Best of November 2025
Photo: ibighit
November has been one of my favorite months for comebacks this year. So many incredible tracks were released in November, making it a difficult decision to choose just a few to write about for this week's B-side's article. From solo artists to groups, November offered a lot for everyone with these three tracks having stood out to me as some of my favorites.
“Coma” - Yeonjun
Yeonjun exceeded all expectations with the release of his debut solo mini-album, NO LABELS: PART 01, on November 7. Being a member of K-Pop group TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), the six tracks on NO LABELS: PART 01 differ vastly to the songs released by the K-Pop group, with the tracklist carving a clear image as to who Yeonjun is, and wants to be, as a solo artist. Of the six tracks, the closing song “Coma” became one of my favorite songs on the album. The song's production carries a nostalgic feel with the whole album emitting a Pharrell Williams and N.E.R.D vibe heard through its production style and techniques. Although nostalgic, “Coma” also feels like a new and experimental experience with it featuring a unique vocal approach and beat arrangement that leaves a craving for more of Yeonjun's solo music on every listener's tastebuds.
“2.0” - CLOSE YOUR EYES
Having recently stumbled upon their music (thanks to my Spotify recommendations) CLOSE YOUR EYES has quickly become one of my favorite new groups in K-Pop. Sometimes with new artists it takes a while for them to find their unique sound, or a while for me to become fully invested in their work, but upon my first listen of CLOSE YOUR EYES, I was immediately hooked and impressed with their music. It's hard to believe that CLOSE YOUR EYES only debuted back in April of this year as their songs feel cemented in rich, distinguished tones that sound as if CLOSE YOUR EYES are more experienced than they are.
Consisting of six exceptionally produced tracks, their latest EP, blackout, continues this experienced trope, with the addictive "2.0" standing out as a favourite song of mine because of this. Through the members’ compelling vocals and the song's laidback hip-hop-R&B style, “2.0” carries a sound that fluctuates between feeling more K-R&B than K-Pop, meaning fans of both genres can love and appreciate the track. With “2.0” and blackout, I can't wait to hear more of CLOSE YOUR EYES's music and witness their growth within the Korean music scene.
“Tuberose” - Sunmi
In her latest album, HEART MAID, Sunmi turns to a world of blues-rock in the standout single, “Tuberose.” Released on November 5, "Tuberose" radiates great levels of seduction and tension through its arrangement and Sunmi's distinctive vocals, with the song having an expensive production sound that would play perfectly on a blockbuster movie soundtrack. Sunmi's distinctive vocals contribute to the song’s alluring nature with a soft and airy approach that excellently coincides with the dramatics of the instrumental. With Sunmi known for her quirky and unique music styles and music video concepts, “Tuberose” takes a more mature and sensual route that leaves listeners with high anticipation for a music video–one that continues to shine a light on Sunmi's expressive and creative essence.
Edited by Cara Musashi