Brief music review: Jung Jin Woo - My Original Soundtrack (mini-album)

Album release date: 2020

Genre: R&B/Soul

My rating: 5/5

Review by: jct 

I've been following Jung Jin Woo since Kpop Star days, and this mini-album really shows his musical growth. The music production, arrangement and vocals are all on point. I really think R&B fits him best as displayed in this album. This album is highly recommended! 

Track List:

1. 꿈 (DREAM) 2. 비누 (SOAP) 3. MOVIE (Feat. Rohann) 4. RUBE (Feat. JUNE, Gaho, Moti) 5. ARIA 6. OUTRO

Brief Album Review: Khalil Fong - '危险世界 (Dangerous World)'

Album release date: 2014
Genre: R&B/Soul, Cpop
Rating: 4.5/5
Brief Review by: jct

I was slightly disappointed with Khalil Fong's last two albums, (15, Back to Wonderland), but his latest album, 危险世界 (Dangerous World), released on April 11, 2014, is highly enjoyable! Dangerous World mainly sticks to the R&B/Soul genre, which I appreciate.

All the songs are a great listen, ranging from up-tempo R&B/pop to slow-tempo R&B/Soul. Khalil continues to provide strong lyrics, tasteful song production, and displays passionate vocals. He also showcases some of his rapping skills in at least 2 tracks. I, especially enjoy the latter half of the album. Overall, Dangerous World proves that Khalil Fong is still a very relevant and creative artist. This album is highly recommended!

Tracklist
01 Welcome
02 危险世界 | Dangerous World
03 Peace (feat. 袁娅维) | (feat. Tia Ray)
04 小方 | Little Fong
05 Soundcheck
06 黑白灰 | Black White Grey
07 桃花运 | Love Blossoms
08 特别的人 | Special Person
09 Weather Report
10 天气先生 | Weather Man
11 枫叶做的风铃 |  Autumn Leaves Wind Chime
12 Boarding
13 巴黎 | Paris
14 爱不来 (feat. 葛仲珊) | Love Doesn't Come (feat. Miss Ko)
15 僵尸 | Zombie
16 Lights Up

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)

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’ 

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)

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 

Album Review: Brian Joo – ‘Unveiled’ (mini-album)

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

Up to this point in his career, Korean-American R&B singer, Brian Joo has been best known for slow romantic ballads either as a solo artist or as a member of R&B duo, Fly To The Sky. But in his latest release, Unveiled, Brian branches out slightly and adds more up-tempo and mainstream materials to his usual mix of songs. Although the songs are more maintream, the results are still favorable.

More Mainstream

The album begins with a strong track, “눈물의 구성요소 (Components of a Tear)” which is a mid-tempo R&B/ballad with smooth vocals and nice piano and strings sounds about the pain from a past love as he sings, “Add a little salt and water, as it gets mixed in/Let it go out of my eyes, you’re the reason for my tears.” The title track, “사랑하다 끝났어 (Loved, It’s Over Now)”is a mid-tempo R&B/ballad about a broken heart, with smooth vocals but somewhat bland. The other tracks in the album ranging from up-tempo R&B/pop to mid-tempo R&B/ballad, are all nicely crafted.  Also, deserving mentioning are the English versions of the first two tracks, “Domino (눈물의 구성요소 English Ver.)", and “It's Over Now (사랑하다 끝났어 English Ver.)”. It’s important to note that although the track “Domino (눈물의 구성요소 English Ver.)” maintains the same melody/music as “눈물의 구성요소 (Components of a Tear)”, the context of the song is different. The song, “Domino (눈물의 구성요소 English Ver.)” is actually about falling deeply in love as he sings, “I’m falling into something real and I can’t stop myself/ I’m knocking over everything and you just caught me.”

There are a few drawbacks in this album, one of which is the vocals. It’s not that Brian doesn’t sound good on this album; his vocals are still intact and smooth. The main problem is that most of the songs on this album sound way too common and mainstream. Thus, his vocals sometimes lack the fire and passion. There are very few passionate moments, and most songs give off an overproduced feel to them. However, his attempt at updating his sound for a younger/more modern audience in this album is still quite good. To his credit, he still manages with ease in the up-tempo and mainstream music.  

