Acclaimed Japanese Artist Vicke Blanka Announces First-Ever North American Tour with 10 Dates!

 

Highly acclaimed Japanese artist Vicke Blanka has announced his first-ever headline tour of North America, simply titled ‘Vicke Blanka North American Tour 2024.’  The tour will include a total of 10 shows, launching in Vancouver on January 31^st and closing in New York on February 20^th.

This year, Vicke Blanka has performed at a number of overseas events, drawing a peak attendance of over 5,000 fans per show.  In May, he played at Jeddah Events Calendar 2023  Anime Village at City Walk in Saudi Arabia, in July he performed at Riminicomix in Italy and at Japan Expo 22nd Impact 2023 in France (as Music Guest of Honor), before returning to Saudi Arabia again in August for Gamers8 Cosplay Cup Supported by WCS.  In December, he will perform at Magnificon Expo 2023 in Poland, and at Manga Barcelona 2023 in Spain.

In addition, his opening theme tunes for the anime series ‘Black Clover’ continue to be ongoing hits: His Season 3 opening theme song “Black Rover“ has now been played over 170M times, while his Season 10 opening theme song “Black Catcher” has surpassed 200M plays, ranking in Spotify’s Top 10 chart of songs by Japanese artists played by overseas users for the third consecutive year since 2020.

As Vicke Blanka continues his meteoric rise around the world, it will be exciting to see what kind of performance he brings when he hits stages across North America for the first time.

 

Tickets are on sale from Friday, December 8th, 7AM (PST).

 

★ Tour information

Vicke Blanka North American Tour 2024

• Jan 31 (Wed): Vancouver – VOGUE THEATRE (ticket)
• Feb 2 (Fri): Denver – GOTHIC THEATRE (ticket)
• Feb 5 (Mon): San Francisco – GREAT AMERICAN MUSIC HALL (ticket)
• Feb 6 (Tue): Los Angeles – THE BELASCO (ticket)
• Feb 8 (Thu): Dallas – STUDIO AT THE FACTORY (ticket)
• Feb 9 (Fri): Houston – SCOUT BAR (ticket)
• Feb 13 (Tue): Chicago – PARK WEST (ticket)
• Feb 15 (Thu): Toronto – ANNABEL’S (ticket)
• Feb 18 (Sun): Montreal – RIALTO THEATRE (ticket)
• Feb 20 (Tue): New York City – PALLADIUM TIMES SQUARE (ticket)

 

★ Official links

Official website: https://vickeblanka.com/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DZ06evO0qNLhe

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VickeblankaTV

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vickeblanka/

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/VickeBlanka

TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@vicke_blanka

French Link fan club: https://vickeblanka.fc.avex.jp/

 

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ATEEZ is back with their second full-length album, THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL. This album has everything– hype tracks, ballads, hip-hop, rap, cinematic tracks, and dance grooves. ATEEZ only continues to thrive and show their talent with each new release. THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL is no different! Here’s how I rank each song.

WE KNOW: 8/10

“WE KNOW” ushers in the album with an interesting synth and an almost mysterious sound. This track is great to listen to because it’s unpredictable, with powerful vocals and bold rap around every corner. The chorus is a bit simple, but the song needs this easy-to-follow melody because of the explosive sound that surrounds it!

 

Emergency: 4/10

I was a tad disappointed by the chorus on this. It lacks a bit of originality in lyrics and melody. Hongjoong’s rap here is great, but the song falls flat for me coming right after “WE KNOW.”

 

Crazy Form: 9/10

“Crazy Form” shows all that ATEEZ excels at. With big rap moments and bold vocals, “Crazy Form” is insanely catchy. ATEEZ are unapologetic. Lyrics like, “We’re changing the game. Ayy, oh, ayy. We’re dancing every day” with the addictive beat is a clear sign that this group is here to fight for their place in the K-pop world!

 

ARRIBA: 8/10

The bass in this track is a star as it fuels so much of the song’s movement. “ARRIBA” is a track that seamlessly blends genres–with pop and Latin coming to the forefront. The rhythm in the song draws in listeners, and the unique beats help the track stay fresh.

 

 

Silver Light: 9/10

“Silver Light” opens with a static radio sound and then explodes into an electronic, haunting melody. The instrumental is reminiscent of synth-wave and gives a cyber-punk feel to the song. “Silver Light” is crisp, with plenty of amazing vocals and passionate lyrics. Take a look:

Those blue bruises

Come back and become a spark

So that nothing stains you

Burn it up far away, oh-oh

 

Follow me, silver light

Finally fly away

Piercing through the darkness into the light

Beyond that light

Shine on me, silver light

At last, rise up

Piercing through the darkness

Into the light, into that light

 

Crescent Part 2: 9/10

A stunning instrumental piece, “Crescent Part 2” creates a beautiful soundscape. With waves gently caressing the shore and the sound of a ship echoing in the background, it sticks within the world ATEEZ has created. Cinematic, “Crescent Part 2” invites listeners to stay within this world and keep listening!

 

Dreamy Day: 9/10

“Dreamy Day” carries on some of the instrumentation from “Crescent Part 2”. This track is uplifting and filled with caring lyrics: We capture this scene in our hearts, even if we have to wake up someday, all the memories never gonna fade away. With plenty of great vocal and rap moments, “Dreamy Day” is an anthem on this album.

 

 

MATZ (HONGJOONG, SEONGHWA): 7/10

And here come the unit songs! “MATZ” is in your face! With bold instrumentals and intense beats, Hongjoong and Seonghwa exchange confident rap throughout the track. It truly is a hype song! I love the line that says, “Two men, we’re on fire, it’s dangerous. We have chemistry that bursts, again, we turn up.” No truer words were spoken.

 

IT’s You ( YEOSANG, SAN, WOOYOUNG): 7/10

“IT’s You” is about impressing someone and the melody seems to follow this impression. With a mix of airy and bold vocals, the track is a wonderful display of each member’s unique contribution to the whole of ATEEZ.

 

Youth (YUNHO, MINGI): 7/10

This song opens with a retro R&B style. There’s a sense of comradery on this track that feels unique to the others, and that’s likely due to Yunho and Mingi’s genuine and long-held friendship. Their rap and vocals pair perfectly!

 

Everything (JONGHO): 9/10

I would expect nothing less than a stunning ballad as a solo track for Jongho. This apple-splitting vocalist is one of a kind, and truly remarkable in both his soft vocals as well as his powerful belts. Jongho has a special gift of conveying emotions so well, and “Everything” is passionate and emotional. There’s even a key change at the end!

 

FIN: WILL: 10/10

This track opens with the questions:

What does emotion mean to you?

Are you still tormented by the pain from the past?

Have you ever panicked and felt broken by sadness?E

Have you ever lost yourself in overwhelming fear?

Have you ever felt so down that you wanted to be alone in this world?

 

“FIN: WILL” truly displays ATEEZ’s mission to reach real people with their music. It feels personal, warm, and truthful. The drums increase and surge into a beautiful chorus of vocals and an explosion of cinematic sound. ATEEZ do cinematic like few others, and it’s truly their signature in the K-pop world.

FINAL: 8/10

This album was beautifully crafted. ATEEZ is such a special and needed group in K-pop, and I’m so thankful they’ve stayed true to their sound which is deep and powerful. I can’t wait to see what comes next! But until then, THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL will keep me listening on loop!

—-Ellie Boyd

 

 

#ATEEZ #ATEEZnewalbum #kcrushalbumreview #kcrushATEEZalbumreview #ATEEZTheWorldEPFINWill #kpop #kpopalbum #newkpopmusic #newateezsongs #kcrushtopasianentertainnentmagazine #EverythingATEEZ #jungho #YOUNGATEEZ #Mingi #Yunho #ITsYouATEEZ #YEOSANG #SAN #WOOYOUNG #MATZATEEZ #HONGJOONG #SEONGHWA #DreamyDayATEEZ #CrescentPart2ATEEZ #ARRIBAATEEZ #SilverLightATEEZ #CrazyFormATEEZ #WeKnowATEEZ #EmergencyATEEZ #kcrush2014official #albumreview #kcrushamericamagazine #googleindexed #asianamericanmagazine #krushcontent #TheWorldEPFINWillReview2023

 

K-pop girl group EVERGLOW is gearing up to meet their fans, “FOREVER” (official fandom name), in Europe through their highly-anticipated EVERGLOW EU TOUR [ALL MY GIRLS]. This series of shows marks the group’s first Europe tour and is sure to captivate fans in six different cities across Europe throughout January and
February of 2024.

EVERGLOW is a six-member girl group formed by Yuehua Entertainment on March 21, 2019, consisting of members SIHYEON, E:U, MIA, ONDA, AISHA, and YIREN. The group debuted with their first single album, Arrival of Everglow, and its lead single track, “Bon Bon Chocolate”.  Arrival of Everglow was met with immediate enthusiasm and public interest, debuting at number 6 on South Korea’s Gaon Chart and their track “Bon Bon Chocolate” peaked at number 5 on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart.

EVERGLOW’s momentum didn’t slow as they continued to rise in the charts and capture fans’ hearts domestically and internationally. After their debut album’s success and impact, each of EVERGLOW’s subsequent musical releases saw impressive success on domestic and international charts and further expanded the group’s reach globally. They are well-known and acclaimed for their powerful, charismatic stage presence and bold musicality.

Their latest album, ALL MY GIRLS marks their first album release since their 20-month hiatus, and fans’ anticipation is high. The lead single track, “SLAY”, is overflowing with a bold, unique musical sound and is accompanied by a music video with powerful, ethereal, and confident visuals.

In November 2023, EVERGLOW successfully completed their 2023 EVERGLOW US TOUR [ALL MY GIRLS]. Starting the show in New Haven, EVERGLOW held their U.S. tour in 10 cities; New York, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., St. Petersburg, Louisville, Chicago, Denver, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Proceeding with their U.S. tour success, EVERGLOW is now ever more ready to meet “FOREVER” in their upcoming Europe tour.

Tickets for the EVERGLOW EU TOUR [ALL MY GIRLS] will go on sale starting December 11 at 1 PM (GMT) for Amsterdam and Warsaw. Tickets for Barcelona and Berlin will go on sale starting December 13 at 1 PM (GMT). Tickets for London will go on sale starting December 15 at 10 AM (GMT). Paris ticket sales will be announced separately later at MyMusicTaste. Information regarding ticketing for the shows can be found in the link: mmt.fans/bw2m

 

EVERGLOW EU TOUR [ALL MY GIRLS]

• January 23 – Barcelona, Spain – Sala Apolo
• January 25 – Paris, France – Le Bataclan
• January 27 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Melkweg
• January 30 – London, UK – O2 Shepherds Bush Empire
• February 2 – Warsaw, Poland – Palladium
• February 4 – Berlin, Germany – Huxleys

 

About Yuehua Entertainment:

Yuehua Entertainment Korea is a global total entertainment group paving new pathways as a leader in the global cultural content industry through investments in new businesses in music, film, TV series and shows with unique methods or by discovery and production of differentiated content suitable for diverse markets.

 

About MyMusicTaste:

MyMusicTaste organizes fan-initiated concerts around the world. We’re driven by our mission to connectand amplify the voices of fans all over the world. We’ve successfully promoted concerts of artists such as EXO, Machine Gun Kelly, ATEEZ, and more in over 40 different cities. With the simple idea – empowering fans to bring their favorite artist’s concert to the city of their choice based on fan demand–MyMusicTaste is challenging the $27 billion concert market through cutting-edge technology and sophisticated, user-friendly service. Our service currently supports more than 30 countries and offers 15 languages.

