Again, you all have my apologies for not posting until now. This is just a quick post that notes some songs that I’ve thrown onto my iPod. There isn’t really a theme tying the songs together, but more like a sampler of what’s on it.
Waiting For U - Acoustic Collabo
Korean | Ballad / Pop
I really like the simplistic sound of this song, just the girl singing, the guitar and a harmonica later on. She’s got a really pure voice that’s mellow and isn’t so high that it makes you think that she’d been sucking on helium. This kind of reminds me of something that Bonnie Pink would release.
Rain U (Tsim Sha Tsui Remix) - HybRefine
Korean | Pop / Techno
This does sound like a typical remixed song, nothing overly special. But it does have a good beat and the rap goes well with it. The effects can get a bit much since the whole thing already has a bunch of effects on it, but it does make the piano stand out more clearly.
I Love You - JYJ feat. Flowsik
English | Pop
This song is okay....my favorite parts are the ones where Flowsik raps. The song gets quieter to show off his rapping and you have Yoochun just throwing hooks in. As for the trio, I kind of wished that they had sang more in the lower registers (this is mostly referring to Yoochun because I think that’s where he sounds the best).
I Can’t - 2PM
Korean | Pop
The song is sweet, albeit sad. The beat is nice and mid-tempo and the instruments compliment the vocals really well. It’s not overly sappy, which is kind of nice.
Haven’t Met You Yet (Cutmore Remix) - Michael Buble
English | Pop?
I was actually walking through a clothing store when I heard this song and that’s when I had to find it and have it on my iPod. I really love the original (one of my favorite songs of all time) and this remix is pretty good too. It gets quiet at the right points but still makes the song more upbeat than the original.
For my next post, I was thinking of doing a continuous mix...any thoughts as to what songs or singers/groups? I can also do a sort of "live" edition where I'd mix some of their live songs into a mini concert....
Labels: 2PM, Acoustic Collabo, Contributor; Carmi, HybRefine, JYJ, Michael Buble
I honestly never thought I’d ever do a rotation like this, but some of these were pretty decent so I thought I’d share them with you.
I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing – Yuna Ito
English | Pop
If you’re looking for or used to the original Aerosmith version, well…I don’t know how to put this other than this is more of a pop / orchestral version. The guitar edge in the original is…well, gone. The overall sound of the song is more sweet, something I’d picture being included as part of an RPG’s soundtrack (think Final Fantasy). It’s an interesting twist on the original though.
This Love – G-Dragon (Big Bang)
Korean | Pop
I didn’t even know that G-Dragon even did a remake/cover of this song. And…I really like this version much better than the Maroon 5 version. It’s catchier and it definitely plays up to G-Dragon’s strengths. The only thing I don’t like about this song is that I wish they had turned up the base a bit more. Other than that, a solid remake.
In the Still of the Night – DBSK/TVXQ
English | A cappella
One of their best and later (before they “disbanded”) a cappella songs. It’s short and sweet but definitely shows off their singing abilities.
Because of You – 2pm
English| R&B
A cover of Ne-Yo’s song and I believe this was around the time when 2pm had just debuted so their singing isn’t as good as it is now. I wish they had harmonized more and had changed the song up a bit just so it wasn’t a straight cover but it’s alright the way it is.
New York State of Mind – Ken Hirai
English | Jazz
The song’s got a really simple accompaniment (I believe it’s just the piano) but it really lets Ken’s voice shine through. It’s a nice, slow song that almost gives the song a nostalgic and kind of sad feeling. It’s something that I’d picture a sad, struggling artist singing in one of those bars/lounges you see in the movies.
On a side note, any particular songs or themes you'd like me to do for my next rotation? I was kind of thinking of doing a non-stop mix (which may take me longer to put together) but I wanted to get your opinion prior to going ahead with that. Thoughts?
Labels: 2PM, Big Bang, Contributor; Carmi, Ken Hirai, Tohoshinki, Yuna Ito
LolliGurls – Big Bang, 2NE1 and Katy Perry
Korean | Pop
I thought that this would be an appropriate summer mix since it Katy Perry’s instrumental gives Lollipop more of a beat and it makes it seem more lively. There were times when I thought that they sounded a little off key, but I think the person who remixed the song had to change the pitch in some parts to make it go along with the background. Overall, I think this is one of the best mashes I’ve heard in a while.