The album has some slight drawbacks, but Brian’s attempt in updating and advancing his music is still a good effort and the results are favorable. Overall, Unveiled is recommended for those whoe enjoy R&B/pop/ballad.

Tracklist

1. 눈물의 구성요소 (Components of a Tear)
2. 사랑하다 끝났어 (Loved, It’s Over Now)
3. 나도 약속이 있었으면 좋겠다 (I Wish I Had A Promise)
4. 24
5. Song 4 U
6. Domino (눈물의 구성요소 English Ver.)
7. It's Over Now (사랑하다 끝났어 English Ver.)
8. 사랑하다 끝났어 (Instrumental) (Loved, It’s Over Now)

Album Review: SeungRi – ‘VVIP’ (Mini-album)

Album release date: 2011
Genre: Kpop, R&B/pop
Rating: 3/5                   
Review by: jct

SeungRi, a member of the Korean male group, Big Bang, had a big hit in 2009 with his solo track, “Strong Baby”. On Jan. 20, 2011, he returns with his first mini-album titled VVIP. VVIP is by no means a masterpiece – his vocal style and range are limited and somewhat two-dimensional, and his subject matter is almost completely unoriginal – but despite that, the album has a certain amount of charm, and style that SeungRi’s target audience will certainly be able to appreciate.

Solo Star  

SeungRi’s music style seems to be influenced greatly by Justin Timberlake, as seen with “Strong Baby”, and it is further carried into this album. Imitation is a form of flattery, as long as it is not overdone, which he doesn’t. The JT influence is most obvious in the album’s first single, “VVIP”, which is a up-tempo R&B/pop song where he gets a chance to show his cocky and playful side as he sings, “I’m so hot of the five guys lately/ All are fascinated /They say I’m really great/ Even if we don’t say it/ Say I’m really great.”

The second single, “What Do You Want Me To Do Now” is a mid-tempo pop song about a broken heart as he sings, ”What am I supposed to do?/ I gave you everything that I had and laid it down before you/ The only thing I have left is you/ Don’t avoid me anymore/ I’m break it down down down.”  Some notable tracks in this album include “Open the Window” feat. G-Dragon, and “Outro (In My World)”.

There are a few shortcomings in this album, one of which is the lyrics. The lyrics are quite unoriginal, and it is neither complex nor mentally stimulating. Most of the songs are clichéd tales of love, and doesn’t put a new spin on old topics such as the girl-you-are-so-fine-let’s-hook-up track “Magic”, and the since-you-left-me-I’m-falling-apart track “What Do You Want Me To Do Now”. And although the album’s not completely devoid of substance, the substance it does contain is shallow and surface-deep. Despite SeungRi wrote the lyrics and co-composed nearly all the songs, the results are not too spectacular. Nevertheless, it is still a good attempt for his first mini-album.

In addition, his vocals are quite mediocre, and not that distinctive. However, his vocals are at its best in slow to mid-tempo love ballads compare to up-tempo songs. An example is “Outro (In My World)”, which is one of the better songs in the album. The album also has the right number of guest appearances; however, not all are great. G-Dragon’s parts certainly complement well and do not overwhelm SeungRi’s vocals. Unfortunately that can’t be said about the song with IU. One thing about guest singers is that they are there to support the main vocalist and not to hinder or overwhelm them, no matter how strong or not the guest’s vocals are. In the song, “I Know”, IU’s vocals does not complement well with SeungRi’s vocals, and in some parts, she stands out more. That said, the song isn’t entirely bad, as she doesn’t completely hinders SeungRi’s vocals, but it’s easily a forgettable song.

The album certainly has some obvious shortcomings. However, overall the album isn’t bad as SeungRi plays his role well and manages to come across as a solo star.

