Anthony Hamilton - 'I'll Wait (To Fall In Love)' (2011)

Back To Love is a great album. I definitely recommend it for those who enjoy R&B/Soul.

'I'll Wait (To Fall In Love)' is a really nice song. One of my fave from the new album! 

Listen below: 

Lyrics:

I`ll wait for you to fall in love
I`ll hold myself for only you
you know I will baby hmmm

along the way I try my hand in love
in hopes that we'll one day bring that unity
the one that feels natural and true like an older day movie
not pretentious both interests agree
that we belong in love as a power
I`ll give to stay, you

chorus
I`ll wait for you to fall in love (I`ll wait I`ll wait I`ll wait)
I`ll hold myself for only you( I`m gonna hold myself for you baby)
I`ve tried to settle down before
I`ve tried I`ve tried
but there`s no other love that will do

Elated about you all joy (the thrill to me)
for once I can open my heart and share all feelings
come closer and make me your own(give a life time baby)
and shelter me close with your love
cause there is no woman out there can do ohhh

chorus
I`ll wait for you to fall in love (said I`ll wait)
I`ll hold myself for only you( I`ll hold myself for you baby)
I`ve tried to settle down before
said I`ve tried it before
there`s no other love that will do

for your love I`ll wait(I`ll wait)
girl I`ll wait (cause there`s no other love)
cause there`s no love that will do
makes me feel the way that you do my baby ohhhhh

chorus
I`ll wait for you to fall in love (I`ll wait baby)
I`ll hold myself for only you( I`ll hold myself for only you)
I`ve tried to settle down before
I`ve tried I`ve tried
there`s no other love that will do things like you do

I`ll wait for you to fall in love (I`ll wait baby)
make me feel like you do
I`ll hold myself for only you( I`m gonna wait baby)
make me feel like you do

do do do do do do do do x4

Lyrics credit: metrolyrics
Lyrics revised: jctmusicnotes

Anthony Hamilton - 'Best Of Me' (2011)

One of my favorite track from Anthony Hamilton's latest album, Back To Love.

Listen below:

Lyrics: 

It’s simple, I love it, having you near me, having you here

Our conversations, outrageous, 

You smile, and I smile then I say

Boo, this getting personal, personal, personal

Let’s stay for a while and play

Girl let’s make this a moment

Giving you the best of me, amazing, lady, amazing, baby

Having you close to me, amazing, outrageous

Give your best to me

Good morning, here’s breakfast

Lost track of time but, we had a ball

Let’s catch a movie, then dinner

Tonight’s the night we’ll

Just unwind, and stay, hey

Let’s stay personal, personal, personal

Let’s stay for a while and play

Such a beautiful moment

Giving you the best of me, amazing, amazing, 

Having you close to me, amazing, outrageous

Give your best to me

Giving you the best of me, amazing, amazing, 

Having you close to me, amazing, outrageous

Give your best to me X 2

Lyrics credit: sweetslyrics 

Lyrics reviewed: jctmusicnotes

New Music: CHEEZE - '1st single album - 나홀로 집에 (Home Alone)' (2011)

CHEEZE is a new R&B/Hip Hop group under Ra.D's realcollabo label. CHEEZE consists of 4 members: 2 producers (GooRoomi (구름이), MOODI), vocalist Dalchongi (달총이) and rapper YASU. They released their first single entitled, "나홀로 집에 (Home Alone)" on Dec. 16, 2011. The track is a Christmas song for single men and women. The song is not bad -  good melody and vocals.

Tracklist
1. 나홀로 집에 (Home Alone)

Listen below:

New Music: Young-Jun (of Brown Eyed Soul) - '꽃보다 그대가 (You, Over Flowers) feat. Simon D' (2011)

Young-Jun (a member of Korean R&B group - Brown Eyed Soul) released a digital single on Dec. 26, 2011. The track, "'꽃보다 그대가 (You, Over Flowers)" is a romantic R&B/Soul song with smooth vocals. The rap segment by Simon D. also complements well with Young Jun's vocals.

Tracklist
1. 꽃보다 그대가 (You, Over Flowers) feat. Simon D.


Listen below:

Robin Thicke - 'All Tied Up' (2011)

A smooth and sensual R&B/Soul track from Robin Thicke's latest album, Love After War. It's also written and composed by him. I must say this is his best album yet.

Listen below: (snippet only)



Lyrics:

Oooooh ohh yeah

Ohh ohh

Hey, girl
I've been thinking
About you in see-through secrets
Crawling on my thousand friend count
Down, down, down
Play, play hard to get it
'Cause you know I love to chase that
Till you push me on the bed and start your show

Baby 'cause I'm all tied up
Inside, come save me
I get lonely (I get lonely)
I get blue (I get blue)
I want you baby (I want you baby)
I need you (all I need is you)
'Cause I'm all tied up (ohh yeah yeah yeah oooh)
Inside, come save me
I get lonely (come save me)
I get blue (come save me)
I want you baby (come on baby)
I need you (all I need is you)

Lay, lay across my pillow
As you make love to my ego
And you always treat me like a superstar
Oh, I'm so obsessed you,
Know I'm such a mess
But, when I see you get undress and
Start your show

Baby 'cause I'm all tied up
Inside, come save me
I get lonely (I get lonely)
I get blue (I get blue)
I want you baby (I want you baby)
I need you (all I need is you)
'Cause I'm all tied up (hey yeah yeah yeah yeah yey)
Inside, come save me
I get lonely (come save me)
I get blue (come save me)
I want you baby (all I...)
I need you (all I need is your love)