 

 

#EVERGLOW #YuehuaEntertainment #MyMusicTaste #EVERGLOWEUTOUR #ALLMYGIRLS #kcrushnews #BarcelonaSpain #ParisFrance #AmsterdamNetherlands #LondonUK #WarsawPoland #BerlinGermany #kpop #koreangirlgroup #ticketsonsale #kcrushamerica #topasianamericanentertainmentmagazine #kcrushmedia #kpopidol #BonBonChocolate #SIHYEON #EU #MIA #ONDA #AISHA #YIREN #EVERGLOWSLAY #kcrushgoogleindex #music #kpopmusic #kpopconert #EVERGLOWEuropeanTour2023

 

South Korean Singer-Songwriter Zion.T releases the final single and music video “V (Peace) (feat. AKMU)” from his 10-track album titled [Zip] via THEBLACKLABEL. The K-Pop sibling sensations deemed “prodigies’, Akdong Musician (AKMU) link up for a second time after previously featuring Zion.T on their 2021 track “BENCH“.

“V (Peace) (feat. AKMU)” is the third single off of the album arriving two days after the release of “UNLOVE (prod. HONNE)” and “Stranger”. The colorful music video finds Zion.T being followed by a group of dancers wearing his face as a mask as he moves through various parts of the city. Throughout the video, a peace sign is made with the hands forming the shape of a “V” and you can see cameos from various talents such as M-Flo, Tanaka and Kunichi Nomura.

[Zip] lists an impressive lineup of features from various music fields, in addition to Akdong Musician, American jazz trumpeter Benny Benack III, pianist Seokcheol Yoon and British electronic duo, HONNE. The 10-track project tells various stories of daily life based on deep reflections and experiences with Zion.T participating in the songwriting on every track. The album mixes various genres including parts of pop, R&B, soul, folk, ballad, jazz and hip-hop with production from PEEJAY, Junu Park, Fisherman and Slom.

This is Zion.T latest solo project since his last EP [ZZZ] as he has since appeared as a judge on the hit show “Show Me The Money 10” where he co-produced and featured on “MERRY-GO-ROUND” which remained #1 on Billboard K-Pop chart for 12 straight weeks. He also collaborated with Gen Hoshino on the soundtrack for the Marvel action-film “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” and this past October, he also collaborated with Rich Brian and Warren Hue on the song and music video for “World Stop Turning” released through 88rising.

Zion.T has said of this project

“As I enter my twelfth winter, I release my third studio album, [Zip]. Looking back, I realize that I don’t release albums regularly. It seems more rare than an annual event, doesn’t it? 

The songs on this project were not created easily. Scattered at times, hidden at others, they eventually came together over time to form what they are now. 

While they may not be perfect, I believe that they’ve turned out quite wonderfully. I hope that among these ten tracks, there is at least one song that you would like to keep and cherish.

Once again, thank you for listening! Your support enables me to continue making music.

Zip.“

 

Stream The Album: https://lnk.to/Zion.T_Zip

 

 

More of Zion.T:

Physical Album Pre-Order

YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

 

About Zion.T:

Zion.T is one of the most original and commercially successful artists in South Korea.

He is a singer and producer best known for his ability to flawlessly blend his distinctive voice with elements of hip-hop, R&B, soul, jazz and pop. He has been nominated multiple times for ‘Artist of the Year’ with his unconventional yet deeply sincere music. His incredible talent in music, coupled with his unique sense for fashion and visualization, has solidified his position as an artist who transcends the musical landscape.

Zion.T has collaborated with global acts like PSY and G-Dragon and also featured on Marvel’s ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ soundtrack with Japanese artist Gen Hoshino. In 2021, he mentored aspiring musicians on Korea’s hit hip-hop competition show ‘SHOW ME THE MONEY’, where he co-produced and featured on ‘MERRY-GO-ROUND’, which topped the Billboard K-Pop chart for 12 straight weeks.

Noted as being one of the best live performers, he has toured all over the world starting SXSW in the US to solo concerts across Europe and Asia.

Zion.T has collaborated with major global brands, has landed on Forbes ‘Korea Power Celebrity’ list, and will continue to pave the way by setting new standards in the music industry as a legend-in-the-making.

 

 

#ZIONT #ZIONTNewAlbum #ZipZIONT #TheBlackLabel #kcrushnews #VPeaceZIONT #kindie #kpop #AKMU #kcrushamerica  #UNLOVE #producedbyHONNE #Stranger #kcrushtopasianamericanentertainmentmagazine #kcrushofficial2014 #newmusic #ZIONTsingersongwriter #koreansinger ##ZIONTsongwriter #koreanmusic #AkdongMusician #pop #rnb #folk #soul #PEEJAY #JunuPark #Fisherman #Slom #MFlo #Tanaka #KunichiNomura #actorChoiMinsik # #trumpeterBennyBenackIII #pianistSeokcheolYoon

https://windows10spotlight.com/images/30088

Korea…

…may look small on a map. And that includes a unified Korea, which comprises a considerably bigger landmass than if we just consider North or South alone. But Korea has a lot going on, North and/or South! Certainly, a reference to Korea as a whole, or one of the two Koreas will bring to mind a whole laundry list of things. The Korean War, K-Pop, K-Dramas, Hallryu, Gangnam Style, nuclear threats, kimchi, K-Beauty, BTS, Squid Game, and much, much more.

One thing Korea, at least the South, may be known for is its 24/7 non-stop energy and drive. Which may make it surprising for some to learn of one of Korea’s alternative names. What might that name be? Why, the Land of Morning Calm, of course! But what’s in a name? And why of all titles did Korea earn “Morning Calm”? Keep reading to learn the history and meaning behind this beautiful and serene title for one of Asia’s most vivacious nations!

 

Day and Night

Across the East Sea from Korea lies Japan, which many may know by its other name, the Land of the Rising Sun. But, hopping back to the other side of the East Sea, on the Korean peninsula side, is the Land of Morning Calm. Japan’s name came from the idea that the sun rises first on the Japanese islands and was developed as a point of national pride as Japan became more centralized and unified as an island nation. Rising Sun and Morning Calm are a fun and logical juxtaposition, but Korea’s title as Land of Morning Calm is not in reference or in relation to Japan’s title as Land of the Rising Sun.

So how and where did Korea’s name as the Land of Morning Calm originate from? Well, it is important to know that countries like China, Japan, and Korea among many others have different names in their own languages, and had names before their modern names, too.

For Example, South Korea is known as “DaeHanMinGuk/대한민국” or “Great Korean People’s Country” or more simply, “HanGuk/한국” which means “Korean (Han) People’s Country” today. But prior to such modern names Korea was known by a different one; Chosun, or Joseon as it is written more commonly nowadays. Ah, but now what does Korea’s ancient name and dynasty have to do with “Land of Morning Calm”? Everything, actually!

 

https://www.nathanielmerz.com/post/shooting-korea-s-majestic-mountain-pine-trees

 

The Joseon Dynasty

The year was 1392. This was when Korea was still ruled by the Goryeo dynasty. The Goryeo dynasty, interestingly enough, is often theorized to have given Korea its modern name, “Korea” after the name was written on maps during the Age of Exploration. However, the Goryeo dynasty was overthrown by the military general, Yi Seong-Gye in the year 1392.

Yi Seong-Gye would go on to found the Joseon dynasty which would rule Korea and influence its culture and language for the next 500 years. In fact, such Korean things as Hanbok or Korean folk clothing that is often seen in historical K-Dramas, Hangul which is the Korean alphabet, and most of the very Confucianized social customs and mores still seen in Korea today all have their origins (mostly) in the Joseon era.

But as for the name “Joseon/조선”, this is the part that is of particular interest to us today. The name comes from the Chinese characters “朝鮮” which mean “Pristine Morning” or “Morning Calm” and are pronounced in Korean as “Joseon”. The name, according to legend, was given to Korea ages and ages ago by one of China’s mythical rulers who looked out and saw the beauty of Korea’s mountains, rivers, flowers, forests, and general natural splendor. The sight brought a feeling of peace to the emperor especially when viewed in the early hours of the morning when the light just touched the Earth. Hence Korea’s first semi-mythical kingdom, GoJoseon, was believed to be the “Land of Morning Calm”.

Though the name is considered ancient, the Joseon rulers chose it to give their dynasty more legitimacy by invoking the legacy of a far older and more mythic dynasty from the past. In this way, politically and symbolically, they were not overthrowing a current ruler, the Goryeo dynasty, but rectifying the present age by reviving and rejuvenating an ancient and rightful dynasty instead.

The name “Joseon” has also not died out, with North Korea still using the name “Joseon” to refer to themselves, and their language is known as “Joseonmal” or “Joseon Speech/Language” to North Koreans rather than “Hangukmal” or “Korean Country Language” as it is known in South Korea.

 

What’s in a name?

Thus, the origins of Korea’s title of “Land of Morning Calm” originates from a myth and was carried into the modern era thanks to the reign of the Joseon dynasty who used the title themselves. But is there more to the name than just some ancient poetics and political maneuvering?

Yes, there is! Though modern Korea may have a reputation as a land where the party (and the work) never stops, it is certainly also true that Korea’s natural landscape and beauty are truly awe-inspiring. Whether in the majestic mountains, the deep forests, or the enchanting coasts, Korea is a country that has a great deal of natural beauty and splendor to behold. Thus, while a modern role as a 24/7 nation persists, one can experience firsthand the very serene, blissful, and calm feeling of looking out on the Korean landscape in the early hours of the morning, just as mythic emperors are said to have done. Before the hustle and perhaps after all the bustle, the moments in which the night turns to that soft morning light are truly tranquil. The name, Morning Calm, is also a quite literal one!

 

The Land of Morning Calm

We can thank Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, or “Morning Calm” dynasty for giving modern Korea this wondrous title. If one is lucky enough to come and pay a visit to Korea, one will be able to experience firsthand just how accurate of a name this is! Maybe after experiencing the restless nightlife and fast-paced experiences big cities like Seoul or Busan have to offer, one can encounter the serenity of the early mornings in Korea’s natural treasures as well.

 

 

—-Kevin H.

 

 

Works Cited

https://plus.google.com/+UNESCO. “December 1978.” UNESCO, 24 Apr. 2017, en.unesco.org/courier/december-1978.

Kim, Jinwung. A History of Korea: From “Land of the Morning Calm” to States in Conflict. JSTOR, Indiana University Press, 2012, www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt16gh5vd. Accessed 5 Dec. 2023.

“Names of Korea.” KoreanAmericanStory.org, koreanamericanstory.org/written/names-of-korea/#:~:text=Joseon%20(hangeul%20%E2%80%93%20%EC%A1%B0%EC%84%A0%2C%20Chinese. Accessed 5 Dec. 2023.

 

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Korean-Inspired Christmas Gifts

Christmas holiday is here and it’s time to pamper and show affection to our friends and loved ones. A thoughtful gift would go a long way in expressing your desire to be part of your loved ones’ life journey. It would ooze your support towards their dreams, even in the little things such as hobbies and likes. For your friends and loved ones who are obsessed with all things Korea, we’ve got you covered with Korean-inspired gift ideas that will blow their minds this holiday season.

