in evocative, moody ways. But then a song like Movimiento comes along. Bucking expectations, this track brings Yongguk to the dancefloor. A club… Read More »Song Review: Bang Yongguk – Movimiento
In connection with my desire to fully keep up with the J-pop industry, I’m planning to do a weekly round-up of any new releases that have caught my ear. Some of these may have been covered on the blog already, but my hope is that… Read More »New & Noteworthy J-pop of the Week (March 31, 2024)
Upon hearing Chungha’s new single album, many commented that opener I’m Ready felt more like a title track than the playful sing-talk of Eenie Meanie. I agree, and judging by the virality of I’m Ready‘s newly-released promo video, it may end up having the last… Read More »Song Review: Chungha – I’m Ready
xikers have already established a tradition of including at least one song on each album that I must skip for my own well-being. Last summer, that track was Koong. Now, it has a sibling. I appreciate the energy here and I assume that’s why it… Read More »Song Review: xikers – Red Sun
North Carolina-based band Exercise (Matt Wilkins on vocals/guitar, Matt Underwood on bass, and Dan Jones on drums) has been integral to the small but rowdy music scene in the pirate town of Wilmington. They’ve kept the house show scene alive and pulsing in the port… Read More »Artist Interview: Exercise