(I'm all tied up) girl, I'm so locked up inside
(I get blue) Ooh I need you, you got the key baby,
Only you can release me now (ooh)
(I'm all tied up) I need your love, ooh I need you to save me baby
(I need you) ooh you got the key, come on and set me free

Baby 'cause I'm all tied up
Inside, come save me (uhh)
I get lonely (I get lonely)
I get blue (I get blue)
I want you baby (I want you baby)
I need you (all I need is you)
'Cause I'm all tied up (ohh yeah yeah yeeiiii)
Inside, come save me
I get lonely (come save me)
I get blue (come save me)
I want you baby (all I...)
I need you (all I need is you)

Baby 'cause I'm all tied up (all tied up)
Inside, come save me (I'm all tied up) (all tied up)
I get lonely (I'm so lonely)
I get blue (I get blue)
I want you baby (come on save me baby)
I need you (nothing without you)
'Cause I'm all tied up (ohh yeah yeah yeeaahhh)
Inside, come save me
I get lonely (come on just save me)
I get blue (come on just save me)
I want you baby (come on just save me)
I need you (I need your love)

Lyrics credit: azlyrics

Kpop – List of R&B releases 2011 (Final)

Just summarizing all the R&B (includes R&B/pop, R&B/ballad, R&B/Soul, and some R&B/Hip Hop) releases by Kpop artists, by month. This is the rest of the list for 2011. 

July 
Yoon Jong Shin – 2011 月刊 尹鍾信 July (single)

1Sagain & Donnie J - Neuron Presents Vol.1 (single)

August
Verbal Jint feat. C-luv – Luv Songz (track off Verbal Jint’s album)
Urban Zakapa - Tribute90 Part 1. Just A Feeling (single)

September   
Soulstar – Rebirth (mini album)
Kein - 니가 예쁜 이유 (The Reason)' (Why Are You Beautiful) (single)

October          

November         
Tablo – Tomorrow feat. TaeYang (track off Tablo’s album)
40 – Got Faith (mini album)
Mad Clown – 바질 feat. Brother Su (track off Mad Clown’s album)
All That – Touch Me Remix (single)

December        
J-Dogg – Don’t Be Afraid (single)
Kein – 어떤말로도 (Even Though No Words) (single)
Yoon Jong Shin – Vol. 13 행보 (Pace) 2011 (album)

Sat Byeol – 1^st single: 1+1+1 (single album)

Brown Eyed Soul – Soul Fever (Live album) 

Jaemin & Owl – Christmas Love (single)
CHEEZE - '1st single album - 나홀로 집에 (Home Alone)

NS Yoon Ji – 니가 뭘 알아 feat Verbal Jint (How Could You Know) 
Jasmin - The 2nd Single - 지금쯤이면 (By Now) (single)     
Young Jun (of Brown Eyed Soul) - 꽃보다 그대가 (You, Over Flowers) feat. Simon D (single)
Jay Park - New Breed Part 1 (digital mini album)

Album Review: Yoon Jong Shin (윤종신) – ‘Vol. 13 행보 (Pace) 2011’

Album release date: 2011
Genre: Kpop, ballad/R&B
Rating: 3.5/5                
Review by: jct

For his 13^th studio album, Vol. 13 행보 (Pace) 2011, Yoon Jong Shin compiles all the monthly singles that were released throughout the year 2011 for a total of 13 tracks. He picked up where he left off from Vol. 12 and continues to provide his usual love ballads seasoned with a variety of genres to spice things up. However, nearly half of the songs are sung by other singers and doesn't feature Jong Shin at all. This is a shame, because at his best, he’s a compelling, top-tier vocalist whose luscious voice has the power to mesmerize.

Strong Production, Strong Vocals

The most memorable song of the whole album is '두 이별 feat. Lee Jung (Two Separations), which is a mid-tempo R&B/ballad about broken hearts. Their vocals really complement well with each other and Jong Shin shows that he is still capable of hitting the higher notes with ease. The song portrays two different perspectives (Yoon Jong Shin and Lee Jung) on breakup. The song starts off with Lee Jung as he sings about reminiscing on the memories of a past love and missing those times together - "Gone/ I miss you, you are so far away/ your safety I can no longer ensure." And then Yoon Jong Shin continues with the rest of the song where he expresses his love and asking the lover not to leave. He sings, "I love you/ Please say how happy you are with me/Don't say goodbye."

The tracks that also deserve mentioning are the piano ballad "Happy New Year...With You feat. Kim Kwang Min (pianist)", the slow-tempo Bossa Nova/Jazz track "바바바 feat. 이상순  (BaBaBa feat. Lee Sang Soon – guitarist)", the slow-tempo ballad about broken hearts, “거기까지만 (There Would Be), the old school funk/dance track, “Love Scanner”, and a track that is a medley of 12 songs from his past albums, "Shin's Rhythm for 20 years...(feat. Postino)”. A list of the details of the 12 songs can be found here.

The main topic that is covered in this album is broken hearts and regret, which Jong Shin seems to excel in writing. Not only does he compose all the tracks, but he also participated in the arrangement of the songs with the aid of other producers. The production results are quite strong as he is able to cover a range of genres (R&B, pop, ballad, Jazz, Bossa Nova, funk) and at the same time sounding comfortable and soothing.

