New songs from aespa, NewJeans, Jeonghan and Wonwoo (SEVENTEEN) and RIIZE explore different aspects of South Korean pop
This week’s top five K-Pop releases showcase the creativity and diversity of the genre. New songs from aespa, NewJeans, SEVENTEEN duo Jeonghan and Wonwoo and newcomer RIIZE explore different aspects of South Korean pop, from emotional ballads to dance beats. All songs are accompanied by sophisticated visual clips, revealing another side of K-pop’s success around the world.
AESPA “LIVING MY LIFE”
Aespa took a break from apocalyptic scenarios to release the power ballad “Live My Life,” which follows the members on a countryside road trip, with scenes reflecting moments of fun and friendship. Despite this, the impression is that, unofficially, the apocalypse has already happened, since they do not encounter anyone on their journey, crossing open fields, empty houses and deserted streets. Additionally, celestial lights streak through space like meteor showers at the end of the song. The chorus and surrounding melody are sung, most of the time, in English.
RIIZE “BOOM BOOM BASS”
One of K-Pop’s youngest boy groups, RIIZE caused a stir when they debuted last September and this week they released their first album, which brings together their hits so far and reveals new track “Boom Boom Bass.” The song’s clip combines electric bass imagery and lots of choreography to set the pulsating beat of ’80s-style danceable funk.
JEONGHAN AND WONWOO “LAST NIGHT”
SEVENTEEN members Jeonghan and Wonwoo joined forces in a side project, resulting in a three-track album released this week. The working song is “Last Night”, featuring jazz guitarist Park Ju-won. The music video accompanying the song features comic book references and includes animation elements, but the highlight of the release is the chemistry between the two members and their ability to convey emotion through powerful ballads.
NEWJEANS “SUPERNATURAL (PART 1)” and “RIGHT NOW”
NewJeans surprised fans with two consecutive launches this week, marking its debut in the Japanese language and market. On “Supernatural,” the group evokes the look and sound of ’90s New Jack Swing, while “Right Now” uses cartoons inspired by the “Powerpuff Girls.” But despite the colorful appearance, the video for “Right Now” focuses on the members’ most personal and emotional moments, with a very danceable acid jazz sound.
Source: Terra
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
