A K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve.
There are some idols that you can tell are not only a performer but a genuine fan of K-pop and its history. Yena’s solo albums have become more and more sonically referential to K-pop’s past and it’s fun to hear her explore the legacy of her own idols in a modern way. New title track Catch Catch gives me strong Orange Caramel and T-ara vibes, while b-side Spring Fever feels as if it could be on a Lovelyz album.
Adding to the nostalgic appeal, the track features rapper/variety figure DinDin and the iconic Jung Hyung Don (best known for his long stint as one of the original Weekly Idol hosts). I’m getting flashbacks just writing those words! Spring Fever has many such touchstones, from its cheesy declarations in the background of its intro to the chirpy, chiptunes synth that makes up its bounding instrumental. The melodies take a clipped approach — not in a sing-talk way but in a deliberately angular fashion that makes for a nice contrast with the song’s more sugary sweet moments. As with Catch Catch, it’s not wholly original but it takes me back to a time in K-pop I really enjoyed.
Hooks
8
Production
9
Longevity
8
Bias
9
RATING
8.5
Grade: B
Tags: buried treasure, dindin, Jung Hyung Don, k-pop, kpop, rating 8, review, yena. Bookmark the permalink.