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.
Kwon Eunbi has released her strongest mini album yet. Lethality explores multiple genres – sometimes within the same song. Those looking for a sonic sequel to this spring’s Glitch will flock toward the similarly aloof Croquis. I’m a little more interested in the funky Simulation – even despite its odd structure.
Up until the second verse, I was convinced Simulation would be one of the year’s best b-sides. Its retro groove, flanked by flourishes of rhythm guitar, is perfectly suited to my taste. And, the vamping chorus is pure bliss – bringing to mind pop divas like Kylie Minogue and Girls Aloud. Eunbi has never sounded more commanding, and I love this style on her.
Then, Simulation gets weird. At first, I’m into its beat switch-up and experimental production. The second verse is quite beguiling even if it dulls the song’s energy. But, the diversion goes on a bit too long. A slight edit here would have greatly improved Simulation’s overall effect and preserved the momentum the track had been building. When we finally launch back into the dramatic chorus, I can’t help but want more. I guess that could be a strength since it has me reaching for the replay button. But, it also makes Simulation feel like the appetizer for stronger things to come. If she can harness this sound on an upcoming title track, all bets are off.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 8.5 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
I love this album, all hits, no skips. I have the same problems as you but the second verse really grew on me so my rating would be higher.
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Anyone getting Gfriend Apple vibes from this song?
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I actually thought the transition between the 2nd verse and the chorus was pretty odd, coz it went from low energy (the 2nd verse) to high energy (the chorus) within a second. Reminded me of NMIXX’s O.O, having the same issue as well
Nonetheless it’s a very interesting b-side of this year. The rest of the album were good as well, showing diverse colors of Eunbi
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Did you know about the Korean show “listen up” ? From what I heard, it’s a competition between producer, and Kim Seungsoo participate in it ! The public vote for the best song. You should defenetly check out the songs from the contestant, at least from Kim seungsoo haha.
Again, thank you so much for your daily review Nick !
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He’s not Kim Seung Soo from sweetune but Kim Seung Soo from JYP
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Croquis was my pick for a buried treasure off this minialbum, with Simulation a close second. Previously Eunbi’s b-sides have been a little too ballad-focused for my liking but this mini she explores some really interesting sounds! I would love to see her tackle this for a future title track too.
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As a massive fan of Blade Runner, especially its music (yes, I have every single [okay, digital] Vangelis album, and anyone who has done anything remotely similar, from Tangerine Dream to Kuedo, and various drum&bass producers who successfully sampled it [Dom & Roland, Dillinja, etc]), Kwon Eunbi’s titles usually excite me, starting with Esper (a word every Blade Runner fan instantly recognizes). But unfortunately, the tunes themselves aren’t remotely Bladerunneresque, cyberpunkish, or sci-fi for that matter. False advertising!
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