...But Slightly Disappointing

The album’s one flaw is that nearly half of the songs (track 4, 5, 7, 10, 12) are sung by other singers and those tracks don’t even feature Jong Shin at all. Here’s the thing - if people are paying for a Yoon Jong Shin album, then placing a bunch of track sung completely by someone else isn’t doing those who bought the album any favors. Perhaps 'Yoon Jong Shin & Friends' may be a more appropriate album title. 

It’s not that the other singers sound bad, but it’s just that they really aren't necessary. It's already very clear that he is a talented songwriter and producer and certainly able to carry an album on its own with few guest singers if he so desires. It is understanding that Jong Shin would like to have them appear on the album as he composed and produced those songs, but they were already released as digital monthly singles. And, having them also appearing on a Yoon Jong Shin album is simply unnecessary.

There is no doubt that Yoon Jong Shin still has a very fine voice but he fails to fully utilize it on Vol. 13 and instead by having others doing the vocals is somewhat disappointing. However, overall, Vol. 13 is a still a nice album with original lyrics and good style.

Tracklist
1. Happy New Year…with You feat. 김광민 (Kim Kwang Min – pianist for the song) 
2. 바바바 feat. 이상순  (BaBaBa feat. Lee Sang Soon – guitarist)
3. 거기까지만  (There Would Be) 
4. 너 없이 산다 feat. 이현우 (Living Without You feat. Lee Hyun Woo - vocals)
5. 결국 봄 feat. 장필순 (It's Finally Spring feat. Jang Pil Soon - vocals)
6. 두 이별 feat. 이정 (Two Separations feat. Lee Jung)
7. 말꼬리 feat. 정준일 of Mate (Horse Tail feat. Jung Jun Il of Mate – vocals)
8. Shin’s Rhythm for 20 years feat. Postino
9. Love Scanner feat. 정석원, Swings
10. 니 생각 feat. 김그림, 신치림 (What Do You Think feat. Kim Gu Rim, Shin Chi Rim - vocals)
11. 못나고 못난 (How Foolish of Me)
12. 늦가을 feat. 규현 of Super Junior ( Late Autumn feat. Kyuhyun of Super Junior – vocals)
13. 나이 (Age) 

Album Review: Z-Chen (張智成) – ‘你愛上的…(In Love With…)’

Album release date: 2011
Genre: R&B/pop/ballad, Cpop
Rating: 4/5                   
Review by: jct

On his 8th studio album, 你愛上的…(In Love With…), singer Z-Chen clearly solidifies his status as R&B 小王子 (Little Prince of R&B). It is evident on this album that he returns sounding more comfortable and crisp vocally and instrumentally. With his strong and soulful vocals, he continues to please listeners/fans with his usual R&B love ballads and at the same time sounding contemporary. 

Tender & Romantic

Although the songs in his last album, 暗戀 (Secret Love), were good, he sounded somewhat lackluster on many of the songs. However, it turns out that spending a considerable time off was a good idea as he returns sounding rejuvenated. The album starts off with the title track, “金玉良言 (Valuable Advice)”, which is a piano love ballad about receiving some love advices as he sings, “If we have the opportunity to reunite/ I want to meet up but it would be too random/ The hurtful words are still ringing near my ears/ Goodbye for us is the most valuable advice I got.”

A real gem though is the mid-tempo R&B track, “Wish You Well” which is about sincerely hoping his ex-lover finds love and happiness as he sings smoothly, “He’s there to accompany you when we’re at a friend’s wedding/ That sweet feeling, I’m really happy for you.”  And he clearly sounds sincere singing those words, and he continues, “My happiness is not important as long as you are happy/ I don’t bother about the past, I still can nod and smile/ My happiness is not important as long as you are happy/ I wish you well with a hug. Do not think about the past/ I wish you well, you’ll understand only after you truly loved someone.”

The album covers a wide range of love topics and most of the songs are R&B/pop love ballads that his fans are used to and had come to enjoy. However, he also explores other genres while still trying to maintain some R&B sounds such as the electronic folk track, “Bring Me Back” and the synthpop dance track, “Toyboy”.  However, not all of the songs are on point. Particularly, “Toyboy”, which sounds somewhat disjointed and his soothing vocals are hindered by the synthesizer. But despite its flaws, the album overall is filled with tender and romantic tracks, which is certainly recommended for those who enjoy R&B/pop love ballads.

Tracklist

1. 金玉良言 (Valuable Advice)
2. 2013 
3. 你愛上的我 (In Love With Me)
4. Wish You Well 
5. 帶我回去 (Bring Me Back)
6. Dream Love 
7. 相逢恨早 (Met Too Soon)
8. 寂寞有罪 (Being Alone is Wrong)
9. ToyBoy 
10. 陪我好不好 (feat. 陈佳薪) (Be With Me feat. Chen Jiaxin)

Update - Dec. 22, 2011

Hi guys!

I'm finally getting back on track with the album reviews and updates. I will also post the list of Kpop/R&B for the latter half of the year next week.

You may noticed that the 'Notes' section has undergone some changes. Mainly because there's too many dead video links, so I will only post selected and more quality R&B with more details.

If you have any questions/ comments, feel free to comment below.

Thanks for reading & following my blog! Happy holidays!