 

Foodies

For food and drink enthusiasts, the choice for a perfect Christmas gift is endless. Kimchi and a pack of Ramyeon are by far the best Christmas food presents. Both foods are quite popular amongst Korean enthusiasts, especially K-drama fans. Korean Soju and Makgeolli are the best choices for a Christmas gift. Brewed from fermented rice, these two drinks are deeply rooted in traditional Korean culture infusing a taste of Korea in every sip

 

 

K-Pop Fans

Make a K-pop die-hard’s dream come true this Christmas with a K-pop-themed gift. It’s advisable to choose the gift bearing in mind the biased K-pop group or artist of the one receiving the present. A K-pop album is a collection of memories that would quench fans’ thirst for the K-pop act they support. An album usually contains a K-pop group’s photo cards, posters, tapes, and sometimes t-shirts.  K-Pop merchandise such as T-shirts, hoodies, and caps would also go a long way in turning a fan into a legitimate army. K-pop posters and K-pop light sticks would solidify a fan’s loyalty towards their biased K-pop artist. K-pop-themed characters such as TinyTAN (BTS members’ characters), would also brighten a fan’s Christmas mood. K-pop groups-themed stationery such as pens, books, and pencil cases among others would also be a great choice for a Christmas gift. For instance, if your friend is a BTS die-hard, BT21 stationery would be the ideal match.

 

 

Health Freaks

Korea is known for traditional concoctions good for one health. To those who value health, the best Korean-inspired gift would be a package of Korean red ginseng root extracts. The extracts come in different forms including powder ginseng, ginseng tablets, and ginseng-infused teas. Talking of teas, Korea is also known to have a wide variety of specialty traditional herbal teas that would be the ultimate Christmas gift. Recommendable teas include citron tea, jujube tea, yuja tea, corn silk tea, and mugwort tea among others.

 

 

Traditionalists

As for our loved ones who admire history, tradition, art, and culture there is a way to make their Christmas memorable as well. You can gift such loved ones antique artworks that deeply reflect Korean history. A Hanbok, a Korean traditional dress, might be too much given that one won’t have an occasion to wear it outside of Korea. However, you can gift them vintage Korean wooden carvings or figurines of people in Hanbok to display in their living rooms. You can also gift these loved ones traditional household products, such as Korean traditional tea sets, to brag about with their fellows. Korean traditional game sets such as the Yut Nori game board would also be the best gifts ever as they would strengthen the bonds when learning the game and playing together.

 

 

Skincare Addicts

For your friends who are into self-care routines, giving them a touch of Korea’s 10-step skincare routine, or part of it, would make their Christmas insanely memorable. If you’re unsure of their skin type, you can get them a bundle of face sheet masks as they are a one-time-use sachet and can be used on all skin types. If you would wish to surprise them further, a tine secret investigation into their preferred brands wouldn’t hurt. If more, it would express your unwavering dedication to their satisfaction and well-being. Korean brands such as Etude and Cosrx would be a place to start for your Christmas gift quest, especially for their skincare package sets.

 

 

Language Nerds

For your linguaphile loved ones who find joy in perfecting their multilingualism and have an interest in Korean, gifting them Korean language books or a paid online Korean class package would mean the world to them. These resources would help them achieve their life goals making you a crucial figure in their life journey. Recommendable resources would be the TTMIK (Talk To Me In Korean) book series and online Korean class packages. For the book-warmers, a gift of Korean-inspired books depending on their biased genre would be the perfect choice.  Korean comics and print cartoons, famously known as Manhwa, are the perfect gifts for such individuals. You can also gift these bookworms bestselling Korean novels such as “Please Look After My Mother” by Shin Kyung Sook.

Do you have any suggestions for great Christmas Holiday gifts?

 

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

 

#KoreanInspiredChristmasGifts #Koreangifts #kcrushcontent #GiftsForKPopFans #kpop #Manhwa #kpopgifts #topasianentertainmentmagazine #googlekcrushcontentindexed #TalkToMeInKorean #learnkorean #koreanskincareforgifts #koreanfoodgiftsuggestions #koreanhealthgiftsuggestions #koreancomicsandprintcartoons #koreantraditionalitemgiftsuggestions #kcrusharticle #christmas

 

This third full-length album from Red Velvet is a sonic adventure that truly displays the group’s evolution as professional artists. The incredible soundscapes created show their explosive dynamic as a collective and the lyrics of some songs provide a means for down-to-earth reflection. Red Velvet is unafraid to push the boundaries and break conventional molds. Chill Kill is a testament to their continual growth and artistry. Here’s how I rank the songs!

Chill Kill: 8/10

This song had surprises around every turn! It was anything but predictable. “Chill Kill” starts with a mysterious feeling–echoing vocals, anxious bass, and synths. But the chorus explodes with a positive and uplifting sound! It was likely just as much a shock to other listeners as it was to me! Hearing this song first made me extremely curious to see what the rest of the album would hold.

 

Knock Knock (Who’s There?): 9/10

This song almost feels like a melody from a music box and some have suspected that the song borrowed from Tchaikovsky’s “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”. I can see that possibility using the strings and haunting vocals. The lyrics are a bit eerie, too:

Knock-knock, open up the door

A gamе where we keep wandering around looking for each other

I’m falling more and more into it

It’s so bittersweet but I like the chase

Got a devil on my shoulder

A gently whispered voice

Like an angel, come to me

Starting again

Knock-knock, who’s there?

 

Underwater: 7/10

“Underwater” starts with a mesmerizing solo by Seulgi. This track has plenty of amazing harmonies, showing the power of the group’s union. The song feels ethereal and enchanting, helping listeners enter a soundscape that transports them to an underwater world.

 

Will I Ever See You Again?: 10/10

The melody of this song perfectly matches the question being asked in the title. The verse’s haunting echos and deep vocals reflect the fear in not knowing if you will see your loved one again. But the chorus explodes in a synth melody that is an absolute earworm. Be warned: this song is addictive!

Nightmare: 7/10

“Nightmare” is a great storytelling track. The waltz-like melody and use of bells transports listeners to a different place. Though the song’s title might feel more like Halloween, the chorus feels very much like Christmas. The highlight for me on this track was the rap– the rhythm is incredible.

 

Iced Coffee: 8/10

I really liked the soft entrance of this song. The ballad is so cute lyrically– “Cause you make me feel all this fantasy. I want more iced coffee.” Iced coffee truly makes me feel a rush so I love that Red Velvet compares this to being in love and being “up all night” from the caffeine.

 

One Kiss: 5/10

The beat in this song stands out, with its variety and the way it hustles the song along. The bass is also a standout in “One Kiss”. However, the song’s main melody falls a bit flat compared to other tracks on the album, making it easy to forget.

 

Bulldozer: 6/10

The groove in “Bulldozer” is great! It’s smooth and easy listening. I unfortunately feel like this one slides under the radar, too, as there are other songs on the album that are similar and more memorable. I do need to highlight the lyrics in this track, as they’re unique!

I’m a bulldozer

Hurry up when I give you a chance

I run away from what I see

I’m impatient

I’m your poet

I’m your pain

How to stop once you start

There is no such thing as a brake

I’m a bulldozer

 

Wings: 7/10

“Wings” opens with a delightful acapella harmony and uplifting melody. This track shows the vocal abilities of Red Velvet. The chorus is sweet as they sing, “Spread Your Wings, Butterfly!”

 

Scenery: 8/10

The last song on the album is a gentle ballad with an acoustic guitar and piano as the main instruments. This light instrumental allows listeners to hear the vocals much more easily, and wow are they worth listening to! Red Velvet is an incredibly talented group. “Scenery” feels sentimental and reflective.

 

Final: 7.5/10

Chill Kill is a lovely album to listen to. Each song is unique and brings something special to the table. Red Velvet delivered quite the full-length album here and proved why they’ve been so successful.

 

—-Ellie Boyd

 

#RedVelvet #RedVelvetChillKill #ChilKillRedVelvet #newredvelvetmusic #kcrushreview #kcrushnews #kcrush #kpop #newmusic #koreangirlgroup #kcrushamerica #RedVelvetnewalbum #SceneryRedVelvet #WingsRedVelvet #BulldozerRedVelvet #OneKissRedVelvet #IcedCoffeeRedVelvet #googleindexedkcrush #kcrushindexedgoogle #NightmareRedVelvet #WillIEverSeeYouAgainRedVelvet #UnderwaterRedVelvet #kcrushtopasianmagazine #KnockKnockWhoseThereRedVelvet #kpopidols #RedVelvetgirlgroup #RedVelvetChillKillAlbumRatingReview

 

Thanksgiving has come and gone, it’s time to put away the turkey and bring out the Christmas films. There are always tons of choices, but when it comes to representation of the Asian community within Christmas movies, the choices are very slim and they’re a bit hard to find. So, I decided to put together a list of a few such projects.

 

 

1. “Dash & Lily” (2020) Streaming on Netflix, 7.5/10 IMDb

Technically, “Dash & Lily” is not a movie, but rather a limited series. There’s not a Christmas where I don’t rewatch all eight episodes, I could not leave it off the list. Austin Abrams (of “Brad’s Status”) plays Dash, a recently heartbroken teen who is looking to escape Christmas, but stumbles into some holiday joy after finding a notebook with a Christmas dare from Lily (played by Midori Francis of “Sex Lives of College Girls”). Dash and Lily exchange a number of dares through the notebook during the holiday season in New York. The rest of the cast includes Dante Brown (of “Lethal Weapon”) as Dash’s best friend Boomer and Troy Iwata (of “WeCrashed”) as Lilly’s older brother Langston. It’s truly a masterpiece of entertainment: the writing, the acting from a rich cast, representation all around and a killer soundtrack. The adventure of love in this series reminds me of “Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist.”

 

 

2. “Last Christmas” (2019) Streaming on Prime Video, 6.5/10 IMDb

The first actual movie on the list is “Last Christmas,” which is based on the Wham song of the same name. Set in London, Emilia Clarke (of “Game of Thrones”) plays Kate, an aspiring singer who recently had a heart transplant and is a complete mess. She works at a Christmas store owned by Santa (played by Michelle Yeoh of “Everything Everywhere All at Once”). While at work, she meets a charming and warm young man named Tom (played by Henry Golding of “Crazy Rich Asians”). Spending time with him seems to brighten up Kate’s dark and troubled life. It’s truly a movie with love, relatable characters and a sense of magic. It’s really beyond the typical holiday romance movie.

 

 

3. “Ghosting: The Spirit of Christmas” (2019) Streaming on Prime Video, 5.9/10 IMDb

This is such a hidden gem of a film. Let me just say that the rating is not exactly a good representation of the quality of the movie. It tells the story of Jess (played by Aisha Dee of “The Bold Type”) who has a great first date with Ben (played by Kendrick Sampson of “Insecure”). Driving home and texting him, she is killed in an accident. She awakes as a ghost and realizes that her best friend Kara (played by Kimiko Glenn of “Orange is the New Black”) can see her. Together they try to make sense of the situation. Although Kara is not a ghost, she also has own issues to work through. The film is filled with so many new concepts. The cast is stellar and the story is so rich.

