Summer’s K-Hip-Hop and K-R&B Releases
“불켜 (TURNON)” - SUMIN
Everyone already knows how much we here at The Kraze adore miss SUMIN, so we’re very lucky to have been given a new EP this summer! It’s quite well-known by anyone who is familiar with the artist that she likes to push the boundaries with her music, and that’s definitely heard in “불켜 (TURNON),” XX’s opener. The track has a futuristic feel that certainly pushes the boundaries of what some consider music. It won’t sound like anything you hear on top of the major music charts, but that’s exactly what gives SUMIN her charm. At first listen, the song may be somewhat off-putting, but as it goes on, you’ll begin to appreciate the artistic vision behind it. And in true SUMIN indie fashion, the accompanying video isn’t a traditional video, but an “audio visualizer.” Be sure to check out the full mini XX and support our queen SUMIN’s solo career!
“Love Me Harder” - WOODZ
Our lovely WOODZ has been gaining steam since making it onto the short-lived X1 team. While his previous solo releases didn't get much attention, his latest mini-album and title “Love Me Harder” are absolutely killing it. The music video has 11.7 million views as of this writing—much more than anything else he’s released under this pseudonym. It’s hard to deny that “Love Me Harder” has a ton of mass appeal, from the driving dance beat to his stunning vocal range. It’s quite different from what he’s released in the past, but he still pulls it off and showcases his strong musical prowess. Be sure to give his mini EQUAL a listen, as it features tons of other K-Hip-Hop artists and captures the artist’s range. Plus, every track is a certified banger.
“Submarine” - Hoody & BRONZE
The original princess of AOMG gifted us a new summer single collaboration with BRONZE. We can always count on Hoody to drop a great song, and “Submarine” is no exception. If you’re a fan of the retro feel, this will be your new favorite track. The song prominently features a strong R&B baseline along with a groovy rhythm that feels very reminiscent of the 1970s R&B takeover. Accompanied by Hoody’s silky smooth vocals, the track is a perfect mix. Many fans in the comments liken the song to the genre city pop, a faction of J-Pop that originated in the 70s.
“Relax Moment” - SURAN
SURAN swoops in this summer to remind everyone to find your “Relax Moment”! This chill K-R&B track gives off the opposite vibes of “Submarine,” fit better for a relaxing sunset after a full day at the beach. Even in the summer, many of us still get caught up in the high intensity pace of the world, and SURAN often makes her return to remind us all to take a moment to breathe. Through the soft purples used in the music video, focused largely on her bedroom, SURAN embodies the comforts of home. One particular moment in the video shows her phone disconnecting and regaining battery, a strong reminder to all of us that we should disconnect from our online lives to recharge as well.
“OHIO” - Crush
We all know it’s a very good day when Crush makes a comeback. “OHIO” has a very upbeat tempo and bright, carefree aura. Crush allows some of his expressive personality to come out in the video as he dances hilariously through empty places, including a parking garage and gym locker room. The track sings of the frustrations of daily life while expressing the need to let those frustrations out. He states, “I wanna make you feel much better, I wanna make you feel so good,” a comforting sentiment that is meant for the listeners in the form of this track.
“NUNU NANA” - Jessi
P Nation’s soloist Jessi, known for her unabashed confidence and intensity, joins the list of summer comebacks! This time she chooses to focus less on the intense rap beat and more on a quintessential summer pop track centered on vocals. It’s a softer side to the otherwise charismatic rapper, but also successfully showcases her multiple talents. Fans of Lee Hyori will find a treat with the veteran soloist’s feature at the end of the video!