Repeats of the Week - October 20, 2017
- waekpop
- Oct 20, 2017
- 2 min read
Highlight (하이라이트) – Can Be Better (어쩔 수 없지 뭐)
You avoid a banana peel, only to slip on a bottle of banana milk. You drop your phone through a grate on the street. You're violently attacked by a chicken. We've all had those days right? In the music video for their latest single, "Can Be Better," the guys of Highlight go through that and more.
The MV and the song are strongly reminiscent of their last single, "Calling You." In the "Can Be Better" MV, the members are also dressed for random jobs. Even the color schemes are similar. The song even sounds like a slightly more upbeat version of "Calling You." There's no denying this song is 100% Highlight.
The best part of "Can Be Better" is the meaning. If you watched the mv without knowing the lyrics you might think it's just a fun K-pop bop. But the message is about staying positive, letting go of the past, and taking care of yourself.
- Laura
BtoB - Missing You
I don’t usually listen to ballads, mostly because I prefer pop songs, but also because I grew up with groups like Fly to the Sky (they just don’t make ballads like they used to!). But the mid-tempo melody in BtoB's “Missing You” caught my attention and gave me serious nostalgic vibes.
When it comes to ballads, I'm a simple girl - just give me a good melody and some sweet, powerful vocals and I'm in. Try to overcompensate with excessive instrumentals and too many voice types and I get distracted. "Missing You" is a good balance where the instrumentals build sweetly alongside the vocals. The song structure is simple with a predictable piano and pop beat, but they mix it up by adding an unconventional acoustic guitar with the rap verses. It's the final harmonizing chorus, though, that hits my acoustic sweet spot, and I'm impressed by how BtoB can make a simple tune sound timeless.
- Julie
Monogram - Lucid Dream (While You Were Sleeping OST Part 6)
I’ve been mesmerized by this original soundtrack from the current TV drama, While You Were Sleeping. The song is performed by a newcomer duo called Monogram. Members, Kevin and Riwon, had a quiet debut back in September when they released their short EP, Diary.
In the OST titled “Lucid Dream,” Kevin’s clear and steady voice sets the foundation of the song, while Riwon leads the unique melody with her airy notes. When paired with the cinematic instrumentals, their perfect harmonizing creates a chilling, atmospheric performance.
- Julie
Hyukoh - Gold (Chet Faker cover)
Hey. Did you know we love Hyukoh? It’s no surprise, because this four member band is an outstanding group of talented musicians. Released back in July, their cover of Chet Faker’s “Gold” is one that simply makes you feel good. I enjoy music in Korean, but it’s always a special surprise when your favorite singers release English language songs. As a fan of the original song, it’s really wonderful to hear a thoughtful, well-made cover.
Also, it has to be mentioned - fashion is on point, boys. 10/10 would raid their closets.
- Kerry