 

 

4. “Must Love Christmas” (2022) Streaming on Paramount Plus, 6.5/10 IMDb

Liza Lapira (“The Equalizer”) stars in “Must Love Christmas” as revered romance author Natalie Wolfe. At the behest of her editor, Natalie travels to a book signing to build new experiences to improve her writing. She ends up in the snow filled and wholesome town of Cranberry Falls, and in a love triangle between her childhood crush Caleb (played by Nathan White of “Superman & Lois” ) and a reporter named Nick (played by Neal Bledsoe of “The Mysteries of Laura”). The cast of the film is great and the story is rich as well. Anything with Liza Lapira is always a great watch.

 

 

 

5. “Love Hard” (2021) Streaming on Netflix, 6.3/10 IMDb

Natalie Bauer (played by Nina Dobrev of “Let’s Be Cops”) is a LA girl head over heels for a guy on the East coast, who she met on a dating app. Taking a chance on love, she decides to surprise him by showing up over the Christmas holiday. To her surprise, it is a catfish named Josh (played by Jimmy O. Yang of “Crazy Rich Asians”). The man Natalie saw in the pictures is actually someone local that Josh knows named Tag (played by Darren Barnet of “Never Have I Ever”). The two strike an agreement where Josh is to help Natalie land Tag, while Natalie is to play the part of his girlfriend. It’s a movie that is funny, has some heart and has a great cast of actors.

 

—-Cwamne Howard

 

#5ChristmasMovieswithAsianLeadsToStream #kcrushreview #kcrush #LoveHard2921 #NinaDobrev #JimmyOYang #LizaLapira #googleindexedkcrush #topasianentertaiinmentmagazine #MustLoveChristmas #NathanWhite #GhostingTheSpiritOfChristmas #AishaDee #KimikoGlenn #LastChristmas #MichelleYeoh #HenryGolding #LilyandDash #AustinAbrams #MidoriFrancis #TroyIwata #asiancommunity #asianmovies #kcrushamerica #kcrushcontent lizalapira, autsinabrams, kimikoglenn, henrygolding, midorifranncis, emiliaclarke, bestchristmasmoviestostream, asianchristmas, christmasmoviesamazonprime, asianmovies, chirstmasmovies, bestchristmasmovies

 

Wonderego is a well-crafted album with 19 tracks, each having Crush’s signature on them. He was heavily involved in this project, from the lyrics to production, and this proves he is successful at his craft on multiple levels. Here’s how I rate each song!

 

New Day: 10/10

“New Day” is an intro track, with only 72 seconds! But what a great minute and 12 seconds it is. Crush enters confidently with his vocal groove and rap. It doesn’t take long to get excited to see what this talented artist is going to do in Wonderego.

 

Hmm-cheat: 6/10

With a pop style and R&B groove, this track is reminiscent of the early 2000s boybands like N*Sync. The harmonies, melody, falsetto, and synth especially call this to mind. It gives “Hmm-cheat” a retro feel that is fun and easy to jam to!

 

No Break (Feat. Dynamicduo): 6/10

“No Break” is an upbeat R&B track with a great feature via Dynamicduo. The rap is excellent and gives it an old-school classy feel. The melody is catchy and the lyrics are feel-good:

No break, we’re gonna slide into the morning,

Worries, just eat them up, don’t worry.

The steering wheel, a broken 8-ton truck for me,

No break, don’t care about nothin’ (Ooh)

 

Me Myself & I: 7/10

Crush shows off his vocal talent in this track. “Me Myself & I” is a chill melody with elements of soul and funk. The song explores the idea of how being alone is better than being with a toxic ex. Lyrics like “It’s gonna be me, myself, and I; switch it up and love myself this time” help listeners process the pain of a break-up and the victory of finally choosing to let go of the hardship and embrace who you are.

 

Satisfied (Feat. PENOMECO): 6/10

“Statisfied” is smooth and has a good groove, with great rap from PENOMECO. I really loved the use of the wind instrument near the end. Unfortunately, at this point in the album, this melody sort of blended in with the others, and it didn’t stand out too much.

 

Deep End (Feat. AMAKA): 8/10

AMAKA’s voice is the perfect match for Crush in this track. It’s a magical combination that makes “Deep End” feel light as a feather. So far on the Wonderego album, this has been my favorite feature. The harmonies and adlibs were truly next level together.

 

EZPZ: 7/10

The production on this track is great! With the fast beat, use of minimal instruments, and Crush’s rhythmic lyrics, it all works together so well! The song itself is carefree. The lyrics read, “Girl, you’ve been running through my mind / All the time that’s a sign get inside / Girl, I can make it easy, peasy, easy, peasy, easy, peasy / I think about you all the time.”

 

Nothing Else (Feat. Kim Ximya): 8/10

Though this track is only 70 seconds long, wow does it make an impact! It’s dark, mysterious, and haunting. Kim Ximya’s rap is direct and cuts to the core, making quite the punch! Catch the last verse:

You just gotta live with it

You just gotta believe it

This is the life I’ve been living

It’s nothing else

Even if everything is covered, I’m discreet

Caught up, body so sticky

Sick and tired

Just ordinary

It’s nothing else

 

GOT ME GOT U: 6/10

The first verse features slow echoing lyrics that lead into an EDM-styled instrumental with vocal samples and a strong beat. There are some house elements in this as well, making “GOT ME GOT U” a standout on Wonderego. It’s just as much instrumental as it is a vocal track, which is a nice song to help cleanse the pallet for what’s to come.

 

Bad Habits (Feat. LeeHi): 9/10

“Bad Habits” is a smooth R&B track that feels warm and delicate. The vocals are stunning in this and the melody is sweet. The lyrics are also meaningful, too, making this one of my favorites on the album.

In the arms of another different person

Once again, searching for you

I just wanna know why but I don’t know

At the end of another different love

Once again, falling in

Now, I know that’s my bad habits

 

Ego: 8/10

“Ego” is light and feels great to listen to. It has a soft groove and memorable rap and lyrics. So catchy and easy to vibe to! No wonder it was a single!

 

Ego’s Theme-Interlude: 7/10

This track is interesting in that it’s dark and mysterious whilst also sounding familiar. It’s a great instrumental break in the album.

A Man Like Me: 7/10

We’re back to retro R&B! “A Man Like Me” has the same vibe as some earlier tracks, helping to bring this album together. Crush’s vocals really stand out, and it’s all in English, too!

 

Monday Blues: 6/10

The song starts with some lo-fi vibes, but comes back to that R&B sound that is classic for Crush. It’s an easy listening track and though it’s enjoyable, it doesn’t stand out too much on this album.

 

You: 7/10

“You” has a great introduction with acapella harmonies and light instrumental. The vocals shine in this production. I loved the moments where the instruments died away and it was just Crush’s voice.

 

SHE: 7/10

“SHE” opens with the strumming of a guitar, making it an easy-to-recognize track on Wonderego. “SHE” is a tender ballad. With the vocals being paired with the guitar, it creates an intimacy that isn’t felt as much in other songs.

 

Harness: 9/10

“Harness” is another slower-paced track. It has a beautiful string section featured, which makes me feel like I’m in a ballroom while listening. This song calls your attention because of how different it is from the others on the album. The saxophone solo was a great touch, too.

 

 

For Days to Come: 6/10

“For Days to Come” is another nice slower track but it unfortunately is too similar to others on the album as far as style and sound, which makes it fall a little flat for me.

 

Remember Me: 8/10

“Remember Me” helps end the album on a good note. It’s upbeat, hopeful, and has a fantastic beat. I was bobbing my head along whilst listening. It’s a great song in itself, but was also perfectly placed as the cherry on top of Wonderego.

 

TOTAL: 7/10

Crush made a cohesive and jam-packed album! With 19 tracks, it’s amazing that he was able to compile them so well. This was the first Crush album I listened to all the way through and he definitely has my respect as an amazing artist!

—–Ellie Boyd

 

#CRUSH #WonderegoCRUSH #newCRUSHalbum #kcrushreview #kcrushnews #Wonderego #NewDayCRUSH #kpop #khiphop #koreanartist #soloartist #HmmCheatCRUSH #googleindexedkcrush #RememberMeCRUSH #ForDaysToComeCRUSH #SHEbyCRUSH #YOUbyCRUSH #HarnessCRUSH #kcrushtopasianmagazine #album #MondayBluesCRUSH #AManLikeMeCRUSH #kcrushmusicreviewandrating #EgosThemeIntroCRUSH #kpopidol #EgoCRUSH #BadHabitsLeeHiandCRUSH #GotMeGotYouCRUSH #EZPZCRUSH #NothingElseFeatKimXimya #DeepEndFeatAMAKA #SatisfiedFeatPENOMECO #MeMyselfandICRUSH #NoBreakFeatDynamicduoandCRUSH

 

The November list is out and the competitor amongst K-Pop artists is a chaotic beauty to uphold. With new ‘artists joining this month’s top five list, others have barely managed to hang on but at lower positions. As expected, this month’s top K-pop act has taken the world by storm beating their seniors to shine and reign.

 

 

1. New Jeans

This bubbly fresh-off the boat K-pop act has yet again proved its sovereignty by taking the lead in this November’s Top Korean Singer Rankings with a brand reputation index of 7,323,578. Up from last year’s 4^th position. this new kid on the block under HYPE company has continued to soar higher setting an unbeatable record in the K-Pop world only 2 years into debuting. In addition to this win, New Jeans reigned the 2023 MAMA Awards held late this month in Japan, after winning in 4 different categories, including the Best Dance Performance Female Group and Best Female Group. New Jeans has also scooped various awards early this year including in Billboard Music Awards, Asia Artist Awards, and Asian Pop Music Awards among others.

 

 

2. Lim Young Woong

Lim Young Woong scooped second place with a brand index of 7,209,898. The mesmerizing national tour concerts played a big role in Young Woong’s securing a top-three position against other powerhouse K-pop singers. Young Woong’s active engagements through social media platforms and concerts have given the ballad, pop, and trot singer a better standing in the rankings compared to last month’s 3^rd place ranking. Lim Young Woong has become a household name.  Young Woong’s tickets for last month’s IM HERO 2023 tour sold out minutes upon release as fans tried hard to get into the maxed-out server line. Lim Young Woong’s fans are a fanbase to behold, especially the elderly fans who aren’t shy to shower the talented singer with love and praise.

 

 

3. BTS

Despite the group’s busy schedule with military enlistments, BTS has still managed to maintain its dominance among the top 3 K-pop acts. The legendary boy band scooped 3^rd position, down from being the lead in last month’s rankings, with a brand reputation index of 5,994,183. Over the last two years, the members have majorly focused on personal projects which have also been successful. Jungkook, the group’s golden maknae, has lived up to his nickname and strengthened the power and popularity of BTS as a powerhouse, especially with the “Seven” solo album. With more BTS members expected to enroll for mandatory military service in the coming months, ARMY (BTS’ fanbase) can’t wait to see what the remaining members are brewing to deliver.

 

 

4. IVE

IVE is out to conquer and reign in the K-Pop industry with mesmerizing performances and lyrical pieces. In this November’s top Korean singer rankings, the girl band came in fourth, from last month’s 5^th position, with a brand reputation index of 5,475,890. Just 2 years after debuting, IVE has had an immense impact backed by numerous awards including in MAMA awards, Japan Gold Disc Awards,  and Golden Disc Awards. In October, IVE became the 1^st K-Pop act to top Melon’s Top 100 chart with 3 different songs. IVE is having its first-ever world tour, the ‘Show What I Have’ tour, planned to kick off on January 13, 2024. This tour is expected to solidify the band’s global popularity.

