Catching up on K-pop Shows
I’ve been traveling and recovering from illness the past few weeks, so I apologize for the lack of new podcast episodes. Even though I haven’t done a new show, I’ve been listening to new releases, keeping track of what’s happening in K-pop, and catching up on K-pop shows.
Ateez showcase singing chops on ‘Killing Voice’
Killing Voice is one of my favorite K-pop shows. For those unfamiliar, the concept is simple and straightforward. A K-pop group walks onto stage and performs a medley of their hits from debut to current day.
There’s nowhere for subpar vocalists to hide in this format. As far as I know, auto-tune and studio tricks are not present. Therefore, I doubt we’ll be seeing groups from a certain label anytime soon.
Although Ateez has one of the best singers in K-pop, they’re not exactly known for vocals. Instead, their image has been hard-hitting, in-your-face songs, dramatic music videos, and killer choreography.
Because of this, I was really curious to see how they’d do on Killing Voice. The eight members knocked it out of the park! Of course, Jongho was perfect. (He has so much power in his high register that it never fails to impress.) But the other seven members had some really nice moments as well. San and Yunho specifically sounded great. Ateez’s stock keeps rising, and I’m buying it.
Seungmin brings me to tears
When discussing the best vocal lines in K-pop, I often leave Stray Kids out. I love the group, in fact, many of you know they’re my favorite, but I try to stay objective when sharing my opinions on specific aspects within individual groups.
Stray Kids are the most interesting K-pop act to me. I love their music because of its dynamic rap, cool melodies, and great production. Vocally, Seungmin carries the heaviest load as the main vocalist. While he does so with technical skill, he rarely gets a chance to give an emotional performance due to Stray Kids’ signature sound.
During a new episode of [SONG by], Seungmin covers the Radiohead song “High and Dry.” (Disclaimer: I’m a HUGE Radiohead fan. I love their melancholy songs and Thom York’s voice. Talk about interesting music.)
I was shocked at Seungmin’s performance of this song. He clearly understands the emotions behind the lyrics, but unlike what some less seasoned performers would do, he doesn’t feel the need to push or belt.
The clear, high notes in the chorus are gorgeous, but the most impactful part for me is the “don’t leave me dry” lines. In those specific parts, his voice sounds like it’s about to break. It’s sad, vulnerable, and extremely effective. I’m so proud of Seungmin for continuously working on his craft, it’s clearly paying off. He’s showing range, control, and an emotional connection to the material.
It’s also really satisfying to watch him share his thoughts prior to starting the song. If you have time, watch all eleven minutes.
Hello 82 debuts a new show, ‘Secret Duet’
Have you checked out Secret Duet yet? It’s an interesting concept: Two K-pop vocalists learn a song, show up, and perform it with another idol. The twist comes when the idols are separated by a wall and have no clue who they’re singing with.
It’s fun for the audience but could be nerve-wracking for the singers. They need to harmonize and allow the other singer to perform ad-libs on a whim. With the wrong mix, this could be a disaster.
The first episode, however, had the right mix, with EXO’s Chen and N.Flying’s Hweseung. Singing with Chen could be extremely intimidating. Often argued as the best singer in K-pop, few can keep up with him. However, Hweseung more than held his own. He showed amazing range and control and earned a fan in me.
Summer 2024
Thank you for sticking by me, as the podcast schedule has been inconsistent. 2024 has delivered some challenges with Freddy’s diabetes and my respiratory illness. I’m currently in Pittsburgh, PA, visiting family and getting some rest.
I will try my best to bring you quality content throughout the rest of the summer as my schedule and life circumstances allow. When I can’t, I’ll post on Patreon and share my thoughts in this newsletter.
Next week, I’ll be back with reviews of all the big releases I missed. I hope your summer is off to a great start!
5 songs I’m obsessed with this week
Supernatural - A.C.E.
High and Dry - Radiohead
Empty - Chen
Respirator - Han and Seungmin of Stray Kids
Give Me That - WayV