Hello – Namie Amuro vs A. Skillz & Krafty Kuts
Japanese/English | Pop/Hip Hop
When I first heard this remix I was really into it for a while. The mix is flawless in terms of its transitions and it all seems to flow really well and the two songs don’t compete for “air time” so to speak. Rather, they seem to compliment each other.
Again It’s You – 2pm vs. Super Junior
Korean | Pop
I think this is a decent mix of the two songs since both their tempos are fairly similar. However, I do think the transitions between the two songs can be a bit jarring at times (can’t really comment on if the words would make sense, sorry!) since during the chorus it can get a bit loud and sometimes I feel like the words get almost cut off.
Juju Lets Go – JUJU vs. M-Flo & Yoshika
Japanese| Pop
It isn’t very common to find a slow-ish mash up since most mash ups are geared towards making songs more upbeat. I think this song’s transitions are pretty good and both m-flo and Yoshika’s vocals go really well with the background since their song is more of a slow tempo song.
Mister Abracadabra – Brown Eyed Girls vs. Kara
Korean | Pop
I was debating whether or not to post another remix of Abracadabra but since most of the song (or at least the part that I like more) is Kara’s Mister. I think the two songs blended well but there are times when the overlap can be a bit much on your ears if you’re not used to hearing two different songs put together with one on the left and the other on the right.
Labels: 2PM, Amuro Namie, Big Bang, Brown Eyed Girls, Contributor; Carmi, Juju, KARA, m-flo, Super Junior, Yoshika
Disclaimer: It isn’t that I’m promoting the idea that Korea and Japan are “stealing” songs from North America and making them sound better…I mean, they are making them sound better, but…whatever. Just enjoy the songs…and don’t kill me.
Passion (Remix) – Se7en feat. Jinusean
Korean| Pop
Yes, this was my favorite Se7en song for a short while. For those of you that don’t know, this song is basically a remix of J-Kwon’s “Tipsy”, with the beat sped up and with better vocals. The song’s a great song to dance to and it’s what got me hooked onto Se7en in the first place (I usually find out about different bands/groups/singers through their singles and MVs). The dance moves in the MV are pretty good too.
Foolish Foolish – Yuya Matsushita
Japanese | Pop
As the song progressed, I really thought Yuya was going to start singing Ne-Yo’s “So Sick” since the two songs are so similar. I can definitely picture Yuya singing Ne-Yo’s song with the only complication being the accent. As for which song is better…I couldn’t really say. I think both are equally good.
Again & Again – 2pm
Korean | Pop
Apparently this song sounds an awful lot like Envy’s “Shawty Dangerous”. I don’t necessarily like one version over the other. Okay, that’s a lie. I like 2pm’s version but that’s probably because I think you can dance to it.
New Look – Namie Amuro
Japanese | Pop
Okay. This isn’t really a sampling issue as it’s really a homage to the original (“Baby Love” by The Supremes). It’s a good song, simple but clean and it conveys the sentiments of the sixties. I like the fact that she didn’t defer too far from the original but was able to revive it and give the song a makeover that’s appropriate for this time.
Why I Like You – Super Junior
Korean | Pop
This sounds…okay, it’s pretty much a remixed version of Ne-Yo’s “Closer”. Unfortunately, in this case, I’m going to have to side with Ne-Yo. I think his version is more upbeat and I like his voice better in comparison to Super Junior’s (sorry!). Still a decent song though.
Labels: 2PM, Amuro Namie, Contributor; Carmi, Jinusean, Se7en, Super Junior, Yuya Matsushita
rotation 41 [recent releases]
Sunday, November 29, 2009 posted at 6:34 PM
Finally, a full rotation! =) I was planning on doing a different theme but decided to save it for later, so these are just some recent releases that I wanted to share.
Everytime (ft Baby G) - Dream Girls
Korean | Pop
After being quite impressed by their song Hey, Mr., I was looking forward to hearing this song. I'm still undecided about it. It's a simple, sweet pop tune. However, I felt that the thing I liked most about them - their strong, clear vocals - was lacking in this song. Instead, their voices come across as very light and wavering, making Everytime sound watered-down - especially in the chorus, which should really be the strongest section. It's a cute song, but not nearly as solid as their debut.
