Fantasy, the time has come! Inseong has released his 1st Mini album, titled Crossfade:.
With Crossfade:, Inseong introduces his first mini album as a solo artist, offering a project that feels really personal. Following SF9’s world tour, this release arrives at a moment where he appears ready to explore his own sound and perspective in a more focused way.
Rather than aiming for a bold statement, Crossfade: leans into sincerity. Across five tracks, Inseong reflects on self-expression, connection, and memory, creating an album that feels cohesive and intentional.
The Tracklist
‘Mute is Off’
‘Feast of the Night’
‘Trying To Love’
‘Stained Memory’
‘Still You, Now Me’
‘Mute Is Off’
From the very first moments, ‘Mute is Off’ feels like a declaration.
The music video keeps Inseong front and center, surrounded by color yet grounded in intimacy. It’s a fitting choice for Inseong’s first mini-album, putting all attention where it should be: on him, his voice, and the message he’s trying to deliver. Visually, it’s simple but effective, and symbolically, the scenes with the typewriter feel especially telling. They read as moments of him pouring his thoughts out, unedited, before finally stepping forward with more confidence in who he is.
The song speaks about shedding fear and standing unhidden as one’s true self. It’s about choosing to be heard after staying silent for too long. Consequently, the track feels quietly brave. The melody stays upbeat, but the words cut deep — a contrast that works incredibly well here.
Knowing that Inseong took part in writing and composing the song makes it hit even harder. His vocal tone carries a warmth that turns the lyrics into something almost healing. It doesn’t just tell you to be brave—it makes you feel braver too.
Before I know it, I’m standing
As myself, unhidden
‘Feast Of The Night’
‘Feast of the Night’ leans into the idea of quiet comfort rather than emotional intensity.
The song speaks to exhaustion, to days filled with restraint and unspoken feelings, and to the need for rest after enduring more than expected. Instead of offering solutions, the lyrics focus on presence: sitting together, sharing both sadness and joy, and allowing the night to hold those feelings for a while.
This musical approach is reflected in Inseong’s delivery. His voice remains warm and slightly husky in the verses, creating a sense of closeness and some comfort. As the chorus opens up, the vocals rise with more strength, but never overwhelm the message. Consequently, the song feels steady and reassuring, framing comfort as something simple and shared rather than dramatic.
Even if tears fall, I will shine more light on those overwhelming days coming to you
‘Trying To Love’
‘Trying To Love’ shifts the mood again, this time into something tender and sweet.
Centered around the early stages of romantic feelings, the track captures uncertainty and hesitation rather than grand emotion. The lyrics focus on wanting connection while struggling with self-doubt, which gives the song a relatable quality.
The song stays light and gentle, with Inseong’s vocals sounding warm and steady throughout. As a result, ‘Trying To Love’ feels like one of the album’s easiest listens, adding a sweeter contrast to the more reflective tracks around it.
Hate being alone on this night I want to be with you
I hate hate hate myself for having no courage
‘Stained Memory’
In ‘Stained Memory’, Inseong focuses on lingering feelings that refuse to fade, even after some time has passed.
The lyrics describe memories resurfacing unexpectedly—warmth, a flood of emotions once pushed aside, and moments that remain vivid despite repeated attempts to forget. It centers on persistence: memories filling every part of the narrator, stained with someone’s presence and color.
Most importantly, the longing here is unresolved. The repeated wish to meet “just once” suggests not closure, but the hope that even a brief encounter might finally allow those memories to be released. As a result, the song feels like a healing heartbreak, capturing what it means to live alongside memories that no longer belong to the present.
The laughter and the tears, the memories and the recollection
Hoping to meet you again at least once
I live like this today too, in the memories stained with you
‘Still You, Now Me’
‘Still You, Now Me’ focuses on how memory becomes part of everyday routine.
The lyrics follow repeated actions—waking up, revisiting familiar places, replaying the same song—showing how habits tied to someone else can persist over time. The contrast between “you were there then” and “I am here now” frames the song’s emotional core. Rather than searching for answers or closure, the narrator simply observes the distance that now exists, continuing to trace it through memory.
By the end, the song remains suspended between past and present. ‘Still You, Now Me’ captures the feeling of moving on in life while emotionally circling around the same moment, where memory continues to guide the way back.
Your touch that used to embrace me so warmly
Like yesterday and like today, I cannot remember you saying goodbye
Believing that it is just a dream and that it is not true
Inseong’s Solo Era Starts Strong
What we like most about Inseong’s first mini-album Crossfade: is that it feels clear and consistent. It’s a focused debut that highlights mood, message, and Inseong’s voice as the main thread throughout the tracklist. As a result, Crossfade: works best as a full listen. It’s a solid introduction to his solo direction, and it leaves a clear impression of what Inseong wants to explore moving forward.
Now we want to hear from you: which song connected with you the most, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on X at @thehoneypop. And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more coverage of your faves.
For more comeback reviews, new releases, and fresh K-Pop obsessions, check out The Honey(K)Pop!
Two of the greatest vocal powerhouses of K-Pop are indisputably DK and Seungkwan of SEVENTEEN, and the duo decided to remind us of that once again with the release of their first project as DxS. The mini-album Serenade takes us through the emotional arc of a relationship, from the first meeting to the heartbreaking end.
The angelic voices of DK and Seungkwan bring the absolute best of this love story to life and comfort us through it as well. From the thrill of DK’s solo, ‘Rockstar,’ which narrates the “butterflies in your stomach” feeling of first meeting someone to the gut-wrenching feeling of seeing that person slip away in ‘Silence,’ Serenade is a perfect showcase of DxS’s vocal and storytelling abilites. Honestly, there’s a little something for everyone waiting to be discovered in this album.
‘Blue’
‘Blue’ is the lead single of Serenade and one of the tracks that got us crying the most while we listened… and then again when we watched the music video. A 7-minute music video, by the way. Starring actors Yoo-mi Lee and Steve Sanghyun Noh, the MV feels like a short film that, much like the lyrics, depict “love moving at different paces,” causing the couple to drift apart.
We could spend hours talking about the masterpiece that is this MV. After showing us Sanghyun as a man whose wounds seem too deep to overcome and Yoo-mi as the devoted lover who grows weary of this relationship, we are left wondering what will happen to these two. Will they overcome the difficulties or drift apart forever? Well, seems like we’ll find out on January 19, when an epilogue version of the music video is set to be released.
You can check out the 7-minute cinematic music video for ‘Blue’ below and join us as we sob our way through this beautiful track (again).
The Kings of Musical Versatility
It’s not like we didn’t know that already, but seeing DxS deliver a whole mini album actively showing us how much range they have is honestly very nice. The six songs present in Serenade range from pop-rock to ballad to R&B and we love it!
Like we’ve mentioned, Serenade opens with DK’s solo track, ‘Rockstar,’ and towards the end we also have Seungkwan’s solo, ‘Dream Serenade,’ a direct contrast to the upbeat vibes of DK’s solo. This one explores the concept of finding mutual closure through understanding. Also, DxS were involved in writing and composing these tracks, which is probably why we enjoy them so much.
Beyond the solos, we’re also obsessed with ‘Guilty Pleasure,’ with its R&B sound and irresistible lyrics about being curious enough to face the possible dangers. ‘Silence’ captured our hearts as well with its depiction of the emptiness that follows a breakup we all saw coming but still hurts anyway. And what can we say about the album closer ‘Prelude of love?’ Insipiring to say the least, and a reminder that there’s always a new beginning at the end of every journey.
We already knew DK and Seungkwan are incredibly talented artists from group releases, previous solo tracks and covers, that’s not news. However, Serenade feels like a step further into that talent. And we cannot wait to see what comes next!
What was your favorite track off of Serenade? Let us know by tweeting us @TheHoneyPOP. Or you can also find us on Instagram and Facebook!
One of the greatest gifts that the universe bestowed upon mgk was his ability to impact and comfort many people through his honest storytelling, and his recent single ‘times of my life’ is the ultimate proof. After yearsssss of fans asking for this melancholic song from the Tickets To My Downfall studio sessions – which leaked after he took it off the tracklist – he revisited it with Travis Barker and some of his closest musical friends, who helped him create the triumphant lost americana last year. It feels like an amalgamation of so many of his different eras, between the seeming inclusion on the future deluxe edition of lost americana, its origins during the Tickets To My Downfall sessions, and the Hotel Diablo umbrella he holds in the music video.
In the days since ‘times of my life’ came out, I’ve seen fellow EST adopt this song into their lives in so many beautiful ways, from celebrating the fun memories they’ve made at concerts (partly fueled by the song appearing on the pre-show playlist at the lost americana Tour) to cherishing the time they got to spend with loved ones who have passed. And I know I speak for most mgk fans when I say that this release proves just how moving his music can be.
“I hope you are fine knowing you hold all my best times And without you, I’m lying to myself saying that you’ll come find me…”
Like so much of EST, mgk’s music found me when I needed it the most. He had pretty good timing because I heard ‘I Think I’m OKAY’ on the radio for the first time on a day that wound up flipping my life upside down. Hotel Diablo became a lifeline in the fallout from that day as I tried to figure out where I wanted to go and who I wanted to be. I didn’t necessarily relate to the specific stories or topics, but I admired how open Kells was about things that are very difficult to be open about. It’s like he knew that his own catharsis would be cathartic for others and pushed through to deliver that for the people who needed to hear an honest success story from a fellow underdog with the odds stacked against him.
Hotel Diablo doesn’t close with a happy ending, but ‘I Think I’m OKAY’ is the perfect conclusion. It sees Colson admitting, “I think something’s f**king wrong with me.” He knows that the power isn’t in pretending you’re fine, but knowing that just being “okay” is enough sometimes. Still standing after going through difficult, life-altering things like he describes throughout the album is a victory in itself. He owns up to his vices, destructive tendencies, and dissatisfaction with his life at the time in a way that’s refreshingly raw and real.
He spoke to Genius about the “it’s just my life and I can take it if I wanna” lyric, explaining that the darker meaning you might hear at first listen isn’t the full story, much like how there’s a whole life on the other side of whatever you’re facing at the moment.
I think a lot of people think it immediately means suicide, and I think it’s really just, like, ‘I can take back my life.’ Take your destiny into your own hands. You know, manifest what you want and make your life yours.
mgk to Genius
The Tickets To My Downfall era epitomized that idea, bringing mgk into the pop-punk spotlight after years of being a massive fan and integrating rock’s most distinctive elements into songs like ‘Save Me’ (featuring Avenged Sevenfold’s M. Shadows and Synyster Gates) and the Kellin Quinn-assisted ‘Swing Life Away.’ A few hours before he recorded ‘Save Me,’ as shown in the song’s music video, he told Slim, “I just don’t see stuff going very well.” Slim pushed, “So you wanna give up and quit? Sh*t on me, sh*t on everybody?” This is the album cycle where things started going very, very well for mgk and his rightful recognition as a music icon, holding his musical family and EST close to his heart in the midst of a massive rise.
With help from one of Colson’s musical heroes, Travis Barker, Tickets To My Downfall taught us how to dance through destruction and embrace the fun in life that coexists with what’s bringing us down. It was exactly what the world needed in the midst of the COVID pandemic, delivering nostalgia and pure joy to EST and pop-punk fans on a wider scale. In the process, it became mgk’s first #1 album on the Billboard 200 and has since gotten a 2x Platinum certification.
It felt like he had finally hit his stride and I was starting to find mine, too. I started blogging just a few months after Tickets To My Downfall came out and joined The Honey POP a little while later. He was embracing his lifelong love of pop-punk and I was embracing my lifelong love of immersive music and the artists behind it. He doubled down on it with mainstream sellout, a heavier sister album of sorts that also hit #1, and I kept exploring new content formats and topics, even writing an analytical review of the recordfor THP.
