Album Review: Oksangdalbit (Dalmoon) – Where

Release: May 6, 2013
Producer/Distributor: MagicStrawberry Sound/Mirrorball Music
Genre: Pop, ballad
Reviewer Rating:

The indie pop scene is blessed with a number of talented female duos – Lucite Tokki, J Rabbit, Lalasweet, and Mukimukimanmansu are just a part of the overflowing riches. Oksangdalbit (or Rooftop Moonlight or Okdal or Dalmoon, take your pick) is probably the busiest of this bunch. You could attribute the duo’s popularity to their creative, often humorous subject matter and lyricism (look at that cover! Wilma and Wenda?), but it’d be more apt to point out how easy it is to identify with their music. Dalmoon’s stories have identifiable sensibilities and frank language; this is a band that knows what to say and how to say it.

That hasn’t changed in Where. Dalmoon still give voice to today’s twenty-somethings with piercing insight. A theme of warm gratitude strings together 괜찮습니다 (It’s Okay) and 유서 (Last Will), manifestations of a our need for companionship and empathy. Tickle and Anew are quintessential Dalmoon love songs, light on the flowery adjectives and instead full of activity and vivid imagery.

But there is also a new sense of poetry in this sophomore album. In 공중 (Midair), Kim Yoon-ju and Park Se-jin harmonize in serenity: “Falling galaxies, silent lights // Pure snowflakes that cover my sins”. (This motif reappears in album-closing 숲 (Forest).) Help opts for minimalism, telling a larger story in a couple short stanzas.

Sometimes, the mundane becomes extraordinary; something that by no means should be meaningful – a long-forgotten relationship, an errant figment of imagination, an obscure piece of art – grabs hold of us for an enraptured moment, and we don’t know why. 하얀 (White) describes this, and it is the emotional peak of Where. A quiet night turns brooding as “without closing our eyes // we had so many thoughts”; in that moment, “the sky looked like it was about to cry” and “even warmth itself laid down on the floor”. In many ways it’s hard, if not impossible, to explain why these moments happen, and Dalmoon try to articulate the emotions without tackling the “why”. The result is not the most satisfying, but it does leave a deep impression.

White is helped out by a dreamy piano pulse and ambient backdrop. This is an example of the nuanced arrangement found throughout Where. Light pop is still the band’s forte, and they show flawless execution in Anew and It’s Okay, in particular. However, more interesting are those tracks that dare to branch out.

Last Will starts out the same old way, all staccato and bouncy beat, and seemingly ill-befitting of the title. The musical transition, like the lyrical one, is devious. The piano bulks up a little as the duo softly harmonizes “goodbye”, and suddenly there is heavy cadence and a boom of string and brass to finish the track in adorably stirring fashion. Midair’s distant melody is reminiscent of Small o‘s recent EP, and Hero features an exquisite layering of sound detail and vocals upon modulated guitar.

It goes to show the amount of maturation that’s occurred for Dalmoon in just a couple short years. Their growth in Where is not unlike that of Lucite Tokki’s in Grow To Glow; both showcase increased scope in motifs and arrangement and further development of existing strengths. I think this album is actually better than that release, which is saying something. Where is pretty, witty, and smart as always, with newfound maturity to boot. Dalmoon are becoming more complete musicians, all the while pushing the envelope for the Hongdae-borne pop bands. Like I said, this scene is blessed with riches.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. 딩동 (Ding Dong)
2. 새로와 (Anew)
3. 괜찮습니다 (It’s Okay)
4. Tickle
5. Children Song
6. 유서 (Last Will)
7. 공중 (空中) (Midair)
8. 히어로 (Hero)
9. Help
1o. 하얀 (White)
11. 숲 (Forest)

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely of the reviewer and not of hellokpop as a whole.

Agree or disagree? Or have a recent release that you’d like to see reviewed? Let us know with your comments below! Requested albums will be considered each week and may be selected to be reviewed in the subsequent week.

Sources: Photo – Daum Music; Videos – msberrysound, hansulgt on YouTube

Céci reveals alluring pictorial of EXO + interview

Céci magazine has unveiled a set of enticing images featuring idol group EXO in its latest June issue. The introduction to summer begins with a floral pictorial and individual questionnaire, entitled Mr. Seductive, with the members from both EXO-K and EXO-M.

EXO-K member Baekhyun is seen wearing a beige jacket with back print, a floral graphic shirt, and striped shorts by KWAKHYUNJOO, SOLID HOMME, and kai-aakmann. Chanyeol dons a fine patterned jacket with a black shirt and geometric-print pants by WOOYOUNGMI and Gunt. Member Kai sports a floral-print pullover sweater and black pants by Blindness by Kud and SIM Z WAITZ. D.O. dons a delicate green textured shirt, a white shirt, and white jeans with a European retro pattern by Jehee Sheen, Greyhound, and Pearlygates. Sehun is seen wearing a beige fedora, a pastel green button-up shirt, and simple black jacket by Kimseoryong Homme, and Via by Leejungki. Leader Suho is featured in an animated cloud coat, a graphic t-shirt, and black pants by WOOYOUNGMI, 8 Seconds, and SIM Z WAITZ.

EXO-M member Luhan dons a fine patterned jacket and vest, a white turtleneck shirt, and white pants by Kwonohsoo classic and kai-aakmann. Xiumin sports a beige vest, a simple striped t-shirt, and black slacks from MVIO, MUNSOO KWON, and KATENKELLY. Leader Kris is seen wearing a beige jacket and matching beige button-up shirt by WOOYOUNGMI and Jehee Sheen. Lay dons a pattern newsboy hat, a fitted gray suit with hand stitch-like lapels, a floral shirt, black jeans, and canvas shoes by SYSTEM HOMME, WESC, PLAC Jeans, and Dr. Martens. Member Chen wears a fun print black-and-white jacket, black vest, striped graphic button-up shirt, and black jeans by AM.WE by Kud, Kwonohsoo classic, and MUNSOO KWON. The last but not least individual spread is of member Tao. He dons a simple and sleek black jacket and navy blue floral button-up shirt by Time Homme and WOOYOUNGMI.

The interview responses documented of each member in Ceci are as follows:

KRIS

Charm appeal: Looks sharp, but sloppy and dumb in reality. Seems cold, but fiery in the inside. A handsome person. Nationality is China.
In leisure: Visited family and friends in Canada. Next time I hope to go skydiving or play actively and roll about at sea for an entire day. As much as I enjoy traveling, I’d need to make plans every chance I find.
Advantage to a job as an idol: Too many to count, but one of its blessings is being able to visit one country after another.
Recent style transformation: Went through a transformation because Iw anted to be wreckless with the new comeback album. The advatange is styling time has been reduced. A downside is the limit to various styles. I want to cry because at the latter.
Current passion and interests: Hair styling, hats, electronic music.
Prize possession: Letters from fans, always.
Privilege of the dramaphile: I’ve been deeply absorbed in “Nice Guy”, as if I am main character Kang Maru. Resilient scenario. All of the actors were admirable.
3 Things you need when in love: Love, Love, Love.
If you were to propose?: “I like you, what can I do?”
A reaction you expect from her: 0_0, ^_^, ^0^, <3
Self-made compliments: Mandarin, English, Korean available. These skills are crucial for me because I participate in promotions abroad.
Time to compliment other members: Suho is brilliant at whatever he does. Baekhyun’s great at uplifting the mood, Kai dances well, and Chen is great at singing. Tao is empathetic of his hyungs’ feelings, Xiumin is helpful, and I’m grateful to D.O because he looks after the members very well. I thank Lay who cooks well, I thank Lu Han for being good at soccer so I can take charge in basketball, and I’m thankful to Sehun for being attentitive to his maknae responsibilities. And Chanyeol, the Chicken Nuggets were tasty. Thanks.
Something you would improve: Nothing. I’m good-natured so I’ll watch on for a little longer. I love them all.
To the fans: Thank you for waiting and encouraging us through it all. We’ll return the favor with a good album.
Kris instructional manual: He functions if he eats and sleeps sufficiently. You may not have known this, but he’s slightly cute, too. And if you love him, he’s a good man who’ll love you twice as much back.