Heartbeat - 2PM
Korean | Pop/Dance
I know everyone probably already has this song or has at least heard it, but since I'm not a big 2PM fan I thought I'd share one song that I do like from them. What really appealed to me about this song was the staggered feel and how each word or phrase seems to be coming from a different place or level, especially in the chorus. It's got a good beat and I really like the accompaniment - the synths and strings blur together at times, and are distinct at others.
너에게 약속하는 7가지 - Tei & Kan Mi Yeon
Korean | Pop/Ballad
I love Tei, although this song is a bit different - rather than a very classic, dramatic ballad like most of his songs, it's sweet and pop-influenced, opening with bright upbeat piano and synths. While the sugary intro didn't really appeal to me, it quickly tones down to a tolerable level - Tei's rich, powerful voice suits the lighter atmosphere of this song surprisingly well. I've never heard any of Kan Mi Yeon's songs, but her light, clear vocals are a nice contribution, although I would have liked to see more of a connection between the two singers. A warm, lovely midtempo ballad.
時を止めて (Toki wo Tomote) - Tohoshinki
Japanese | Ballad
I love this song. From the a-capella style first lines, I was hooked. It's incredibly heartfelt and genuine. This isn't a very good quality rip, I'll try and post up a better one if I find one, but even from this rip I can tell this is going to be a gorgeous song. It's a midtempo pop ballad with splashes of R&B and a warm, rich atmosphere.
My Style - Mao Denda
Japanese | Pop/R&B
I've uploaded some of her songs in the past, this is her latest single. Mao Denda is really growing on me, her latest singles have all been pretty strong and My Style is no exception. Her strong, smooth voice is the highlight as usual, against a dense instrumentation of synths and occasionally strings, rooted by a rounded bass and light percussion. The melody is fluid and sweet.
하얀겨울 (With 비즈니즈, 애즈원) (Narr. 이준 Of 솔리드) - Alex of Clazziquai Project
Korean | Pop
A light, sweet winter song. At first I had mixed feelings about this song - I found it a little too cute and poppy. But it's definitely grown on me, I really love its warmth. The delicate synths add a bubbly touch to the song, and the overall buoyancy and youthful exuberance make for a great pre-Christmas song.
가슴이 사랑하는 법 - DNT
Korean | Ballad
Most of the songs I've heard from these guys are upbeat and dance-influenced, so this was an interesting change. I found their vocals in the beginning a bit too soft and the accompaniment to be a bit overwhelming, but it backs off after a bit and their voices really shine out - rich, warm, and decadent. Overall this song has a very rounded, polished feel - while still retaining a lot of emotion. Definitely shows their vocal potential, an interesting change of style.
내가 죽어도 - DNT
Korean | Ballad
DNT stays on the ballad route. A very classic Korean ballad that is reminiscent of SG Wannabe. Again, vocally it's quite excellent, a lot more than I expected from them. More dramatic than the previous song - compositionally it's a bit boring, but again, certainly shows their potential. One thing I do really like is their harmonies.
서랍을 비우다 - Vodka Rain
Korean | Soft Rock
I love these guys, and was delighted to see they'd released a new mini-album. 서랍을 비우다 is a calm song with gorgeous instrumentation, filled with isolated strings and warm piano. Laid-back and soothing, but definitely not boring. A perfect song to just relax to after a long day.
甘く果てしなく (Amaku Hateshinaku; Endlessly Sweet) - Tohoshinki
Japanese | Pop
So this isn't as "recent" of a release, but I had it uploaded and thought I'd share. It's an energetic, bubbly song by Tohoshinki, with lots of rich brass and warm harmonies. Like its title suggests, it's sugary sweet - but, a rare occurrence, without being overbearingly so. It's well-balanced and shows their maturity and youthful energy at the same time.
말하고 싶어요 - Rescue Jane
Korean | Rock/Ballad
I don't know anything about this guy, although apparently he's had some success as an underground artist and this song is from his first mainstream release, Opus 1. Either way, I love his warm, husky voice and the rich piano and string base of this song. Although it seems to be a fairly standard ballad, something about how his vocals come through and how powerful and expressive they are just makes this song so exceptionally good. Recommended!
Labels: 2PM, Alex, DNT, Dream Girls, Kan Mi Yeon, Mao Denda, Rescue Jane, Tei, Tohoshinki
First off - I apologize for this rotation being late, and for the fact that it's relatively small. I changed up the format a bit too - there are only two songs that I commented fully on, and they're more of a bonus than part of the actual rotation since ... they're not winter/holiday-themed, haha.