Where Tickets To My Downfall felt like a rebellious rave of sorts, mainstream sellout addressed similar topics and themes with a less playful attitude and a less shimmery sonic mood. mgk told Sunday TODAY, “I went and studied Tickets and I heard the bright sound that I had, and for this album, I just turned the lights off.” You can hear the shift from the very first track – ‘title track’ reveled in his infamy while “selling tickets to [his] downfall,” but ‘born with horns’ acknowledges “there’s no happy endings” and sees Kells taking a more honest, direct approach while describing his mental health struggles and qualms about the spotlight.
His openness about the ups and downs of being a polarizing figure in the music industry sparked a lot of thought about how artists are treated online, and even earned mgk his first-ever GRAMMY nomination in the Best Rock Album category. The man who wondered whether his hard work would ever truly pay off before recording ‘Save Me’ had officially broken through and created a thought-provoking project that demanded respect and recognition from his peers and the powers that be.
My own journey through the music industry eventually brought me to one of the coolest, most meaningful opportunities I’ve received to date: becoming a mod for mgk’s official Discord server! I wore my Tickets To My Downfall hoodie on launch day and watched as thousands of passionate fans joined in, excitedly connecting with each other and eventually Kells himself. The server felt, and still feels, like a place where EST can tune out the noise of traditional social media and the world around us to unite over what we love. It’s a reminder of how magical things can be when we come together for good, perfectly tying into the fandom name of Everyone Stands Together.
In July 2024, we came together to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Hotel Diablo with an interactive trivia puzzle throughout the server. And in one of the two most full-circle mgk moments in my life, I got to host a live Q&A with him for the puzzle winners and EST. Over 400 people who completed the puzzle got to listen in, while the fastest few to finish it were able to ask him their own questions. I talked to him about Hotel Diablo, we joked about the 32483498 nicknames he has, and he even took the time to thank me personally at the end of the event. It was such an honor to make my personal dream of interviewing him come true while sharing the moment with fans who love him just as much.
Hearing his excitement about crossing over into country with Jelly Roll on ‘Lonely Road’ (which hadn’t been officially announced yet) and seeing how much EST loved connecting with him on a deeper level had me reconsidering the possibilities of my own career in the music industry. And somehow, things made more sense to me than ever in an industry that’s constantly changing and shifting. It reminded me that there are truly no limits unless you put them on yourself or let the people trying to put them on you have the last word, something mgk has never let them do. Like our favorite rap-rock chameleon, you can try new things and take new paths and have fun with them even if they’re not what you initially imagined for yourself. In my case, it’s been expanding beyond blogging into music marketing and fandom engagement, wanting to “champion artists” like he said I do on the call and help them grow their bonds with fans, so more people can experience how powerful a kind, devoted fanbase like EST can be.
The second full-circle moment I’ve had with mgk came about a year and a half after the Q&A. After that formative day I mentioned earlier, when I heard ‘I Think I’m OKAY’ for the first time, anxiety became a really obstructive force in my life that separated me from some of the things I loved most. Colson’s music was right by my side through so much and the ultimate test of that was braving various fears to go see him live at the lost americana Tour. Anxiety is still something I regularly deal with, and I expect it will continue to be that way, but screaming all the lyrics to ‘I Think I’m OKAY’ with 12,000 other people made one of the most fragile parts of me feel like things could be okay again.
I don’t know who I’d be right now if mgk hadn’t stumbled into my life and music library. As I sit here recounting my favorite EST memories, wearing the same Tickets To My Downfall hoodie I wore the day the Discord server launched, it feels so surreal that just happening to hear a certain song on the radio six years ago has had such an impact on my life. But that’s part of the magic of mgk. You never know where his music will lead you, whether it’s through genres, through immersive lyrical stories, or through chapters and experiences that shape you.
To Colson and EST, some of the best times of my life were the ones when I was with you. Here’s to many more for all of us <3
What ‘times of [your] life’ did mgk help you through? Do you have any predictions for a possible deluxe edition of lost americana? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! You can also buzz on over to our Reddit community to chat with us.
If you’ve been living anywhere other than under a rock this year, there’s a one hundred percent chance that you’ve heard of Sabrina Carpenter! In just a few short years, we’ve gotten to watch an artist we’ve loved for years blossom into a full-blown pop star, and 2025 was the biggest year of them all! From being on SNL, to winning big at the Grammys (and being nominated again) to releasing Man’s Best Friend, there was no stopping Sabrina Carpenter this year! When looking back at Sabrina’s list of accomplishments this year, we knew we had to break down some of the biggest and best for you!
Let’s jump in!
Man’s Best Friend
We say this with complete confidence, Man’s Best Friend is one of the best pop albums of the last decade! And we don’t even think that’s a hot take because we’ve watched the general public fall as in love with this record as we, career-long fans, have. The witty songwriting, the visual storytelling, the vocals, and the elements Sabrina continuously excels at are heightened even further here on this record. From ‘Manchild,’ which has been inescapable, to some of our favorites, ‘Go Go Juice,’ and ‘House Tour,’ there is no doubt in our mind that Man’s Best Friend will have a long, ever-evolving life with fans.
Grammy Awards
The Grammys are one of those accomplishments that artists spend their whole careers chasing, that hold meaning for their nominees, and for fans alike. At the 2025 Grammy Awards, Sabrina Carpenter took home two (!!!!) awards, and has already scored six nominations for the 2026 ceremony! That is the direct result of over a decade of hard work and dedication to mastering her craft.
Variety Hitmaker Of The Year
Much like the Grammy Awards, being named Hitmaker of the Year comes on the heels of hard work. What sets this honor apart is that being a “Hitmaker” in such a pop-saturated market takes a deep understanding of what a “pop” song entails, and how to catch lightning in a bottle time after time. From ‘Espresso’ and ‘Manchild’ to ‘Nonsense,’ Sabrina’s deep understanding of this concept just keeps growing.
Saturday Night Live
SNLis a true rite of passage for creatives throughout the entertainment industry, and Sabrina pulled off three appearances this year alone! And even more impressively, one of these appearances included the double duty of hosting and performing! These appearances reminded so many people that Sabrina is an actress! Her comedic timing is impeccable, and she also happens to have an incredible voice and is a master storyteller.
Check out more of our year-end/holiday content here!
We would love to hear from you! What was your favorite Sabrina Carpenter moment from 2025? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
As 2025 comes to a close and 2026 is just around the corner, we can’t help but wonder what this new year will bring. Honestly, we just hope for more great K-Pop that we can enjoy, and if 2025 (and every year since 2018) has taught us anything, it’s that we can always count on Stray Kids for that. Just this year, SKZ have delivered two mini-albums, one full-length album, and a world tour, and who knows what else they’ve already got planned for next year.
For now, though, we thought it might be nice to share with you our Stray Kids playlist for when we need to get hyped. You know, so we can all start the year the right way. And because these boys have a huge discography, this list is also really long, so let’s get started!
‘Christmas Love’
Yes, we’re starting off with a Christmas song; sue us. But let us explain: what’s a better way to hype yourself up for the new year than by starting on Christmas? And you cannot tell us that ‘Christmas Love’ doesn’t make you want to get up and dance around the room with a smile on your face.
‘Ceremony’
We don’t know about you, but we’re planning on blasting ‘Ceremony’ all day between December 31st and January 1st to attract some “good karma” to our lives. By far one of the best title tracks of the year, ‘Ceremony’ brings the strong beats and the uplifting lyrics we all need to start the year the right way.
‘Blind Spot’
“Shining, we are the champions / Trying to make a difference…” If this is not how you want to start off 2026, then what are you doing? Take this song as a piece of advice and show people what you’re made of. Also, we can only hope to spend this new year as happy as Han was whenever he danced to ‘Blind Spot’ during the dominATE World Tour.
‘Youth’
Lee Know’s solo song from Hop just had to be on this list! It’s just the epitome of what we think of when we think “feel-good song.” Seriously, can you think of a better way to start off 2026 than “feeling like Superman,” as Lee Know says? Also, look at his smile in the MV! It’s humanly impossible to be sad seeing him smile like that.
‘Social Path’
Listen, there’s a reason why ‘Social Path’ is present in every one of our “get hyped” playlists, okay? There’s just something about the vibes of this song and the lyrics are a constant and heartwarming reminder to keep going after our dreams even when it seems hard, and we all saw how that’s working out for SKZ themselves, so we might as well do the same!
‘Phoenix’
We don’t think we’re being dramatic when we say the lyrics “We’re gonna rise up again / Like the birds flying high” changed our brain chemistry forever. We don’t know about you, but we’re planning on going into 2026 like a ‘Phoenix’ and rise from the ashes of what’s past and keep pushing ourselves to be our best versions into the new year.
‘Do It’
The mantra of 2026 should definitely be “Just do whatever you wanna do / I guarantee that it’s the best for you,” just saying. A new year means a new chance to do what we want and focus on what’s important to us. Plus, if that beat doesn’t make you want to get up and dance your way through life, then what does?
‘Spread My Wings’
In 2026, we promise to enjoy our youth the way Stray Kids describe it in ‘Spread My Wings.’ Sure, becoming an adult is a thing we all have to go through, as scary as it is. So it is pretty comforting to have this song to help remind us to still enjoy life. And of course, having Stray Kids as the soundtrack for these moments definitely helps.
‘0801’
‘0801’ is, in essence, a love letter to Stay and a reminder that we’re never truly alone as long as we have Stray Kids. And we think that’s one of the best messages to receive before facing a new lap around the sun. At the end of the day, there’s nothing better than hearing that “You’re doing great, okay?”
‘MIROH’
‘MIROH’ has the unique power to transport us all right back to being at a Stray Kids concert having the best time of our lives screaming the lyrics with our fellow Stay, so there was no way this song would be out of our list. The energy SKZ brings to the stage whenever they sing this is the energy we hope to bring every day in 2026.
‘Haven’
Stray Kids has always been a ‘Haven’ for their fans. It’s their music we turn to in difficult times, and the fact that they have a song with that exact name just makes things better, so of course, we had to include it here as well. It’s our little reminder that whenever things get difficult, we’ll always have a ‘Haven’ to return to.
‘Half Time’
We “don’t know what’s coming next” in 2026, but we’re pretty sure that having our Stray Kids playlist will make whatever it is a lot easier. And there is no way that playlist would be complete without ‘Half Time’ to remind us that we’re just getting started and the best part is yet to come.
‘Youtiful’
Slowing down the tempo a bit, we have ‘Youtiful,’ our comfort song for hard days, and we just love the sentiment behind it. The lyrics are so adorable as well, encouraging Stay to stop doubting ourselves and staying strong. An absolute need in our playlists for 2026.
‘DOMINO’
We want to make it to the end of 2026 being able to sing “Setting up my ambitions / Completing them one by one, I made it” at the top of our lungs after a whole 12 months of achieving our goals. We simply couldn’t leave this banger out of our playlist.
‘COMFLEX’
Smash hit? Check! Killer beat? Check! Inspiring lyrics? Double check! 樂-STAR (ROCK-STAR) is full of great songs, but ‘COMFLEX’ will always hold a special place in our hearts because of how good it makes us feel whenever we listen to it. At the end of the day, it’s not about being perfect. it’s about being unique and making the best of it.
‘Runners’
Whenever we feel like we need to be reminded that we can get up and keep going, we play ‘Runners’ on the highest volume. We can only hope that 2026 will be the year we go even further on our tightrope and show the world how stunning we can be.
‘Mixtape: OH’
‘Mixtape: OH’ marks such a special moment in Stray Kids’ history that there was no way we’d make this list without including it somewhere. After a troubled start to 2021, this song came out of nowhere to remind us that even the worst moments come to an end, and we can always count on SKZ to be there to help us get through them.
‘Never Alone’
Trust Stray Kids to always have at least one song per album to remind us that we’re ‘Never Alone,’ and this time they really went all out with the message. Present in their Japanese albumHollow, this song once again reinforces the bond shared between the members and how they’ll stick together through any storm that comes their way. In summary, another absolute need for our list.