BAEKHYUN

Charm appeal: A bundle-of-fun vocal who is well suited to eyeliner.
5/6 (day of interview) birthday thoughts: I’m very pleased that promotional interview and shooting coincides with my birthday. If I were to pick out a song on a day like this, I’d say Soul Star’s ‘Happy Birthday’. It’d be even better if the fans would sing it for me.
Comeback album hint: A group dance that took 8 hours to learn day by day, and practiced individually for four hours each day. As long as it took to complete it, I wish they’d acknowledge that it took just as long and just as much preparation to make it.
A compliment you’d like to hear: Just as I thought! They didn’t take so long for nothing!
When I search ‘Baekhyun’ on the internet: It was fascinating to see all the photos that were collected from debut up to now. Seeing them, I realized with tears that my ch e e k s are getting plumper.
Have you ever commented? No?: I’ve been hit with such temptation when people assume I’m shorter than Suho hyung and Chen.
Every time you look into the mirror: I check if my face is swollen. Especially when I look at Chanyeol I agonize over why my eyes are so small, but I think it’ll do.
If I were to introduce a female cousin to a member: I’d introduce her to the mature, smart, and exemplar leader Suho hyung. I’d feel bad for the other members I can’t introduce her to, so I’ll just keep my opinion to myself.
A type that makes you swoon: A straight-set, virtuous mind, well-mannered, and a woman who smells nice.
If I were to propose: After I purchase her favorite flowers in fake ones, I’ll kneel and say ‘These flowers are johwa (T/N: fake). I joh-ah (T/N: like) you so much. Will you go out with me?’
If you can live as a character in a movie for 7 days: I’d be a childish second generation millionaire. I meet a sober, diligent, and wise woman and turn over a new leaf and mend my ways. It’ll be a movie with a synopsis of a Baekhyun who succeeds at work and love and everything else.
Member’s secret: When Suho hyung gets a slight scratch, he’d whine and pine over it for a month.
A request for all the members: Can we live more neatly?
Baekhyun instructional manual: If you befriend him, he may chatter on and on without giving you a break. When that happens, don’t stress out and quietly put your hand on his mouth. During hard times he may be dazed and blank. This means he’s recharging, so please don’t touch. 10 minutes should be sufficient to recharge.

TAO

Charm appeal: The second maknae that likes playing around although different from his image. My nationality is Chinese.
While resting: I ate, exercised, and prepared for the album. I repeated, repeated, and repeated these three.
Thoughts on EXO 12 members all joined together: The scale of the performance arrangement has gotten a lot larger. The energy has gotten a lot intense. Because we gathered all together, the practice times are twice as much fun and enjoyable. Thanks to it, I feel like our timeworn has gotten stronger.
A report that (Tao) has a lot of tears: In the past I had a lot, but not anymore. The most recent time I cried was a couple days ago but it was because recently I visited China for a vacation, but on the airplane back, I cried at the thought that I won’t be able to see my family and friends for a while. To be honest, this is a secret.
If you were to use the time control power: When I see people who do bad things. I would catch them and send them to the police or I would reason with them so they cannot do bad things. Also, If I see a pretty girl I wish time would go slower. Because then I could keep looking at her.
A power that you would like: No matter how much I think about it, I think time control is the best.
Yaja* game time: I will have to tell Suho hyung “Suho-yah, will you give me some food?’ Cooly using informal speech is the point. To be honest, hyung treats me really well. Because I just like him, I want to talk to him again.
An ideal type that shakes your heart: I would like it if she was pretty and kind. I become interested in a girl that shows no interest in me. I wonder why the reason is.
3 reasons why Tao would be a good boyfriend: I have nice manners, I’m sexy, I can do martial arts well. Also on top of that I am rich in heart and bank account. I can show the special charms that a blood type AB’s bad boy possesses. Like a roller coaster, dynamically, every day so one won’t be bored.
Selca technique that Tao can pass down: An abundant production. One must find their own selca’s angle.
Sexiness to Tao: I was naturally born with it?
Dark circles to the sexy Tao: Without dark circles, I am not Tao.
To the Tao in one year: All your dreams are going to come true. Fighting.
Tao manual: I can’t go up to you first. That is why, passionately come up to me please. I don’t know if it might take time in order for you to become my person. However, please try it. Please.
t/n: Yaja is basically when the eldest and youngest switch roles.

LUHAN

Charm appeal: A singing and dancing two job holding person with the name ‘dawn’s dear’ in Chinese. My nationality is Chinese.
Thoughts on EXO 12 members all joined together: Every day by day, our hiatus time was fun like a classroom. However the distraction of the practice room is times 12. But once we actually start practicing, everyone’s gazes change and the hotness is also times 12.
A needful of bragging for the comeback album: The performance is extraordinary. But because it’s a performance pressed with a secret Shhh!
While resting: a while ago I went to my home in China. After a long time, I finally did the deeds of an only son, profitably.
A lacking point whenever I look at the mirror: I am satisfied with myself that my parents gave birth to.
Times when I myself think I am manly: always. However, when I play soccer, the manliness quotient goes up.
The nickname crazy frog: That is Tao, his thoughts.
Right this moment if you were to send a telepathic message to member (Sehun): After this interview, do you want to go drink bubble tea?
Luhan’s Korean class, a word that you are hooked on these days: ‘Aigoo.’ when I get surprised, when I become regretful, when I’m worried. It was a multiplayer that was suitable when used anywhere. Another word I use often is ‘hul.’
An item I treasure: the computer that lets me use the internet and has the roleplaying games that I fell into recently, my bed that is my own area, the closet that is packed with treasurable things. Especially my bed, I wish other people would avoid going on to it.
When I use the Internet: I look up my own photos. I feel good when I see the pictures that the fans took so well. I’m thankful to everyone.
If I were to propose: An empty street during night time, flowers together with a kiss.
If I were to receive a propose: I would like it if the girl gave me food that she made herself. If I were to think about the menu, because I am the meat eating group, if it is meat, I like it all.
3 reasons why Luhan would be a good boyfriend: I have a good personality. Whenever, wherever, I am able to be a reassuring protection. I am good looking. Of course the last point is a joke.
To the fans: Thank you for waiting throughout a long period of time. With all my heart, I love you.
Luhan manual: When my body and mind is out of control, please give me a little bit of interest. It takes only the words ‘You’re tired right? Gain strength.’ Then I am a person that really gains strength. Basically, although I am very bashful and shy, I wish people to know that I am warmer once (we) get closer.

KAI

Charm appeal: I am a humorous man in charge of the dancing and the sexiness in EXO.
Describe EXO with 10 characters: The twelve strongest flower boys from space. (T/N: He said it with 10 Korean characters)
When resting: Suho hyung worries about something all day long. Chanyeol hyung is laughing, Baekhyun hyung, Chen hyung and Sehunnie are talking continuously. Behind them, Kris hyung is joking seriously and Luhannie hyung goes back to the living room. Next to them Xiumin hyung is tidying the room and Lay hyung is spending time blankly. Next to him, Tao is looking in the mirror.
3 nicknames you like: Kim Kai, Kkamjong, Jongdalsae (T/N: Skylark in Korean)
Your current background picture: On my phone it’s a picture of Luhannie hyung and I watching the football match ‘Manchester United FC vs Chelsea FC’. A proofshot of my happiness when Chelsea won with my thumb up. My SNS main background picture is the same. My SNS status is ‘Chelsea won ㅋㅋ’
The gene you want to thank: I like everything about the person called Kim Jongin. It’s hard to find something I don’t like. Hoot.
Even I think I am sexy when: I see myself in the mirror when I go to change clothes after they got drenched in sweat while practicing in the practice room. Hoot.
An ideal type that shakes my heart: A woman pale like snow, I want her to have pride and passion in what she’s doing even if she’s not the best in her field.
If I proposed: Proposing with flowers at a meaningful time she wouldn’t expect. Very unexpectedly! Pak!
The reaction you expect from her: I want to see her totally surprised as she didn’t notice anything before.
A proposal you want to receive: If she’s totally honest and sincere, I’m ok with even just a word.
A member’s secret: Kim Jongin really has a pale skin. And even on EXO Planet, people don’t kow that EXO are from their planet.
Kai’s user manual: Don’t be embarrassed at my excited self when watching . Don’t touch me when I’m sleeping please. Except when the chicken order is here. When I’m focused on something, even if you make a loud noise, I won’t hear you. If you stay with me for a long time, you will learn that I’m a man with a pattern easy to know. It’s simple.