Tracklist

1. VVIP
2. 어쩌라고  (What Do You Want Me To Do)
3. 창문을 열어  feat. G-Dragon (Open the Window)
4. Magic
5. I Know feat. IU
6. White Love
7. Outro (In My World)

Album Review: Ra.D (라디) - ‘Vol. 1 My Name is Ra.D’

Album release date: 2002
Genre: R&B/Soul

Rating: 4/5
Review by: jct

                  

On his debut album, Vol. 1 My Name is Ra.D, Ra.D delivers well-sung R&B music with a unique style. Not only does he compose nearly all the songs, he also arranges them, and the results are impressive. On this album, he sings about the process of meeting and parting with love as well as friendship.

Personality & Style

The album’s title track, “So One” is a mid-tempo R&B song about wishing a lover could come back to him as he sings, “If you come back, you can make my wish come true/ I would be happy if you come back, that’s my wish/ So One/ I only have one wish, only one”.  Another highlight is “바램 (Hoping)”, which is a mid-tempo R&B love ballad with comforting beats and tender vocals, “I hope I could be with you, just the two of us/ I won’t wish for anything more/... you can imagine with joy/  I’ll give you all the happiness and we can live happily/ I want to be with you.” Simple yet honest lyrics like these as well as arranging all the songs on his own add to Ra.D’s reputation as a talented song-writer in R&B/Soul music.

Also deserving mentioning is the cover, “White Christmas” which has a more R&B flavour, and he sings it completely in English. Other notable songs include “내가있어 (I’ve Got)”, “Coming to Your Mind”, “넌 내게 했던 얘기를 (You talked about me)”, and “난 네게... (I offer you…)”.

A major highlight of this album is that there is more R&B/Soul and less hip hop sounds which is great because Ra.D’s vocals and style can stand out more, without being overwhelmed by hip hop. In all the songs, he sounds strong and delivers the emotions well, but he wouldn’t be considered a top-tiered vocalist.

Although the topic matter is the same in this whole album, he does switch things up a little when it comes to his backing music, which makes his R&B/Soul music style unique. The album has some slight drawbacks, but it’s Ra.D’s distinctive personality and unique style that hold the album together and make it a cohesive package instead of just a collection of songs. Overall, Vol. 1 My Name is Ra.D is a very solid album.

Tracklist
1. Intro
2. Comin to Your Mind
3. 난 네게... (I offer you…)
4. 내가있어 (I’ve Got)
5. 요술공주 세리 (feat. Master Wu) (Magic Series - OST)
6. Media Doll (feat. UMC)
7. Never Forget 2002 (skit)
8. Can I Get A Little Bit
9. 바램 (Hoping)
10. 소원 (So One)
11. To Homies
12. 홀로서기 (Being On My Own)
13. 넌 내게 했던 얘기를 (You talked about me)
14. White Christmas (Bonus track)
15. Satisfy? (Outro)

Album Review: Ra.D - ‘Vol. 2 Realcollabo’, ‘Vol. 2.5 Realcollabo + RMX)

Album release date: 2008, 2009
Genre: R&B, Soul, Hip Hop    
Review by: jct

Note: This is a review for Ra.D’s Vol 2 and 2.5 albums since some songs from Vol. 2.5 are the same as Vol. 2, but remixes.

__

After a long hiatus of 6 years, Ra.D is back with his second album, Vol. 2 Realcollabo, and a year after Vol. 2, he released Vol 2.5 Realcollabo + RMX, which contain remixes of some songs from Vol.2 as well as new songs. All the tracks are marked with Ra.D's unique R&B, soul, and hip-hop sounds, that revolves around topics like family, friendship, and love.

Great Style          

All of Ra.D’s albums have a story, and this time in the second album, it’s about parting with love, new love, and his affection for family and friends. The title track, “Goodbye” is a slow tempo R&B love ballad about a broken heart but slowly moving on, as he sings smoothly, “Because the times we spent together was short/ It will always be regretful/ Please don’t forget about me, I won’t forget you either/ So that when we meet again, it won’t be too awkward.”

