After a long break KARA returns with 2 new members and a fresh look… Nah, I was kidding about the fresh look. They have become exactly what most girl groups in South Korea are: typical and forgettable. Yes, I’m a little disappointed. They stood out last year because they weren’t trying to be too sexy like Wondergirls, or too cute like SNSD, but were just hanging in there and working hard each day. Their clothes were simple, their dance steps weren’t infectious, but their music was unique and they sound great. After listening to the songs in this mini-album, I realized one thing: KARA was gone the moment Kim Sung Hee left. Anyhow, if you’d like to know the best song in this min-album, I’ll say it’s track # 5.
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EXILE is one of the few Japanese Groups I listened to (and almost fangirled about) back in College. They still sound great, even if it has been.. what, almost seven years? Their music leans more to Pop Ballad/R&B, and even though I detest R&B my whole life, their songs are actually pleasant to the ears. In this album, check out My Fantasy, Scream and What is Love. For the lulz, listen to Manatsu No Kajitsu (a Southern All Stars original.. This will remind you of a certain Tagalog song). [Download links after the cut].
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It’s Hyorish is Lee Hyori’s third album. Her voice reminds me of Namie Amuro’s, and she dances a lot like Jennifer Lopez. She’s well popular in South Korea, but in case you haven’t heard about her yet, do try to start by searching Fin.K.L in the net. In the mean time, check out tracks # 7 and 12.
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After O2, Orange Range is back with their fifth Studio album “Panic Fancy”. Included in the album are the popular hits Ikenai Taiyou, Kimi Station and of course, O2. Do check out Sunny Stripe, Shiawase Neiro and Toubi as well. [Download links after the cut].
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Sing to the Sky is ayaka’s 2nd album. Included in this album are her popular singles such as Jewelry Day, Te wo Tsunagou and Clap & Love/Why. The track “Konya mo Hoshi ni Dakarete” is the theme song of the 2008 anime film The Sky Crawlers. Do check out the English version of “I Believe” as well (ayaka speaks decent English). My favorites are SKY and Mahoutsukai no Shiwaza. [Download links after the cut].
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