Music Highlights 12.21.20
I joked about it in the last post, but for the new year I will be posting all about my personal ults news in its own special space. I focus on my favorites more than others, and I’m more prepped to find more info and special things they put out than most things. However, I do know that it can be annoying when lumped in with the rest of the crowd, so look for 2PM/DAY6/Dreamcatcher info in their own spot in the coming year.
No weekly highlights post next week, it’s the end of the year and warrants a special music post about my favorites of the year.
+ News
There will be an exhibition from the National Theatre of Korea called Stage Tunes that will present five-minute informational animated videos on ballet, history, stage equipment etc. I really wish I was more dedicated to learning Korean, because I always find it fascinating how other countries are doing theatre and Korea is no different. Hopefully these videos will help share what makes theatre great for kids and get them interested.
More end of the year lists are out, and this one from NME of the top 25 Asian albums of the year is worth a look. I know these lists tend to have the same content on it, but this one is a good example of a great way to find new music. It’s hard to narrow down on music - especially when it’s not in your language - and this is a great way to narrow down some choices. There are some great picks, and some that I’m interested in.
Rolling Star TV has been a great source of consistent and accessible concert streams, and on January 10th they'll be hosting Ambitious Girls Rock 1 featuring BRATS, Rolling Quartz, VELVET SIGHS, and VINCIT. It’s a great lineup, and I’ll definitely be watching.
+ Releases and Finds
BAND-MAID released a new song, ‘After Life’, which is one of the songs off of their upcoming album.
Wonpil has played his guide version of ‘Like a Flowing Wind’ in a Pilaylists before and has mentioned maybe posting it, and the day has finally come. Enjoy this version in all it’s beautiful glory.
Young K came out with another Young One video (on his birthday!) with a Jong Yong Lee cover of his song, ‘Winter Child’.
Seori has been a great find of the year, and her newest single ‘Trigger’ is not only gorgeous, but so is the music video. If you aren’t a music video person, give this one a chance.
Leaves Black came out with the single, ‘Flower’.
Polkadot Stingray came out with their album Naninomo. It’s a solid album. Polkadot Stingray has been spoiling us this year with consistent new music.
I enjoy how Neon Bunny’s ‘Call You’ is a chill but bright single and not just good for the winter. I like all the winter music coming out, but it’s nice to break it up.
+ Upcoming
There isn’t anything that I’ve noticed that is coming out that I’m super excited about. There are always releases that I miss and don’t know until they are released, so I’m sure something will pop up.
+ Album spotlight
We, Do It Together is the best compilation album to come out this year. I’ve talked bout it in previous posts, but it can’t be talked about enough. A solid group of some of South Korea’s best female voices in the indie/rock scene came together to produce an album that not only showcases their talent but shines a light on the hardship that female voices have not only in the scene but just in everyday life. I have the Bandcamp embedded here, but I HIGHLY suggest buying the digital album. It’s only $12 and supports great women in the industry doing great things - and you get to have the greatness that is this album with you at all times.
Miss last week’s post? Find it here.
+++