KPOP: TVXQ Comeback Singles

The "Kings of K-pop" are back and they are really killing it, at least to me they are. Their first two singles from their new album Tense and it's repackaged version Spellbound are already making waves. Tense, released on January 6, 2014, debuted at number one on the Goan Album Charts and number four on the Oricon Album Charts (Japanese), while Spellbound which was released on February 27, 2014 debuted at number 2 on the Goan Album Charts.

This marks their 10th year as entertainers, and Changmin and Yunho's third year as a duo. These singles have a much a different sound for the duo and it is amazing, but if you listen to the whole album you'll hear tracks that sound similar to tracks of their previous albums.

I'll talk about their second single "Spellbound" first since it's the most recent release. This song was released on February 28, 2014 and it is the title song from the repackaged album. The first music video for the song was published on YouTube on February 26, 2014 and the second version was published on March 4, 2014.

Spellbound M/V First Version

Spellbound M/V Second Version

So, as if it wasn't enough that the song was amazing, the video is freaking out of this world. I prefer the first version, but both versions feature the duo dancing their butts off to their hit song. I have to give them props for the amount of energy they bring to their performances. It is awe-inspiring. The song's sound is different from their last album's focus on electropop, being more of a groove/funk sound with a great R&B undertone that TVXQ is known for. Their harmony is tight, as usual, and the lyrics are sound. The song is about being re-captivated by an ex-girlfriend and only wanting and looking at her after being unfaithful before. But I must put more emphasis on the video: they are killing the choreography and anyone, K-pop fan or not can agree to that. 

The song that was first released from their newest album was "Something" which was released on January 6, 2014 and it's video was published on YouTube January 1, 2014. 

Something M/V

The song has an awesome jazz/big band sound that is drastically different for the group. It's a great change of pace for the group and gives off a more mature vibe. The song is basically about how they are too hot for any average girl, and how there's a girl that has that "something" but it's still not enough. The video is quite spectacular, mixing the setting of a 20's jazz club with these mystical, illusion type effects. You really have to see it in order to get the full effect.

Overall, I'd say that their comeback is looking very, very strong. The music is solid and the videos are hypnotizing. You can't deny that they are indeed the "Kings of K-pop."

KPOP: SHINee's New Mini Album

I LOVE THIS ALBUM! Just thought I'd put that out there. As one of the most popular K-Pop groups, Shinee was bound to deliver, but they surpassed my expectations. I have listened to a few singles but never an entire album or mini album from Shinee, so I was pleasantly surprised when I fell in love with the entire album almost immediately. Well let's get straight into the tracklist. 

1. "Everybody": A very infectious title song. The word "everybody" will be permanently etched into your mind, but you won't mind because the song is good. It is your typical electro-pop song, with a futuristic tone. It's a great way to introduce the album because it's all about coming to life.

2. "Symptoms": Our first ballad and first taste of R&B in the album. The song sounds really amazing when it's playing on full volume. Each member's voice really shines and their harmonies were really tight during the chorus.

3. "Queen of New York": If you don't learn to love this song, then something's wrong with you. It is a fun and upbeat song about love at first sight and the EDM/disco mix works perfectly.

4. "One Minute Back": At first this song wasn't a favorite of mine. It was so choppy and weird, but the more I listened to it, the more I liked it. The lyrics are also worth noting. The song is basically about a cheating lover and them wanting to turn back the clock to before they found out. So I can kind of interpret the choppiness of the song as their expression of disbelief at the situation. Or am I reaching?

5. "Destination": Though it is a good song, it's not the most memorable. It fits in well with the other songs, but it's not one that I feel the need to listen to over and over again.

6. "Close the Door": My favorite song of the album and 2013. It honestly makes me swoon every time I hear it. My favorite part is Minho's rap. Usually I don't go for a rap in the middle of a soft song, but this one is perfect.

7. "Colorful": This song is so happy sounding. I definitely think it would fit in a High School Musical drama.

So, that is my run down of the Everybody mini album. Hope you give it a listen. If you've listened to the album tell me which song is your favorite in the comments.

Thanks for reading!