 

 

5. Seventeen

Seventeen came in fifth, climbing up from last month’s 11^th position’, with a brand reputation index of 4,750,508. The “Super” hitmaker showed its popularity in the K-pop industry after scooping the Best Album award in the 2023 MAMA Awards. Seventeen’s tours throughout the year, including the ‘FOLLOW’ tour, have also contributed heavily to the rising brand popularity of the boy band. Seventeen’s incoming tours set early next year are expected to give the group leverage against other worthy components in the K-Pop industry.

 

—-Karen Mwenda 

 

 

#November2023TopKoreanSingerBrandReputationRankings #kcrushnews #kcrushamerica #kpopidolrankings #2023ratingkpopidols #topasianentertainmentmagazine #IVY #BTS #Seventeen #LimYoungWoong #NewJeans #kpop #2023MAMAAwardsSeventeen #kpopbrandreputationindes #kcrushcontent #Koreansingerrankings #googleindexkcrush #krushindustry

 

The Dallas, Texas Concert was really jumping and ecstatic!! The girls performed their iconic songs with a mixture of some cover songs too, which they did a cover on one of my favorite songs I like to listen to. It’s awesome to see how the girls have grown from their rookie days to now doing their first ever USA tour! It was cool to see a mixture of Plories alike there from kids to young adults to adults. The Plory were really happy to be there and showing their support for the girls; shouting their names, saying “I love you’ and swaying or jumping from their performance.

I also want to shout out to Gilley’s, who hosted the Purple Kiss concert. Their venue was really spacious and instead of having people standing the whole time during the concert, they put chairs out for the Plory so it became a sitting venue instead of a standing venue which was really nice. Speaking of nice, the staff were really friendly and lovely to talk to. They made us feel welcome and the volunteers were helpful to get us help on where to be stationed..3. The one cool thing in that venue was the disco ball that was hanging above the audience and they did use it a couple of times.

 

 

Okay! Now let’s talk about the awesome performance of Purple Kiss. They started off with their “Intro: Bye Bye Bully” which was really cool to see, I loved their outfits for it and the dance was awesome. The crowd was really feeling it and waving their lightsticks in the air. The next song they performed after is  “Nerdy”. The crowd was showing a lot more energy for this one. The dancing for this song was super cool and I enjoyed the beat of the music. Their third song was “Pretty Psycho”.   I will say this one is a favorite of mine because the dancing and music is really awesome. The instrumental of the song made me feel like I was in a spy movie or in that time frame, but I wasn’t the only one jumping more during this song. I did enjoy all their songs throughout the concert even my partner photographer, Beau even liked some of their songs, his favorite one out of the ones we heard I believe was “MemeM” which I think the fans agreed was their favorite too because a lot of fans were moving their lightsticks with the beat and singing along.

 

 

Now! Let’s talk about their amazing covers. The first group to go first was Chaein and Ireh. They did “We Don’t Talk Anymore” and “Sway With Me”. I loved their performance of “Sway With Me”. It was well performed!  By the way, this is the song I mentioned in the beginning is one of my favorite songs to sing too. But anyway, I loved their dance performance for it and they both had amazing singing voices especially when they performed “We Don’t Talk Anymore”. That one was cute and I liked their choreography. The two of them did an amazing show on both of the songs and the outfits were super cute too. The next three girls, Swan, Dosie and Goeun, did “Light Switch” and “Rain On Me”. They’re dance numbers for both songs were awesome. I also loved that the venue added the Disco Ball part to “Rain On Me” . It was super cool and a very nice touch for their performance for this song. The crowd agreed too because that made them raise their hands and the crowd was really jumping. Fun fact, the girls didn’t know they were going to use it so it surprised them.

 

 

They did a very cute Q&A for Purple Kiss, it was adorable. After the girls were done performing their individual covers they pulled out a white board filled with sticky notes. The Plory while they were waiting to get inside the venue to write down questions they wanted the girls to answer or pick questions to answer. Purple Kiss picked four questions from the board, the first one was about super powers which were very cute and matched the girls’ personalities. The second question wasn’t really a question, mostly a competition between the girls to see who could/. do a better Yee-Haw in a country accent. All the girls went up one by one and the winner was Swan, she was the closest one to sound country while saying Yee-haw. The third question was would you live in space or underwater? It was cute to see their reason for picking where they would live, but mostly there were three votes to live in space and two votes to live underwater. The fourth question wasn’t a question either, it was a shout out to a band because they have a sticky note that has been on their board since they started touring in the USA. They said it looked like a cat eye on it and it’s a rock band called SoulKeeper, which the guy, Eric from the band, is a part of the company that brought them to the USA. They asked him to do something and he screamed into the mic saying “What’s Up Dallas!” Really loudly, which surprised the girls because they never heard him be that loud before during their touring, they said he’s always talking to them softly so it was pretty neat to them to see that side of him.

 

 

After the Q&A Purple Kiss went back to performing their songs. “Sweet Juice” and “Agit” were really awesome songs to hear. The Plory were really into both songs the first one was popping and the second song was groovy (yes, I used groovy) because that was the vibe I was getting from it and I wasn’t the only one that was swaying to that song plus popping our heads up and down the Plory were doing it too. The crowd got really hyped for “Ponzona”. Plory were dancing around for that song and enjoyed the break dance a lot that the girls did. After the very, very last song they went to the back to probably change into their next outfit. Once they were off stage Plories sat down then began to chant the girls’ names and stomped their feet on the ground trying to get the girls back on stage. It was enough to bring the girls back and they were wearing purple cowboy’s hats. It was so cute, they even had flowers on them. The last two final songs were “Skip Skip” and “Twinkle”. The first song was really good, catchy and I loved the dance moves for it plus the rapping part in the song was good too. The second song, they used the disco ball again which still was a good added touch for the song and I loved the music beat. It made me feel like I was going on a grand adventure. Again, the crowd was jumping around on this song. As the song was about to come to an end, the girls decided to throw their cowboy hats to the crowd and Plory was really happy about it. The concert came to a close and the announcer asked whoever has the VIP to stay and everyone else may please exit.

 

 

As we exited the Gilley’s, Plories stopped to take a final picture at the sign with Purple Kiss name on the billboard. It was nice to see so many fans that wanted to take group photos, solo pictures, or just the billboard. So, all in all I loved the Purple Kiss concert. It was amazing, I was enjoying the vibe, the music, the dancing and the interaction with their Plories. You could see the excitement in the girls’ eyes and their movements while they were performing and talking amongst their Plories. Even the Plories were also showing the same energy as the girls. I’m super grateful for being invited to do an article for them because it was awesome to see their very first USA tour and I can’t wait to see more tours of them in the future.

 

 

Article by: Breya

 

 

#PurpleKiss #PurpleKissUSTour2023 #PurpleKissDallasConcert2023 #kcrushnews #kpop #TheFestTourUSAPurpleKiss #koreangirlgroup #kcrushconcertcoverage #kcrushamerica #PurpleKissDallas #Plories #kcrushmedia #googleindexedkcrush #GilleysDallas #Korea #PonzonaPurpleKiss #SweetJuicePurpleKiss #AgitPurpleKiss #endofyearconcerttour #topentertainmentmagazine #topasianentertainmentmagazine #PurpleKissPlory #dance #SoulKeeper #Chaein #Ireh #Swan #Dosie #Goeun #Yuki #kcrushoriginalcontent #koreanmusic #Hallyu #loveforkpop #LeoPresents #RBW

 

It’s not often that I have the opportunity to speak with and interview directors of films I’ve seen, and even more rare to be able to speak to those who’ve produced one of the best action films in the last few years like A Man of Reason directed by and starring Jung Woo-sung, the found-family dramatic feature Broker by Japanese film legend Hirokazu Kore-eda, or The Guest, the intense psychological thriller feature debut by Yeon Je-gwang who’s work premises a very successful career following a successful premiere at the 2023 Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)

 

The Guest (2023)

There’s more films and dramas I could list, but needless to say, it was a very big deal for me personally to have the chance to speak with Song Dae-chan about his career in the Korean film industry. With a career that spans two decades this year, Song following the life changing decision to switch careers from being a marketer, worked his way up from being a production assistant on notable projects such as A Letter from Mars (2003), A Frozen Flower (2008), to taking the reins himself and starting Studio TAKE his own company.

As a producer, Song has led the production of films of all genres beginning with the thriller Haunters in 2010, to the 2021 feel good musically driven drama The Box starring K-pop super star Park Chan-yeol of the group EXO (one of my personal favourite groups), and of course Broker which had its world premiere at TIFF 2022 (Toronto International Film Festival), and was the first Korean produced and starring film by Hirokazu.

 

 

A Man of Reason (2022)

Following the premiere of The Guest at BIFF, and my interview with Yeon Je-gwang, I had to speak with Song about his perspective on the Korean film industry as an insider who’s spent years being a part of building it to be the impressive juggernaut it’s become. Despite the ever increasing global awareness of Korean films, there’s an almost ironic decline in financial support from the government for festivals like BIFF, and arts organisations like the Korean Film Council (KOFIC).

Song shared his valuable insight in these topics and the pros and cons of the state of streaming and how the push by American companies like Netflix and Disney+ is having a significant impact on creatives and the industry’s economy. In doing so he revealed to me that he and a collective of other producers have formed the World Content Network Agency (WCNA) to address these very issues.

All in all it was a great conversation and I gained new insight into an industry and company that fascinates me, and I appreciate Song sharing how his past experiences shaped his path, and where he sees the future of Studio TAKE and the industry going.

 

Interpreting for the interview was done by Park Chan-yeon.

 

Carolyn Hinds

Freelance Critic, Journalist & Podcaster
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Co-Host & Producer So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at http://Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12

 

 

#SongDaechan #SongDaechanProducer #TheGuest #Broker #ManOfReason #kcrushinterview #BIFF2023 #Koreanfilm #KoreanFilmFestival #BusanInternational FilmFestival2023 #kcrushexclusiveinterview #shortfilm #topasianentertainmentmagazine #googleindexed #kcrushamericamagazine #koreanculture #KOFIC #Korea #KoreanFilmCouncil #WorldContentNetworkAgancy #WCNA #KoreanFilmIndustry #HauntersSongDaechan #TheBox #ParkChanyeolEXO #kcrushmedia #kcrushcoverage #interviewwithproducerSongDaechan

 

This is my time learning of Vince, but it wasn’t my first time encountering his work. You likely have listened to some of the famous hits he has contributed to as well such as SUNMI’s “Gashina”, LISA’s “MONEY”, and BLACKPINK’s “Shut Down.” Though he has released a handful of singles over the past few years, The Drive is his first EP Album. With a mix of R&B, hip-hop, soul, and pop, Vince truly displays his artistry and skill as a solo artist. Let’s dive into how the tracks rank!

 

Work: 8/10

“Work” is the first solo song I’ve heard from Vince. My first impression is positive! His vocals are smooth and warm. This is a track that I could listen to on loop. I love how the melody flows and the clean production. The chorus is simple, but with the fullness of the verse and pre-chorus, it needs to be! “Work” is well-balanced and a great opening track to The Drive.

 

 

About you: 8/10

“About you” is a great R&B ballad. I’m impressed, again, by Vince’s vocals. They’re so crisp, precise, and smooth. This track is laid back but has unique instrumental elements that keep it interesting to the listener. “About you” has a wonderful groove that had me bopping my head along to the flowing rhythm. If you’re a fan of falsetto, you’ll enjoy Vince’s vocal abilities in this song.