‘Super Bowl’
‘Super Bowl’ is the type of song that makes us scream at the top of our lungs every time no matter how many times we’ve listened to it. Perfect for getting hyped up throughout the new year, if you ask us. Plus, it’s an absolute banger. No wonder it’s always a hit whenever Stray Kids sing it live.
‘Stray Kids’
We could only finish this list with ‘Stray Kids,’ a song by Stray Kids, about Stray Kids, written and produced by Stray Kids. There’s no better motivator than seeing the love and admiration these boys have for one another, and this song is a direct reflection of their relationship, which is why we chose it to be here as a constant reminder that their rhythm never stops and neither should ours.
So, what did you think of our song choices? Would you add any other Stray Kids songs to our playlist? Tell us at @thehoneypop on Twitter, or stop by on Facebook and/or Instagram.
2025 was truly the best year in pop music we’ve had in a while! It seems like artists are simply locking back into what makes a true pop song and mastering that art. Narrowing this list down to simply 25 songs was quite the challenge, but we think this list is the best of the best throughout all facets of pop music! From Olivia Dean and Chappell Roan to Greyson Chance and so many more, let’s jump in!
Taylor Swift – ‘The Fate of Ophelia’
There is no way to talk about the great pop resurgence of 2025 without highlighting The Life of a Showgirl by Taylor Swift. For us, the entire album is full of examples of a true-to-form pop song, but we had to choose to highlight ‘The Fate of Ophelia’ due to it being inescapable since its release. This song is pure ear candy, and will get stuck in your head for hours even after just hearing a few seconds.
Olivia Dean – ‘Man I Need’
Olivia Dean is taking the pop music world by storm with ‘Man I Need,’ and to us that makes perfect sense. In anyone else’s discography, ‘Man I Need’ would be an easy career highlight, and yet, it’s one of many songs on Olivia’s most recent album, The Art of Loving, that blew us away upon the first listen and could have easily taken this spot.
Sabrina Carpenter – ‘House Tour’
Man’s Best Friend is stacked top to bottom with pop gold, but after listening back through the album, ‘House Tour’ had to be our choice! Everything from that infectious chorus to the “my house is on pretty girl avenue” line made this one of those songs that will soundtrack nights out for us through the foreseeable future.
Jonas Brothers – ‘Love Me To Heaven’
The Jonas Brothers have been experts at the pop music game since Nick first uttered the words ‘red dress’ back in 2008, so it’s no surprise to us that they are only getting better and better 17 years later. Their newest record, Greetings From Your Hometown, had an obvious stand-out to us the first time we listened, and that was ‘Love Me To Heaven.’
Audrey Hobert – ‘Phoebe’
Who’s The Clown?by Audrey Hobert was truly on an endless loop here at THP! Upon first listen, it was automatically clear that we were witnessing the artistic birth of someone who had a crystal clear understanding of how to bring themselves through in the music, be specific while staying relatable, and develop a sound that was particularly hers. We could have easily put any song from the album here, but ‘Phoebe’ is a forever favorite of ours!
Greyson Chance – ‘Waiting Outside The Lines ‘25’
No, we are not trying to transport you back to 2011, but there is so much beauty in taking a certified nostalgia-packed hit and reimagining it with years of life lived and heightened vocal ability to back it up. We can’t help but have a permanent smile on our face listening to this track and diving into Greyson’s current catalog (which everyone should do themselves the favor of doing)!
Jensen McRae – ‘Novelty’
If you asked us what album impacted us the most this year, one of the easiest answers would be I Don’t Know How But They Found Me!Anyone who has dived into Jensen’s discography knows what a savant she is. Her relationship to her pen is one of one, and this album may be the best example of that in her discography so far. ‘Novelty’ is the song that immediately jumps out at us as a must-listen.
Lady Gaga – ‘How Bad Do U Want Me’
Lady Gaga is synonymous with pop music at this point. She has always had the skill on lock, and in many ways, has influenced so much of what the modern genre looks like. MAYHEM was a true return to form for Lady Gaga, and showed that her knowledge and talent with the pop music world has never faltered. ‘How Bad Do U Want Me’ is an instant smash and is still on repeat.
5 Seconds of Summer – ‘NOT OK’
We will forever preach our love for 5 Seconds of Summer and how they get better with every release! (If you didn’t know, this band is literally why THP exists!) EVERYONE’S A STARcame out just over a month ago and is the band’s most ambitious, larger-than-life project yet. But of course, every element was nailed perfectly. Each of the guys has so many standout moments, but there are even more moments when it is so clear why they continue to make music together: everything flows seamlessly.
Sadie Jean – ‘She’s Dating My Boyfriend’
Sadie Jean is the exact singer-songwriter your playlist is in need of, and we had to highlight a track off her debut album, Early Twenties Torture! Every song on this record feels like Sadie had a insider’s look at our deepest thoughts and struggles, was able to turn them poetic, and then put them to music. That skill of relatability is rare. ‘She’s Dating My Boyfriend’ is our favorite example of that peek inside our minds.
Laufey – ‘Lover Girl’
Laufey has seamlessly blended the worlds of pop and jazz music and made a fusion that leaves us regularly at a loss for words. A Matter of Time is Laufey’s most recent album. And upon our first listen, it was clear that this is a generational album, one of those records where anyone who gives it a chance will fall in love with it. ‘Lover Girl’ is our favorite song off the record, so we had to highlight it!
Amber Mark – ‘Let Me Love You’
Amber Mark is the pop star you’ve been looking to add to your playlists! If you’re a fan of artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Dean, Amber’s album, Pretty Idea, and specifically our favorite track, ‘Let Me Love You,’ is going to be right up your alley! We are predicting that 2026 is going to be a huge year for Amber! And with music of this quality, it makes complete sense!
Justin Bieber – ‘Yukon’
‘Yukon’ was one of our most-streamed songs of the year; it’s that serious to us! SWAG, for us, felt like Justin coming back into his own, making the music that feels true to form. With ‘Yukon,’ that infectious chorus we’ve come to know and love from Justin Bieber is the shining star, which definitely adds to why we are constantly playing this track on a loop.
Lydia Night – ‘The Bomb’
You may know Lydia Night from her time with the band The Regrettes, but trust us when we say she has turned into a full-blown solo pop star. Lydia released her debut album, Parody of Pleasure, back in August, and all thirteen songs are expertly crafted! ‘The Bomb’ has been a standout since we first dove into this album. The song is playful and reminiscent of early 2000s pop.
Role Model – ‘Sally, When The Wine Runs Out’
Obviously, ‘Sally, When The Wine Runs Out’ has taken the world by storm this year, so there was no way we weren’t going to give Role Model his flowers. We haven’t heard a chorus quite as infectious as ‘Sally, When The Wine Runs Out’ in quite a long time. It’s impossible not be in an instant good mood when it hits.
Myles Smith – ‘Stay (If You Wanna Dance)’
If you were as obsessed with Myles Smith’s ‘Stargazing’ as we were, then ‘Stay (If You Wanna Dance)’ is the perfect addition to your playlists! Myles is someone who you continue to find new things about his artistry to dig into with each listen.
Zara Larsson is a pop star in the truest sense of the word. Her entire album, Midnight Sun, is a pop masterclass, in which she’s the only person equipped to teach. When we first heard the title track ‘Midnight Sun,’ we knew that this was a whole new ball game in terms of pop music, and that we would take every opportunity to praise what Zara is doing with her artistry.
HAIM – ‘Relationships’
This song is pure ear candy and truly a discography highlight from one of our favorite trios! The chorus has serotonin woven into every line and lyric. And it makes us want to be out at night in the city with friends, dancing to every word. Their most recent album, i quit, is chock-full of tracks where you will see these themes.
Conan Gray – ‘Vodka Cranberry’
Conan Gray was born to make the exact music he’s making right now. He releases such infectious pop tracks with lyrics that both feel true to self for Conan and still connect deeply with his audience. ‘Vodka Cranberry’ blew up this year, and to us, it only makes perfect sense. This is a solidified hit.
Tate McRae – ‘Sports Car’
If you didn’t know, Tate McRae is a name that we have been screaming from the rooftops since we got to interview her years ago (which you can read here!). Tate blends musicality with dance seamlessly to draw people into who she is as a musician. ‘Sports Car’ and its visual components showcase exactly why Tate has quickly become a household name.
Avery Cochrane – ‘Shapeshifting On A Saturday Night’
Hailing from Seattle, Avery Cohrane is bound to be the name you can’t escape this next year in pop music! This year, she released her track, ‘Shapeshifting on a Saturday Night,’ and blew us away with the established pop sound she was crafting. If you’re a fan of artists like Chappell Roan or Olivia Rodrigo, we think you will love Avery!
Addison Rae – ‘Headphones On’
It’s no secret that Addison Rae has had a massive year. From the success of ‘Diet Pepsi’ and her tour to her debut album, Addison, everything about her career so far has been the beginning of a pop star who will be talked about and celebrated for years to come. For Addison, pop is a true work of performance art, following in the footsteps of the likes of Britney Spears. ‘Headphones On’ off her debut album summarizes everything we love most about Addison as an artist.
Reneé Rapp – ‘I Think I Like You Better When You’re Gone’
We yell the chorus to ‘I Think I Like You Better When You’re Gone’ at truly astronomical levels. Everything about this track resonates with us. Something that Reneé Rapp never fails to do is draw the listener in and weave her story in a way that feels relatable to others. On top of the lyrical content of the song, Reneé’s vocals are otherworldly here.
Demi Lovato – ‘Joshua Tree’
The 2025 version of Demi Lovato is the only artist who could craft an album like It’s Not That Deep. This record is a amalgamation of someone who has gone through it all. Someone who has experienced hardships and heartache and is in the complete opposite space now. And a lot of it is backtracked with songs you want to be in the club dancing to. That’s the duality of pop and of Demi, and it’s beautiful. To us, ‘Joshua Tree’ best represents the album as a whole.
Chappell Roan – ‘The Subway’
Ending our best 2025 pop songs with one that is still inescapable like ‘The Subway’ only felt right. Chappell Roan is a once-in-a-lifetime artist. She creates with such intention and really takes her time with each project, which comes through in the music. ‘The Subway’ will be looked at years from now as one of the great songs of the decade.
We would love to hear from you! What is your favorite pop song of 2025? Is it something off the new Taylor Swift album? Maybe a Conan Gray song? Or an Olivia Dean song? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
From rookie groups to some of the most-established idols finally going solo, K-Pop was full of iconic debuts in 2025. We saw record-breaking sales, one-of-a-kind concepts, and more idols getting hands-on in the production process than we could’ve dreamed. It was really hard to narrow down our favorite K-Pop debuts from this year, but here’s our top 10 in 2025!
MARK
Considering it sometimes feels like MARK debuted 802 years ago and is in more groups than we can count, it feels kind of strange to think that he hadn’t had a solo debut yet. But all that experience led to one of the most versatile and fully-realized K-Pop debut albums, not just in 2025, but ever. The concept of The Firstfruit, led by the title track ‘1999,’ is built around the four cities that made MARK who he is today: Toronto, New York City, Vancouver, and Seoul. We’d love this debut for the concept alone, so the tracks being that good just feels like a bonus.
Hearts2Hearts
Hearts2Hearts’ 2025 has been so strong that it’s kind of hard to believe it’s their debut year. ‘STYLE’ might be the group’s biggest hit of the year, but there’s no denying the statement that their debut, ‘The Chase,’ which was written by fellow THP faves FLO, made. ‘The Chase,’ and Hearts2Hearts concept so far, is a pure embrace of pop in all its open-hearted, bright, “sparkle, sparkle,” glory.
CORTIS
CORTIS was arguably the most-anticipated K-Pop debut of 2025, and the rookie group seemed to take that all in their (very tall) stride! BIGHIT’s third boy group, after BTS and TXT, CORTIS was always going to be under scrutiny. However, not dissimilar to their predecessors, CORTIS jumped onto the scene with an anarchic attitude, determined to do their own thing. Their debut track, ‘What You Want,’ and pre-debut release, ‘GO!,’ show off this energy perfectly, as well as their commitment to a hands-on approach to their music.
