The Queens of K-pop Continue Their Reign
Almost nine years into their career, TWICE continue to dominate the girl group space
TWICE really are those girls. In the game since 2015, the nine-member girl group shows no sign of slowing down. Their new six-song EP is equal parts celebration and reflection of a career they can be proud of.
For me, TWICE represents quintessential girl group K-pop music. It’s bright, cheery pop, with other genres seamlessly mixed in and out based on the song. The nine members all have distinct looks and personalities, making it easy for the general public to relate to at least one of them. If the beautiful girl next door prototype were a K-pop group, it would be TWICE.
As more and more K-pop groups chase a radio-friendly Western sound, it’s refreshing to see Twice staying true to who they are. The result is great songs, music videos, and a strong bond with fans who show no sign of straying.
I loved this release. Although I usually like a harder vibe when it comes to girl groups (Blackpink, aespa), I’ve found myself slowly but surely becoming a Once through my many reviews of TWICE.
Taeyong is a Visionary
What if I told you that Taeyong is terribly underrated? This man is known for his rapping, visuals, dancing, and leading the NCT crew with charisma. But he’s also an insanely talented songwriter, singer, and creative director who deserves more attention for his artistry.
On his latest solo release, he shows off these various talents through rap, indie, alternative, and lo-fi songs. His lyrical content is, at times, funny and witty but mostly heartbreaking. Taeyong reveals a vulnerability we don’t always get to see in K-pop and that I personally value.
I’m terribly jealous of anyone who got to experience his sold-out, two-night concert event last weekend. With the help of his creative team, Taeyong crafted a stunning performance. The illusion of walking on a light beam during his emotional song ‘404 Loading’ was stunning.
I’m not ready for Taeyong to enlist, but luckily, time flies, and he’s left fans with so much amazing material that it feels unfair to complain. I made an edit of an emotional Taeyong recently with the Pretenders song ‘I’ll Stand By You.’ Taeyong fans are loyal and will be here upon his return.
A Joyful Return For A.C.E
A.C.E. is back from their mandatory military enlistment and released four new songs for fans who have been anxiously awaiting their return. Chan didn’t get out of the military in time to participate in this comeback, but he’s back and will be part of the next release.
On ‘My Girl : My Choice’, the four active members show off their vocals with four solid songs. For the title track, ‘My Girl,’ I was happy to see they left the rap parts out and instead let Wow and BK showcase how talented they are as singers. Every song doesn’t need a rap verse, and when all the members can sing like the guys in A.C.E can, this feels like a no-brainer.
When asked about my favorite vocal lines in K-pop, I give the following groups as an answer: EXO, Monsta X, P1Harmony, and A.C.E. They’re so underrated yet so talented. It often breaks my heart, but this comeback is doing well! I hope more and more K-pop fans give A.C.E a chance.
It was a pleasure to have Meg on this week to share her enthusiasm and knowledge of A.C.E. It’s always fun to hear a true fan perspective on new comebacks, and I appreciated her anecdote on name changes in the group.
Ups and Downs
Like the title of my favorite Taeyong track from this week’s review, life is full of ups and downs. Last week’s episode was sad, heavy, and tough to do. This week's episode, in contrast, was so much fun.
We all go through ups and downs. Part of me hates giving a bad review or talking about suicide and grief. But the other part of me thinks it’s vital to be honest and present a real take on real things happening.
Whether that’s a negative album review or discussing an emotional topic, I don’t think it’s fair to myself or my listeners to shy away from some topics. That said, it’s not always fun or easy to actually do. The past couple of weeks have reminded me to hold on during the downs because the ups are on their way.
5 Songs I’m Obsessed With This Week
You Get Me - TWICE
Ups and Downs - Taeyong
Effortless - A.C.E
404 Loading - Taeyong
New New - TWICE