Best of January 2025
A new year equals new music, and wow did January treat us to some great tracks. We have had solo debuts, comebacks, and a triumphant return from some of the best in K-Pop. With so much to listen to in January, here are just some of my favorite B-sides.
“Darling” - GOT7
While it was only January last month, GOT7 already gave us the comeback of the year with their new EP, WINTER HEPTAGON. A long-awaited return for the septet, following several incredible solo projects, this EP boasts strong sounds as if GOT7 never went away.
Of the nine tracks, the fifth track "Darling" stands out as my favorite. The guitar focused melody with electronic R&B beats and the members' velvet vocals offer warm, nostalgic, boyband sounds. I love the way the members sing the line “Oh, can you be my darling?” and the enunciation of ”dive,” “fine,” and “anytime” at the end of each line, with their vocal delivery adding an extra touch of romance to an already romantic track.
“Double Triple” - M.O.N.T
After listening to M.O.N.T's fifth mini-album Somewhere Out There, I need to know more about this group. I've listened to some of their older tracks but this mini-album has made me want to listen to them more.
From the vocals to the arrangements, the songs on Somewhere Out There are addictive, making you want to listen to them on repeat, which is exactly what I did with "Double Triple." This track immediately became my most-replayed song of M.O.N.T with its blues rock influences combined with modern pop, and the sharp vocal abilities from each member.
“Blind Eyes Red” - MINNIE
MINNIE serves up a delicious plate of seduction and enticement in her single "Blind Eyes Red," the pre-release single of her debut solo album HER. Through this track, MINNIE expresses a more mature sound with the vocal production, lyrics, and the tracks alluring arrangement, mixing together pop and R&B with a captivating trap instrumental. "Blind Eyes Red" is an immensely strong single that leaves you craving more when it's over.
Edited by Cara Musashi