 

GET OUT: 9/10

What an energetic track! It’s so groovy, with an incredible bass as the star. This disco-based track is all you could ask for on a night out. It definitely makes you want to get up and dance! “GET OUT” is fresh and fun, and honestly the K-Pop world can use a little more of this sound! Because Vince isn’t sticking to what seems to be the popular pattern of solo artists, he stands above the rest as distinct. And that’s exactly what you need to do on a debut album! I’ve already shared this song with a friend. That’s when you know that this is a true bop!

 

Like That: 7/10

Another ballad, “Like That” starts with a soft piano and airy vocals. Make no mistake, not every artist can pull off a simplistic production, as it highlights any and all flaws in vocals or instruments. But Vince makes this effortless. It has a good melody and beautiful backing vocals. “Like That” doesn’t stick out as the best track on the EP, but it’s a necessary one as it breaks up the sound and gives a nice landing.

 

UUU: 9/10

“UUU” is a powerful track. The song immediately pulled me in as the tension built with each line. The production on this is top-notch, thanks to 24. 24 frequently works with BLACKPINK and the quality shows! Vince also collaborated with TEDDY to write “UUU”. This song combines rock and cinematic instruments. It’s an excellent explosion of passion. I can easily see this featured on a K-Drama OST. The way Vince’s voice commands you to listen to every lyric is impressive. THEBLACKLABEL released a music video for “UUU”. The black and white visuals are compelling and match the song perfectly. I believe Vince will get good attention with this track!

 

Emergency (Feat. Zion.T): 9/10

This might not be a new track to some, as it was originally released in 2020. “Emergency” is also Vince’s top streamed song on Spotify, with nearly 4 million listens. And it’s no wonder–this song is amazing. A mix of trap and R&B, “Emergency” is a real standout track on this EP. It shows Vince’s vocal range and ability–from soft, airy vocals to powerful, bold belting. Vince didn’t come to play with this song and it’s truly impressive. The feature of Zion.T was a great choice, and really elevates “Emergency” to the next level.

 

 

MENNAL (feat. Okasian): 8/10

“MENNAL” is a powerful exit to this EP. Vince’s skill is front and center, reminding you that he is worth remembering! With falsetto, rap, and breathy vocals, “MENNAL” is guaranteed to grab attention. Like “Emergency”, “MENNAL” was previously released in 2019. It’s Vince’s second most streamed track at nearly 2.5 million Spotify listens. “MENNAL” displays artistry and skill in the delicate and intimate vocals. The melody is catchy and is an easy song to press “repeat” on.

 

FINAL: 8/10

Vince is going to become a household name for me. I really enjoyed this debut EP. He is an artist who may have been behind the scenes for a while, but he has truly stepped into the spotlight with The Drive. I really hope others can be exposed to his talents as a solo artist as well. I doubt this is the last we will hear from him!

 

—-Ellie Boyd

 

#Vince #VinceTheDriveEP #kcrushreview #VincedebutEP #TheDrivebyVince #Mennal #EmergencyFeatZionT #kpop #RnB #ZionT #UUU #TheBlackLabel #VinceTheBlackLabel #kcrushtopasianentertainmentmagazine #kcrushamerica #LikeThatVince #VinceGetOut #GetOut #AboutYou #WorkbyVince #musicproducer #songwriter #SumniGashina #hiphop #ballad #popmusic #kpopidol #googleindexed #findkcrush #VincehasahitEP #discobased #energeticmusic #kcrushreviewitrateit #koreansinger

 

She Her Her Hers is an alternative band consisting of the trio of Hiroyasu Takahashi, Tomasong and Taiki Matsuura. Despite the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic, the group continued to work hard, releasing music and streaming performances online, and since the start of 2023 they have appeared in numerous events and festivals both domestically and internationally, expanding their activities proactively both at home and abroad. Against this backdrop, their new album ‘Diffusion of Responsibility’ was released on Wednesday, November 15^th.

In tandem with the release of the new album, they also announced a tour to accompany the release. It is the largest tour that the band has ever embarked on so far and this will be their first ‘Asian tour’. Beginning on Wednesday, December 6^th with a performance in Guanghzhou, China and running until Saturday, January 27^th, 2024 with a show at Tokyo’s Daikanyama Unit, the tour spans 14 performances across 13 cities.

Maintaining the ethereal soundscape of the shoegaze genre, the band’s forte, the tour is also influenced by the increase in the number of large scale live performances and the fact that it is a release tour for an album that includes the new song “CHELSEA,” which dares to take a new approach in terms of groove and beat, featuring hints of club music and dance music. Expectations are growing, not only for the music but also for the group’s live performances.

The CD edition of the new album ‘Diffusion of Responsibility’, which will release digitally on Wednesday, November 15^th, will be released on Wednesday, November 29^th. When you purchase the CD at a record shop, you will receive leaf notes created by the group themselves as a special gift, and if you purchase a copy from the official homepage it will come signed by the group. Both versions of the CD are now available to pre-order.

 

【Release Info】

■She Her Her Hers

new album「Diffusion of Responsibility」

2023/11/15(wed) digital release

(2023/11/29 (wed) CD release)

 

Serial No. ：CNDT-0002

Price：¥2,200 (tax in)

Record Label: Conditioner Label

 

Track List:

1. Bystanders
2. CHELSEA
3. Ignorant
4. TROUGH
5. 364
6. interlude
7. Blue Moon Night
8. non zero sum game

 

CD / Pre-add & Pre-save

https://shhhs.lnk.to/DiffusionofResponsibility

 

Album Teaser

https://youtube.com/shorts/7Fv6sdRtm3g?feature=shared

 

■She Her Her Hers

new digital single

「CHELSEA」

 

Links to Music：

https://shhhs.lnk.to/CHELSEA

 

【Concert Information】

She Her Her Hers

“Diffusion of Responsibility” Asia Tour 2023-2024

 

2023/12/6 (wed) Guangzhou・MAO Live House

2023/12/7 (thu) Shenzhen・B10

2023/12/8 (fri) Zhuhai・DUIBAI SPACE

2023/12/14 (thu) Shanghai・VAS SHANGHAI

2023/12/15 (fri) Shanghai・VAS SHANGHAI

2023/12/17 (sun) Nanjing・1701 Live House Max

2023/12/19 (tue) Wuhan・VOX Livehouse

2023/12/20 (wed) Changsha・VOX Livehouse

2023/12/22 (fri) Chengdu・AFLAME ART CENTER Hall 1

2024/1/5 (fri) Bangkok・Mr.Fox Livehouse

2024/1/7 (sun) Hong Kong・SOHO HOUSE

2024/1/12 (fri)  Taipei・THE WALL

2024/1/14 (sun) Seoul・West Bridge Live Hall

2024/1/27 (sat) Tokyo・Daikanyama UNIT

 

and more…

 

※Information on ticket sales varies by location so please consult official websites and social networking services.

 

【Artist Info】

Official X(Twitter) https://twitter.com/shhh_s

Official Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sheherherhers_official

Official facebook https://www.facebook.com/shehers/

Official YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/SheHerHerHersChannel

Official Bandsintown https://www.bandsintown.com/ja/a/5462208-she-her-her-hers

Official Web Site http://sheherherhers.com/

 

#SheHerHerHers #newtour #newalbum #HiroyasuTakahashi #Tomasong #TaikiMatsuura #kcrushmedia #kcrushcontent #googleindexed #DiffusionOfResponsibility #alternativemusic #kcrushamerica #asiantourannounced #Chelseanewsingle #shoegazegenre #kcrushmagazine #kcrushnews #SheHerHerHersAsianTour #clubmusic #dancemusic #SheHerHerHersTicketSales #trioband #triogroup

 

 

Not every guest is welcome, and certainly not those at a creepy motel located in the middle of nowhere. Written and directed by Yeon Je-gwang, The Guest is a psychological thriller that asks what would you do if you see someone’s worst nightmare begin to unfold before you.

Based on his original short film which screened at the Cannes Film Festival and won Best Thriller at the LA Independent Film Festival, The Guest had its world premiere at the 2023 Busan International Film Festival, and is Yeon’s feature debut.

 

 

It stars Oh Hye-won, Jeong Sook-yo, and Lee Ju-seung and Han Min as Min-cheol, and Young-gyu respectively, two friends working to pay off a debt by secretly recording the private interactions between the guests of the motel.

Voyeurism is a premise that’s been used before in film, but Yeon ups the ante and layers to this already disturbing act by subtly asking the question what men can and should men do when they watch a woman be violated not only by an attacker, but they themselves when their actions of voyeurism as violations themselves.

Following the film’s world premiere, I had the opportunity to have a sit-down interview with Yeon to speak about his inspiration for the film, and how it’s premise of voyeurism and violation relate to the real world as recording women in public and private spaces are acts of violence, giving his female character an arc that gives her self-determination and agency.

 

 

Interview interpretation done by Park Chan-yeon

 

Carolyn Hinds

Freelance Critic, Journalist & Podcaster
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Co-Host & Producer So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at http://Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12

 

#YeonJegwang #YeonJegwangTheGuest #BIFF2023 #kcrushinterviewwithYeonJegwang #Koreanfilm #BusanInternationalFilmFestival2023 #YeonJegwangTheGuestInterview #videointerviewwithkcrush #kcrush #kcrushamericamagazine #googleindexed #kcrushcontent #OhHyewon #JeongSookyo #LeeJuseung #HanMinMincheolandYounggyu #kcrushtopasianentertainmentmagazine #CannesFilmFestival #LAIndependentFilmFestival #film #shortfilm #BestThriller

 

Stray Kids don’t miss! I had high hopes for their latest album drop, ROCK-STAR, and I have to say that I was not disappointed. Stray Kids brought their A-game and were as bold as ever! This group always has at least two or three hype tracks, as well as a sincere ballad, on their full-length albums. And don’t forget the incredible choreography that goes along with them. They met that quota on this album for sure! Here’s how I rate the album.

 

MEGAVERSE: 10/10

Opening up the album with a bassy track and Felix’s classic deep vocals, I was feeling ROCK-STAR from the first 10 seconds of this track! When that chorus dropped, I ascended. This song is an absolute bop and nothing shy of what Stray Kids is all about! Stank face out for the whole song: the vocals, rap, beat, and use of electronic elements were so perfectly executed.
 

LALALALA: 9/10

“LALALALA” continues the hype from “MEGAVERSE.” I had seen clips of this song on Instagram for a while because of the dance that accompanies it. The rhythm, the way the track is never stagnant, the way it absolutely displays technical musicality and artistry. This song is another bold hit.
 

BLIND SPOT: 6/10

“BLIND SPOT” gives listeners a different sound compared to previous tracks. With an upbeat, optimistic, and lighthearted melody, this track has some championing lyrics:

They only look at the results and success

Blinded by our glowing process

What you see isn’t everything

Hidden in the blind spot

Show them what you’re made of

Your endless nights deserve a loud ovation

Shine bright and prove them wrong

‘Cause we can feel our progress

Stray Kids have worked hard to get to where they are, and Stay can celebrate their success with them!