White X'mas - KAT-TUN
japanese | ballad | emotional, sad, sweet, sincere
Only You (Winter Special) - 2PM
korean | pop | sweet, driven, energetic
Snow Dance winter session - DEPAPEPE
instrumental | acoustic | calm, relaxing, soothing
The Call - Regina Spektor
english | soundtrack | sincere, bittersweet, hopeful
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus - AAA
engrish | pop | happy, light-hearted, cheerful
So This Is Christmas (Live) - Luna Sea
japanese | rock | uplifting, powerful, energetic
Winter - ELLEGARDEN
japanese | rock | uplifting, energetic, sincere
Yeo Haeng Gi - Dong Bang Shin Ki (Travelling)
korean | pop/ballad | emotional, uplifting, sweet
Winter Gold - Stephanie
japanese | pop | upbeat, driven, confident
Cirque du Soleil - KA
I had the opportunity to watch this amazing show when I was in Las Vegas, and immediately searched out the soundtrack when I got home. Even listening to it without watching the show is a wonderful experience. I was intending to share the entire album as another rotation, but I couldn't wait. Here are two songs from the soundtrack of Cirque du Soleil's show, KA. These songs are both highly recommended.
Track 1. O Makunde
Track 5. Deep
Both these songs stayed with me because, like many songs on this soundtrack, they are capable of bringing up so much emotion, no matter what that emotion might be. Their vocal work is simply fantastic and has a quality that you simply cannot find in popular music today. O Makunde starts out with a sad tone, but rises with more and more confidence and hope. Deep is extremely sorrowful, but also exquisitely beautiful. The string accompaniment is just amazing.
Labels: 2PM, AAA, Cirque du Soleil, Depapepe, Dong Bang Shin Ki, ELLEGARDEN, KAT-TUN, Luna Sea, Regina Spektor, Stephanie
Just a small update. I've uploaded 2PM and Arashi's latest releases. If you've noticed, I've started uploading on MediaFire. Hope that doesn't cause problems for anyone.
I also have Younha's 2nd album and SHINee's first album, I may upload one or both of them later if I have time.
Uploaded Requests:
` 01. Love Today - Taru
Korean | Pop/Electronica
2PM - Hottest Time of the Day
Korean | Pop
` 1; 10점 만점에 10점 (10 Points out of 10)
` 2; Only You
` 3; Angel
` 4; 10점 만점에 10점 (Old School Ver.)
` 5; 10점 만점에 10점 (Inst.)
` 6; Only You (Inst.)
Whereas 2AM is supposed to be more focused on vocals, JYP's latest creation, 2PM, is more dance-oriented. Upbeat and in-your-face, 10점 만점에 10점 is mediocre. Vocally weak, while JYP's songs are usually at least catchy, it lacks much power or originality. Only You takes more of an R&B influence. While I understand that they are meant to be focused on dance routines, it makes listening to the music without watching the routine a bit of a bore. An overpowering bass beat unfortunately drones out much of the vocal work. Angel stood out a little more to me - lighthearted, fun, and poppy, to me it is definitely the strongest song on this single. The old school version uses synths in place of the original instrumental which makes their singing sound even weaker. As you can probably tell, I wasn't too impressed with this single. 2AM's single was much more memorable to me.
Arashi - Truth/Kaze no Mukou e
Japanese | Pop
` 1; truth
` 2; 風の向こうへ (Kaze no Mukou e)
` 3; スマイル (Smile)
` 4; truth (オリジナル・カラオケ)
` 5; 風の向こうへ (オリジナル・カラオケ)
` 6; スマイル (オリジナル・カラオケ)
* Tracks 4-6 are instrumentals.
Not being a big fan of Johnny's Entertainment/ J Storm groups, I was surprised that I quite enjoyed this single. Truth is catchy and has an almost dark feel to it set by the static-filled electric guitars. The piano accompaniment adds a nice touch. Definitely one of Arashi's better songs. Kaze no Mukou e takes a much brighter tone, a light-hearted, summery song complete with acoustic guitars. A nice contrast to truth. Smile completes the single, another laid-back, fun track. Catchy, but not overly memorable. Overall a solid single, truth was definitely my favourite track.
