Oh Yeah – MBLAQ
MBLAQ is the first group to be signed to J.Tune Entertainment, the label of Korean superstar Rain, and they're already making an international splash. "Oh Yeah" has been recorded and performed in both Japanese and Korean. The quintet takes this first single down the Hiptronik path but adds their own hardcore twist in an effort to differentiate themselves from the numerous pop groups circulating the airwaves (i.e. Big Bang). MBLAQ (Music Boys Live in Absolute Quality) doesn't exactly deliver a unique concept to KPop, but the song in enjoyable, and they've managed to sweep the charts with their debut album, "Just BLAQ," available in stores now.
Where U At – Taeyang
Though it seems like every member of Korean boy band sensation Big Bang is pursuing a solo career lately, Taeyang is actually already working on releasing his second album. The first single to drop since the 2008 release of "HOT", "Where U At", showcases RnB vocals and choreography that would give Chris Brown a run for his money. But while he stays true to his HipTronik roots (thanks in part to producer Park Teddy), Taeyang embraces an entirely different persona than that of band mate G-Dragon. Without being flashy or obtuse, Taeyang manages to deliver a solid performance--so much so that his video is already receiving praise from those who have never before listened to Korean pop. A sign of things to come, perhaps?
Wannabe – Epik High
![Epik High - [e]nergy - ??? Wannabe (feat. Mellow)](http://hiptronik.com/main/wp-content/gallery/buttons/itunes.png)
Epik High is back! Straight off the release of their highly-anticipated sixth album, "[e]", "Wannabe" is a hiptronik gem. Epik High is well known in Korea for the pioneering they've done in the hip hop genre, and they do not disappoint.
"Wannabe" is irrefutably hip hop; even while using electronica, the trio somehow manages to distinguish themselves from the mix of boy and girl bands taking Korea by storm. In fact, there's been some rumblings that the lyrics intentionally poke fun at G-Dragon's (Big Bang) penchant for cover songs and high fashion. Most importantly, however, Epik High may actually have the video of the year--"Wannabe" is a hilarious, action-packed dramedy that you don't want to miss.
Heartbreaker – G-Dragon
As if he had to remind us, G-Dragon (of Big Bang fame) once again firmly establishes his place as the master of hiptronik in his latest release, “Heartbreaker.” The title single from his first solo effort, “Heartbreaker” doesn’t feature as much rapping as we have come to expect from the fashion chameleon (check out the newly bleached hair), still he has no qualms about using the autotune button. This is an addictive track complete with the rhythm and lyrics sure to speak to anyone who has had their own heartbreaker to contend with.
Gara, Gara, Go!! – BIGBANG
Following up their 2008 Japanese EP, With U, wildly popular Korean boy band BIGBANG returns to Japan with a slew of hits sure to change the course of Japanese pop music. With the second single from their first Japanese album, “Gara, Gara, Go!!” debuting at the top of the charts, BIGBANG introduces their island neighbor to the hiptronik style already making waves in Korea. Needless to say, the fire is spreading; BIGBANG leader G-Dragon has already collaborated with one of Japan’s bestselling boy bands, W-inds, in a definite sway from their usual pop demeanor—to much acclaim.
Rain is Fallin’ – W-inds ft. G-Dragon
Until recently, prolific Japanese boy band W-inds has been well known for their power ballads and pop standards. Now they’re throwing a wrench into all that with their most recent single, “Rain is fallin’,” featuring none other than G-Dragon of BIGBANG fame. For their latest video, the once mild W-inds don neon attire, sunglasses, and choreography all their own.
G-Dragon (who has been solicited by the boy band for a collaboration since last year) brings with him the hiptronik vibe BIGBANG is known for, but manages to entwine it W-inds' pop vibe so seamlessly you almost forget that they haven’t been doing it the entire time.
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