February Favorites
2022 so far has been a whirlwind, and that only intensified through the month of February.
Favorite Song: “RUN2U” - STAYC
It’s not an exaggeration to say that STAYC is absolutely killing the game right now. Not even two full years into their journey, they’re already the talk of the town with every release, which seems to continue to get better and better. “RUN2U” has everything we love in a classic K-Pop song, with a unique twist on an electro pop melody that gets stuck in your head from first listen. There’s also no denying the strength of the vocals of this group, which really carries the song. STAYC is definitely shaping up to be a powerhouse.
Favorite Album: Epik High Is Here Pt. 2 - Epik High
I don’t think anyone can argue that Epik High has a bad album release. Any time we get a new release from them, it’s a treasure, a well-produced and emotionally authentic album that always packs a punch and gives a feeling of catharsis. The latest album Epik High Is Here Pt. 2 is no exception, with an album that balances the melancholy lofi feel of sleepless in _____ and the stronger retro rap influences in Epik High Is Here Pt. 1. This album feels particularly emotional and raw, as we get Tablo directly addressing his painful past that nearly destroyed the groups’ career. We think it’s physically impossible for Epik High to release bad music, and this new album is just another gift from the veteran musicians.
Favorite Music Video: “Good Night” - Rolling Quartz & “INVU” - Taeyeon
The girls are truly ruling the month of February. There was a ton of anticipation for us surrounding the first album release of K-Rock band Rolling Quartz, but we could never have predicted that the music video release along with this album would be a heavy metal cover of Dreamcatcher’s “Good Night.” This is a crossover that we always dreamed of and that will probably save 2022, honestly. Jayoung’s vocals are so strong and fit the song perfectly that you’re guaranteed to get goosebumps, and the addition of the guitar solo takes this song to new heights. With such an amazing cover of the song, the video has to be a perfect gothic aesthetic with a homage to the original. I don’t think we can say enough words about how amazing this release is.
We also had to include Taeyeon’s latest release on the list because the visuals for this comeback are beyond breathtaking. The concept paints Taeyeon as an ethereal Greek goddess, and whoever designed the fashion and makeup for this video deserves a raise. Even upon the first view, it’s impossible to deny just how gorgeous the fashion and sets of the video are.
Favorite Performance: “Dilemma” - Apink on Music Bank
It seems kind of a shame that we haven’t seen more talk about Apink’s return. The veteran girl group has proved they have staying power, and the latest title “Dilemma” proves that the group has the ability to adapt to the market as it shifts. The choreography for this comeback is surprisingly eye-catching and unique, and there’s no arguing if the vocals are pre-recorded as it’s easily noticeable that they are singing live.