JURIN ASAYA
In 2025, leader JURIN ASAYA became the first member of XG, a Japanese group based in South Korea, to have a solo debut. Collaborating with Rapsody on the track ‘PS118,’ JURIN ASAYA put her skills on display perfectly, with her quintessential delivery and lyrical wordplay. The track was a great example of what a solo debut should be: a clear statement of individual identity with just a lil’ sprinkle of the group’s character, too.
XLOV
Four-member K-Pop group XLOV had a truly unique debut in 2025. They promote a genderless concept, spotlighting their intricate choreography, decadent styling, and impressive production skills instead. Of course, this has earned them a lot of attention, both positive and negative, and shines a light on how gendered the expectations but on boy groups and girl groups can sometimes be. But, even putting all of that aside, XLOV would still be one of our fave debuts this year, thanks to how great ‘I’mma Be’ was. And they’ve just gotten better since!
YEONJUN
Does this count as a debut? Technically, yes, so we’re gonna talk about it. TXT’s Yeonjun released his official solo debut album in November, and we’re already anticipating a NO LABELS: PART 02 in 2026…maybe? Taking the stage by storm, as always, Yeonjun brought his quintessential power and charm to the record. NO LABELS: PART 01 deftly balances the opulence of K-Pop with the grit of Yeonjun’s other musical influences blending, hip-hop, hard rock, and more, seamlessly.
BEOMGYU
Ok, so we might be contradicting ourselves just a teeny-weeny bit. Like Yeonjun in 2024, Beomgyu didn’t have an official solo debut this year, but he did release his debut mixtape track, ‘Panic.’ The indie-pop song grows from a gentle intro to a searing anthem, with one of the sweetest concepts in any 2025 debut. The track came to life thanks to Beomgyu’s personal experience of music’s healing powers and how he’s been comforted by his own favorite artists. In turn, Beomgyu wanted to pass that hopeful energy onto MOA, and so, ‘Panic’ was born!
YEJI
ITZY’s formidable leader, YEJI, finally had her solo debut in March 2025. Air is all about embracing excitement, and there were few releases more exciting than this one! A mix of synth-pop and dream-pop, this EP had exactly the energy we had dreamed of for a YEJI debut, but it still exceeded all our expectations, with killer performances and fairytale references. YEJI’s intention with this solo debut was to showcase her aura, and she definitely achieved that!
HUNTR/X
You knew we had to include our girls, HUNTR/X, right? In 2025, the girl group that stars in K-Pop Demon Hunters had a debut year that most idols couldn’t even imagine! ‘Golden’ has topped the Billboard Global (Excl. U.S.) chart for a record-tying 19 weeks, and hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for 8 weeks, too. And all of that success is before we even mention their other songs, like ‘How It’s Done’ or ‘What It Sounds Like!’
Saja Boys
Where HUNTR/X go, the Saja Boys will follow! Just like HUNTR/X arguably became the world’s favorite girl group in 2025, Saja Boys became a top boy group, in our hearts as well as charts all over the globe. From ‘Soda Pop’ to ‘Your Idol,’ there are few debut tracks that have gotten stuck in our collective heads like the ones from K-Pop Demon Hunters!
And that’s our ten! Do you agree with our picks for favorite K-Pop debuts of 2025? Anyone you wish we had included on this list? Hit us up! You can find us at @thehoneypop on Twitter, or by visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.
If you’re looking for a new band to take over your playlists, look no further than Arrows in Action! Their latest album, I Think I’ve Been Here Before, is the perfect gateway into their musical world, so this is the ideal time to jump in! We were lucky enough to get to chat with Arrows in Action all about their newest album, past music, live shows, and so much more!
Hello! Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us! To start us off, how would you describe your sound to someone who is tuning in for the first time? We’re an alternative pop-rock band! We’re a blend of everything we love, and we love a huge array of music.
I Think I’ve Been Here Before is less than a month away. What emotions are you guys feeling leading up to the release of this record? We’re feeling a mix of relief, excitement, and catharsis with the release of this album! We can’t wait for people to hear it all in its intentional order.
Out of the eleven songs on the record, only two are unreleased. What goes into the decision of what to release and what to hold back? We wanted to make sure to save the conclusion of the album for the day of release. We were very intentional with the track order on this record, and we wanted our fans to experience the album in its entirety together.
‘Hello Sunlight!’ is the oldest track on the record, having been released in May of last year. When this song came out, did you know it was part of a bigger project, or did that come with time? Though it was released far ahead of the album, ‘Hello Sunlight!’ is the track that started the writing process and was instrumental in guiding us towards the sounds that would make up Side A.
You’ve released this album in two parts, with Side A coming out earlier this year. How do you group the songs and figure out which song belongs on which side? In both subject matter and sonics, we accidentally curated two distinct vibes while writing this album. It could be the simplest thing, like the placement of a minor chord that guided a song toward side B, and in many cases, it was the lyrical perspective that placed the song.
With a new album comes the hope of live music! While crafting the album, which song off this album were you most looking forward to bringing to life on stage? Victor: ‘Cheekbones,’ Jesse: ‘Empty Canvas,’ Matt: ‘Empty Canvas.’
Your debut album, Be More, came out four years ago! When you look at the artists who released that record, and the artists who are about to release this record, what do you see as the biggest area of growth? Our biggest area of growth has been how much we collaborate! With years of touring and writing together, we know each other better than ever before, and we know how to expand on each other’s ideas.
Once again, thank you so much for chatting with us! Before we let you go, what is one thing on the Arrows in Action bucket list as we close out 2025? A bucket list item we completed this year was headlining in Europe and the UK! A bucket list item we have that is yet unchecked is performing at Red Rocks in Colorado. Thanks for having us!
We would love to hear from you! What is your favorite song off of I Think I’ve Been Here Before by Arrows in Action? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok!
Is it too soon to say we miss this era already?! Jeff Satur just capped off an iconic year with the release of the Red Giant EP. Throughout 2025, Jeff has given us a behemoth concept and storyline, the “Year of Red Giant,” and now we have the full EP to enjoy. Allow us to bask in the light of this bright star!
Red Giant EP
What’s better than ‘Golden Night?’ Two versions of it! On Red Giant, Jeff gives us exactly that, with both an English version and a Thai version of the track. And what’s better than a miracle? Two miracles! Which coincidentally is the message of ‘Golden Night:’ miracles do happen, and what’s more is that they can happen more than once! We love a hopeful, magical message!
It goes without saying (but we’ll say it anyway) that Jeff gives us one of the best vocal performances we’ve heard in a long time on Red Giant. Or at least, probably some of the best vocals since Jeff’s last release. We’ve been indulging in some of these tracks all year, but the EP release brings some brand new songs, too! As well as both versions of ‘Golden Night,’ we get ‘Passion Fruit’ and ‘Call It Over,’ each with its own visualizer (basically a mini music video). Check out the full tracklist below!
‘Ride or Die’
‘Tell Me the Name’
‘Golden Night (English Version)’
‘Passion Fruit’
‘Call It Over’
‘ของขวัญปีใหม่ (Golden Night (Thai Version))’
The “Year of Red Giant”
If you’re not familiar with the concept of Red Giant, it’s the moment just when a star swells and appears as it reaches its full life cycle, kind of like a phoenix just before it’s reborn from ashes. From the moment we heard Jeff Satur’s plans for a “Year of Red Giant,” we’ve been absolutely in love with this imagery and how well it fits Jeff at this point in his career.
However, even that couldn’t have prepared us for how Jeff has soared this year. From ‘Ride or Die’ way back in January (how has it been that long?!) to the Red Giant world tour, we’ve loved seeing Jeff Satur get his flowers! He’s a genuine world star and one of our absolute favorite vocalists. Now, we just need to get ourselves back into the audience for one of his shows. Join us in anticipating, and hoping for, even bigger things from Jeff in 2026!
What’s been your favorite moment from Jeff Satur’s “Year of Red Giant?” Do you have a fave track on the EP? Let us know on @TheHoneyPOP on Twitter or by leaving a comment on our Facebook and Instagram posts.
It’s here! Yeonjun has released NO LABELS: PART 01, and neither us nor our playlists will ever be the same again. We’ll be the first to admit that we had very, very high hopes for Yeonjun’s debut solo album, but we’ll also hold our hands up and say that he exceeded every single expectation. Rather than a perfect, sparkling pop album (which we all know Yeonjun is capable of, too), NO LABELS is bold, untamed, and disruptive.
Throughout NO LABELS: PART 01, Yeonjun provocatively dares the listener to try and categorize him, whilst proving time and time again that it’s impossible. Every aspect of the album is rebellious yet calculated.
However, as thought-out as NO LABELS: PART 01 is, it never comes across as inauthentic. Yes, Yeonjun has a point to prove, but that point is so intrinsically tied to him and his artistic self that it never feels deliberate. Yeonjun can’t help but demonstrate just how dynamic and enigmatic he is, because that’s just him.
From now on, too, through my music, I’ll keep showing you the honest and new sides of myself.
Yeonjun on the NO LABELS: PART 01 listening party CDs.
There’s no doubt that K-Pop’s formula to promote upcoming releases works incredibly; from concept photos to MV teasers to tracklist announcements, with something happening pretty much every day at 00:00 KST, it’s a surefire way to get audiences hyped for a comeback or debut. With NO LABELS: PART 01, Yeonjun rebelled even against that process, announcing and promoting the album on his own social media, including setting up a Pinterest account specifically for the concept photos, and giving MOAs sneak peeks at almost every track on the album. Plus, throughout TXT’s career, Yeonjun has been notorious for dropping spoilers, and he seriously weaponized that talent for NO LABELS.
Even the very notion of a PART 01 is disruptive. We already (especially after that teaser at the end of the music video) know we can expect a PART 02, but when and what that looks like is on Yeonjun’s terms. And he’s always one step ahead!
My very presence speaks for me, and it will not be silenced. I exist on my own terms. Outside of words, this is just me.
Text in Yeonjun’s NO LABELS: PART 01 packaging
Track By Track
Now, let’s get stuck into the details, and how each NO LABELS track proves Yeonjun’s artistry is limitless.
‘Talk To You’
Once upon a time, we had ‘LO$ER=LOVER,’ which opened with Soobin kicking us in the face; now we have ‘Talk To You’ opening with Yeonjun getting punched. Unlike the music video, which has it as the grand finale, Yeonjun opens NO LABELS: PART 01 with ‘Talk To You,’ the title track. Like the rest of the album, this song toes the line of just-weird-enough, and on first listen reminded us of another album that straddles that line: RM’s RPWP. ‘Talk To You’ builds on a duality that Yeonjun is already well known for: the potent mix of rock and hip-hop. Both genres are rife with anarchy, which is exactly the energy that Yeonjun attacks them with.
If there were ever any doubt that Yeonjun’s personal mark is all over this album, then ‘Talk To You’ alone would prove that theory wrong. Yeonjun is credited for both the lyrics and composition (he’s credited on five out of the six NO LABELS tracks), and further contributed to its creative direction through the choreography and performance. In fact, the choreography itself is some of the hardest we’ve ever seen, to the point where, in behind-the-scenes content, Yeonjun has been warning fans not to try it out! We’d expect nothing less from the 4th Gen It Boy, but he still exceeded all our expectations.
‘Forever’
If ‘Talk To You’ reminds us of RM’s RPWP, then ‘Forever’ reminds us of another of RM’s previous collaborators, Anderson .Paak. Where so much of this album is deliberately disruptive, ‘Forever’ is its sleekest moment. A simple (in comparison!), bright hip-hop track contrasts with the nonchalant delivery of Yeonjun’s all-English rap, and we love this low-pressure version of a seize-the-day mentality. Yeonjun mentioned that a lot of his friends picked this track as their fave when he gave them a sneak preview of NO LABELS: PART 01, and we can totally appreciate why.