- jct

New Music: Jasmin (쟈스민) - '지금쯤이면 (By Now)' (2011)

Jasmin (쟈스민) is a Korean male R&B singer. He released his 2nd single entitled 'The 2nd Single - 지금쯤이면 (By Now)' on Dec. 21, 2011. The title track, "지금쯤이면 (By Now)" is a mid-tempo R&B/pop track with nice vocals about reminising on a past love and the good times back then.

Tracklist
1. 지금쯤이면 (By Now)


Listen below:

Album Review: Soul Star (소울스타) – ‘Rebirth’ (mini-album)

Album release date: 2011
Genre: R&B/Soul, Kpop
Rating: 4/5
Review by: jct

After a 4 year hiatus, Korean 3-membered R&B group, Soul Star returns with a mini-album entitled Rebirth. Soul Star clearly establishes themselves as credible singers as they returned sounding stronger and more focused. 

Mature, Rebirth 

The album’s title track, “바로 지금 당장 (Right Now At This Instant)” is a mid-tempo R&B track about a broken heart and wishing a lover would come back, as they sings smoothly, “You told me several times/ you said you’d love you me till you die/ I was deceived by that beautiful lie/ I still, still can’t forget you/ Let me love you, come back this very moment.” Also deserving mentioning is the track, “생일 축하해 (Happy Birthday)” which is a mid-tempo R&B track about celebrating the birthday of a lover as they sing sweetly, “Happy birthday/ A special night just for you/ …can’t wait to see you blow it out/ take your time we have all night.”

The album is filled with a handful of love songs with rich melodies of R&B and great quality. The lyrics are also quite original. Unfortunately, none truly stands out to push the album over the top. But to their credit, their nuanced vocals are enough to power the album. Overall, Rebirth is a strong and mature R&B/Soul album.

Tracklist
1. Intropella
2. 아침이 오는 한 (As The Morning Comes)
3. 바로 지금 당장 (Right Now At This Instant)
4. 생일 축하해 (Happy Birthday)
5. 하나만 빼고 (Except For One)
6. 머리 어깨 무릎 발까지 (Head, shoulders, knees, to feet) 

Album Review: Vanness Wu - ‘C’est La V’

Album release date: 2011

Genre: R&B/pop, Cpop
Rating: 3/5
Review by: jct


Chinese actor-singer, Vanness Wu released his 5th album entitled C’est La V in July 2011. The album title uses the French word “c’est la vie” meaning it’s life as word play, which describes the album well as it covers a wide range of love topics that one may experience. The album certainly tries to capture the attention of  younger audiences using up-tempo and more mainstream music. However, the album is a good example that sometimes following too closely to mainstream may not be favorable.

Going Through Motions

The album doesn’t start off too well, as he toss the listener with a bunch of up-tempo tracks loaded with computer gimmicks. The title track, “說愛就愛 (Say Love, Then Love/ Love Faith Live)” is nothing more than a cold empty attempt to stay on top of trends and reinvent himself. Sure, there are some catchy parts, but the problem is the song is completely soulless.

That said, the album slowly gets better in the latter half, specifically starting from track 5, “命定 (Destined)”.  A track deserving mentioning is “只要她快樂 (As Long As She’s Happy)”, which is a mid-tempo romantic R&B track about not taking one’s love for granted, as he sings, “As long as she’s happy, happy/ it’s simpler than you think, using heart you will see, / as long as she’s happy, loving her every minute every second/ don’t leave her alone, don’t be so inconsiderate.” Also deserving mentioning is the English track, “Knockin”, which is written and produced by Bruno Mars. The song is about wanting to be more than friends, but the girl never looked his way as he sings smoothly and fluently in English, “The man that’ll treat you good/ is standing right in front of you/ tell me what you waiting for/ when my heart’s been knocking on your door.”

Some drawbacks of this album are that most of the songs sound generic, and production-wise, it seems like he tries too hard to follow the trend, which has its pros and cons. Although he got a couple of popular American producers to help him in the production of some songs, the overall production results are not exactly great. If the songs are unable to showcase his vocals, it’s as good as useless especially with the title track and “Is This All.”  In terms of vocals, it’s quite mediocre but he does have a plesant natural voice which makes up for the limited vocal range. Overall, his attempt at modernism isn’t horrible, but sticks out like a sore thumb. The slow to mid-tempo love ballads are what he excels in and he should stick to his strengths.  

Track list

1. Intro
2. 說愛就愛 (Say Love, Then Love/ Love Faith Live)
3. Is This All feat. Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic (theme song from TV Drama “Material Queen”)
4. Do it feat. 仔仔
5. 命定 (Destined)
6. 有你在 (Having You Near) (featured in TV Drama “Material Queen”)
7. 只要她快樂 (As Long As She’s Happy)
8. 愛的手榴彈 (Love Grenade)
9. 愛沒走 (Don’t Leave)
10. 哎呀 (Oh!)
11. 透明愛 (In The Limelight)
12. Knockin’ 

New Music: Z-Chen (張智成) - Wish You Well (2011)

Z-Chen released his 7th album, In Love With..., on November 7, 2011. Whoa!!! I'm so late!!! Such a bad fan! Way too busy with school, sigh...

From what I'm hearing so far, it sounds great - R&B with smooth vocals!!! The lyrics are nice and romantic. I'll post a review on the album during the holidays.