Also deserving mentioning is “I’m in Love” which is a song about falling in love with someone and taking a step forward to tell them, as he sings, “If I don't approach first, I’m afraid I would lose you/ So I wrote a letter and prepared a  small gift for you/ If my love for you gets deeper, I knew it would only hurt me more/  It’s true that my mind is full of fears/ With my anxious heart I prayed and hoped/ I believe that person is you/ I’m in love, I’m falling in love.” Other notable songs from these two albums include “너와 함께 있음을  (Your Perspective)”, “Mal Love (Promised Summer RMX)”, “너와 함께 있음을 (Lullaby RMX)”, “Couple Song feat. Kelley”, and “멋있는 친구(Cool Fella) (feat. 정인, 인발, DJ Bay with ziEyA)”.

Certainly style and song production are two things these albums have in abundance as he is able to capture the emotions of each song through his unique style of R&B, soul, and hip hop sounds. He also covers a wide range of topics from love to gospel songs, and manages to sound strong in fast-tempo R&B/Hip hop song as well as mellow and sensitive love ballads. The fact that Ra.D composes, arranges as well as mixing and mastering all the tracks to give listener new sounds is impressive.

One possible flaw with the album is the abundant number of guest appearances. The large presence of hip hop artists on some songs seems to overwhelm Ra.D’s vocals, and the song becomes too hip hop for R&B fans. However, the vocals of some of the female artists in the duets complement well with Ra.D’s voice.

Overall, Vol. 2 and Vol. 2.5 are very well-performed and well-produced albums that define R&B music nicely. These two albums are highly recommended for those who enjoy R&B seasoned with Soul and Hip Hop music.


Overall Rating
Vol. 2 Realcollabo – 4.5/5
Vol. 2.5 Realcollabo + RMX  -  4/5

Tracklist
Vol. 2 -  Realcollabo
1 . Intro
2 . Goodbye
3 . 떠난 내 님은   (Just Leave Me)
4 . 멋있는 친구(Cool Fella) (feat. 정인, 인발, DJ Bay with ziEyA)
5 . Sweet Love (feat. 꼬깔이)
6 . 엄마 (Mother)
7 . I'm In Love
8 . SP Collabo (feat. VJ, Steady B, KeBee, Sick Boi, UMC)
9 . Mal Love (feat. 인발, DJ Bay with ziEyA)
10 . Couple Song (feat. Kelley)
11 . 너와 함께 있음을  (Your Perspective)
12 . Happy Birthday 

Vol. 2.5 -  Realcollabo + RMX
1. Mal Love (Promised Summer RMX) (feat.Inbar)
2. Everything's gonna be alright (feat. 꼬깔이, 배켱, Inbar)
3. 너와 함께 있음을 (Lullaby RMX)  (Your Perspective)
4. I'm in love (Piano RMX)
5. Goodbye (Original mix)
6. 난 네게 (Acoustik RMX) (feat.Inbar) (For You, I Will)
7. I could sing of your love forever (Silky RMX) (feat. Grace Eun, 꼬깔이)
8. Jesus Loves me (Groovy RMX) (feat. 조수아, Hena) 

Album Review: One Way – ‘Rainy Days’

Album release date: January 2011

Genre: R&B/Hip Hop, Kpop

Rating: 3.5/5
Review by: jct

On their first full album, Korean male group, One Way delivers more catchy R&B/Hip Hop music as well as slow-tempo R&B materials. Although Rainy Days doesn’t break new grounds musically or lyrically, it’s still an enjoyable listen.

Some Shining Moments

The album contains 10 new songs and 4 bonus tracks (3 instrumentals + radio edit of 'Rainy Days'). However, there are only three really good songs on One Way’s full album, Rainy Days, and they happen to scatter in the beginning, middle and end of the album, which is in itself a smart strategy.  

First, the good: “Rainy Days” (both the Korean and English version) is a slow-tempo R&B song with a rap segment about a broken heart. The vocals are very calming and smooth as they sing, “Any chance I’m taking right now/ To shower down this pain/ Rainy days, rainy days/ Now that’s you’ve gone far away/ My raindrops pouring down my eyes/ You know I’ll never be okay.” Also, the background sounds of raindrops are a nice addition to the song.  