‘Let Me Tell You (featuring Daniela of KATSEYE)’
This is the track for the 00s R&B lovers! With two of K-Pop’s best dancers, we knew the choreography of this track would hit, and it still blew us away. The sensual nature of ‘Let Me Tell You’ suits both Yeonjun and Daniela so well, and we need a full performance ASAP!
And, once again, Yeonjun rebels against the limitations placed on idols, who often face massive backlash (think ENHYPEN’s ‘Bite Me’) for performing with people of other genders. Of course, male and female idols singing and dancing together shouldn’t be controversial, but it is, and Yeonjun and Daniela do a beautiful job of pointing out the absurdity of that, simply by not acknowledging it at all.
‘Do It’
‘Do It’ is an underrated gem on NO LABELS: PART 01, and we can totally see this track having some serious longevity. The song is full of confidence and charisma, but in a completely unexpected way; it’s not brash or loud. In fact, the live band style and jazz influences make ‘Do It’ feel like a very intimate listen, and this nonchalance adds to its effectiveness. Yeonjun doesn’t need to shout to be heard, or for everyone to stop what they’re doing and pay attention.
In the second half of the album, which ‘Do It’ kicks off, Yeonjun responds to the question of NO LABELS more directly, speaking about his persona and the criticism that he has faced. Throughout ‘Do It,’ he teaches his critics how to be “YJ’s miniature,” but even when he plots out the most basic steps for them, they can’t manage it. All of this goes to show that just because Yeonjun makes something look easy, that doesn’t mean it is. That’s just his talent.
‘Nothin’ ‘Bout Me’
Like ‘Do It,’ ‘Nothin’ ‘Bout Me’ tackles the album’s themes head-on. With lyrics like “you can’t fit me in any kind of frame,” and “I’m my own product,” Yeonjun speaks directly to people who try to contain him as any one specific thing. Moreover, whilst “you” try to box him in, he’s not even paying attention to your failed efforts; he’s busy “snoring in a Carnival.” A Carnival is the car most commonly used by idols, and it’s not the first time they’ve been used as a status symbol in a diss track, just look at the way ATEEZ belittle their stalkers in ‘MATZ.’
Yeonjun co-wrote and composed Nothin’ ‘Bout Me,’ and you can definitely feel that raw, untamed energy come through in this hip-hop track. On an album full of self-assuredness, ‘Nothin’ ‘Bout Me’ still takes the crown for the most provocative and defiant moment.
I rip off any label put on me, even if it gets sticky, sticky, sticky, I still go.
Yeonjun, referencing NO LABELS and ‘GGUM’ on ‘Nothin”Bout Me’
‘COMA’
‘COMA’ is Yeonjun’s favorite track on NO LABELS: PART 01, and we’re inclined to agree with him. The production on this hip-hop track is deliberately disorienting, as Yeonjun displays how much power he has over his rapt audiences. In addition to creating the choreography for ‘COMA,’ Yeonjun co-wrote the lyrics. As a result, ‘COMA’ brings us one of our favorite Yeonjun trademarks: wordplay. When rapping “The ‘GGUM’ you were chewing on,” Yeonjun uses 씹다, which means both ‘to chew’ and ‘to belittle’ (source: TranslatingTXT), so this line can also be taken as a reference to the haters’ reactions to his 2024 mixtape.
Yeonjun then goes on to say that he has “Fed this scene a new topic, eyes on me, all them eyes on me.” Yeonjun’s name is often mistranslated as ‘fed,’ so it’s like he already knows that everyone will be talking about NO LABELS: PART 01, and about Yeonjun himself too. With an album this iconic, can you blame us?
It’s clear in every aspect of NO LABELS: PART 01 that Yeonjun has uncovered a true artistic vision, and as fans, we couldn’t be happier for him (or happier to reap the benefits!). From the lyricism to the aesthetic and everything in between, NO LABELS: PART 01 is completely undefinable, except for the only label it needs: Yeonjun.
What’s your favorite track on the album? And tell us your predictions for NO LABELS: PART 02! Let us know over on Twitter @TheHoneyPOP! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram.
And if you want more TOMORROW X TOGETHER in your life, you’ve come to the right place…
Every year, Candy Crush Saga celebrates Music Season, a unique event bringing the joy of music to the Candy Kingdom. This year’s Music Season hits all the right notes with an in-game event that lets players create their own soundtrack while helping the Kingdom get concert-ready.
The adventure unfolds through a five-week, music-fuelled expedition, a reimagined version of Candy Crush’s fan-favourite Saga adventure feature, filled with fresh challenges, collectible rewards, and a new harmony between gameplay and rhythm.
Find out all the details below:
The Story: The Show Must Go On
The big concert is about to begin, but there’s one small problem: Jelly Queen, Yeti, and Mr Toffee have overslept, and the stage is in chaos. By playing the game, players must help the sleepy bandmates wake up, grab their instruments, and make it to the stage before the crowd loses patience.
Music-Themed Challenges: Play, Choose, Create
At the heart of Music Season is an interactive music-making feature that turns each Expedition into a creative jam session. Players unlock three musical layers – beat, harmony, and melody – across milestone levels. After each special level, they choose one of three musical layers to add to their track. Completing all three creates a custom cassette tape soundtrack unique to their choices. With 27 possible combinations, you’ll be playing along to a track of your own design.
New Blocker: Music Medley
A special edition of the Color Cluster blocker appears throughout the event, featuring a music-inspired reskin that ties into the season’s theme. Players will learn to clear it through a short in-level tutorial, adding a rhythmic twist to their puzzle-solving.
Rewards Worth Playing For
Every sweet win rewards players with the familiar Bronze, Silver, and Gold chests, but Music Season adds a new cassette collection system. There are 27 unique cassette tapes to collect, each representing a completed soundtrack. Completing sets unlocks exclusive vanity rewards including a headphone-themed profile frame, a music-inspired avatar, and a limited-edition profile frame. These items are available only during Music Season 2025.
Replay, Remix, and Collect
Players can replay event up to 27 times to create every possible combination of soundtracks and complete their collection. Each new loop offers a chance to unlock new rewards and explore different melodies, giving players plenty of reasons to keep playing all season long.
The Interactive Music Video
Alongside the in-game event, Candy Crush Saga introduces its first-ever playable music video, in collaboration with the Grammy-winning Thundercat, blending rhythm, animation, and gameplay into one interactive experience – a perfect encore to the music season in-game experience.
The team has worked with Grammy-winning artist Thundercat to flip Diana Ross’s iconic “Upside Down” into a music video fans can control. Inspired by Match-3 mechanics, as the beat builds, you’ll match visuals in sets of three to gamify the story, triggering bursts of color, unlocking surprises, and racking up points in a topsy-turvy, joy-filled ride.
If you really want to feel the beat, Candy Crush is also releasing a limited-edition lollipop that lets fans taste the music using innovative bone-conduction. As the track hits your tongue, subtle vibrations travel through the jaw, carrying the beat to you. Our limited-edition bone-conduction lollipops will also be available for free on a first come, first served basis while supplies last (available in the US only) – apply here.
Music Season is live now in Candy Crush Saga. Five weeks. Dozens of rewards.
Let us start by saying that Starkissed is the most perfect name for a TXT album. It’s beyond fitting, and just so cute. TXT’s most recent album finished with ‘Song of the Stars,’ and now we get lots of Starkissed songs!
Instrumentals
One of the very best things about TXT’s Japanese albums is that we are treated to beautiful intro and outro instrumentals! ‘Intro: SPARK’ and ‘Outro: GLOW’ are no exception. We love how these two tracks open and close this chapter and, as always, we hope to see them live on in something else too… perhaps background music for the VCRs at the ACT: TOMORROW Japan Dome Tour? TXT’s creative team, our door is always open.
‘Can’t Stop’
The names ‘SPARK’ and ‘GLOW’ for an album with a starry concept are so gorgeous too, but they’re not the most-aptly named songs on Starkissed. The title track, ‘Can’t Stop,’ is perfect. It’s shot up to the top of all our ‘On Repeat’ playlists, and we truly ‘Can’t Stop’ streaming it. TXT, like a lot of K-Pop groups, usually lean towards ballads for Japanese singles, and this is easily their most fun, catchy Japanese release to date. Full of 80s synth and irresistible guitar riffs, the THP MOA hive was never going to survive this comeback unscathed.
Original Japanese B-Sides
Another one of the new Japanese original songs on Starkissed is ‘Where Do You Go?,’ a song that made us immediately jealous that we won’t be attending the Japan tour shows to see this IRL. It has a cute, bright energy that we haven’t seen from TXT in a while, and instantly reminded us of 2020’s ‘Wishlist.’
The final original track is ‘SSS (Sending Secret Signals),’ which is a pretty good tongue twister. Written by HYDE, this song is rich with the rock-pop energy everybody loves to see from TXT. The pre-chorus breakdown stole our breath the first time we heard it, not to mention Yeonjun’s spoken lines. HYDE is a music icon in Japan, having been active in the industry since 1988. As TXT’s global and Japanese fandoms continue to grow, we are so happy to see them getting the opportunities to work with such storied artists!
Re-Releases
Additionally, we were treated to Japanese versions of some of our other favorite TXT singles, ‘Beautiful Strangers,’ and ‘Deja Vu,’ as well as re-releases of ‘Step by Step,’ ‘Rise,’ and CHIKAI’s ‘We’ll Never Change’ and ‘Kitto Zutto.’ Not to mention that we, of course, had to be gifted with a Japanese version of our beloved ‘Song of the Stars!’
With the Starkissed release, we’ve got to indulge in several brand new songs, renew our love for some familiar ones, and enjoy plenty of TXT content on Japanese music and variety shows! Considering The Star Chapter: TOGETHER still feels like it came out yesterday (how has it been three months already?!), MOAs really do feel like the luckiest fandom.
What’s your favorite track from TXT’s Starkissed? What have you enjoyed about this comeback? Let us know on Twitter @TheHoneyPOP! Or, if you’d rather, you can also find us on Facebook and Instagram!
Is it hot in here, or is it just PSYCHIC FEVER turning up the heat with their latest release, ‘SWISH DAT?’ We’re betting on the latter! KOKORO, WEESA, TSURUGI, RYOGA, REN, JIMMY, and RYUSHIN have had a banner year, complete with their PSYCHIC FILE III EP, sold-out shows across multiple continents, and an appearance at SXSW’s Friends From The East Showcase, but they’re still giving their absolute all to this new drop. We’re exhausted even just thinking about all the hard work they’ve put in throughout 2025 yet they make it look so effortless. ForEVER are so proud of their dedication and passion!
‘SWISH DAT’ was selected as the theme song for the Japanese show Masked NINJA Akakage, and we think it was a truly perfect choice. If we were channel surfing and heard a theme tune like this, we’d immediately drop the remote and add it to all our playlists! It pays homage to Japanese culture in its lyrics, choreography, and music video while also feeling like a mission statement of sorts for PSYCHIC FEVER. It shows off their ambition and drive to be the best artists they can be while proudly repping Japan as they rise on the global music scene. And REN’s stunning high note?! They “go swish” and we go to recommend it to all of our friends.
“A silent declaration, proven in the darkness Leaping past even flaws to the heights beyond…”
Whether ‘SWISH DAT’ is the first you’ve heard from PSYCHIC FEVER or you’ve been a ForEVER for a while, we have a special treat for you! We’re psyched to share that we got to do a fun Q&A with the members for fans to get to know them better. Press play on ‘SWISH DAT’ above or maybe even their PSYCHIC FILE III EP, then keep reading to learn all about PSYFE from PSYFE.
KOKORO
You’ve said that your training was a difficult time and that you were anxious about the future, but you’ve been able to push through and light up so many fans’ lives as part of PSYCHIC FEVER. What motivates you during hard times, especially now that you’ve made it through some of the hardest ones you faced? My dreams and the support of everyone who cheers me on are my driving force. All the struggles and worries I’ve faced have now become part of who I am, allowing me to motivate myself no matter what.
