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.
I wouldn’t call Woodz’s new album consistently fantastic, but I’d call it “consistently great” – and that’s nothing to sneeze at. He’s blossomed into one of the most reliable K-pop performers of this era, and I love how much he’s embracing rock sounds. Coming on the heels of the last year’s Only Lovers Left, Colorful Trauma has a lot to live up to. I think I may end up mashing the two mini albums together on a playlist, creating a re-ordered, eleven track work that’ll be stuffed with highlights.
Speaking of highlights, none of the tracks on Colorful Trauma approach a “9” rating for me. Instead, the whole album feels like one long mid-8’s experience. Again, this is nothing to sneeze at. Many K-pop acts wish they could be this consistent! If I had to pick one standout, it would probably be Better and Better (with Hijack coming a close second).
I really like Woodz’s vocals on this track. He brings a ton of character and emotion to the melody, which dips and crests to offer plenty of movement. The rock influences are still omnipresent, but they’re given a more anthemic sheen. The verses kick things off with a welcome dose of rhythm, further developing into a percussive pre-chorus that builds toward Better and Better’s cathartic chorus. Then, we hit the standout bridge. Woodz’s power notes are to die for here. At times, his performance reminds me of tracks from G.Soul’s 2015 debut mini – a vocal showcase if ever there was one. But, Woodz has even more grit in his voice, making his tone quite captivating.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 8.5 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
The entire mini was solid and I expected this is to be the buried treasure though my own pick would be hijack, gritty and impactful. Dirt on my leather is also fine, but might’ve been even better with proper crests and falls.
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Dirt on my leather and this one are my faves, definitely a good album.
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I quite enjoy Seungyoun’s progression as a vocalist. He seems to be gaining confidence in his vocals with every new comeback and becoming better at utilizing his unique voice. Better & Better is my favorite but I get a kick out of Dirt on My Leather which was made with vocals from his own guide. Here’s a look back on Seungyoun the rapper on smtm in 2016: https://youtu.be/AHHwCGHrmzo
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The album itself was really solid. Especially Dirt on my leather, which gives me strong 1970s and 1980s classic rock vibes, but these 2 minutes and 36 seconds were not enough AT ALL to enjoy the track. Regarding this one, I also love it, but the hook feels too flimsy to deliver the song’s energy and it’s really disappointing. 8.5 for me (7,9,9,9)
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Better and Better is one of my favorites of the EP. As you said, the whole thing works great with Only Lovers Left, making one strong LP that should have been released together.
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The quality of the songs are indeed consistent because of the 3 same people working on all the songs (Woodz as songwriter himself and his friends producer Nathan and guitarist Hoho). That’s why it feels cohesive and authentic and that single mindedness in his discography is definitely one of his biggest strengths aside from his talent and charisma.
I didn’t expect you’ll feature a buried treasure from Colorful Trauma but if you might i thought it would be “Hope to be like you” because it sounds like a YG midtempo or something like Love Fool by STAYC. I love Better and Better too. Anyways I’m just happy that Woodz is now in your radar. 🙂
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I was really hoping you’d feature this for Buried Treasure! It’s my favorite track on the mini, just shimmering and gorgeous and nearly perfect.
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