If there’s anything I’ve learned from covering pop music for over a decade, it’s that songwriters and collaborators are just as important as the artists themselves. Though they often work behind the scenes, this feature is a chance to shine the light on some of k-pop’s most innovative and accomplished producers and composers.

GALACTIKA

Years active: 2009-present

Associated Acts: Teen Top, Monsta X, AOA, Wanna One, Bigstar, ZE:A, U-Kiss, After School

Their sound: Synth-heavy instrumentals with a nod to retro elements. Surging pop melodies that offer a sense of build and often follow an EDM structure.

Why you should love them: Galactika’s earlier work was often composed alongside producer Brave Brothers, which made it nearly indistinguishable from his trademark sound. Since branching out, Galactika has borrowed Brave Brothers-esque elements and melded them with trendier styles. They haven’t taken on too many big-name title tracks since establishing their own company in 2016, but with a heavy hand in JYP’s new girl group ITZY, they’ll definitely be a production team to watch.

Examples of their best work:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDvj7NU2ZSE