Ok-pop’s title tracks may achieve most of listeners’ consideration, however many album tracks are value equal highlight. I name these “buried treasures.”
Past this, Ok-pop’s albums ship hundreds of extra tracks that accept a extra restricted viewers. It’s these songs that can grow to be part of my “battle of the b-sides” characteristic.
On this characteristic, I’ll be placing on my A&R hat and taking a pay attention to 5 randomly-selected Ok-pop b-sides. I’ll write a mini evaluate for every, together with a Bias Listing score, and rank them from least to most favourite. The winner will be part of a particular Bias Listing B-side playlist. Consider it like my very own little company, hand-selecting songs I’d wish to pitch to my nonexistent artists!
You may try all rounds of my Battle of the B-sides right here!
Saturday – Tremendous Unhealthy (2019)
I as soon as acquired a brilliant (like… unbelievably) nasty remark a few evaluate I wrote for one among Saturday’s title tracks. Relatively than be as horrified I ought to have been, I used to be truthfully impressed that somebody had sufficient ardour to write down such a factor defending this group! Anyway, it seems to be like Saturday are nonetheless collectively however haven’t launched something since 2023. It is a completely cute b-side – fluffy and poppy and catchy in a predictable approach. I don’t keep in mind it in any respect and can probably neglect it quickly after scripting this, however I’ve at all times acquired a mushy spot for this aegyo sound.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 7 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7.5 |
AKMU – Little Star (2014)
Though I used to be years deep in Ok-pop by then, AKMU’s debut album is among the many first handful of bodily albums I purchased. Its slower tempo isn’t often my factor, however the duo’s voices and songwriting actually appealed to me and I used to be an early fan from Ok-pop Star. The singles from this album nonetheless resonate most for me, however this can be a beautiful mid-tempo with pretty harmonies. It compels consideration by protecting issues easy, shining full concentrate on a collection of delicate melodies. It’s a really cozy sound.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.25 |
Rocket Punch – Love Extra (2022)
Pour one out for Rocket Punch. They by no means actually had an opportunity, debuting simply as Woollim Leisure was beginning to wind down. They’ve acquired a number of good singles and a few good b-sides to their identify. Nevertheless, Love Extra doesn’t stick out to me. It’s virtually the definition of album filler. The power is sort of subdued even because the percussion makes an attempt to inject some bounce. The melodies are extra sprightly than anticipated however by no means supported by sufficient instrumental juice to get them off the bottom. The women sound good singing of their comfy vary, although.
| Hooks | 7 |
| Manufacturing | 7 |
| Longevity | 7 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7 |
Orange Caramel – Bubble Bathtub (2012)
We don’t see many sub-units anymore, will we? Particularly ones as prolific and quirky as Orange Caramel. The truth is, they nearly outlasted the group that spawned them, releasing singles properly into 2014. Bubble Bathtub comes from their first (and solely) full Korean album and dials down their normal animated power to a uninteresting digital thump. It’s a catchy tune, although I’ve at all times felt it wants an additional kick to carry it as much as the extent of their many unbelievable title tracks. Nonetheless, listening to this in 2026 is fairly refreshing.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8 |
BTOB – Shake It (2015)
Based mostly on its ballad belter title monitor, you may count on BTOB’s 2015 album to be stuffed with slower-paced materials. And whereas it has its share of extra sentimental fare, it’s additionally residence to a couple dance bangers. I’m keen on the extra new jack swing influenced songs, however this early-2010s pastiche additionally goes down simple. The second half of the refrain is totally silly (“Let’s shake it your booty yup!”), however the melodic spotlight that precedes it’s smooth and thrilling. And let’s face it, BTOB’s music has typically been knowingly foolish and if this had been launched in right this moment’s local weather I’d most likely be raving about it.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Manufacturing | 9 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.25 |
Fifth: Rocket Punch – Love Extra
Fourth: Saturday – Tremendous Unhealthy
Third: Orange Caramel – Bubble Bathtub
Second: BTOB – Shake It
First: AKMU – Little Star
Congratulations to AKMU’s Little Star – the seventieth winner of my Battle of the B-sides!
Readers, what do you assume? Did you uncover any hidden gems? Go away your individual rating within the feedback!