Another year, another round of yearly KCON festivals complete. Like many others, you’re probably experiencing the post KCON depression that comes along with attending any fabulous event. Let’s take a look back at this year’s KCON LA artists and some of their best B-sides.

“Make a Wish” - Chungha 

Chungha went for a very fun unique sound in her first mini-album, and “Make a Wish” captures that sort of carnival and vaudeville aesthetic that went along with a lot of the tracks on the album. It’s not often we hear such a retro sound from K-Pop artists, and it definitely makes Chungha stand out as a soloist, while conversely being a great ode to early musical influences.

“Shine” - IMFACT 

While IMFACT has been a group that mostly releases singles, “Shine” has stood out as one of the few B-sides the group has produced that leaves a sweet feeling amidst its melody. Though the song seems to have a heavy vocal focus, the rap verses are smooth and complementary, and it’s easy to tell this group is full of talent when performing this song live.

“하루만” - NU’EST W

NU’EST W has been a hit since appearing on Produce 101, and no doubt stole some of the spotlight at this year’s KCON LA. “하루만” is a soft and slow R&B ballad that warms your heart from start to finish. While the group has struggled with being overlooked in previous years, these veteran boys continue to prove their talent and deserve a spot in the spotlight.

“Trauma” - SEVENTEEN

As a loud and proud rap line stan, it’s no surprise that I’m attracted to SEVENTEEN’s hip-hop unit the most out of all. “Trauma” is a classic rap track that focuses on flow rather than melody, but despite that still has a magnetic sound that I can’t help but find myself drawn to. On top of that, the song is rather cathartic when speaking of your own trauma, which just goes to show that our favorite idols can relate to all of us and our struggles.

“Sleepwalking” - Dreamcatcher 

If there’s one group I regret not being able to see personally, its Dreamcatcher. The group’s unique concept is absolutely refreshing, and their ability to blend traditional heavy rock influences with current K-Pop trends is simply fabulous. “Sleepwalking” is a track that definitely has more modern pop and EDM influences, but that doesn’t make it any less catchy.