YIXING

Charm appeal: warm man, healing boy. My nationality is Chinese.
A compliment you want to hear: I did bright yellow hair for the first time. I’m anticipating half, worrying half on whether or not I will be able to hear it matches me well.
While resting: I spent time personally composing/songwriting, and taking lessons in the areas that I’m lacking. Of course those songs are not in this album. In order to show a perfect side, I want to let everyone listen after pulling it all together tighter.
Lay’s own song production: Ever since I was thirteen, I made them as a joke. Especially, Baekhyun and Luhan hyung are my encouragement team that like my ballads, Kris is the assistant that helps with rapping in between. To everyone, thank you.
A composition to Lay: I consider the most important thing to be a person to person’s heart in the relationship. Because I am one that is rich in emotions, I gain inspiration through passable easy details in small experiences, the emotions going on between my loving family and friends, and while playing the piano.
A respected musician: Beethoven who had strong determination, Mozart who is a naturally born music genius.
Something I’m better than them at: I’m dance a little well.
SM seniors: They always tell us good things. Whether it is actual choreography or camera walking, very detailedly. They’re all angels.
A hidden talent that no one knows: gag instinct. It’s a shame that people don’t know it well.
Dancing machine’s waist situation: Thanks to the interest I’ve received, it has gotten a lot better. I’m only thankful.
A treasured item: It’s not an item but a person. Because, since there are fans there is the current me. Of course I have to treasure them a lot.
If I were to propose: ‘I will make you the happiest girl in the world. Trust me.’
3 Reasons why Lay would be a good boyfriend: I can love only one with all my heart, I can do anything for this woman, I can hug her warmly.
3 Things you desire from this woman: Even if I call you ‘pig’ don’t get hurt, but instead be cute. Love and understand only me, sometimes do aegyo to me.
Lay’s aegyo: zero. Instead I am manly.
To the fans of Asia: Thank you for always watching over us, wherever you are. For your health and mind to always be healthy.
Lay manual: I don’t eat food if there is no coke or sprite. But even still, please tell me that you love me. And if you tightly hug me warmly, I like it even more.

KYUNGSOO

Charm appeal: is my clean voice.
While resting: written the same on all the members faces was ‘concentration’. We were always like that. While concentrating, we definitely concentrate, and while playing, we definitely play (here I would want to show member’s expressions through drawings but since I don’t have paper, I don’t have a way to express it so it’s disappointing).
If I were to compliment the all of the members, without leaving one out, I’m just so thankful that all of the members are nice people. Especially thank you to Suho hyung who cooly leads us like a leader would. And also thanks for having a lacking sense of humor like me. Because it would be lonely if it was just me alone. Opposite, something I would ask of all of the members, as we live as EXO, if something happens that makes you upset or disappointed, not to hold it in but to vent through a conversation at that moment would be good. So that you don’t have any wounds left given from anyone in the future.
Ideal type that shakes my heart: is someone whose face is pretty when they smile, an innocent person, and a girl with white skin.
If I were to propose, the place or moment wouldn’t be important. Just my heart. ‘Can I be your boyfriend?’
3 Songs I recommend that match as background music for a proposal are 1) Jeff Benet’s ‘Ms. Seductive’, 2) Justin Beiber’s ‘Catching Feelings’, 3) Bruno Mars’ ‘When I was Your Man’. All three of the melodies are sweet and the lyrics are pretty.
The thing that I want right now: is first place.
In 10 years, the image that I have a goal for is a secret. Won’t the members all be living cooly in ‘ing’? And after 11 years, I believe that we can have a concert while celebrating our anniversary.
A member’s secret: is something that should be kept a secret.
D.O is a man who: is quietly (clean), when you look at him (he’s shy to strangers), as you become closer to him (he becomes comfortable), as he becomes excited (is someone who saves his words).
D.O’s user manual: Rather than spending his time boisterously, he prefers to spend it quietly. He regards being honest as something important. When tired the words ‘have strength’ seem to be the ones that hit home the hardest. Ah! Kind of hides his face. If you approach him first he’ll welcome you even more.

SUHO

Charm appeal: I am a serious and calm leader who brings the members together with charisma. I am Suho.
Your thoughts about the comeback: I want to show to even more people a new music and a new performance. We will work as hard as people waited for us.
If you had another superpower: The ability to be invisible. Because I can go anywherer this way. (Next to him Chen said ‘But you can’t tell honestly where this anywhere is’.)
Airport pictures are: A runway in its way. At the airport, I’m walking with strength in my eyes. If they take pictures of me with my eyes closed, even I find it funny.
The thing you fear on airport pictures: A pimple suddenly appearing in front of the high definition cameras. I’d be busy hiding it with my hand all the time.
EXO’s way to accord their opinions: A meeting we had every weekend for an hour even before debuting. We solve the big and small problems by talking, may it be the things that disappointed us during the week, the things we regret. When we don’t have anything to talk about, we compliment eah other. It’s a loving time where we say thank you about the things we’re thankful of.
EXO’s get-together: Not too long ago, to give us strength for the comeback, we gathered to eat beef intestines. Since they’re still growing children, they ate on average for 2 or 3 persons each. Maknae Sehunnie kept going here and there busily to cook the meat, and even when Tao was putting on his coat to go home, he was cooking meat and eating. These cool kids.
If 1 million won fell from the sky: I would invite the members to eat somewhere of course. Kids, just tell me. Hanwoo (T/N: Prime Korean beef)? Sushi?
The ideal type that makes my heart shake: On the outside, girl with long hair and literary interests and on the inside, a wild and cheerful girl. Because I am a man, a girl with this kind of reversal.
If I proposed: I would announce it loudly in the middle of a crowded place like Myungdong. I’d say ‘I love you, accept my feelings’.
For a successful proposal: I think that if you sincerely love that person, it will always be successful, also if you put efforts in it.
If I didn’t become an idol: I honestly didn’t think much about getting another job. No matter what I do and where I do it, If I set a precise goal and work hard toward it, it’s going to get better.
As a leader, to the company: I will work hard. And to the members, let’s love.
Suho’s user manual: You’re doing well, you’re doing well, woojjujju (T/N: Sound you make to babies), praise me a lot please. Because compliments make Suho dance cheerfully.

CHANYEOL

Charm appeals: EXO’s person in charge of infinite positivity and voice with mood.
While resting: I did dance and rap making with Kai, Baekhyun, and guitar practice with D.O. The newly started studying of composition and songwriting is fun as well. I’m enjoying it because I feel like what I can show is gradually increasing.
Thoughts on comeback: I longed for the fans and the stage the most. As much as I longed for it, I became firm so rather then saying I will work hard I want to show a completed stage.
Comeback album hint: forest, tree, cave.
A happening that made your heart hot recently: A while ago we went to an orphanage to do some volunteer work. Every time we go back, I feel like my heart’s warmness is getting charged, I was happy. Thanks to them, I also gained a precious chance to look back upon myself.
A treasured item: Because I am a cautious buyer, I can brag that I never regret after shopping. An even bigger pride is the desk that I cautiously bought recently. A not brag that because of that, the room got smaller.
Parents’ genes: I inherited my positive energy from my mother, and sensitivity from my father. I feel it stronger, now after I turned twenty years old. I love you. ♡
Definition of ‘manly’: A man that carries unexpectedly strength in the midst of softness. Can I say with my own lips ‘For me, when I’m a jokester and when I am focusing on something, like playing different instruments or rapping, I will be quite…manly.’
An unexpectedly good thing because of living as EXO: A miracle that a sloth like me can wake up in the dorm without an alarm. Thanks to that, my mother is happy.
An ideal type that shakes your heart: A person that matches the same laughing code and music preference. My heart beats when I hear ‘I like this music too.’
If I were to propose: I would like to play a song that I like while giving her a flower in a live house that only has us two. Our love that becomes one through music.
Chanyeol is: quite (delicate), if you get to know (adult-like), the closer you become (a person whose playfulness becomes more severe), when excited (voice gets louder), to the person he likes (endlessly friendly) man.
Chanyeol manual: When you are bored, if you speak to (me) a fun happening will occur. I like chatting. Just talk. Wherever the place is, like a jukebox I will play music for you. For future reference, I don’t bite.