Check out the track, "Wish You Well":

R&B Artists (Cpop)

Some Chinese artists who sing R&B include:

R&B

Khalil Fong
Z-Chen 

Pop/ballad with some R&B (occasionally)

Gary Cao Ge
Wang Lee Hom

Jay Chou

David Tao

R&B Artists (Kpop)

Some Korean artists who sing R&B include:

R&B, R&B/soul

Ra.D

Brand Newjiq

All That (올댓)

Taewan aka C-luv

Taebin

Soulman

Brother Su

Brown Eyed Soul

Kim Bum Soo
Bumkey

R&B/pop/ballad & others*

Wheesung

4Men

Rain

Se7en

Fly To The Sky

TaeYang

Big Bang

Yoon Jong Shin

Lyn

Gummy

Jay Park

One Way

*These artists sing other genres as well, and does not completely focus on R&B throughout career. 

New Music: All That (올댓) - 'Touch Me Remix' (2011) (digital single)

All That (올댓) is a Korean R&B duo consisting of Kuan (vocalist) and EachONE (composer, song writer, producer). They recently released a digital single entitled 'Touch Me Remix" on November 16, 2011. The title track, "Touch Me Remix feat. Ceejay of FreshBoyz" is a mid-tempo R&B track with some rap by Ceejay. All That never fails to sound smooth and sensual, and indeed, they deliver it well in this track. 

Tracklist
1. Touch Me Remix feat. Ceejay of FreshBoyz
2. Touch Me Remix (Instr)


Listen below (snippet ver):

Ra.D (라디) - Selected Lyrics/Production Credits

*Note: Ra.D’s own songs and songs that he produced for the members of realcollabo label are not included here.  

- Kebee - Constellation (feat. Ra.D) (2007)

- Dynamic Duo - 어머니의 된장국 [Mother's Miso Soup] (Feat. Ra.D) (2008)

- Dynamic Duo - 아버지 [Father] (Feat. Ra.D) (2008)

- Narsha - I'm In Love (with 정성하) [remake of Ra.D’s I’m In Love” (2010)

- Ga-In – Esperando (2010)

- 2PM – I Can’t (2010)

- Kim Jin Pyo (김진표) - 가지말걸 그랬어 (feat. JooYeong) (2011)

- Alex (알렉스) - TOMBOi (feat. LOVEY) (2011)

- Lee Seung Gi - 어디라도 Anywhere (Ra.D Mix ver.) (2011)

- Wonder Girls – Be My Baby (Ra.D mix) (2011)
- Kim Jin Pyo - 가지말걸 그랬어 feat. JooYeong (2011)
- 2AM - 그냥 있어줘 (Just Stay) (2013)
- Kim Jo Han - 별.달.다 (The Stars, The Moon, All For You) (Feat. Jo HyunAh of Urban Zakapa) (2013)

*last updated 03/2014

New Music: Mad Clown (매드 크라운) - '바질 (Feat. Brother Su)' (2011)

Mad Clown (매드 크라운)  is a Korean male rapper who recently released an album entitled 'Anything Goes' on November 4, 2011. Track 9, "'바질 (Feat. BrotherSu)" is a mid-tempo R&B/Hip Hop track about a broken heart and that where ever he goes, he is reminded of her. The melody and beats are nice with Brother Su's amazing vocals. The rest of the album is too hip hop/rap for my liking though.

Tracklist
9. 바질(feat. Brother Su)


Listen below:

New Music: Kein (케인) - '니가 예쁜 이유 (The Reason)' (2011) (digital single)

Kein (케인) is a Korean R&B/Soul singer who debut this year (2011). He released his first digital single on September 30, 2011. The title track, "니가 예쁜 이유 (The Reason) [Why Are You So Beautiful]" is a R&B/Soul song with smooth and soulful vocals about his feelings for a loved one and describing details about her loveliness. The melody is very nice and comforting.

Tracklist

1. 니가 예쁜 이유 (The Reason)' (Why Are You Beautiful) 

Listen below:

New Music: Yoon Jong Shin (윤종신) - 2011 月刊 尹鍾信 October (digital single)

Yoon Jong Shin released his October monthly digital single entitled " 2011 月刊 尹鍾信 October" on Oct. 5, 2011. The title track, "못나고 못난 (How Foolish Of Me)" is a ballad/pop song with smooth vocals and nice melody about discussing with a friend how they failed in love while they are drinking together. 

Why is this MV also so strange yet funny? haha! Still love his music! 

Note: I didn't post the September monthly single because it was just a ballad track and Jong Shin didn't even sing it! 


Tracklist
1. 못나고 못난 (How Foolish Of Me) 


Listen below:

New Music: Verbal Jint - 'Luv Songz (Feat. 태완 (Taewan) aka C-Luv)'

Verbal Jint is a Korean male rapper, and 태완 (Taewan) akaC-Luv is a Korean R&B/pop singer. Verbal Jint recently released an album entitled 'Go Easy' released on August 31, 2011. Track 7, "Luv Songz (Feat. 태완 aka C-Luv)" is a mid-tempo R&B/Hip Hop track about a broken heart and listening to love songs to ease the pain. The melody and beats are nice, and the vocals and rap fit well with one another. However, the lyrics clearly lack originality - too many references to other popular mainstream songs.

Listen below:

Lalah Hathaway - 'If You Want To' (2011)

A mid-tempo R&B/Soul track with great vocals.