 

 

COMFLEX: 8/10

This song immediately caught my attention with the amazing rap in the first verse. And the rap line continues to shine in “COMFLEX.” The confidence is apparent and plays out in the bold melody and powerful, punchy beat. These lyrics are already stuck in my head:

Flexing complexes just com– (Flex)

Too bright, I’m so flashy (Ooh)

Different? No I’m unique (Ooh)

That’s right, I’m so classy (Ooh)

Nobody can stop me (Ooh)

 

Cover Me: 9/10

I like that this song isn’t in all upper case, almost as if saying this track will be more gentle. And that it is! “Cover Me” is a soft ballad, and is a welcomed heartfelt melody. This song truly shows how complex Stray Kids is as a group. They’re not just about the bangers–they can dig deep and create emotive music. I personally loved this track.
 

Leave: 6/10

“Leave” is a mellow track with a laid-back guitar as the lead instrument. The vocals plead, “Oh, baby, please don’t hurt me. Don’t make me cry. Though I still got love for you, and haven’t got over you yet, oh, baby, please stop for me. Don’t you cry anymore. This is the end for you and me. Yeah, we’re done.” Though these lyrics are sad, the track itself feels more uplifting than downcast.

Social Path (Feat. LiSA) (Korean Ver.): 9/10

This song feels like it belongs on a video game OST or at least on an anime soundtrack. It’s upbeat, catchy, and is a true anthem. Some elements feel retro, and the electric guitar really shines. LiSA was a wonderful addition, too. “Social Path” makes me want to take on the world! “Gave up my youth for my future!!”

 

 

LALALALA (Rock Ver.): 10/10

Wow. “LALALALA” in rock form really brings the fire! It’s just as hype as the original…if not possibly more!! The electric guitar, heavy drums, and bass just make this an absolute headbanger!

 

FINAL: 8.5/10

Stray Kids amazingly have lost no momentum. Many pinned “God’s Menu” as their peak, but this group has only continued to climb in success and hits. Stray Kids never cease to amaze me and ROCK-STAR is just another top-notch album from one of my favorite K-Pop groups. I’m excited to hear everything they release in the coming year because they keep getting better and better.

 

—-Ellie Boyd

 

#StrayKids #RockstarStrayKidsReview #kcrushreview #kcrush #SocialPathStrayKids #newalbum #newmusic #kcrushmusicreview #asiantopentertainmentmagazine #kpop #LALALALAStrayKids #LisaBlackPink #LeaveStrayKids #CoverMeStrayKids #Comflex #BlindSpotStrayKids #MegaVerseStrayKids #googleindexed #kcrushamerica #kpop #kpopidols #kpopnewalbum #newmusic #StrayKidsboygroup #koreanboygroup #kcrushamericamagazine

 

The Golden Maknae has released his debut solo album. With an all English tracklist, and plenty of features, I was curious how GOLDEN would display who BTS fans already know to be an unstoppable force. Jung Kook is a treasure, but I was disappointed with how some of this album played out.

 

3D (feat. Jack Harlow): 1/10

This track might feel a bit jarring to BTS audiences that are used to only the slightest hint of suggestive lyrics. “3D” is filled with sexual references and carries an explicit warning. Jung Kook has fully broken the “wholesome” mold and sets the tone of the album with this first track. The beat is laid-back and catchy, however, I personally did not enjoy the lyrics at all.

Harlow raps:
I had one girl, too boring
Two girls, that was cool for me

Three girls, damn, dude’s horny
Four girls, okay now you whorin’

There are plenty of other lines that make this song overly sexual. Sadly, “3D” fits in with plenty of other pop songs and doesn’t stick out with its melody or lyrics. I was hoping more for Jung Kook. If I didn’t already respect his artistry from BTS, I personally would have stopped listening to the album here.

 

Closer to You (feat. Major Lazer): 3/10

JK enters this track with breathy vocals. The lyrics are better compared to “3D”, but again, I’m disappointed by the melody. It’s an easy track to forget and zone out to.

 

Seven (feat. Latto): 5/10

This track is catchy and fits more into the melodic expectations I had for JK’s solo music. It has a great flow and rhythm, as well as a memorable chorus melody. In “Seven”, Jung Kook returns with sexually explicit lyrics. That, however, hasn’t stopped the song from reaching over a billion listens on Spotify. This track was his first single from the album and no doubt piqued fans interest for what GOLDEN would be like.

 

 

Standing Next to You: 10/10

With a big drum opening and a groovy tune, “Standing Next to You” is the first song on the album I could see myself wanting to listen to again. This track truly showcases the best of Jung Kook. That funky bass line pairs so well with JK’s effortless vocals. The song is fun, retro, and has an amazing instrumental break at the end. I wish more of the album reflected “Standing Next to You” as it’s a breath of fresh air compared to earlier tracks.

 

Yes or No: 7/10

“Yes or No” has a similar feel to early 2000s artists, like Jesse McCartney. The lyrics are relatable–“Are we falling in love? Say yes or no.” This track is laid back, but has a sincerity to it that was lacking from other tracks on GOLDEN.

 

Please Don’t Change (feat. DJ Snake): 6/10

This song is a good follow up to “Yes or No” as it continues to dive deep into Jung Kook’s feelings. The simplistic chorus is a tad disappointing, but I still like the overall vibe of this track. The EDM sound scape fits JK’s vocals well and is a nice contribution to the album, but it’s not a standout song.

 

Hate You: 8/10

Finally a ballad! I was so hoping Jung Kook would have a song like this on the album because he is such a powerful, emotive vocalist. The stripped back piano is perfect to highlight this side of JK. The song talks about the need to hate someone in order to let go– “Maybe hating you is the only way it doesn’t hurt.”

 

Somebody: 6/10

Almost like a continuation of “Hate You”, Jung Kook sings about his ex, hoping they don’t come back to him. The track has a great bass line, and continues the retro vibes of the album. Jung Kook’s vocals are front and center and although the melody is basic, it’s still a decent song.

 

Too Sad to Dance: 7/10

With a guitar entrance, the feel of this track is so different from those on the album. It feels refreshing after all the electronic, groovy, and EDM sounding songs. “Too Sad to Dance” is chipper whilst having sad lyrics, and has an authentic feel. It’s a nice place to land in GOLDEN.

 

Shot Glass of Tears: 9/10

“Shot Glass of Tears” opens strong with these lyrics:
Tell me, am I ever gonna feel again? Tell me, am I ever gonna heal again? Got a shot glass full of tears. Drink, drink, drink, say cheers.

This ballad is full of feeling and honesty. It truly stands out on the album to me as one of the strongest lyrically and memorable melodically.

 

 

Seven (feat. Latto) (Clean Version): 6/10

My review of the clean version is more or less the same as the explicit version, just slightly better because it makes the song more accessible to listeners of all kinds.

 

FINAL: 6/10

In my opinion, this album could have been stronger if it cut off the first three tracks. Jung Kook’s strength and ability as an artist are better displayed in songs like “Standing Next to You” and “Shot Glass of Tears.” Though I’m glad to see JK’s solo abilities, I think he could better use his talents in more meaningful tracks rather than the typical mainstream pop songs about sex.

 

—-Ellie Boyd

 

#JungKook #JungKookGolden #kcrushreview #JungKooknewalbum #kcrushJungKookReview #kpop #JungKookSolo #kcrushamericamagazine #kcrushreviewitrateit #googleindexkcrush #topasianmagazine #StandingNextToYou #ShotGlassofTears #ToSadToDanceJungKook #HateYouJungKook #SomebodyJungKook #DJSnakeJungKook #PleaseDontChangeDJSnake #YesorNo #SevenJungKookLatto #LattoSeven #CloserToYouJungKookMajorLazer #kpopBTS #BTSARMY #BTSfans #BigHitEntertainment #HYBE #3DjungKook #officialkcrush2014 #kpopidol #korea #kpopmusic #kpopdance #GOLDENJungKook #musicreview #popidoljungkook #JungKookGQ

 

From playing the trendiest hits to endlessly streaming performances by various K-pop acts, Music Bank has become the global go-to for K-pop gurus and rookie artists in South Korea. Fashioned back in 1988, this record chart has grown to become a global sensation broadcasted in over a hundred countries through KBS World. Music Bank took over the then famous Top 10 Songs (가요톱10) show which had debuted in 1981 and was done away with owing to a controversy.

 

Lee Hwi Jae and Song Hye Kyo (hosts – 2000)

 

Airing on Fridays at 6:30 (KST), Music Bank took Korea and the neighboring countries by storm which led to the birth of K-Chart in January 2008. K-Chart is a combination of category-based charts resembling a countdown. The K-Chart is calculated by combining a percentage of album sales, digital music charts, social media charts, number of broadcast times on KBS, and K-pop fan voting charts. With the rising demand, the show became the longest-airing music program as the show was extended to 70 minutes in June 2008 and further extended to 80 minutes in November of the same year.

 

Soobin & Arin (hosts – 2021)

 

Music Bank went viral and made a global mark in August 2010 when it started airing live in 54 countries through KBS World. With the global footage came new interactive features for international fans, especially on Twitter. The global eminence resulted in the airing period being extended to 105 minutes. Music Bank’s first English dubbed show was unleashed in August 2012 through MYX TV. However, after KBS1 went global to become KBS Global 24, Music Bank started airing for 80 minutes.

 

BTS’s V & Jungkook performing on Music Bank

 

Since its inception, Music Bank has inspired and nurtured hundreds of musicians giving them a platform to showcase their talents and gain followers. Some eminent artists whose songs have charted on Music Bank include Blackpink, Astro, Red Velvet, BTS, and IU. Blackpink’s Rose received her first Music Bank trophy for her “On the Ground” debut single in March 2021. Music Bank also buzzes with fans for its dashing celebrity seasonal hosts. Ryu Si-wo and Kim Ji Ho in 1988 as well as Lee Hwi Ja Song Hye Kyo in 2000 were among the founding Music Bank hosts. Some of the renowned celebrities who have hosted Music Bank include Park Seo Joon, Park Bo Gum, and Arin among others.

 

 

With the demand for more international shows, Music Bank created various entertainment gigs including KBS Song Festival and Music Bank World Tour. The Music Bank World Tour has taken various live performances by multiple K-pop acts outside South Korea, including to Paris and Berlin among others. This year’s KBS Song Festival was replaced by Music Bank’s first-ever Music Bank Global Festival which is expected to take place in Japan and Korea in early December. SHINee, Stray Kids, ENHYPHEN, and ATEEZ are some of the artist groups expected to woo the crowd during this end-of-year festival.

 

— Karen Mwenda

 

 

#MusicBankKorea #MusicBank #kpop #kpopstage #kpopartistsperform #MusicBankperformance #kcrush #kcrushcontent #MusicBankHistory #Asianentertainment #Korea #KCharts #kcrushamerica #newartists #newmusic #MusicBankshows #kcrushtopasianentertainmentmagazine #MusicBankvoting #MusicBank1981 #kpopshowhosts #MusicBankkpophost

Ruda (Sungjin Kim) is a professional dance coach specializing in hip-hop, with 17 years of coaching experience. He is also a popular YouTuber, running a channel named Rudakris, which features dance and K-pop.

 

1. Hello, Ruda, could you provide a brief introduction about yourself and share your experiences with us?

Hello! I’m Kim Sungin, and I’ve been teaching dance for 17 years. I also go by the name Rudakris on YouTube. I’ve helped over 20 to 30 students pursue dance-related majors, and in 2015, I was responsible for choreographing the hip-hop section of the Gwangju Summer Universiade.