XIUMIN

Charm appeal: cutie eldest hyung.
While resting: I played together with Luhan at the cafe and enjoyed (my) individual time while shopping.
Xiumin’s shopping technique: Of course impulse shopping is the truth.
Cheeks that disappeared diet TIP: Become chic in front of food. Don’t ever look at it first. Although, the me that has a hard time with that, will soon go back to the full cheek baozi.
Pros and cons of being a baby face: The danger of hearing informal speech from someone younger than me at our first meeting. I don’t really know about pros. I’m not sure if the physical age of 24 years is passing correctly as yesterday and today are different. cough cough.
Danger of being the eldest hyung: The I.D. ranking hyungnim is a pretty important area amongst men. If there is a SOS, there are many times that I have to take charge. Of course it’s very, extremely, often trivial matters.
Xiumin’s conversational habits: I answer well to questions asked and I carry an ear that listens well. I take the role of EXO’s troubles counselor with a serious personality and rich reactions. Recent trouble content is no comment.
Xiumin’s Chinese class, a recently learned word Dui bu qi, wo bu hui (I’m sorry, I can’t do it). Because heavy lips* is also a counselor’s role.
Recent interests: We received a bunch of comic books for our first anniversary present and even now I am reading them well.
3 of Xiumin’s charming points: A man that is solitary, a man that is chic, but to my person, a soft man. In conclusion, a charming person.
3 reasons why Xiumin would be a good boyfriend: I’m strong, I have an innate sense, I’m considerate. To prove my strength, I will hold the example of overpowering all the members in arm wrestling.
If I were to propose: In a concert hall that is filled with many people, I would cry out to her ‘We are one, we can’t fall apart, I love you.’
Bragging about the award won in China: Recently in China, at ‘13th Annual Music Billboard Award Ceremony,’ we won most popular group. Just as it states, best! Oh, yeah! Thankful to the fans that gave us this big award. Along with that, deep thanks towards the parents of EXO who gave birth to these cool sons. xie xie.
An award you want to win a year later: ‘image transformation success award,’ now becoming a matured and sexy man.
Xiumin manual: is easy. As long as the surroundings are kept clean, always happy smile. I’m kind of tidy.
t/n heavy lips means that you keep your mouth shut.

CHEN

Charm appeal: Main vocal, a skinny pig.
‘Skinny pig’ definition: I’m worried that I don’t gain as much weight as I eat. On the other hand of not gaining weight after eating and eating, I shed weight at the same time. So I’ve put a lot of care into managing my weight so my face would look nice.
In leisure: In fear I may grow lax, I’ve set my mind straight. I try to work twice as much as the fans had to wait for our comeback.
A type that makes you swoon: Charming eyes, diligent personality, A big heart that will pet me and tolerate my grouchiness.
When I propose: I’ll pretend to pick up some berverages during a night parade at an amusement park and surprise her in an entourage. And then I’ll step forward and say “Will you marry me?”
A reaction you expect from her: I wish she’d run into my arms.
If SHE proposes?: Doesn’t matter. It’d be enough to hear that she loves me.
If you were to acquire a million dollar insurance?: My vocal chord. I want to sing my whole life.
EXO’s office dinner: Cluttered and noisy, a chaos. Even when all 12 members say one thing each, it’d be a mouthful.
Member’s alcohol tolerance ranking: The strongest is Xiumin hyung. Then Chanyeol-Chen-Kris hyung-Lu Han hyung, in that order. Besides that, the rest are on similar levels, but Lay, whose face fires up after one shot, is surely the last.
3 Wishes to God: I’m curious about the afterlife. I’ll just look around. If there are extraterrestrials, please bring them to me. I want an elixir that can cure any disease.
Chen’s 3 charming points: Thick earlobes that lure sin good fortune, a mole under my neck, a masculine character, and as a bonus, a mounted loyalty.
Baekhyun, Chanyeol, Chen’s ‘Beagle’ theory is?: A rumor, a misconception. Compared to Baekhyun and Chanyeol I’m a strictly plain kid.
A skill you want to steal from another member: Lay hyung and Kai’s dance instinct.
Today’s highlight choreo is?: No comment today. I’ll show you soon on stage.
Chen’s instructional manual: He’s brimming with vivacity as long as he’s fed at every meal and is allowed to snack frequently in between. Don’t worry about leaving him alone by himself. He’ll do fine. He likes to watch movies. If you want to hang out with him, take him to the cinema, please.

SEHUN

Charm appeal: the required default option of the maknae is aegyo.
Amongst 12 men, maknae’s road is thanks to the hyungs I recieve a lot of cuteness. Even if I’m reborn again, I call being EXO’s maknae. Yaja time game a while ago at a birthday party, in the given 10 minutes of yaja time, without looking back, I roughly stepped forward. If I go on, because I feel like I will no longer be a person of this world, I need to return as the precious maknae.
If I have a super power: I would want to be able to control emotions and feelings. Showing people you love your tired side is kind of sad.
Ideal type that shakes my heart: is someone who sincerely worries about me when she hurts me and approaches me first to spread medicine on me. (And Miranda Kerr ♥).
If I were to propose: on a quiet night with the sun setting playing with firecrackers on the beach. After that, I’d grab her hand and if I say “I don’t think I can be without you. I’ll love you until I die” it makes your hands curl up doesn’t it? When I get older will I be able to say it in a more okay way?
A member’s secret: is that Suho hyung can’t watch scary things. If he can watch a horror movie he makes a lot of noise, but the uncomfortable truth is that he’s on the internet and he can’t actually watch.
If I go to a convenient store, snacks and chocolate, Jelly corner are first.
If I were to steal an ability from a member: I would take Baekhyun’s sense of humor, Kai’s exposing of white skin, Chanyeol Hyung’s happy personality, D.O hyung’s pretty smile, Suho hyung’s honesty. The representative of a stiff body, Suho hyung. (…hyung I’m kidding) I’m a selfish person who wants to steal everything, but I have to withstand with my lacking charm.
A recent concern I have is before sleeping and after waking up worrying. Today what clothes and how should I wear it so it’ll look nice. I am sexy after a shower standing in front of a mirror with no make up on and making a pose. It’s not really sexy, but it’s really kind of cool. I’m just looking at myself alone.
Three of my charming points: are that I smile well, my warm heart, and my collarbones.
Sehun’s user manual: If I’m excited, it’s hard to control myself. I would be thankful if you could understand even if I’m loud. I will become calm soon. Because my blood type is O, if I receive many people’s criticism at once, I get really hurt. Please look after me well in the future.

Check out EXO’s individual member spreads, group images, and fun image collages below.

Sources: News & Photos – exochocolate; Translation - Juliana, Emilie, Nahbit, Zesha at exok-trans and exom-trans via XOXOJUK and peach_blossom_

Quick Reviews: Nah Youn-sun, Lee Soo-young, Pinodyne, Zion.T, Kwon Soon-kwan, CHEEZE, Taru, Lucia, Cho Yong-pil, Dear Cloud, Kim Bada, 4minute, SHINee, Geeks, and Younha

During the five weeks over which I’ve taken a break from reviews, we’ve seen some major releases make waves. In case you’ve missed some, here’s an even-quicker-than-usual overview of fifteen notable albums from that time period. (Full-length reviews and regular Quick Reviews will return next week.)