Listen below:



Lyrics:

to be updated

New Music: Urban Zakapa (어반 자카파) - 'Tribute90 Part 1. Just A Feeling' (2011)

Urban Zakapa (어반 자카파) is a Korean indie group that debut in 2009. They recently released a digital single entitled "Tribute90 Part 1. Just A Feeling" on August 18, 2011. The title track, "Just a Feeling (remake)", is a slow-tempo R&B/Soul track with smooth vocals about the feeling you get when you meet the right person.

Tracklist 
1. Just a Feeling (remake)


Listen below:

Brand Newjiq - Music Videos & Cover/remake songs

Music Videos

"Excuse Me (Piano feat. JiHo)" - 2009



My comment: One word about this song - LOVE! Love their style of R&B, the piano, Francis' vocals and Hoody's rap. 

Cover/remake songs

"누난너무예뻐 (Noona You're So Pretty (Replay)) remake ver" (original song by SHINee) 




"Again & Again remake ver" (Original song by 2PM)




"Memory remake ver." (original song by JiYoon Park



"취중진담 remake ver." (Original song by Kim Dong Ryul)

Artist bio: Brand Newjiq (브랜뉴직)

Profile
Name: Brand Newjiq (브랜뉴직) 
Members: Francis, Hoody
Debut Year: 2008 
Profession: singer, rapper

Career 
Brand Newjiq is a Korean R&B male duo, consisting of Francis (vocalist) and Hoody (rapper). They debut in May 2008, and released their first digital single in 2009. Their music genres include R&B, Jazz, R&B/Soul and some Hip Hop. They deliver a great style of R&B/Jazz/Soul with Francis' smooth vocals and Hoody's rapping.

As of 2014, it seems like Francis is no longer part of Brand Newjiq ( I don't see him or hear him in the songs or MV). Hoody continues his solo career as Brand Newjiq.

Discography 

Digital singles
Excuse Me        2009
안되는데 (No Way)    2010 
Love Letter    2011
Propose     2011
Stay By Me  2013
Midnight Traveler (track - Good Night Good Morning) 2013


Source: maniadb, daum, itunes

New Music: Yoon Jong Shin (윤종신) - 2011 月刊 尹鍾信 August (digital single)

Yoon Jong Shin released his August monthly digital single entitled " 2011 月刊 尹鍾信 August" on Aug. 3, 2011 where he collaborates with Swings again. The title track, "Love Scanner (Feat. 정석원 & Swings)", is a dance/disco track with nice melody about waiting for someone special to appear and being able to detect them within seconds. The song is not bad, but not really my style. 

About the MV for the song, haha! It's so.... awkward yet funny. 


Tracklist
1.  Love Scanner (Feat. 정석원 & Swings)


Listen below:

Yoon Jong Shin - Performance on Yoo Hee Yeol's Sketchbook 11/07/29

Yoon Jong Shin and 015B performed on YHY's Sketchbook on July 29, 2011. He performed "1월부터 6월까지 (From January to June)" which is a track from 015B's latest album, 20th Century Boy. It's a nice live performance with great vocals. 


Watch below:

New Music: 1Sagain & Donnie J (원써겐, 도니제이) - 'Neuron Presents Vol.1 ' (2011)

1Sagain & Donnie J released a new single entitled, "'Neuron Presents Vol.1" on July 11, 2011. The title track, "우울해 (Depressed)" is a slow-tempo Hip-Hop/ballad/R&B song about feeling lonely because he hasn't been able to find love yet. The vocals are not too bad with original lyrics. The MV is not bad as well, but it's kinda funny, especially the dancing. 

Tracklist:
1. 우울해 (Depressed)
2. 우울해 Instr. (Depressed)


Listen below:

Yoon Jong Shin (윤종신) - Collection of Performances on Director Cut S1 & S2

Just a collection of Jong Shin's performances on Director's Cut season 1 and 2. Although he performed on every episodes, this is only a collection of clips where he performs the most rather than the guests. I will update when there are more.


Yoon Jong Shin - '수목원에서 (At The Arboretum)' with some background vocals by Lee Jung
From Director's Cut S2 - 2011
Original song: Yoon Jong Shin - '수목원에서' from Vol. 9 





Yoon Jong Shin - '이별택시 (Farewell)' with some background vocals by Lyn & Kim Tae Woo
From Director's Cut S1
Original song: Kim Yeon Woo - '이별택시' Song lyrics by: Yoon Jong Shin

Kpop – List of R&B releases 2011 (Mid-Year)

Just summarizing all the R&B (includes R&B/pop, R&B/ballad, R&B/Soul, and some R&B/Hip Hop) releases by Korean artists. This is the mid-year list. I hope I didn’t miss out anyone, if so, you can comment below, and I’ll update the list.