The next single, “Forever” is a solo song by Chance which was released as a digital single back in July 2010. It’s a slow-tempo R&B love ballad about the relationship of a typical couple as they go through many ups and downs. Chance dedicated this song to the love of his life, as he sings smoothly with romantic lyrics: “It’s been a long time since I met you/ The good memories come out one by one/ Like the black coffee that you like, along with the bitter memories”, and he continues, “Forever, Forever, Forever/ Happy tears flows down/ You and I just like this/ We’re going to stay together forever.”

The album ends off with the track, “A Thousand Words” which is a piano-based R&B ballad about a heart ache and wanting the lover to come back, as they sing passionately, “Cause soon I gotta find/ The ways of living without you, I’m losing my sight/ Of path we walked through together/ and baby tell me how/ does it have to be right now?/ you’re all that I’ve got all I need/ so I’m willing to say a thousand words put together, I love you.”

“Rainy Days”, “Forever”, and “A Thousand Words” are pretty much all there is in terms of above average songs. Most of the other 6 tracks aren’t particularly clever and may be considered clichéd rehashes. However, the production of the songs in general is decent and doesn’t rely on computerization and studio gimmicks, as they use distinct electric guitar sounds, and nice piano melodies. The album also has the right number of guest appearances and for the right songs, without overshadowing One Ways’ vocals.

Overall, there are some shining moments on Rainy Days, as the songs are well-sung, but most of the songs aren’t particularly spectacular or outstanding. However, the group is still young, and they’ve still got plenty of room to grow.

Tracklist
1. The Forecast (feat. One Sound Choir)
2. Rainy Days (feat. 준수 (Junsu) of 2PM)
3. New drag
4. 빠져 (Out)
5. Forever
6. Flight 101(feat. As one)
7. Can't stop
8. Coffee (feat. J.ae)
9. Rainy Days (Unplugged English Version)
10. A Thousand Words
11. Coffee (Trumpet version) - Bonus Tracks
12. Forever (Harmonica version) - Bonus Tracks
13. A Thousand Words (Harmonica version) - Bonus Tracks
14. Rainy Days (Radio Edited Version) - Bonus Tracks

Album Review: All That (올댓) – ‘Vol. 2 Love Me’

Album release date: December 2010
Genre: R&B, Kpop

Rating: 4/5       
Review by: jct

Note: All That (올댓) is a Korean R&B duo consisting of Kuan (vocalist) and EachONE (composer, song writer, producer).
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On their second album, All That continues to release more smooth and sensual love songs that are well-sung. All That and Vol. 2 Love Me are a breath of fresh air compared to some Kpop artists who are simply R&B poseurs. All That is definitely a true R&B artist.

Smooth and Sensual 

On their second album, All That delivers music that’s made to swoon the ladies. The album is filled with a variety of ballads: love, lust, and pain, such as “You’re So”, “Take It Off (Feat.Bom-B, CEEJAY Of Fresh Boyz)”, and “Pouding Luv”, respectively. The album’s title track, “Still You feat. Gilme” is mid-tempo R&B song about a broken heart as they sing, “Do you remember walking down the street hand in hand/ Do you remember where we first met/ Do you remember where you confessed/ It is still vivid the day we broke up, no longer in love”. However, the title track doesn’t seem to stand out as much as the album’s other romantic and sensual songs such as “You’re So”, “Closer”, “Pouding Luv”, and “Erase (Feat.J’Kyun)”.

The album contains smooth and romantic materials that fit perfectly well with the tone of the album and some even sound sexy. All That is a perfect R&B duo with Kuan as the vocalist, singing with confidence and purpose on each and every track, and EachONE’s excellent songwriting and production skills on almost all the songs. One possible flaw with the album is the abundant amount of guest appearances which may take away the shining moments of the original artist's vocals. Although the hip hop component is a nice blend with R&B, the rap seems to be too excessive on some parts and the foul language in the rap is simply not necessary. However, the other R&B guest appearances certainly fit well with the songs as they help bring out the emotions of the songs nicely.

