Most of the time, a k-pop group’s title track is the best song on their album. But, 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.

While BoA’s Better doesn’t have quite as many highlights as 2018’s Woman, it still shows an artist on top of her game. This is most evident during the album’s middle stretch, as we blitz through a number of dance genres. Of these songs, the disco-tinged L.O.V.E was my instant favorite. I tend to prefer BoA’s music when it gets a bit edgier, but it’s hard to resist such a jubilant pop track.

I’d like to recommend L.O.V.E as a pairing with agency-mate U-Know’s Hit Me Up from last year. The two songs share a ton of musical DNA, pulsing on an effusive dance beat with wisps of strings and bright stabs of synths. I especially love the electro bass that forms the backbone of L.O.V.E’s verses. It conjures a great groove, made even more addictive by BoA’s rhythmic performance. In a rarity for her, she melds pop melody with a bit of rap and spoken-word. The various approaches combine to create satisfying interplay that keeps the track from getting boring.

In contrast, L.O.V.E’s chorus is more straightforward and smooth, easing into the groove with a confident air. It’s not the most magnificent chorus you’ll ever hear, but it befits a laid-back disco track like this. And regardless of the hook, BoA’s polished vocals always impress. It’s great to hear her having so much fun.

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