January             
One Way – Rainy Days (full album)

As One – Taste of Love (digital single)Standing Egg  – Have You Ever Been In Love (with Ra.D) (Acoustic Ver.) (digital single)

SeungRi – VVIP (mini-album)

Yoon Jong Shin –  2011 月刊 尹鍾信 January (digital single)

February          
Kan Mi Youn – Sunshine (with Jun.K of 2PM) (digital single)

Yoon Jong Shin –  2011 月刊 尹鍾信 February (digital single)

LeeOn – 내게 하고 싶은 얘기 (If)  [I Want To Talk] (digital single) 
Jung Moon – U R My Lady (digital single)

March              
Yoon Jong Shin –  2011 月刊 尹鍾信 March (digital single)

Will2 – Ma Girl (digital single album)

Swings – 본능적으로 Remix (By Instinct) with Yoon Jong Shin & TaeYang

Wheesung – 가슴 시린 이야기 (Words That Freeze My Heart) (mini album)

Kim Tae Woo – Brothers&Me (with JYP and Rain) (single)

April                 
iSTORY -입 속이 타 들어가 (The Inside of My Mouth is Burning) (digital single)
Brian Joo – Uneveiled (mini album)

Daesung – Baby Don’t Cry (single from Big Bang Vol. 4.5 Special Edition)

Soulman – Second Single From The Road (digital single)
Jay Park – Take A Deeper Look (mini-album)

Swin - ChocolateMusic 3rd Anniversary Spring Day, Part 3 (digital single)

           

May                
Yoon Jong Shin – 2011 月刊 尹鍾信 May (digital single)

BEAST/B2ST – Fiction and Fact (full album)

Code-V – Honestly (full album)

N-Train – One Last Cry (digital single)

Jasmin - 봄이 (Spring) (digital single)

June
Brand Newjiq – Propose (digital single)
Enoch (에녹) - First (digital single)
015B - 월부터 6월까지 (From January To June) feat. Yoon Jong Shin                   

                      

New Music: Yoon Jong Shin (윤종신) - 2011 月刊 尹鍾信 July (digital single)

Yoon Jong Shin released his July 2011 monthly single on June 30, 2011. The title track, "Shin's Rhythm for 20 years...(feat. Postino)", is actually a medley of 12 songs from his past albums! Most of the songs chosen are more upbeat and fun rather than his usual slower romantic love ballads. This is definitely a good way for new and younger fans to learn more about his music.

Tracklist
1. Shin's Rhythm for 20 years...(feat. Postino)

The 12 songs are in the following order:  
1. 고속도로 로맨스 (Expressway Romance) ** 
2. 친구와 연인 (Friends and Lovers) **
3. 영계백숙 (Chicken baesuk) (refer to After Shaving remix track)
4. 내사랑 못난이 (My Ugly Duckling) **
5. 바래바래 (I hope, I hope)
6. 바캉스매니아 (Vacation Mania) **
7. 즉흥여행 (Impromptu trip) **
8. 오늘의 날씨 (Today's Weather) **
9. 애인하나 없는 사람들을 위해 (For Those Who Don't Have A Boyfriend)
10. 팥빙수 (Patbingsu/Red Bean Sorbet) **
11. 막걸리나 (Rice wine)
12. 본능적으로 (Instinctively) **

** jct recommendation - worth listening to the full track


Listen below:

New Music: 015B feat. Yoon Jong Shin (윤종신) - '1월부터 6월까지 (From January To June)' (2011)

015B is a popular Korean ballad group. They recently released a mini-album entitled 20th Century Boy. Yoon Jong Shin made a guest appearance in one of the tracks, Track 2 - "1월부터 6월까지 feat. 윤종신 (From January To June feat. Yoon Jong Shin)". Actually the whole song is sung by Jong Shin! Hehe! It's a ballad/R&B track with smooth vocals and nice melody.

Yoon Jong Shin made his debut as a guest vocalist of the band 015B in 1990 and actively participates in the production of their albums. So, I was really hoping Jong Shin would be featured in their latest album, and he did!

Tracklist (modified):
2. 1월부터 6월까지 feat. 윤종신 (From January To June feat. Yoon Jong Shin)


Listen below:

New Music: Enoch (에녹) - 'First' (2011) (digital single)

Enoch (에녹) is a Korean male R&B singer who recently debut. His real name is 윤창영 (Yoon ChangYoung). His first single entitled First was released on June 21, 2011. The title track, "처음 봐  feat. Joseph, Seha (Look At The First)" is a mid-tempo R&B/Hip Hop song with nice vocals and melody.

Tracklist
1. 처음 봐 feat. Joseph, Seha (Look At The First)
2. 처음 봐 feat. Joseph, Seha (RMX ver) (Look At The First)


Listen below:

New Music: Brand Newjiq (브랜뉴직) - 'Propose' (digital single) (2011)

Brand Newjiq (브랜뉴직) is a Korean R&B male duo consisting of Francis and Hoody. They debut in 2008. They recently released a digital single entitled "Propose" on June 9, 2011. "Propose" is a slow-tempo R&B track with nice melody accompanied with sensual vocals.

Tracklist:
1. Propose
2. Propose (Instrumental)


Listen below:

Track 1:



Track 2:

Album Review: Khalil Fong – ‘15’

Album release date: 2011
Genre: Soul/R&B, Retro Rock, Jazz, Cpop
Rating: 3/5
Review by: jct

After a two year hiatus, Khalil Fong returns with his sixth album entitled 15. On this album, he takes his music in a different direction than the one he followed in the past. His usual traditional Soul/R&B has been put on the back burner and replaced by Retro Rock and some R&B/Jazz. Overall, the album is heavily guitar driven which fits the album title as it is a reference to the age he began learning to play guitar.

A Different Path

The album starts off with a mid-tempo R&B/funk track, “Gotta Make A Change” which is about.social and environmental problems in the world as he sings smoothly, “Listen to the tree they see everything you do/ Look up at the sky can’t you see all the things you do become a sign/ That everything you do has a reason for leaving/ If you think there’s a way to change your life/ Then it’s now time to say that I believe.”