Earlier this year, you released your first photobook, Kokoro no Oto, which you shot in Thailand! What was it like for you to create this book and see how much ForEVER have loved it? It truly made me happy and was a blessing for me. The photobook brought out charms I didn’t even know I had, so I hope you’ll continue to enjoy it.
You’ve been learning guitar, which must be so fun! What are your favorite kinds of songs to play? Will you be playing on a PSYCHIC FEVER song in the future? I practice guitar as a hobby! I play ballads, jazz, rock, and a wide range of genres! My dream is to perform live someday!
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? The song that immediately comes to mind is ‘BAKU BAKU.’ It’s a track about moving toward your dreams even amidst anxiety and tension, and it’s one I feel truly represents who I am. It captures the emotions I feel when facing new challenges like my first stage performance or recording sessions, so I chose this song.
I think it also applies to songs I haven’t released yet, so please look forward to them!
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? What I love about our group is how warmly everyone sends each other off when we have individual activities, and cheers each other on with “Do your best!” You don’t often see this on stage, but I’m constantly reminded how kind my members are and how glad I am to be in this group.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you so much for always giving us your warm support and energy. We’ll keep working hard toward our dreams to deliver music and live entertainment that’s uniquely ours and that you’ll enjoy. Please look forward to our future activities!
Image Source: LDH Japan
WEESA
Mac Miller has been a big inspiration for you, and you’ve called him your hero! What do you love most about his work? What would it mean for you to be able to move PSYCHIC FEVER fans who want to be musicians in a similar way? I’ve loved Mac Miller since middle school, and listening to his music made me want to create my own songs. I think the first time I properly made a song, I used one of his type beats. His vibe and singing style felt truly one-of-a-kind, and I got hooked.
If there are people out there who see us and think, “I want to start making music too,” that would make me incredibly happy.
You told KpopWise that you listen to music before your performances to get yourself hyped up. What kind of music has been motivating you lately? The songs I listen to vary completely depending on my mood, but I basically listen to whatever songs I like across all genres.
In addition to music, you also love art and have been drawing for a long time. What inspires your art, and might we see your art on a PSYCHIC FEVER album cover anytime soon? I often get inspired by watching movies or looking at other artists’ paintings. Drawing also helps me switch gears, so sometimes I draw instead of writing in a diary.
If there’s ever an opportunity that my works fit the album’s concept, I’d definitely love to draw for it.
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? I really love the lyrics to ‘Rocket (Take You Higher).’ I’m not sure if it matches my personality, but I get really into singing it.
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? All the members have such unique personalities. They might look a little scary… it’s [a] joke! but they have cute sides too, so please come check out our live shows if you can.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? We’ll keep working hard to deliver even more amazing songs to everyone. I’d be thrilled if you listened to our music a lot and came to our live shows.
Image Source: LDH Japan
TSURUGI
You’ve mentioned that you continued training while working part-time jobs and facing many struggles. How does it feel now to have become a shining member of PSYCHIC FEVER and to be loved by so many fans worldwide years later? It really made me realize nothing beats experience! Working for someone else, or working for others and for myself—I learned that from part-time jobs! Now I live for my fans!
You have a black belt in karate and started practicing when you were very young – what’s something you learned through your karate journey that’s helped you in your music career? Greetings! Karate is a martial art that values etiquette! It taught me that greetings are extremely important.
Even now, in my work as an artist, I believe greeting people and communicating are essential. So I think my karate experience really comes into play.
It’s so cool that you collect vintage cowboy hats! What interests you the most about cowboys and their style? Where do you get inspiration for your own style? What fascinates me is their attitude of “working to live!”
I deeply respect how they cherish the land and live authentically alongside all life! I believe expressing your true self is crucial for artists, so this became my inspiration!
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? It’s ‘Temperature!’ In this song, I rap about the relationship between me and my fans in a super real way! Of course, body temperature rises, but it also really captures how fans mimic me and come to match me! I think it gets the crowd the most hyped at live shows.
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? Just looking at you guys makes me feel like I’m melting! Like the sweets, you guys are absolutely essential to my life.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? I’m always so incredibly happy that you all support us. I’m also looking forward to seeing everyone! I love you! Always have, always will!
Image Source: LDH Japan
RYOGA
You spent some time studying dance in the United States, and you’ve now gotten to perform throughout the U.S. at sold-out PSYCHIC FEVER shows. Those must have been such full-circle moments for you! If you could go back and give some advice to your younger self who was working so hard to study dance around the world, what would you tell him? I want to tell them, “Just keep believing and moving forward, and you’ll be fine. ”The time I spent in America taught me more than just dance technique—it taught me the courage to challenge myself. In an environment with different language and culture, I learned the importance of believing in myself and taking action.
Thanks to that experience, where I never gave up and kept going, I’m able to stand on this dream stage today.
And, the skills and senses I gained from that experience are definitely alive in my current performances with PSYCHIC FEVER. I feel everything connects to the present.
Earlier this year, you said that your keyword for PSYCHIC FEVER in 2025 was “EVOLVE” so you could keep growing and learning. How do you feel that you and your groupmates have evolved throughout this year? Our “teamwork” as a group has grown stronger. Of course, each member has improved their skills, but the biggest change is that we’ve become able to naturally move in sync with each other on stage, sensing one another’s presence.
Personally, I feel I’ve become better at expressing my emotions more honestly.
Also, being able to perform in many countries and regions this year is also a factor in our evolution. Being exposed to new cultures and atmospheres definitely allowed us to “evolve” in terms of our expressive range and mindset.
You’ve enjoyed movies like Fast and Furious – if you could choose one PSYCHIC FEVER song to appear in a Fast and Furious sequel or a similar movie, which would you pick and what kind of scene would you want it to be in? I’d choose ‘Hotline.’ It has a sense of speed and energy, and I think it would be perfect for car racing scenes or scenes speeding through the city at night. The feeling of the sound racing forward feels like it would link well with the Fast & Furious world.
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? ‘Choose One.’ I’m the type who sees things through once I decide on them, so I really resonate with the message of “believing in your path and moving forward.” I think it’s close to how I live my life. Listening to this song reminds me of past decisions and efforts, and it still gives me the strength to keep moving forward.
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? Everyone is truly made of “kindness.” Probably. lol.
Even with our demanding schedules, if someone looks tired, we naturally check in on them. We support each other. In that sense, I think we’re more of a “warm” group than a “sweet” one.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you so much for always supporting our music and activities. It’s because of you that we can stand on stage. Let’s keep “evolving” together from here on out. We love you, ForEVER!!
Image Source: LDH Japan
REN
Before you joined PSYCHIC FEVER, you originally wanted to be a professional dancer. What has it been like for you to get to pursue dancing while also touching so many people with your music? I originally started dancing because I admired Michael Jackson’s moves, wanting to become a dancer who could inspire others. Dance allows me to express myself in various ways and connect with everyone watching, transcending language barriers. I’ll keep striving to continue moving many people through dance.
You’ve said discovering new ramen spots is one of your biggest hobbies. What’s your go-to ramen order? My absolute favorite is tonkotsu shoyu (soy sauce and pork bone broth ramen). Within that, adding a boiled egg and extra scallions, then mixing them into the soup, makes it incredibly delicious.
You were more shy as a child and have said that your face would turn bright red when speaking in front of people. How have you built your confidence over the years to be able to connect more with ForEVER? Through performance. Performing makes my shy side disappear. I naturally smile and pour my feelings into conveying my message through the performance. It’s like another version of myself.
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? ‘Best For You.’ It’s not just about personality—it was also the first song I sang lead vocals on, and it’s a song where I discovered a new side of myself. So it’s a key song for me.
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? I’ll invite you to a sweet paradise with my voice. With a beatbox. lol
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you for always supporting us. We’ll keep practicing and training hard to shine on the stage. We have lots of songs in production and things in the works, so please look forward to them. I love you all.
Image Source: LDH Japan
JIMMY
Fans call you the fashion icon of PSYCHIC FEVER and we love your personal style! You’ve even walked some runways and helped design merch for ForEVER to enjoy, which must be so fun. What inspires your fashion choices? I’ve loved fashion since I was little, so I’m incredibly happy to be involved in it. Having worked as a model, I enjoy wearing various genres, but for our apparel brand, since we often perform and move intensely, I focus on creating silhouettes that look cool no matter when you wear them, yet remain comfortable.
You grew up listening to iconic R&B artists like Boyz II Men, Destiny’s Child, and TLC. How do you bring those early influences to your work with PSYCHIC FEVER? I listened to a lot of Black music from a young age, influenced by my parents. Those roots serve as an incredibly valuable reference point for me when creating music and performances. We actively incorporate the preferences and styles that resonate with other members as we explore new genres.
You’ve spoken about wanting to try acting to inspire fellow mixed-race people and show them that they can pursue their dreams, which we love. What has it been like for you to embrace your Nigerian-Japanese identity and get to empower others in the process? I have so many moments in my life where music, starting with R&B and hip-hop, helped me. But in the TV shows and dramas I watched growing up, there weren’t many mixed-race people like me. The same was true when choosing a career path. So I think I unconsciously gravitated toward music.
As an artist in the spotlight, I want to show the next generation of young people that there are many possibilities. I just happened to be good at dance and rap, but I want to show that I can shine in other areas too. That’s why I wanted to try acting and play various roles.
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? ‘Highlights.’ I think the feeling of occasionally letting loose and getting hyped up really suits my personality. It’s super fun to perform, too!
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? Thanks for always putting up with my whims! I love cooking, so someday I want to treat everyone to a special full-course meal.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you for always supporting us! I’d be thrilled if you keep cheering for PSYCHIC FEVER, and please come hang out whenever we have a live show! Also, check out our apparel brand, PCF APPAREL DEPARTMENT!
Image Source: LDH Japan
RYUSHIN
You’ve been described as the mood maker of PSYCHIC FEVER. How do you keep the energy high and motivate everyone while working hard for your dreams? I’m incredibly grateful that what I’ve always done—like dancing—has become my job, so I always get to do it with joy!
That’s why even when I’m with the members, it feels like working with friends, which probably creates a great atmosphere!
One of your hobbies is playing games, and you told tmrw that it helps you stay grounded through your hectic schedules. What are some of your favorite games to escape into? Smash Bros! I play it with Ren and Kokoro. We always play after a performance to refresh!
You played baseball and practiced judo when you were younger before focusing on dance and music. What’s something you learned from your athletic training that you’ve taken with you into your journey with PSYCHIC FEVER? Teamwork, I guess! Baseball is also a team sport, so that aspect is the same. I feel like I naturally apply it!
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? ‘Temperature!’ Both the choreography and the music are totally my style, and I’ve always loved it! When we perform that song, I feel like I can really express myself and give my all in the performance!
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? I think everyone might have a slightly intimidating image at first glance, but they also have adorable sides in everyday life. If you check out our SNS, you’ll probably see that!
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you so much for always supporting us! It’s because of all of you, ForEVER, that we can keep doing what we do, and you give us energy every single day!
We’ll keep working hard to give back double the love we receive from you all, so we’d be thrilled if you’d continue supporting us!
Image Source: LDH Japan
Thank you so much to PSYCHIC FEVER for answering our questions and lighting up our playlists with ‘SWISH DAT’ and PSYCHIC FILE IIIthis year! We’re so proud of how far you’ve come and can’t wait to see what you have in store for ForEVER next.
Now, honeybees, we have some questions for you! What’s your favorite song PSYCHIC FEVER have released in 2025? Who’s your favorite member? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! You can also buzz on over to our Reddit community to chat with us.