It’s rare for Korean artists to deliver a well-rounded album filled completely with R&B music, but All That’s second album is just such an album. It’s charming, sensual, original, and most of all - truly R&B. Overall, Vol. 2 Love Me is recommended for those who enjoy R&B music.

Tracklist
1. All That 2010 (Feat.Carry Diamond)
2. Take It Off (Feat.Bom-B, CEEJAY Of Fresh Boyz)
3. You’re So
4. Luv U Girl
5. Closer
6. Poundin Luv
7. Interlude 1
8. 참을게 (I’ll Resist)
9. I Need Ur Luv (Feat.DirtyBlood)
10. Break Up (Feat.Eunice)
11. 여기까지야 (Up To Here)
12. 아직도 널 (Feat.길미) (Still You feat. Gilme)
13. 지워 (Feat.J’Kyun) (Erase)
14. Interlude 2
15. 보내고 (Feat.Soulman) (Sending You Away)
16. 아직 Remix (Not Yet)
17. 늦었지만 (Even Though I’m Late)

Album Review: Z-Chen – ‘May I Love You’, ‘3a.m.’, ‘Listen To Me’

Album release date: 2002, 2003
Genre: R&B, Cpop     
Review by: jct

Note: This is a review for Z-Chen’s first 3 albums since debut in Taiwan. All in 1 review!

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Z-Chen is truly a talented R&B artist as his vocal is natural regardless of fast or slow songs. Despite being underrated, he always delivers smooth and romantic love ballads that are well-sung. In these albums, he does a great job of establishing the emotions in all the songs, and it never gets dull.

Subtle Romantic Charm

One of Z-Chen’s trademarks is hopeless romantic and broken heart songs, as can be seen from the title tracks of all three albums, “May I Love You”, “3 a.m.”, and "Listen To Me". The title track of the first album, “May I Love You” is a hopeless romantic R&B/pop song, where he sings smoothly, “ After giving the key to you, you turn and lock me up/ into a door called ‘waiting’/ You have already tried so many ‘lock of heart’, why don’t you come and open my love?/ Love you, love you, may I love you, tell me what to do?/ How can I let you and myself not be alone, finding happiness together/ when the world slowly become from luxury to a wasteland/ please don’t worry, I’m still your believer”.   The title track of the second album, ‘3 a.m.’ is a slow-tempo R&B song about a broken heart as he sings: “However, after a heart is broken, how to put it together/ Baby, baby, love can be so beautiful/ Can only blame that moment, the words were too harsh/ Everything was out of control/ baby baby, love should be so beautiful/ You give too much and now I understand.” 

The title track of the third album, “Crossing the Line” is also a slow-tempo song about a broken heart as he sings: “The sky will only leave behind the spiral of soundless loneliness/ Will time be able to rewind a little/ And stop at your smile on a clear day.” Some notable tracks from the three albums include “時間剛剛好 (Perfect Timing)”, “Forever”, “重返寂寞 (Return To Loneliness)”, “刺心 (Barbed Heart)”, “請問愛情 (Please Ask Love) “,“很想妳 (Thinking of You A Lot)”, “說 (Speak) “, “回憶錄 (Memories)”, and “傷心換日線 (Sadly Crossing the Line)”.

There are also some upbeat songs, like “Cap Girl” and “完美 (Perfection)”. However, they aren’t quite as good as the slower material, but to Z-Chen’s credit he manages to sound comfortable on these songs and not awkward or out of his element at any time.  

In all of the songs, his vocals are on-point and he’s able to tell a story through his music. If you take the time to listen to the albums, his music with its subtle romantic charm will grow on you. Overall, 3 a.m. is more of a solid album compare to the other two. However, all three albums are definitely enjoyable and demonstrate Z-Chen’s strong and smooth vocals.

