Here is Idol Rumble’s catered list of K-pop new releases for the week of 7/9/2023. You can access the full playlist on the top right of the video.
Rob’s Pick of the Week
Jungkook - Seven (ft. Latto)
He’s not one of the biggest names in the business for nothing. This one is an earworm. The instrumental is really interesting with the clean guitar lines, uptempo beat, and thumping bass. Each component sounds like they shouldn’t go together normally, but they complement each other. Put JK’s vocals on top of that, a great combination is made. I’m even getting nostalgic about Craig David listening to this song. I’m not the biggest fan of Latto’s verse, but the rest of the song trumps that, to keep it as the pick this week. Oh and hey, Han Sohee is in the lead role.
Rob’s Second Pick of the Week
NMIXX - Party O’Clock
I had to warm up to this one at first. There are parts that I’m not fully on board with. Specifically, the chorus outro is an example of when choice of english words is a little weird. Other than that, the song hits the electronic dance vibe that I like in Kpop songs. Personally, it sounds like a song that Twice would have done, which isn’t surprising since it was written by the JYP himself.
Rob’s Third Pick of the Week
ODD EYE CIRCLE - Air Force One
The greatest subunit is back, it makes me want to cry. It’s almost a miracle seeing these 3 back together, with everything going on with their old employer. This probably would have been higher up on the list, but it took a few listens to like it. It sort of feels like a few Odd Eye Circle songs mashed up into a singular piece. The pace was surprising, because it jumps around, but it’s sort of reminiscent of Love Cherry Motion. Glad to see them back and I can’t wait to see what the other Ex-Loona members get up to.
Rob’s Fourth Pick of the Week
NCT Dojaejung - Perfume (Jafunk Remix)
I don’t normally consider remixes for the playlist, let alone a pick of the week, but here we are. I can recall that I liked the original when it came out, but this remix swings it more to my taste. Electrofunk, sign me up.