Nah Youn-Sun – Lento

Release: March 12, 2013
Producer/Distributor: Hub Music/Vitamin Entertainment
Genre: Jazz, blues
Reviewer Rating:

Nah Youn-sun‘s vocals are more charismatic and incisive than ever. The veteran jazz vocalist is a dazzle as she refuses to be outdone by an instrumental supporting cast as intense (Momento Magico) as it is exotic (Soundless Bye). She burns with passion, celebrates in fashion, laments with aridity, and evokes with acidity. There are enough breathtaking moments here to fill an entire discography; taken as a whole, it’s one of the most forceful, deliberate vocal performances in the history of Korean jazz. This eighth album is a spellbound moment and an early candidate for album of the year.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. Lento
2. Lament
3. Hurt
4. Empty Dream
5. Momento Magico
6. Soundless Bye
7. Full Circle
8. Ghost Riders in the Sky
9. Waiting
10. Arirang
11. New Dawn

Lee Soo-young – 클래식: 더 리메이크 두번째 (Classic: The Remake, Second)

Release: March 28, 2013
Producer/Distributor: T Entertainment/Neowiz Internet
Genre: Ballad
Reviewer Rating: 

Has it really been nine years since the first one of these? Lee Soo-young returns to pure ballad as she tackles another set of (newer) classics, and she’s as fluent as ever in the language of massive orchestration and gliding melodies. The sequel isn’t quite as good as the original: there are glimpses of ambitious instrumentation (most notably 희재 (Hee-jae) and 인연 (Serendipity)), but the exquisite balance enjoyed by the first Classic: The Remake (2004) is missing here, as is a mold-breaking curve ball like that album’s 누구라도 그러하듯이 (As It Is For Anyone). But while we’re waiting for Lee’s tenth studio release, this tender collection will do nicely.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. 사랑하면 할수록 (The More I Love) – Original by Han Sung-min, 2003
2. 희재 (Hee-jae) - Original by Sung Si-kyung, 2003
3. Donde Voy – Original by Tish Hinosoja, 1999
4. 제3한강교 (Han River Bridge #3) – Original by Hye Eun-yi, 2006
5. 인연 (Serendipity) - Original by Lee Seung-chul, 2004
6. 모처럼 (For Once) - Original by Yoon Jong-shin, 2000
7. 눈의 꽃 (Snowflake) - As remade by Park Hyo-shin, 2004; original by Mika Nakashima, 2003
8. 옛 이야기 (Old Story) – Original by Kim Kyu-min, 1991

Pinodyne – PINOcchio

Release: April 2, 2013
Producer/Distributor: Hi-Lite Records/Genuine Music
Genre: Hip-hop
Reviewer Rating:

Soul Fish and Huckleberry P both have sleek, easy-going styles, but production of the former kind is becoming more common (and even expected) in this scene. The lyricism is what sells this sophomore album, so it’s a great thing that Huck P is thoroughly entertaining. 걸리버여행기 (Gulliver’s Travels) puts cheeky metaphor and allusion to satirical use, while 손만 잡고 잘게 (I’ll Sleep Just Holding Your Hand) has a believably playful dynamic of sexual tension. When the rapper is not being funny, he excels at injecting listeners into a persona. We see from the perspectives of an allegorical Huckleberry Finn; a hitherto-sheltered young adult taking his first step outside; a younger brother who can’t live up to expectations set by his sibling; a single mom fighting for her child; and so on. It’s Huck P’s vivid language that makes these characters come alive and portray a snapshot of our lives.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. Chapter 2. 다음 장으로 (To the Next Chapter)
2. 걸리버여행기 (Gulliver’s Travels) Part 1 – Featuring Evo
3. 캥거루 (Kangaroo) – Featuring Jerry.K, NuSoul
4. 허클베리 핀의 모험 (The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn) – Featuring Koonta
5. 오후 2시 (2 P.M.) – Featuring B-Free, Soul One, Paloalto
6. The Lotto
7. 토요일 밤 (Saturday Night) [Skit]
8. 손만 잡고 잘게 (I’ll Sleep Just Holding Your Hand) – Featuring Kwan, Satbyeol
9. 쓰다 (Bitter) – Featuring Kim Sa-rang
10. 벽 (Wall) – Featuring Ben
11. Re: 허풍쟁이 (Boaster) – Featuring Crucial Star
12. Pain – Featuring Junggigo
13. 고마워서 (Because I’m Thankful) – Featuring Soulman

Zion.T – Red Light

Release: April 9, 2013
Producer/Distributor: Amoeba Culture/Loen Entertainment
Genre: R&B, hip-hop
Reviewer Rating:

How do you stop something that’s unstoppable? It’s a legitimate question when it comes to this ridiculously prolific, uniquely gifted vocalist. Zion.T‘s long-awaited debut album meets all the hype and then some; it’s got bold directing, imaginative and polished beats, and freedom of flow without losing focus. Tying it all together is, of course, the man’s golden voice. He wields that inimitable croon like a motor boat, floating and bobbing along for the most part but sometimes steering with gusto. He often switches styles multiple times in the same song, and isn’t afraid to recruit a little electronic help to fill up space. We knew Zion.T had mastered the voice; now it seems like he’s mastering everything else. He’s still just twenty-four, by the way.

Tracklist (recommended tracks in bold)

1. O
2. Doop – Featuring Verbal Jint
3. 도도해 (Sassy)
4. She – Featuring Beenzino
5. Neon
6. Babay – Featuring Gaeko of Dynamic Duo
7. 지구온난화 (Global Warming) – Featuring YDG
8. 뻔한 멜로디 (Predictable Melody) – Featuring Crush
9. Doop – Instrumental
10. Neon – Director’s Cut
11. Click Me (2013) – Featuring Dok2

Kwon Soon-kwan – A Door

Release: April 11, 2013
Producer/Distributor: Happy Robot Records/Neowiz Internet
Genre: Pop, ballad
Reviewer Rating:

Almost every track on A Door is engaging within the first ten seconds. That’s a testament to the power of Kwon Soon-kwan‘s brilliance with instrumentation. Into a broadly pop-rock base, he brings in brass and strings, staccatos and fuzz. Under Kwon’s direction these become dense, highly complex tracks – for example, note the background activity in Keep Going - that still remain accessible for anyone by way of broadly stroked melodies and efficient layering. This sophistry sets the No Reply vocalist’s solo debut apart from other albums in the genre, and gives him a better stage to what he does just as well: tell fascinatingly evocative stories.

Tracklist (recommended in bold)

1. Home Again
2. 그렇게 웃어줘 (Just Smile Like That)
3. 우연일까요 (Is It Coincidence)
4. Keep Going
5. 건너편 (The Other Side)
6. 긴 여행을 떠나요 (Go On a Long Journey)
7. Tonight
8. 별 (Star)
9. One More Time
10. 변하지 않는 것들 (Things Unchanging)
11. A Door

CHEEZE – Recipe!

Release: April 16, 2013
Producer/Distributor: RealCollabo/CJ E&M
Genre: R&B pop, jazz
Reviewer Rating:

Recipe! is, I imagine, exactly the kind of album that RealCollabo was created for. CHEEZE examines slices of daily lives, ranging from love at first college project to falling asleep while getting over an ex. Vocalist Dalchongi‘s performance is appropriately sweet to accompany the two producers’ muted, sleek pop-ballad beats. The supporting cast (including Winterplay trumpeter Lee Joo-han) is discreet but adds crucially to the album’s quality. Recipe! is delightful through and through.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. Intro – Narration by David a.k.a. Kim Sung-won
2. Have A Nice Day
3. 조별과제 (Group Project)
4. 망고 (Mango)
5. 개와 고양이 (Dog and Cat) – Interlude
6. 우리는 네발로 걷지 (We Walk on Four Legs)
7. 이 밤 (Tonight)
8. Sleep
9. 결혼해주오 (Marry Me)
10. 빠빠빠 (Ba ba ba) – Featuring Brothersu
11. From – Featuring RealCollabo
12. 누가 우리 치즈를 옮겼을까 (Who Moved Our Cheese)

Taru – Puzzle

Release: April 17, 2013
Producer/Distributor: Sony Music
Genre: Pop, ballad
Reviewer Rating:

Puzzle is decidedly more rock-focused compared to Taru‘s previous works – there’s a modern-rock and alternative undercurrent lasting the duration of the album. As a result, the album gains some of the driving power that was lacking in those older works, but it loses the moments of rawest emotion that 100 Percent Reality (2011) evoked. To me, this is a net loss. 기침 (Cough) does not quite replicate the gut-wrenching impact that 지금이 아니면 (If Not Now) or 여기서 끝내자 (Let’s End It Here) delivered. If we ignore this, Puzzle has some great moments (mostly in its up-tempo pop-rock variants) amongst a few duds. Encouragingly, she’s still sticking to her motto – making “music that comforts”.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. Puzzle
2. Rachel
3. Kiss You
4. My Sun
5. 새벽의 저주 (Curse of the Morning)
6. 기침 (Cough)
7. Carrie
8. 너와 사귀어 주지 말걸 (Shouldn’t Have Dated You)
9. Bad Commenter
10. Ending

Lucia – 꽃그늘 (Flower Shade)

Release: April 18, 2013
Producer/Distributor: Pastel Music/Danal
Genre: Ballad, pop
Reviewer Rating:

Lucia doesn’t really seem to do sad songs – melancholy, sure, but not full-on minor-chord sorrow. (Here’s exhibit 1 and exhibit 2.) So it’s surprising to see a somber lead single from her: 그런 계절 (Such a Season) opens with a desolate intro not out of place in a tragic historical drama and builds with Lucia’s characteristically delicate lyrics. Before long, we have an impeccably detailed and aching waltz. Lucia returns to regularly scheduled programming soon enough, but with no true killing track out of those, Such a Season leaves a very lasting impression.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. 사과꽃 (Apple Bloom)
2. 그런 계절 (Such a Season)
3. 실편백나무 (Real Cypress)
4. 5월의 당신은 (You in May)
5. 담담하게 (Serenely)

Cho Yong-pil – Hello

Release: April 23, 2013
Producer/Distributor: Pil Records/Universal Music
Genre: Pop, ballad, rock
Reviewer Rating:

There’s not much more I can say about the artist; Cho Yong-pil is hands-down the greatest legend in Korean music, the country’s most famous and most widely respected musician. But for that matter, that’s not much new for me to say about the album, either. As one of the most anticipated albums of the last decade or so, Hello has produced quite a bit of informal literature to go along with explosive popular reactions. Let me say this, then: people are right that Mr. Cho’s 19th studio release is not the kind of masterpiece they were hoping for. Others are also right that his boldness in embracing electronica and pop-rock and his deftness using them are both impressive. Hello is still an excellent album, displaying in many ways the marks of an artist who most definitely knows what he’s doing. I think this album is likely to end up being transitional: a release that shows Cho Yong-pil’s creative juices haven’t gone anywhere and that he can adapt to changes, to be followed up by a 20th album that is the masterpiece that people are waiting for. That’s also the hope.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. Bounce
2. Hello – Featuring Verbal Jint
3. 걷고 싶다 (Want to Walk)
4. 충전이 필요해 (Need Charging)
5. 서툰 바람 (Clumsy Winds)
6. 말해볼까 (Shall I Say)
7. 널 만나면 (When I Meet You)
8. 어느 날 귀로에서 (One Day on the Way Back Home)
9. 설렘 (Flutter)
10. 그리운 것은 (Things I Miss)

Dear Cloud – Let It Shine

Release: April 24, 2013
Producer/Distributor: MY Music/Mirrorball Music
Genre: Modern rock
Reviewer Rating:

Let It Shine is not too different from Bright Lights (2011); dreamy guitars, expansive melodies, and Nine9‘s reassuring husky tone all return here. Perhaps there’s a little more shade of post-rock, a little more shoegaze effect, a little more synthesizer. They are welcome additions, giving Dear Cloud’s music all the more scale and exhilaration. It’s not a real ambitious album, but that’s okay - See the Light and U are moving regardless. This band is already used to dreaming big.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. See the Light
2. 12
3. U
4. 하루만큼 강해진 너에게 (To You, Strengthened by a Day)
5. Polaris
6. 그대와 춤추는 밤 (A Night Dancing with You)

Kim Bada – N. Surf Part 1

Release: April 25, 2013
Producer/Distributor: Evermore Music/Mirrorball Music
Genre: Rock
Reviewer Rating:

As the man himself says, Kim Bada‘s EP is not of his more experimental ilk. It’s not quite like his Art of Parties work, either; N. Surf Part 1 is more mainstream-oriented, embracing electronica, pop-rock, and even a slow-jam ballad. It’s an unexpected turn for the power vocalist, and individual results are pretty impressive. Searching marries industrial and new wave into a heady mold, while 푸르게 떠나 (Leave in Blue) sees Kim subduing his edge and letting the Rhodes timbre fill the space. I think it’s too eclectic to be a cohesive body of work, but this EP manages to endow a 20-year veteran with the perception of limitless potential.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. N. Surf
2. Searching
3. 베인 (Cut)
4. 푸르게 떠나 (Leave in Blue)
5. 베인 (Cut) – Radio Edit

4minute – Name is 4minute

Release: April 26, 2013
Producer/Distributor: Cube Entertainment/Universal Music
Genre: Dance pop
Reviewer Rating:

As much as I seem to rag on the producer, I’ll grant that What’s Your Name? is leaps and bounds better than Brave Brothers’ other lead-single work of late. It’s got more life than Sistar19‘s Gone Not Around Any Longer and Son Dambi‘s Tears Flow put together. It inexplicably throws away all sustained buildup whenever it gets to the chorus, but there’s a good amount of tension elsewhere. That’s keeping in line with 4minute‘s return to aggressive club tune. Whatever allows Hyuna to show off some of the charismatic rapping she’s refined through Melting (2012) while also featuring the EP’s strongest vocal contributions. Gimme That and Domino are also relentless synth baths, which means this is a rare no-ballad release; that’s just as well, since ballads have often turned out to be filler for 4minute. Name is 4minute is loud and flashy – and thankfully, it doesn’t try to hide that.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. What’s My Name?
2. 이름이 뭐예요? (What’s Your Name?)
3. Whatever
4. Gimme That
5. Domino

SHINee – SHINee The 3rd Album Chapter 2. ‘Why So Serious – The Misconceptions of Me’

Release: April 26, 2013
Producer/Distributor: SM Entertainment/KMP Holdings
Genre: Dance pop, synthpop
Reviewer Rating: 

The follow-up component of SHINee’s third album is qualitatively on par with its predecessor. Just as in The Misconceptions of You, it’s hard to pinpoint any real weaknesses in either SM Entertainment’s game (flawless instrumental polish and effective sonic devices) or SHINee’s (ability to do anything asked of them and increasingly convincing vocal acting). The Misconceptions of Me is more theatrical, starting with the zombie-themed adrenaline of Why So Serious? to scene-setting Excuse Me Miss, and it’s certainly emotionally darker. That means there’s a bigger onus on the vocalists to deliver more persuasive performances, and everybody – I mean everybody - passes with flying colors. I think this is actually a collection of better songs, if not a better collection of songs, compared to Chapter 1. I see now that throwing these parts together into one album really wouldn’t have worked, although a part of me does want to see an 18-track idol album in the 21st century. It’d be like H.O.T.‘s I Yah! without the talk tracks.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. Nightmare
2. Why So Serious?
3. SHINe (Medusa I)
4. 오르골 (Orgel)
5. Dangerous (Medusa II)
6. Like a Fire
7. Excuse Me Miss
8. Evil
9. 떠나지 못해 (Sleepless Night)

Geeks – Backpack

Release: April 29, 2013
Producer/Distributor: WA Entertainment & Grandline Entertainment/KT Music
Genre: Hip-hop
Reviewer Rating:

There’s hip-hop lite and rap ballad galore in Backpack, which doesn’t exactly give Geeks the best genre advantage towards being taken as heavyweights. The duo seems okay with that, though, because they show remarkable focus in making this debut album as friendly and accessible as possible. Wash Away and 집앞에서 (At the Front Door) bring the impact early, but the remainder of Backpack is mostly laid-back production and mellow lyricism. Not a terribly interesting release just yet, but their passion is palpable.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. Lights On
2. Wash Away – Featuring Ailee
3. 집앞에서 (전화 받지 마 Part 2) (At the Front Door (Don’t Pick Up the Phone Part 2)) – Featuring Crucial Star
4. It’s Raining (Skit #1) – Song by Stella Jang
5. 비가오네 (It’s Raining) – Featuring Park Su-min
6. Backpack
7. Getting on You – Featuring DJ Dopsh
8. 아마 (Maybe)
9. 어때 (How Are You) – Featuring Harim
10. 잉여인간 (Waste of Space) (Skit #2) – Song by Stella Jang
11. 잉여인간 (Waste of Space)
12. Siren – Featuring Swings
13. Love, Life 그 한가운데서 (In the Midst)
14. 헌신 (Sacrifice)
15. 유언 (Last Words)

Younha – Just Listen

Release: May 2, 2013
Producer/Distributor: wealive/CJ E&M
Genre: Ballad, modern rock
Reviewer Rating:

It’s two consecutive bold moves for Younha. Having carved out a modern-rock template for her future in Supersonic, she branches out a little further in this breather of an EP. Three tracks – Fireworks, 우리가 헤어진 진짜 이유 (The Real Reason We Broke Up), and 바다아이 (Ocean Child) – appear to be direct extensions of Supersonic’s atmospheric and driving musical themes, and these are all powerful. The one new trick displayed here, the reggae infusion in Just Listen, offers treats in the form of visceral groove and sophisticated arrangement. The other tracks are more predictable and bog the EP down, but this is another solid addition to a burgeoning discography.