Overall Rating

May I Love You – 3.5/5

3 a.m. – 4.5/5

Listen To Me – 4.5/5

Tracklist

May I Love You
1. Intro
2. May I love you
3. 梁祝 (Butterfly Lovers)
4. 沒有你 (Without You)
5. 完美 (Perfection)
6. I Need Love

7. 後來才知道 (Realizing It Later)
8. Easy Come Easy Go
9. 忘年 (Miss The Year)
10. 時間剛剛好 (Perfect Timing)
11. 名字 (Name)

3 a.m. 1. 凌晨三點鐘 (3 a.m.)
2. 在KTV過夜 (Overnight At KTV)
3. 下次再見 (See You Next Time)
4. Forever
5. 重返寂寞 (Return To Loneliness)
6. 愛情 (Love)
7. 明知故問 (Asking the Obvious)
8. 不夜城 (Never Sleep)
9. 刺心 (Barbed Heart)
10. 耿耿於懷 (Brood)
11. 請問愛情 (Please Ask Love)
12. Wonderful Tonight (Eric Clapton’s cover)

Listen To Me
1. 換日線 (Crossing the Line)
2. 詩人 (A Poet)
3. 莫非定律 (Following Rules)
4. 完全明白 (Completely Understand)
5. 三千 (Three Thousand)
6. 很想妳 (Thinking of You A Lot)
7. Cap Girl
8. 老歌手 (Old Singer)
9. 說 (Speak)
10. 回憶錄 (Memories)
11. 傷心換日線 (Sadly Crossing the Line)

Album Review: Brown Eyed Soul – ‘Vol. 3 Brown Eyed Soul’

Album release date: November 2010
Genre: Soul/R&B, Kpop

Rating: 4/5       
Review by: jct

On November 2010, Korean R&B/Soul male group, Brown Eyed Soul, returns with their third album with more smooth and soulful music. They manage to sing a range of ballads from traditional R&B to modern jams with skills and dexterity. Perhaps Vol. 3 doesn’t break much new ground musically or lyrically, but it’s still a very smooth and enjoyable listen.

A Solid Album

The album has a total of 15 tracks, which includes previous singles, “Blowin’ My Mind,” “Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Never Forget,” “Love Ballad” and “I’ll Move Aside” which were released earlier this year. It also includes solo tracks from the individual members such as Jung-Yeop’s “Miss Cigar Store”, Seong Hoon’s “With Chocolate” and Na-eol’s “You”.  The title track, “If It’s the Same” is a mid-tempo R&B ballad with smooth vocals. However, it sounds like your typical contemporary R&B ballad, and doesn’t really stand out as much as some of the other tracks, such as “I’ll Move Aside” which is a slow-tempo R&B ballad about leaving a loved one’s side coolly. The brass instruments flows beautifully with the members’ smooth vocals and the emotions are carried out perfectly. Also deserving mentioning is “Blowin My Mind” which is a mid-tempo ballad that showcases their strong and emotional vocals with a 1970-1980’s era soul and jazz vibe. The album ends off with “He is Real” and “Your Song (Gratitude)” which they sing completely in English.

The album certainly demonstrates the group at their finest as their resonant and smooth voices are perfect for expressing the sensitive aspect of soul music accompanied with some R&B and ballad melodies. However, Vol. 3 falls off quality-wise on a couple of songs, particularly “Miss Cigar Store” and “Can’t Stop Loving You”. These tracks just don’t seem to be as strong as the album’s other materials, mainly because they give off an overly vintage feel. Actually, the entire album has a retro feel, but it is nicely balanced with some modern materials. Other than those couple of bumps in the road, Vol. 3 is a solid album, and it is recommended for those who enjoy Soul music and traditional R&B. 

Tracklist
1. Soul Breeze
2. Blowin’ My Mind
3. 똑같다면 (If It’s the Same)
4. 그대(You)
5. Can’t Stop Loving You
6. Rainy
7. With Chocolate
8. 담배가게 아가씨 (Miss Cigar Store)
9. Never Forget
10. Love Ballad
11. You
12. 비켜줄께(I’ll Move Aside)
13. Gone
14. He Is Real
15. Your Song (Gratitude)