As adoring NSWERs from their debut era, we’re so proud of every step that’s led NMIXX to blossom so much on their first full album, Blue Valentine. The album brings their Mixxpop concept to life with ambition and tact, drawing from everything from pop-punk and R&B to reggaeton and hyperpop. “I could make the world change, start a new planet,” they sing on the confident ‘Reality Hurts,’ and we think that perfectly emulates what they’ve brought to K-Pop and the global music scene. NMIXX have completely redefined what K-Pop can be while encouraging listeners to expand their own ideas of what’s possible.
NMIXX use the songs on Blue Valentine to explore different aspects of love, including those infuriating hot-and-cold situations and even envy, which is often regarded as admiration in disguise. It all culminates in two new versions of their debut single, ‘O.O’ (which they first performed at their NMIXX CHANGE UP : MIXX UNIVERSITY fan meeting), showing us how the track started off as two different songs that they combined to emphasize the idea of mixxpop. There’s not a single skip on this album, and we bet it’ll land on your list of this year’s best releases!
Inspired by the Valentine theme and the loving messages on NMIXX’sBlue Valentine album, we’re mentally heading to Valentine’s Day and finding the perfect messages for you to write on your V-Day cards! Consider this our love letter to an already-legendary project. You could write these on notes to your crush, frenemies, BFFs, or even yourself if you really wanted to. For simplicity, we’ll reference the lyrics to the English version of ‘Blue Valentine’ and the English translations for the rest of the album by the Genius Korea community.
‘Blue Valentine’
“You’ll always be my blue valentine…”
“I can see it now, can you see it now?”
“I come running every time…”
“Your heart’s getting colder, I’ll keep the fire lit in mine…”
“A spark that never dies…”
“Hot and icy, but I like it…”
“Truth is, we’ll come back together…”
“You might be my end game…”
“I’m falling over and over and over…”
‘SPINNIN’ ON IT’
“It gets harder and harder to erase…”
“Maybe you and I are loco…”
“Why do I want you more?”
“Should I keep loving you or not?” (we picture this as one of those “yes or no” checkboxes people used to give to their crush to see if they liked them back!)
“You are all I need…”
“I’m craving for this obvious story even more…”
“We’ll still be each other’s, whatever…”
“I’m trapped with you…”
“Just gotta ride with me…”
“So truly, we’re endless…”
‘Phoenix’
“Never fear the fall…”
“A bright blue spark…”
“Spread your wings to the sky…”
“Embrace the aurora…”
“I’m never, ever gonna stop it…”
‘Reality Hurts’
“We’re just on another plane…”
“Keep on chasing me…”
“Catch up to me…”
“I’m with my girlies…”
“We’re always gonna bounce back…”
‘RICO’
“Yeah, we loco…”
“Young and wild…”
“We’re so buena…”
“Come and come get some vibe…”
“Me encanta, ay, qué rico…”
‘Game Face’
“From now on, it’s a new phase…”
“Tune into my heart…”
“Leaving everything bad behind…”
“Take a breath, break through what matters…”
“My heart’s heating up nonstop…”
‘PODIUM’
“Even from afar, your gaze is already burning me…”
“I’ve been watching you for a while…”
“I’ve left behind that timid attitude…”
“Be legendary…”
“We rise higher, fly above the flames…”
‘Crush On You’
“My mind goes blank thinking of you…”
“I wanna know how you feel when the silence lingers between us…”
“Do you wanna hold my hand?”
“Thinking of you, my heart starts to pound again like a drum…”
“My feelings keep growing…”
“I got a crush on you…”
“You’re my favorite view…”
“Everything else turns blurry, there’s only you…”
“You make me feel so good…”
“Everyone’s already noticed I’m heading to you…”
“The moment our eyes met, my heart flew to the moon…”
“Anything’s fine if it’s with you…”
“I just wanna be with you…”
“I’m swimming in your ocean blue…”
“Your eyes hold the whole sunset…”
‘ADORE U’
“The chemicals got all tangled up…”
“If I could show my heart, you’d see how much I adore you…”
“I think I’m out of control…”
“I want to give you all of my clumsy love…”
‘Shape Of Love’
“Tell me how to love you well…”
“You will paint me blue, even so, it’s you…”
“I love you in any form…”
“In the end, we’re always together…”
“Crashing into each other, fitting the frame…”
“We’ll forever be clumsy like that…”
“Spent my whole life chasing true love…”
“We wanna be young and wild and free forever…”
“Even if it takes a little while, we will finally see…”
‘O.O Part 1 (Baila)’
“Driving you crazy, huh?”
“Tension goes higher…”
“Watch it, how nice, how nice…”
“Passing that boundary…”
“Quickly, follow me…”
“Don’t be afraid…”
“A vivid dream…”
‘O.O Part 2 (Superhero)’
“Let me rock you out…”
“Fly as my heart desires…”
“Never let you down, be with me…”
“Let me be your superhero…”
“Hold onto me tight…”
“Nothing to be afraid of, never give up…”
“Baby, trust in me and you…”
“Everything is fake, but I ain’t a fake…”
“The real start is from now…”
“I got your back…”
“Finally, we’ll win…”
“Baby, you’re my superhero…”
“Gonna rock the world…”
Will you be using any of these lyrics on a note to your ‘Blue Valentine?’ Which song on NMIXX’s Blue Valentine album do you love most? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! You can also buzz on over to our Reddit community to chat with us.
We adore Aespa at THP! Always willing to experiment with new sounds, this iconic girl group has taken the K-pop world by storm. Whether they’re crafting futuristic soundscapes or singing gentle melodies, Aespa have never been afraid to get spooky. Here are five standout tracks that you absolutely need on your Halloween playlist!
‘Salty & Sweet’
This catchy track from their EP My Worldreally is haunting! From the metallic, droning sounds of the production to creepy lyrics about poison apples and potions, this track has a dark undertone. It’s Aespa at their best, still futuristic and experimental, but putting a twist on the girl crush vibe. This track is about them taking control, with potentially deadly consequences! The visualiser for this track really feels apt, but watch out, arachnophobes, this one might get a bit too scary!
‘Supernova’
This hyperpop hit is a standout from their first studio album Armageddon. Seriously, what’s scarier than the end of the world? Aespa depict themselves as supernatural beings on this track, capable of immense power. With the highly danceable chorus and beautiful harmonies, it’s easy to forget that Aespa are quite literally calling for cosmic annihilation. The video for this track is hilariously off-the-wall, featuring aliens, superpowers, and a mesmerising dance break. Only these girls could pull off such a strange concept!
‘Black Mamba‘
A venomous debut, this is an action-packed intro to the iconic girl group! The track focuses on a battle with the elusive enemy, ‘Black Mamba.’ With its strong bass and synth sounds, the track is equally catchy and creepy. An essential addition to any Halloween playlist, ‘Black Mamba’ is all about facing a luring sense of evil! The music video adds to this unsettling vibe, with the threat still looming at the end of the sequence.
‘I’m Unhappy’
Another track from My World, ‘I’m Unhappy,’ fits the Halloween vibe perfectly! With its haunting synths and melancholic lyrics, this song is a stark contrast to the typical upbeat hits of the summer. Instead, this track definitely gives fall vibes, as it’s moodier and slower than the typical Aespa track. The isolating music video is certainly a must-watch, with a creepy hallway scene that sets the scene. Throughout the video, the members are transported into a school setting, reflecting on the harsh expectations placed upon them.
‘Trick or Trick‘
Perhaps their most Halloween-coded song, ‘Trick or Trick,’ is a playful track from their hit album Drama. It’s a clever song about playing games with men and tricking them without offering any treats. With a heavy bass and humming synths, the track is both troubling and addictive. Aespa manages to combine a sense of unease with a sense of playfulness. Unfortunately, they never released a video for this track, but we can imagine it’d be truly terrifying!
✨ What are your favourite Aespa tracks? Which other tracks would you add to your halloween playlist? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram!
If you’re looking for a new supergroup to dive into, look no further than one of our most recent musical obsessions, CVCHE! If you’re just now tuning in, you’ve done it at the perfect time! CVCHE’s debut album, Get Fluffy is due later this year, and we’ve just gotten their newest offering from the record, ‘The Star.’ We were lucky to chat with CVHCE about their upcoming record, ‘The Star,’ and so much more!
Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us! To start us off, if someone is tuning in for the first time, how would you describe the kind of music CVCHE makes? No, thank YOU! We’d definitely describe ourselves as the pioneers of Rural Canadian Techno, since that genre did not previously exist – nor may it EVER exist – unless people want it to. You could also say “organic electronic jams that make you want to dance in your socks on a hardwood floor.”
Get Fluffy is due later this year! What has the process of crafting your first album together as a group been like? We set up four or five synths at one station for each of us. I would make a beat, then we’d all start dialing in sounds on our stations. Once we all had a good palette of sounds, someone would come up with a bass line or tonal starting point. Then we’d hit record and start laying in parts simultaneously, like a live jam, for about 20 minutes. We then edited the best parts into the final track. Some ended up tracking the record rather quickly, and on others, we spent a bit more time on arrangements.
How far into the creative process of ‘Get Fluffy’ did ‘The Star’ come to be? Were you still actively crafting the album? It all happened very quickly from inception to completion because of the process I outlined above. It’s a great way to work, and we just know each other so well that there was very little mucking around and/or throwing things out. We actually have a bunch more tracks we really like that aren’t coming out on the record. The chord progressions are more vocal-friendly, so we saved them to experiment with that at some point. We basically got into a great flow state and just made a whole bunch of stuff with no ‘demographic’ or all the other things you’re supposed to think about – where it fits, who will like it, etc. We just made music, and all this stuff is what came out, with no fidgeting around with expectations. It was fun. And still is!
When you’re in the midst of a jam session, and a song like ‘The Star’ starts to form, do you guys automatically realize you have something you want to dig into further and possibly release? We actually aren’t jamming in the typical sense. It’s more about coming up with a beat we all like, then a bassline, or riff, or chord progression. If we like where the early stages are going, we start dialing in sounds we like on all of our respective synth stations and all sorts of approve of them or not as we’re working them up. Once we have a big palette of sounds and the framework of the track, THEN we “jam” in a structured way for 20 – 30 minutes as every synth patched into ProTools is in record. We then edit it down with the sections we feel are gelling the most.
With CVCHE, when did the idea first spark to form this group? Were you all approached at once? Liam and Jimmy started jamming a bit after tracking a Metric record, and then I came in. We drank wine, pulled out more synths, and then decided to make a record after we’d already finished making it.
Each of you comes from different groups that we are sure have their own creative processes. How do you bring each of those into this new group, and what works best for what you want to be creating? I think all of our experience combined really helps in making navigating the technological aspect of things secondary to creativity, which can be a challenge for everyone. We know how to dial sounds up quickly, and we know how to get around our synth collections, arranging, mixing, etc., so it’s more about us playing off of each other rather than getting caught up in midi troubleshooting (which we’ve collectively probably spent 8 million hours doing). We all use Pro Tools, and it helps that Liam is a legit Pro Tools wizard.
And speaking of what you want to be creating, it’s been said that you guys want to “make releasing music as fun as creating it.” What aspect of creating music do you think is lost in the stress of releasing said music? Oh, wow, I could talk shit about algorithms all day! Making records is fun, spiritual, bonding, magical, and all the other feels, and then comes… algorithms, metadata, streaming companies, troubleshooting passwords, traffic light captchas. So romantic, isn’t it? So, we just said “fuck all this.” Yes, it has to be done, but what else can we do to keep it fun? That’s when we brought Jon Morris in as a member of CVCHE. He did Nine Inch Nails’ stage design, as well as designed for Lady Gaga and Metric, and has done loads of huge installations at Burning Man. Jon is the official-unofficial king of fun. He helped make an infinite scroller video game (it’s fun… check out www.heycvche.com), and we’re building out a super fun merch store. We’re planning a crazy, awesome live show as well. We tell more jokes on calls than we talk about business. We have no strategy to ‘beat the algorithms.’ We just have fun and, in between, fill out endless forms and upload to streamers and publishing info. Gotta keep it fun.
