This year is launching with some powerful female soloists, and f(x)’s Luna is no exception. On January 3, the singer released her first single since her melancholy track “Night Reminiscin’” last April. While “Even So (운다고)” is more closely related to her last single than her breakout debut “Free Somebody,” Luna further establishes the softer side of her artistry with the single’s three tracks.

The title track is surprisingly the most vulnerable of them all. “Even So (운다고)” is a deceivingly upbeat pop song; the light melody is easygoing, but the lyrics speak of a deeper hurt inside. It marks the transitional period between something that has caused pain and hurt and a better state of mind. It’s not great right now, but she’s letting it all out before she continues heading towards a hopefully brighter day ahead. The music video reflects the facade that can be put up while it feels as if time is sluggishly passing behind the glitz and glamour. Luna looks stunning either way, gracing the stage as a jazz singer or embracing her solitude in the darkness of her life off-stage. It’s easy to spot the similarities that we’ve seen and heard in other K-Pop idols’ lives.

“Do You Love Me” featuring George is a more mainstream R&B sound that reinvents Luna’s soft vocals as seductive and enchanting. The bouncing of vocals between the two is a formula that has produced other iconic R&B duets in the Korean music scene. Her voice stands out alone but blends naturally with anyone she’s paired with. It’s nice to hear Luna have fun with a less heavy subject matter, and the instrumental at the end provides for a fun dance break where she’s clearly in her element.

The single concludes with the romantic “안녕 이대로 안녕 (BYE BYE).” What’s significant about this single is that Luna doesn’t need to use insane vocal techniques to illustrate three different portraits with these songs. This track is reportedly dedicated to the late Jonghyun, and its composition is reflective of the simple but poignant songwriting he could have with his own solo work. It’s a beautifully jazzy note to conclude Luna’s single, and it carries the heart that can be felt throughout all of her solo work thus far.