The album features a strong guitar presence which marks a different path that Khalil is moving towards. Although he experimented outside the Soul/R&B genre in his past albums, many songs on this album set a tone that are different from what his fans may be used to such as “曇花 (Epiphyllum)” and “張永成 (feat. Ghost Style) (Zhang Yong Cheng)”. Fortunately, the album is not completely devoid of traditional R&B/Soul and romantic ballads. Some examples include the title track, “因為你 (Because of You)” and “好不容易 (Not So Easy)”. The latter track is worth mentioning as it was written to commemorate his friend’s wedding. A 60-piece orchestra is also used to deliver the song which is about commitment to love as he sings, “Because I only love you/ I’ve already changed/ I realized/ Not so easy, not so easy/ Not so easy to find love with you.” Also deserving mentioning are “Over”, which is a R&B/Jazz track about a broken heart and “無菇朋友(Mushroom-less Friend)” which is a sound based word play implying innocent friend.

It is impressive that Khalil wrote the lyrics, composed and produced most if not all the songs, but the lack of traditional R&B flavour is somewhat disappointing. Although Khalil has smooth and soulful vocals, the guitar sounds is sometimes too strong and overwhelm his vocals. Longtime fans of his may have been surprised by the musical direction he went with this album, but there’s no arguing that it shows that he is capable of delivering new things and sounds comfortable in it. This album certainly represents a major leap in many aspects of his musical skills.

Delight or Disappointment

This album represents a bold change in direction for Khalil, who has mainly followed a tradional Soul/R&B path. Although R&B/Jazz are enjoyable, the Retro Rock genre may not delight those who enjoy mainly R&B and R&B/Soul as it is too heavily guitar driven. Overall his latest work will either delight or disappoint listeners depending on whether one can accept his new music direction.


Tracklist:
1. Gotta Make A Change
2. 曇花 (Epiphyllum)
3. 張永成 (feat. Ghost Style) (Zhang Yong Cheng)
4. 因為你 (Because of You)
5. 情勝策略 (Love Wins Strategy)
6. 無菇朋友 (Mushroom-less Friend/ Innocent Friend)
7. 自以為 (徐佳瑩合唱) (duet with Lala Xu) (Self-Assumption)
8. 二人遊 (Two Person Tour)
9. Over
10. Take Me
11. 好不容易 (Not So Easy)

Yoon Jong Shin - Performances on Yoo Hee Yeol's Sketchbook 2011/06/03

Yoo Hee Yeol's Sketchbook held a special episode entitled "The Musician" for its 100th episode. Jong Shin appeared and performed one of his classic ballad "오래 전 그날 (One Day Long Ago)" which can be found in his 3rd album (Vol. 3). It was a good performance - his vocals are strong and intact. 

Watch below:

Jagged Edge - 'Baby' (2011)

Jagged Edge will be releasing a new album in June 2011. Their current single, 'Baby' is a mid-tempo R&B track with smooth vocals and great melody. Looking forward to the rest of the album.

Listen below:

Album Review: Jay Park – ‘Take A Deeper Look’ (mini-album)

Album release date: 2011
Genre: R&B/pop, Hip Hop, Kpop
Rating: 3.5/5                
Review by: jct

The kind of music on Jay Park’s first solo album, Take A Deeper Look, is exactly what is expected from him: enjoyable, energetic dance music with some slow jams. Take A Deeper Look is no masterpiece and it doesn’t aim to be. It’s simple, good-time music about having fun, dealing with girlfriend issues, and among other things. Although there are some obvious shortcomings, Jay proves here that he has no intention of being gone and forgotten anytime soon.

An Enjoyable Ride

On his first mini album, Jay provides a range of musical genres including R&B, pop, dance and Hip-Hop/rap. The album’s title track, “Abandoned (feat. Dok2)” is a mid-tempo R&B/pop track about a heart ache after knowing that a lover left him, and he feels alone and abandoned, as he sings, “I bet all things, just to always be with you/ I only got you/ Don’t go anywhere else/ But you left me, my heart hurts.” Also deserving mentioning are “Don’t Let Go”, which is a sensual and romantic R&B track, and “Level 1000 (with Dok2)”, a Hip Hop track where he expertly displays his rap skills. In some parts of the rap, surprisingly he sounds somewhat like Snoop Dogg.

Although Jay wrote all the songs and composed nearly all the songs, there are still some shortcomings. His vocals are limited and two-dimensional, and sometimes brittle and unremarkable. Also, the subject matter of the songs is almost completely unoriginal. However, his attempt in songwriting in his first solo album is still impressive. Although the number of guest appearances in this album is slightly abundant, they do not overwhelm Jay’s vocals and sometimes even help enhance the quality of the tracks.  

Overall, Jay may not be a top-tier vocalist, but he’s got enough charm and personality to make the things he sings enjoyable. Indeed, Take A Deeper Look is an enjoyable ride for those who enjoy R&B/pop and Hip Hop music.

Tracklist

1. Touch the Sky (ft. The Quiett)
2. Abandoned (ft. Dok2)
3. 오늘밤 (ft. 강민경 (Kang Min Kyung) of Davichi) (Tonight)
4. 너 없이 안돼 (Can’t Live Without You)
5. Don’t Let Go 
6. Level 1000 (with Dok2) 
7. Bestie