Tracklist (recommended tracks listed in bold)

1. Just Listen – Featuring Skull
2. Fireworks
3. 우리가 헤어진 진짜 이유 (The Real Reason We Broke Up)
4. 봄은 있었다 (There Was Spring)
5. 아니야 (That’s Not It)
6. One Fine Day
7. 바다아이 (Ocean Child)

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely of the reviewer and not of hellokpop as a whole.

Agree or disagree? Or have a recent release that you’d like to see reviewed? Let us know with your comments below! Requested albums will be considered each week and may be selected to be reviewed in the subsequent week.

Sources: Photos – Daum Music

DJ Yup, Korea’s #1 DJ, says, ‘My shows are like my life, LIVE!’ and reveals the ‘real’ Brian Joo

They call him Korea’s number one club DJ, but to Jeon Sang Yup  (DJ Yup), that is nothing but a minuscule title. The decade-plus veteran of the DJ scene has performed at massively popular venues all over the world, collaborated with trendy and well-known K-pop artists, and has accumulated not only a highly dedicated domestic fan following, but also an international following that spans the globe. With fans from countries like Japan, China, the Philippines, Malaysia, the United Kingdom and the US, DJ Yup has become a widely sought after fan favorite at clubs the world over.

We at hellokpop, recently sat down with DJ Yup in Washington, D.C., before his very first performance in the city, to discuss how he got into the business, how the club scenes differ between the U.S. and Korea, how the PSY Phenomenon has affected the outlook on Korean artists, and what it was like working with Brian Joo from Fly To The Sky.

We first met up with DJ Yup and his good friend, translator and MC, Tony Henderson (Crazy T), at their hotel in Hanover, Maryland early in the day. After an impromptu photo shoot, several hours of casual conversation, and getting to know one another personally, we sat down together in their hotel room for a fun talk that felt more like “two friends catching up,” than it did an official interview.

Could you tell us a little about what made you want to be a DJ?

[DJ Yup] ”As I was growing up, I was always been in to music–mostly old school Hip-Hop and rap. I used to get recordings of music videos on VHS tape and watch them secretly. I have cousins that live in the States, and they would send me tapes to listen to. I’d watch MTV, record it, and listen to them over and over and over.”

His love of music is what compelled him to start a career in the field. When he was twenty, he started DJing in Korea under the tutelage of seasoned DJ’s. While he was learning the trade, DJ Yup worked long hours for little or no pay.  He was content with just learning.

[DJ Yup] “Korean clubs close at six in the morning. So, I would be there at 8 p.m., setting, and finish up around six. I did that for almost a year without any pay. It was hard, but I learned a lot.”

What is it about DJing you like the most?

[DJ Yup] “When you become one with the crowd and the crowd becomes one with you. It feels great. When I throw my hands up, the crowd does the same. We become in tune with one another. It’s beautiful.”

When you DJ, do you have a set list, or do you just make it up as you go along?

[DJ Yup] “Some DJ’s make a playlist beforehand, but I don’t. It’s live. A playlist is a good thing sometimes–it’s safe. But for me, free-styling is more exciting. My shows are like my life, live!”

Do you think the art of live DJing is more popular in Korea or in the US?

[DJ Yup] “It’s very popular in Korea. One thing is different though. In Korea, DJ’s only DJ. When I’m asked what I do for work, and I answer “I’m a DJ,” eighty-percent of people ask me why. In the States, if you’re good at something, people give you credit and respect. So, I don’t get that question.”

What are the latest trends in Korea when it comes to live DJing?

[DJ Yup] ” Electronic music is really hot right now in Korea. Korean DJ’s don’t usually play Korean music, but remixing Korean songs has become very popular now also.”

How has the DJ scene changed in the last five years or so?

[DJ Yup] “Hip-hop was very popular five years ago, but right now electronic music is in. Hip-hop DJ’s are hungry right now. They can’t spin big festivals or clubs, only smaller ones, because of EDM‘s (Electronic Dance Music) popularity. A lot of DJ’s change their music to fit trends, but with me, I play everything, because it’s the music that I like.”

We wondered how the explosion of PSY’s Gangnam Style and its global popularity has affected the DJing scenes both domestically and globally. So, we asked DJ Yup what he thought about the “PSY Phenomenon.”

[DJ Yup] ” We give thanks to PSY for being that first person to open that door, to give Korean artists the opportunity to become ‘known.’ He showed the whole world what we can do. He did it. He made it happen.”

We were curious as to how the views on nationality and race have changed since PSY’s historic rise to global fame. Music transcends all barriers of ethnicity, nationality and language, and has become a place where people from all walks of life intermingle happily together. However, Korean artists, unfortunately, still find that they are being discriminated against due to their nationality, and they are not always received with open arms. We asked DJ Yup how he handles these types of situations.

[DJ Yup] “I get it sometimes, but I don’t sweat it. The funny thing is, I usually just smile at them when I get comments like that and just show them what I can do. Afterwards, they become a fan and want to friend me on Facebook. [laughs]“

After discussing such a serious topic, we wanted to delve into something a little more fun and lighthearted. We asked DJ Yup about his experiences working with Brian Joo and sought out the answer to the burning question, “What is Brian really like?”

In 2011, You were the opening DJ for Brian Joo’s Unveiled Tour in the US. How was is like working with him on the tour? What is Brian really like in person, and would you be willing to work with him again in the future?

[DJ Yup] “Brian and I have a good relationship, so I asked him if I could be his opening DJ and he said yes. We toured together. It was great, and that’s how I met IAMMEDIC and New Heights as well. Brian is a very nice and kind person. He takes very good care of his family and works really hard. He’s a very private person by nature, and even though we respect each other’s privacy, he and I are always there to talk if one of us needs to. He’s a very humble person and I respect that a lot. As for working with him again, I’d love to.”

We then turned our attention onto the fans. While every fan is different, and subsequently, every fan of a specific genre is also different, we wanted to discuss with DJ Yup what his fans are like and how they treat him around the world.

How does your experience with fans differ between Korea and America when you’re performing? Do fans treat you differently here than the fans treat you in Korea?

[DJ Yup] “Yes. The crowds are different. American clubs are smaller than Korean clubs. The bigger the club, the harder to get into. In Korea, crowds come for the show and leave right after, where as American crowds stay around outside waiting to meet me and thank me for the show. They want to get to know me better.”

[Crazy T] “People in America are more free-spirited and friendly.”

You have garnered a substantial amount of fans worldwide with your tours, performances, and collaborations. How does it feel to have so many fans, and what are some of the things you do to show your appreciation to them?

[DJ Yup] “It’s great. I just try to keep traveling to different countries, like the Philippines, Japan, China, for the fans. Promoters sometimes don’t even have the money to pay for my plane ticket, but I come anyway. I pay for it myself, so I can perform for the fans. I really like to meet new people.”

As our interview was nearing its close, we talked a little bit about the night’s upcoming performance.  DJ Yup and Crazy T told several fun stories about their time as friends, but when it came to the final question of our interview, we were in for quite an interesting answer, as Crazy T volunteered to field the question first.

