U-KISS’s sixth mini-album a ‘departure’ from its old sound
Korean idol group U-KISS has launched its sixth mini-album, "Doradora." The six-track release contains five vocal tracks and an instrumental version of "Doradora" and is a marked departure from the sound the group created with original producer Brave Brothers.
Under the management of NH Media, U-KISS, which stands for Ubiquitous Korean International idol Super Star, has collaborated with a variety of producers and songwriters for the new album, including Jay Park and Ryan Jhun.
With the release of "Doradora," AJ, Soohyun, Kevin, Hoon, Kiseop, Eli, and Dongho are determined to continue the new musical journey they started with the release of "Neverland," the group's 2011 single taken off their second studio album of the same name. While that single was a remarkable electronica-laced dancefloor anthem, "Doradora" delves into deeper musical territory, combining the group's electronica roots with a bit of dubstep and some of the most hypnotic lyrics in K-Pop.
Produced by Kim Hyung Seok (J.Y. Park, Baby VOX, Kim Gun Mo), "Doradora" may endear U-KISS to fans of acts like Super Junior, 2NE1, and Big Bang, who are all known for their catchy lyrics alongside radio-friendly production and melodies.
Other noteworthy tracks include "4U," a collaboration with fellow Korean singer Jay Park, "Amazing," and "Tick Tock (Korean Ver)." "4U" is extremely radio-friendly, and I wouldn't be surprised if "4U" would perform well in markets where American music is readily appreciated.
Meanwhile, "Amazing" was written by U-KISS member AJ, a solid effort that shows how the members are constantly trying to improve their craft. "Tick Tock" is the Korean version of the group's Japanese hit, "Tick Tack."
Catherine Deen blogs for Yahoo! Philippines OMG! She lives, eats and breathes Korean music, cuisine, telenovelas, and pop culture. Follow her on Twitter @cathsdeen.