 

2. I’ve been watching your YouTube videos, especially the ones where you covered K-pop classics of the early days on your channel. It seems like you have a special passion for K-pop. When did you first start engaging in dance scene?

I’m not actually a choreographer who performs on stage; I’ve always worked as a dance trainer, exclusively teaching dance. I got into choreography as a result of turning it into content for my YouTube channel.

Since I was young, I had a lot of curiosity about questions like, “Why can some people dance so well?” or “Why does a stage look this way?” So, I think my knack for understanding these aspects developed in this direction.

These days, I occasionally engage in various activities such as participating in music events and documentary shoots.

 

3. What struck me the most was your introduction of lesser-known K-pop songs, which I personally still watch sometimes. Even though these songs didn’t gain much popularity at the time, many of them are still great. How would you compare K-pop from the 2000s to today?

The advancement of media and the widespread use of smartphones have completely transformed the K-Pop market. Before the 2000s, students and teenagers didn’t have much say in their music choices. Having a CD player or an MP3 player was a privilege, and those without them could only listen to music that was played on TV programs or the radio. The control over music was largely in the hands of adults. Consequently, the music was predominantly geared towards an adult audience, focusing on the struggles of office workers, love stories of grown-ups, complicated destinies, and reflections on life. Now, the situation has changed, and teenagers can consume music as they wish. They have more freedom to choose and access music, and the industry is adapting to the needs of teenagers who spend more time consuming music than people in their 20s and 30s. So, the key difference lies in this shift in consumer behavior.

 

4. Among all the K-pop songs and artists, which one do you like the most from the perspective of dance?

If we’re specifically talking about dance only, it’s worth mentioning Yoo Seungjun’s “Nanana,” which has become quite a challenge to even mention nowadays.

 

5. Outside of K-pop, whose dance moves do you find most impressive among musicians worldwide?

For this question, the answer is unquestionably Chris Brown.

 

6. Many people are eager to learn dance these days. Could you offer some advice for our readers who are just starting to learn dance?

Dance thrives on consistency. Without consistency, you can never expect to improve your skills. As a simple analogy, think about it like putting food in your mouth but not chewing it. Learning to dance is akin to buying that food, while actually dancing and practicing is the process of chewing. So, learning is when you invest in dance, and practice is the actual work to improve. Many people who haven’t experienced dance often make the mistake of not realizing that learning is not the same as knowing how to do something.

 

7. You’ve created a lot of content related to the TV show “Street Woman Fighter” these days. I’m sure many readers are curious about fun TV shows on dance. Could you recommend some interesting dance shows and highlight their appealing aspects?

Indeed, dance programs come in various forms globally, with different languages and formats, making it difficult to pinpoint just one. Rather, I’d like to recommend a movie instead, one that had a significant influence on the Korean dance scene as well.

I suggest checking out “You Got Served.” This film showcases raw and powerful performances and captures a time when showmanship and foundational dance coexisted. It’s packed with impressive performances and is sure to offer plenty to see from a performance perspective.

 

8. Can you tell us what your interest was before becoming a choreographer and a Youtuber.

During my early years, I wasn’t very good at studying (lol). It’s not a joke; I really struggled with academics, so I was in no position to filter through what I was interested in, what I wanted to become, or what I desired… Fortunately, I had an interest in dance, so I just continued down that path.

 

9. You have an excellent understanding of dance and street culture, and I’m curious about your fashion sense. Where do you usually shop for clothes, and what style do you enjoy wearing?

I prefer not to spend a lot of money on clothing. I believe that clothing is not about the brand or price but rather about the color and fit, so I don’t usually use specific websites or platforms for shopping. However, when I do shop, it’s mostly on AliExpress, H&M, or Nike.

 

10. To achieve a hip style, one’s hairstyle is also crucial. Could you share your current hairstyle with us?

My current hairstyle is a foil perm. It’s a perm done using aluminum foil similar to the foil used in the kitchen, and it’s not too complicated. My students are the ones who actually do it for me.

 

 

11. I assume you receive numerous requests for dance analyses. Are you open to requests sent via email?

Yes, I do receive requests through email or Instagram DMs quite often. While it’s not possible to respond with video content for every request, I do occasionally create content when I come across something with a really good and sincere message.

 

12. For readers who want to experience Korean K-pop culture, could you recommend some must-visit places or experiences?

I did visit the HYBE Corporation headquarters recently for the Leserafam music event. I’m not sure to what extent it’s open to the general public, but if you ever get the opportunity, visiting the HYBE headquarters could be a fantastic and memorable experience.

 

13. Lastly, please say a few words to our K-Crush readers who love Korean content!

K-Pop has indeed been shaped by the popular groups active today, but we should not bypass that it has been formed through the diverse influences of previous generations. While the current songs and performances are fantastic, comparing them to those of earlier generations can also provide valuable insights into the evolution of K-Pop culture. Thank you!

 

—-Jiyoung Lee

 

#Rudakris #KcrushInterviewWithRudakris #kpop #kcrushinterview #kpopculture #koreanyoutuber #youtuber #danceinstructor #youtubereviewer #chorographer #kcrushcontent #kcrushtopasianentertainmentmagazine #kcrushamerica #learntodance #googleindexedkcrush #StreetWomanFighterRudakrisReview #YooSeungjunNanana

 

 

November 10, 2023 — South Korean Singer-Songwriter Vince marks his comeback with “Get Out“, the first single and music video from his upcoming debut EP, [The Drive]. Out today via THEBLACKLABEL, “Get Out” is a blend of R&B and disco-based EDM, the track sends a dual message, implicitly urging someone who can’t break free from the past to “get out” and also come “with me” (Korean translation of the title “나와”). Both charming and witty with a progression that builds up to a climatic drop, this song has an undeniable groove that makes you want to dance.

Vince also announces the release of his 7-track EP [The Drive] which will be released on November 17 alongside the title track “U U U” which he wrote alongside TEDDY and which is produced by 24. This long-awaited album finds Vince stepping out to the forefront after working behind the scenes as a Songwriter and Producer on global hits such as LISA‘s “MONEY“, JISOO’s “FLOWER“, JENNIE‘s “YOU & ME” and BLACKPINK‘s “SHUT DOWN“. Vince has also worked on almost all of the songs on TAEYANG‘s previous two albums including the hit “VIBE feat. Jimin of BTS” as well as JEON SOMI‘s “Fast Forward“. With his solo project, Vince is able to show his unique identity with his own distinct mood and style.

The music video for “Get Out” is stylish and colorful and finds Vince alongside a striking female lead as they playfully engage in a world somewhere between reality and a video game. The futuristic visuals match well with the baseline and groove of “Get Out” which was produced by THEBLACKLABEL hit-making producer, R.Tee who is known for his electronic production and work on hits from BIGBANG, TREASURE, JEON SOMI, and almost all of BLACKPINK’s catalogue.

[The Drive] is comprised of tracks that Vince has curated over the past three years while carefully vibing out to and evaluating them during his daily drives, thus making the music especially enjoyable to listen to while driving. The album combines various emotions and perspectives on love along with Vince’s exceptional songwriting and producing abilities. [The Drive] is not simply about the act of driving, but has a separate meaning defined as one’s desire, also known as one’s ‘Drive’, allowing listeners to encounter Vince’s own ambitions through this EP. The album will be released on November 17th via THEBLACKLABEL.

Also known as Joe Rhee, VINCE has written and produced for an all-star lineup of talent including G-Dragon, iKON, JEON SOMI, and BLACKPINK. He was heavily credited on TAEYANG’s record-breaking album, ‘WHITE NIGHT‘ which spent two weeks at #1 on the Billboard World Digital Albums chart, and has contributed to every song on TAEYANG’s comeback EP, ‘Down to Earth‘, including the singles ‘VIBE (feat. Jimin of BTS)’, ‘Seed‘, and ‘Shoong! (feat. LISA of BLACKPINK)‘. He also co-wrote and co-produced one of Korea’s best-selling songs of 2017, Sunmi‘s smash hit ‘Gashina‘, which landed on the ‘Best K-Pop Song of the Year‘ list in Billboard.

In 2021 he co-wrote LISA’s ‘MONEY’ which remained on the Billboard Global Top 10 chart for over four weeks, then provided songwriting for BLACKPINK’s 2022 single, ‘Shut Down’. As a solo artist, Vince released his first single, ‘MENNAL‘, followed by ‘EMERGENCY‘ featuring one of Korea’s best-selling artists and his label-mate, Zion.T, with whom Vince had also previously worked with. In early 2023, he was featured on a project for one of Korea’s most beloved talents, TANAKA, for the single ‘Choose Me (feat. Vince)’.

Vince blends R&B, hip-hop, rock, soul, and pop to create something altogether new. He is a singer, songwriter, and producer pushing the boundaries of music.

 

 

NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO, “GET OUT” OUT TODAY 

Watch the video for “Get Out”: https://Vince.bio.to/GETOUT_MV

 

More of Vince:

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#VINCE #TheBlackLabel #newEP #VinceTheDrive #VinceGetOut #RnB #hiphop #kcrushnews #soul #pop #JoeRhee #writer #producer #koreanmusicproducer #VinceDebutEP #November172023 #newmusic #kcrushtopasianentertainmentmagazine #BillboardGlobalTop10 #LisaBlackPink #ZionT #discobased #EDM #kcrushpress #kcrushmedia #kcrushindexedgoogle #googleindexed #officialkcrush #TANAKA #Sumni #kpophits #kpop #RTee #asianmusic #universalmusicsound #TheBlackLabelArtistVince

 

Celebrating its fourteenth year of celebrating Korean dance and dancers, the Busan International Dance Market (BIDAM) which was held October 13th – 15th at the Geumjeong Cultural Center, is a program that brings the world of Korean dance and music culture to the world and the world to Korea.

Created by critically lauded dancer and choreographer Shin Eun-ju whose acclaimed work spans decades, BIDAM seeks to show that creatives of all ages, backgrounds, and interests come together to showcase their abilities to speak their experiences in a medium that needs no translation.

 

 

During my trip to Korea this year it was my absolute pleasure to have the opportunity to sit with Shin who operated the Shin Dance Company of Korea, to discuss her work as the Artistic Director of BIDAM, Executive Director of the Busan International Dance Festival (BIDF), and the newly created Busan Performance Dance Market (BPAM).

There were multiple categories to the programs this year where dancers performed award winning choreographies in the Korea Young Dance Challenge, the BIDAM Pitching program where executives and choreographers from various international dance companies presented new concepts for pieces currently in development, the BIDAM showcase, which I attended and watched performances from Korea, France, and Quebec.

Following the BIDAM Pitch presentation were the weekend’s final two performances. At the BPAM groups from all over the world showcased their talents in singing, acting, dancing, composition, and writing. Some even did a combination of all like Bodytalk, a German based production company which in collaboration with SIDance presented “KOREALITY – (None) Necomancy” an almost psychedelic blending of multiple art forms.

 

Photo credit – Park Sang Yun

For our interview, Shin discussed her philosophy of using dance to connect to nature and the elements – earth, wind, water, fire, and sky – and her country’s rich heritage and her wish for others to do the same. Using music from various genres and era and different countries such as traditional Pansori, European classical music, contemporary sounds like Jazz and even animals, Shin exemplifies the diversity of Korean artists.

 

Carolyn Hinds

Freelance Critic, Journalist & Podcaster
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Co-Host & Producer So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at http://Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12