Repeats of the Week - December 15, 2017
- waekpop
- Dec 15, 2017
- 3 min read
Twice - Heart Shaker
Twice does it again for me with "Heart Shaker," one of two of their new tracks for their repackage album, Merry & Happy. I'll admit, I used to think quintessential bubblegum-pop songs like this weren't my thing. But over the months, I've really grown to love the adorably pure lyrics and choreography that Twice has in their popular title tracks.
"Heart Shaker" finds the girls all bubbly over a love crush. I am in love with the styling of the MV, which has them alternating between winter whites and colorful retro outfits. There is a clever cut near the end of the MV where both the white and colorful versions of each member can easily confuse a new fan!
-Julie
B.A.P - Hands Up
B.A.P. has just released their third single album of 2017, Ego. The album consists of three tracks, one of which is “Hands Up.” The sound is purposefully reminiscent of their debut tracks, something that Tamar Herman expertly explores in her Billboard write-up. Many kpop groups are using nostalgic elements for their songs, notably the throwbacks in EXO’s “Power” MV and the re-used dance moves in BTS’s “DNA.” It reminds fans these groups always know exactly where they started.
Musically, Yong-guk’s rap verse stood out. His molasses-like delivery is a nice compliment to the punchy power of the rest of the song. The members vocalize in close harmony in the background, starting a slow build to the chorus again.
B.A.P. has been together for six years and are still using their talents to create conscious and innovative songs. My hope is to see them continue in this vein for many years to come.
-Kerry
Henry - It's You
I know, I know... I'm having a hard time not talking about the K-drama, While You Were Sleeping (the original soundtracks are just too good!). Henry released a shorter, live-studio version of his OST, "It's You", with a breathtaking and raw acoustic performance. I thought the original song was already emotional against the backdrop of a great drama, but this live version is bound to bring any listener to tears. Henry's passionate vocals and dreamy play on the keys will make you swoon.
Now, if I could just find some time to catch up on the episodes...
-Julie
The Boyz - Boy
The Boyz are a rookie group out of Cre.ker Entertainment. They debuted on December 6th with the EP, The First, featuring the title track “Boy.”
I have to admit, the dancing is what drew me in. While the song is catchy and perfectly on trend, the choreography is the star. Through most of the piece, rather than bringing the featured singer to the front, the point person remains directly in the center, surrounded on all sides by the other eleven members. The boys use this weighted center position to move energy through the members, meaning the dance moves ripple out from the middle. They also incorporate a lot of upper body motions, using arms, hands and fingers as accents to larger movements. The camera work, which tracks the dancers, speeding up and slowing down, is choreography within itself. Additionally, there are a few dance solos from the members. One in particular resonated with me, starting around 1:08, as the dancer has incorporated a form of contemporary technique into the solo, seen in the release of the back and the lightness maintained in the arms.
I could go on (performance review anyone?) but it’s safe to say The Boyz have made an impression on me. I look forward to watching their stages and hope to see another group flourish under representation of a small company.
- Kerry
Younha - Hello (Feat. pH-1)
It's been five (five!) years since Younha's last studio album, but she's finally returned with a new pre-release track called, "Hello". If you're not familiar with her work, I bet you have heard multiple OSTs she's worked on for popular K-dramas, such as You Who Came From the Stars and Doctors. Featuring rapper pH-1, "Hello" speaks of a warm send-off of past memories. The track is also produced by Groovyroom, a WKP favorite! They really do seem to be everywhere, with their fingerprints on a lot of hot tracks right now.
-Julie
Leesun - I Love YA (feat. eastmerlin)
This song is so sweet, I just don’t know what to do with myself. Leesun’s voice is well complimented by eastmerlin’s gruffer rap verse. The duo pair nicely together as they close out the song singing together. The MV is a trippy Instagram filter whirlwind, complete with emoji style graphics.
There’s not much information out there about Leesun, but I enjoy her style and her voice. I hope to see more of her in the future!
- Kerry