How does it feel to be considered/labeled Korea’s #1 DJ?

[Crazy T] “Can I answer this question? Working with DJ Yup, he always finds ways to improve himself. Even though people label him as the number one DJ from Korea, to him its just a title. In his mindset, there are a lot more DJ’s in Korea better than him. So, when he’s given that title, he really just brushes it off, because to him, he’s still not at the level that he wants to be yet. He’s always learning.”

[DJ Yup] “Unlike many DJ’s that spend their pay on clothes and things, I invest it back into myself. I travel a lot for shows, and oftentimes pay for the trips myself. I pay to market myself. I am very confident in my DJing skills, but I want to continue to improve as time goes on. DJing is my life and I never want to stop.”

DJ Yup recently released his first single, A-Bomb, with Soulte and Crazy-T.  The single became available for download on both Junodownload and Beatport earlier this week.  He is currently shooting the music video for the track.

For more information on DJ Yup, check out his official Facebook, follow him on Twitter, catch his videos on YouTube, and check out his mixes on Soundcloud and Mixcloud.

We at hellokpop would like to thank DJ Yup, Crazy T, and their crew for giving us the opportunity to meet and work with them, and for their much appreciated hospitality. We look forward to watching your careers with great interest and wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Check out our gallery below for some of our shots from the photoshoot along with photos taken during the performance at Capitale DC, in Washington, DC.

Sources:
PR/Interviewer: nicole@hellokpop.com
Photos: hellokpop

Rock band Apollo 18: Our hope is to stay together till death

As one of Korea’s leading indie rock band, Apollo 18 has released four albums since 2009 with each named after a colour: Red, Blue, Violet, and the last is Black. They have won many prizes and toured the world.

In sitting down with them for our last exclusive interview from the Korea Rocks Tour in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, I was not interested in any sort of average questions as we already have held a thorough interview with the group’s past, present and future last year. So this time, I dug inside these awesome rock and roll artists to find out what their hearts were made of, and I was not disappointed.

Some of the questions sparked long discussion among the members before coming out with a satisfied answer. Here we bring you the inner story about Apollo 18, which you may probably have never known about them; the meaning of their music and the meaning of being Apollo 18.

It’s your first time in the UK, are you excited?

Dae Inn: Very excited, the weather is beautiful (laughs as it was currently raining)

What is your target as a group? What do you want to achieve as Apollo 18?

Sangyun: There is no target. We want to enjoy ourselves; to have people watch our show and enjoy the music.

But what was your initial dream when you started?

Daeinn: Just play music really, expressing our feelings…

Are you satisfied with your current status or do you still want to become bigger?

Daeinn: Sure, we want to get bigger.

What if things never change and keep going with the exact same level of success, same audience, same album sales for the next 20 years; would you be happy with this scenario?

Hyunseok: Actually, we’ve been together for a long time. That’s really important… our dream is not to become rock stars. Of course having success and earning a living is important but what’s really, really, important is that we are together.

Daeinn: Keeping playing together, that’s what’s important.

Could you tell us a bit about your recording process? Do you have a precise plan when you create a new song?

Daeinn: No, no, we have no plan. We just jam.  

Hyunseok: But then of course we don’t just record jam sessions, we rework and make many, many, small changes to the bits that we like.

Daeinn, you acknowledge Kurt Cobain as a personal influence while growing and Kurt Cobain always claimed that the lyrics didn’t matter, only the music does. What is your personal view on that? What kind of balance do you try to find between music and lyrics?

Daeinn: We have no lyrics in our last album; well we hardly use any.

Hyunseok: For us it’s not about delivering lyrics; this is more about using the lyrics and the voice as part of an instrument.

In joining this UK tour, do you feel you are representing the Korean indie rock scene, and have a mission to promote it?

Hyunseok: We don’t think we are representative of indie bands of South Korea. We have more opportunities to go abroad and tour unlike most other artists. I mean, we have this opportunity to do those international tours, but still a lot of people do not recognize us in Korea. We’re not mainstream or Kpop; that’s what South Koreans are really interested in.

Last year, The Koxx produce a song for 4Minute. What would be your reaction if an idol company approaches you about producing idol music?

Hyunseok: We don’t want to change our musical style; but we’re assuming that if an idol group like 4Minute asks for a song or a collaboration, they would expecting us to stick to our own sound rather than us adapting to theirs.

What do you think of a group like Glen Check? Do you think they belong to the same music scene as you or are they different?

Sangyun: No they are different, completely different from us.

I’m asking this because Kpop is expanding as a genre, embracing all its artists at once and not just one or a few isolated ones like SNSD or T-ara. Do you think there is a similar process for Korean indie music?

Apollo 18: We don’t think the Indie music will ever be as popular as Kpop inside or outside Korea. But what we want to do, potentially, because Korean Indie is still behind other any other Western rock band, or any kind of bands, we want to prove that we can go abroad and do the tours or concert freely, without any complex and having people recognizing us. As long as we can prove that other bands in South Korea will get inspired by it. But it’s not really our intention anyway.

Ok, what about Jrock? Do you think Krock can become as big as Jrock internationally?

Apollo 18: Well it’s going to take some but we hope so. Jrock has this fundamental base; it’s been there for a long time. We don’t think we’re going to catch up on it easily, but as long as we keep doing tours and good music, then eventually, we might be able to catch up on it.  

Alright, what do you think about an artist like Lee Seung Yeol? Do you think you belong to the same indie scene?

Apollo 18: He’s major. He’s very famous. He belongs to one of the biggest label in Korea; we can’t really compare to that. He is a mainstream artist, however he plays indie. 

Would you consider signing for a big label while still playing indie?

Apollo 18: As long as the label does not ask us to change our music style, there is no reason why we would not join a major label like Lee Seung Yeol.

Could you describe your sound as a band in one image?

Apollo 18: There is no image; just Apollo.

What about a colour then? Since you use colours for your album names and covers, what colours fits you best, defines your sound?

Apollo 18: Oh, very hard question (laughs). We think it’s just a sketchbook. We provide the page and people write their own story. It’s up to the listeners to give our music a colour, an image. This is part of the reason why we don’t write lyrics that often because if we do so we give directions, a definition to all the tracks. But we would rather leave the listener decide and figure out what the music is.

But then what precise role plays the colour chosen for each album? Isn’t that an indication, a direction, a definition?

Apollo 18: Again, it’s very difficult but it’s ok, we like it. We’re happy with the question but we want to be careful at what we say. We don’t have our own colours. The colour that we decide depends on the album we make; it can be red, it can be blue, it can be yellow next time. It is referred by the style of music we make at the time. The colour chosen for the album represents the mood, not the story. We don’t actually put album title on the covers. They’re known as red or black because of the cover’s colour. Again, we want to leave things to the listeners; they can think on their own, freely, as they listen. 

What context suits best the listening of your music?

Daeinn: Sex (laughs)

Hyunseok: Maybe by the river side.

Sangyun: I think it’s best in a club, as live music.

Is your lifestyle matching your music?

Hyunseok: It was, but not anymore; because we don’t make a living out of it. There are bad things and good things about being in a band – there are actually more good things. However, if we’re too hungry and unable to make money out of it, we can’t enjoy as much as that as a band.

Is there any moment in your life that you forget being part of Apollo 18 or being a part of Apollo 18 is your identity?

Apollo 18: No. Everyday, nonstop. We are Apollo 18 and want to be together and keep making music. As we said before: our hope is to keep together till death.

As I came to the conclusion of this interview, the heartfelt answers left a deep impression on me and the burning passion they have for the music they believe in. On behalf of hellokpop, I would like to wish them what they hope for: to keep making great music together until death!

You can read the following related stories from the Korea Rocks Tour at Tunbridge Wells:

• Concert report
• Interview with Gate Flowers
• Interview with Galaxy Express
• Interview with Goonam

You can find out the latest updates of Apollo 18 by following them:

• apollo18.co.kr
• soundcloud@apollo18
• facebook@apollo18band
• twitter@Apollo18band

Coverage provided by Marty M.
PR/Technical Assistance provided by Nicole@hellokpop.com