Okay-pop is suffering from acts who – for one purpose or one other – didn’t get the complete highlight they deserved. I’ve spent loads of time rating and reviewed the trade’s greatest artists, however these underrated acts ought to by no means be forgotten.
This characteristic will check out disbanded teams and rank/price their whole singles run, inserting them within the pantheon of Okay-pop historical past.
For this characteristic’s first boy group, we’ve received a great one. It’s A-JAX!
Profession timeline: 2012-2018
Total sound: Assorted fairly a bit by way of their profession, however their finest materials harnesses bombastic manufacturing and massive hooks to sensible impact.
7. You (2018)
Their remaining (Japanese) single, and a case of going out with a whimper. It’s a superbly superb ballad, however pales compared to the remainder of their singles. The synths within the refrain are good, although.
Score: 7.25
6. Romeo (2017)
For his or her first unique J-pop single, the fellows opted for a rock-influenced observe. The verses are a bit tentative, however the rollicking refrain brings the firepower. It’s nonetheless not a match for his or her Korean materials, although.
Score: 7.75
5. Snake (2013)
Ah, the one with the endearing boy scout video. Critically, I really like this music video! However by itself, the music nonetheless has a ton of attraction. It’s surprisingly funky and there are some sensible, catchy melodies packed into its pre-chorus.
Score: 8.5
4. Scorching Recreation (2012)
Scorching Recreation is so emblematic of its period. Its punchy, staccato verses recall teams like SHINee and U-KISS, whereas the hovering refrain makes for an ultra-dramatic spotlight. This sound is so distinctive to Okay-pop and I miss it dearly. It nonetheless feels prefer it got here from one other planet.
Score: 8.75
3. One 4 U (2012)
Speak about debuting with a banger! One 4 U introduced A-JAX’s arrival with symphonic grandeur. The intro alone is sufficient to attract consideration, however the music goes on to unveil a mini rock opera with chugging guitar and resounding drums.
Score: 9
2. Insane (2013)
For all you Infinite followers, A-JAX was one other group who briefly labored with ace manufacturing duo Rphabet. Their work collectively is tremendous stable, with the bombastic Insane standing as a jagged electro spotlight. The construct through the pre-chorus is completely mammoth and the sledgehammer hook that follows is a ton of enjoyable.
Score: 9
1. 2MYX (2012)
If A-JAX had given us nothing greater than 2MYX, I’d nonetheless be glad. That is their legendary music, and for good purpose. Fashionable Okay-pop actually missed the boat not absolutely exploring this slamming Y2K sound. 2MYX simply competes with the most effective of Backstreet Boys and Nsync, borrowing their heavy percussion and anthemic hooks for a brand new period. I really like the whole lot about this.
Score: 10
OVERALL RATING: 8.6