You recently released your single ‘Thumper.’ What inspired that song, and how did it come together? A super weird thumping sound that randomly started coming out of the MS-20… a ghost in the machine, as Sting would say. We made a track around the sound and then ended up muting it in the end — the track, as you hear it, remained.
While crafting this upcoming album, Get Fluffy, was there a song that felt like lightning in a bottle? That once it started, you guys knew it was going to be one of the ones that made the record? No, because we like all of them. We have more that aren’t on the record – more so because the chord progressions lend themselves to vocals – so we’re sitting on those for the right time.
We have to talk about the video game! Where did the inspiration come from to include this in the process of putting out music? Jon Morris brought that to the table, and his friend/coder, Sonny, dialed it all up. At the time of creating the game, with a new song release per level of the game… We are as certain as we can be that we were the first to do this in this way.
Once again, thank you guys so much for your time! Before we let you go, what can fans look forward to as we close out 2025? More sock jams that make you wanna dance in your socks on a hardwood floor, live shows from us at some point, and hopefully vacations in the Caribbean when it starts to get cold — for both us and fans alike. Who wants to make a plan!? We’re SO IN. ⚡️
We would love to hear from you! What do you think of our interview with CVCHE? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
Em Beihold has been a mainstay on our playlists ever since her song ‘Numb Little Bug’ came out, so it is no surprise that her artistry is displayed in her newest song ‘Hot Goblin.’ We were lucky enough to chat with Em about ‘Hot Goblin,’ the thematic through lines of her recent music, ‘Numb Little Bug,’ and so much more!
Hi Em! Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us! To start us off, how would you describe your music to someone who is tuning in for the first time? Hello hello! Thanks for having me! I like to describe my music as quirky piano pop that talks about difficult things with a certain degree of levity. I’ve also been described as a popified Regina Spektor, and I really like that description.
‘Hot Goblin’ is your latest track! The lyric video felt like stepping into a fairy tale book. When crafting this track, was the inspiration immediately tied to that aesthetic? Not really! When I was writing the song, I was initially thinking more along the lines of the experience of being a woman and how fickle our relationship with confidence can be. The fairytale stuff came after and felt obvious once the concept was solidified.
Something that immediately drew us to ‘Hot Goblin’ was the vulnerability hidden within this musically upbeat pop track, the understanding of insecurities, but the ability to still find confidence in that. What do writing sessions look like for a song that presents vulnerability in this way? I think my co-writers Nick Lopez, Jason Suwito, and I had a lot of fun figuring out what the term “hot goblin” means. As a girl who definitely feels the pressure to constantly present as put-together, fashionable, hot, etc. (especially from social media), it felt freeing to put a name to the feeling of embracing your insecurities and messy parts while still loving yourself completely and not feeling less than. I also wanted the song to be about that feeling on top of the world one day and at the bottom the next, so ‘Hot Goblin’ became a way to give language to that cycle. Nick has been a close friend since we wrote ‘Numb Little Bug’ together, and Jason came into my life during a rough patch in my career, so there was already a lot of trust in the room. After we laughed about the phrase “hot goblin,” which I brought into the session (kind of as a joke), they both got it and locked in immediately. That balance of humor and honesty made the writing process really special. I write my favorite songs when I’m laughing.
‘Brutus’ is another recent release of yours! This track features some of our favorite visuals from you yet! Where did the creative vision for this video come from? And what was that on-set experience like? I was really inspired by the movie Amadeus, which my mom showed me when I was going through an intense, unforgiving period of depression, where I couldn’t stop comparing myself to other female artists who were creatively unblocked and more successful than me. I related to the character of Salieri and thought it would be fun to bring that rivalry with Mozart as a vignette alongside a few others to tell the story of what I was feeling. The on-set experience is one I will never forget because it was a day full of fun and laughter with friends, which felt SO full circle after a year of essentially crying every day and hating being in my skin. I was so happy to be me and felt so proud of the art that came out of such a hard time. I also checked off two big goals of mine, which were: one, working with my co-director, Ethan Frank, whom I’ve been a huge fan of for years, and two, fencing in a music video since I was a competitive fencer for many years.
With both ‘Hot Goblin’ and ‘Brutus,’ the themes around the visuals are locked into days of old, with fairy tales and gladiator times. Is there an intentional through line there? You know what; accidentally yes. It wasn’t intentional, but I think the whole album has puzzle-pieced itself together more than I planned for. It’s whimsical, it has hints of classical music, and instruments like the harpsichord! There’s definitely some fun “historical” stuff in there.
Egg in the Backseat came out three years ago! Is there a song on that record that, for you, has just gotten better with time? I would say ‘Goo,’ because my fans have really taken to that one at my live shows. It’s kind of a sleeper, dare I say!
We, of course, have to briefly touch on ‘Numb Little Bug!’ Now that you are three years separated from the release of the track, how has your relationship to this song changed as time has gone on? Oh my gosh! I wrote that song about my unfortunate experience with antidepressants, and now (after lots of trial and error), I’ve found one that has absolutely changed my life. It’s a cool marker of where I was then, and how much I’ve grown. I will always appreciate the response to that song and how much it changed my life.
Once again, thank you so much for chatting with us! Before we let you go, what can fans look forward to as we close out 2025? My debut album is coming out very soon in 2026! It’s the proudest I’ve ever been of anything I’ve made. It’s about my journey through depression, experiencing complete loss of self, and how I have come out on the other side to be the happiest and most me I have ever been. It’s fun and pop and silly, and I’m ready for 2025 to be done so I can finally share this new music with my fans!
We would love to hear from you! What do you think of our interview with Em Beihold? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram!
If you’re looking for which artist is going to be the talk of the town before too long, look no further than Benjamin Steer! Benjamin Steer has just released his EP Figuring It Out, which showed us, clear as day, that we were looking at an artist who is going to have a long and prosperous career! We were lucky enough to chat with Benjamin all about the EP and so much more!
Hello Benjamin! Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us! To start us off, how would you describe your music to someone who is tuning in for the first time? It’s a pleasure, thank you! I would say my music is sort of a soundtrack to confusion in your 20s, a soundtrack to love, to heartbreak, and to figuring things out. I’d like to think it’s pretty cinematic but has some energy in it too!
Figuring It Out is your debut EP! What feelings accumulate as you get ready to put your first collection of songs out? It is weird. I always feel a bit of anxiety before release days, but then as soon as the project is out, the anxiety disappears. I don’t hold emotional attachment to the songs once they are out. It then becomes a case of how many people can get their ears on it. But certainly, I am really proud of these songs. I feel like it sort of marks the end of my first chapter in the music world. I feel like each song serves a different purpose; the whole thing feels pretty dynamic.
You described this record as “a hopeless romantic’s dream and downfall.” What is one lyric throughout the project that best represents the dream aspect, and on the other hand, what lyric would you say best represents the downfall? I think the dreamer line is definitely the chorus of ‘No One Wants To Die Alone,’ “Live Big Love Fast and not Die Alone.” It is sort of the payoff line in a song that lyrically is frustrated in many senses, and encapsulates the sort of desire of the EP. There are many downfall lines in the EP, so I’ll give you three: ‘Oh Darling,’ “Many nights I try to find you in other eyes… Am I blind to all that makes you you?” ’5%,’ “It’s the 5% that is in the spotlight and the 95 that hides behind my eyes – So I’ll keep it out of mind and out of sight.” ‘Sweat Off Our History,’ “I’ll thread the needle between who I am and what you want from me.” I think all of these lines sort of summarize the pressure that you have to appear complete and confident and put together… But in reality, you are still figuring things out – trying to find a purpose. And you often hide these insecurities and fears in actions and facades that are not favorable to yourself – just to appease others or numb yourself to vulnerability.
As we are writing this, the EP is officially out! What has the reaction to the record been like over the last few days? How are you feeling post-release? Honestly, I think it went as well as I had hoped. I think these things take a journey themselves when they are out. I think hopefully it has legs to continue to connect with people and make an impact. People have been so supportive and kind, and I feel very unworthy. I always say this, and it is very cliche, but I am just a dude who writes about life and love in his bedroom, so it’s surreal that it is connecting so well!
When you released ‘No One Wants To Die Alone’ last year, did you already know this track was going to be everyone’s first taste of this EP? Or was it added in as the creation of the EP went forward? No Idea. ‘NOWTDA’ always felt special. It was the first song that I wrote, and I was like, if this doesn’t become the biggest song, then I am not sure what will. It felt so right and felt so me. The EP was certainly not a manufactured Idea. It was sort of the collection of the best things I had written in the last 8 months, and it all felt rather cohesive. I think if I were to sit down with the intention of writing an ep, and with a certain goal and message, it would have almost felt like I wasn’t being authentic. That being said, ‘No One Wants To Die Alone’ was probably the first song I wrote out of the ones that made it on to the EP, so maybe in some way it did guide the sonic and messaging of the rest!
Hailing six songs, half of the record was previously released, and half of the songs were saved for release day. How do you go about deciding which songs you want to hold onto and let fans discover all at once? I think there is a feeling that you get when you have a single, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the non-single tracks are missing something. I feel like putting out a bigger body of work allows you to release songs that may never come out as a single, but you still want people to hear them. I think ‘Sweat off our History’ is a good example; this would never be a single, but that does not mean that it isn’t good. So I am glad I had the opportunity to release it.
We want to go back a bit and talk about ‘Muted Colors,’ This track changed a lot for you! When you look back, what does your relationship with that song look like now vs two years ago when it was released? I think ‘Muted Colors’ was the unexpectedly perfect first song to put out. It served its purpose in the time that it was written for me personally, but also to show an audience the type of music and messaging I wanted to pursue. I look back positively on it now for sure. It was the first stepping stone in a long journey to cross the river, and I’m so grateful that I could have even had the chance to start or embark on that journey. I think it worked because I was just honest, it was one of the first songs I had ever written and I did not really have a reference point as to what was ok and what was not. I think I do naturally cringe a little bit looking back to it now because I think my style and tone have changed a bit, but it certainly was a fantastic first step!
Once again, thank you so much for chatting with us! Before we let you go, is there anything coming up that fans can look forward to? Any live shows? Hopefully got a lot of exciting stuff coming up! Going to hopefully do another London headline before the end of the year, and then a bit more of a fuller tour in early 2026! I’m also really excited to open for Arthur Hill on his UK tour in September!
We would love to hear from you! What is your favorite song from Benjamin Steer’s EP, Figuring It Out? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
Durry just released a surprise single called ‘Dead Media,’ formerly a hidden track exclusive to their physical album, This Movie Sucks. Now, everyone can experience both the song and its music video across digital platforms. Durry consistently delivers infectious pop-rock anthems. We appreciate how openly they explore everyday experiences in their lyrics, making each track genuinely relatable. This brother-sister duo knows how to make real music, and they keep it transparent. No games or gimmicks, what you see is what you get, and that goes for their music too.
“’Dead Media’ is a catchy pop tune about the perils of social media addiction and how we’ve replaced the artistry of pop culture with content and short form videos,” says Austin Durry on the lyrics of the song. “It talks about the duality of being addicted to social media, but also social media is a huge part of what made this band successful.”
We’re all guilty of having a social media addiction, especially in the younger generations. It’s important to talk about, especially if you have any type of influence on the internet. If you’re spending more time looking down at a screen than right ahead of you, then you probably have a problem. Durry’s music can help you out with that, and maybe remind you to get off your phone a little more.
Our Favorite Lyrics
Like a creature In the night Hypnotised by the glow Of the cell phone light
These lyrics really drive it home. It’s very common to be on your bed in the middle of the night, hunched over your phone at full brightness. We often try to find solace in it, but in the long run it doesn’t do much good. It’s just too easy to be captivated by the shiny cellphone light and social media FOMO.
Check out the making of their latest album This Movie Sucks below!
Durry is about to dive headfirst into a fall tour around the country. Secure your tickets now and experience their energy live—tickets can be purchased here. We’re thrilled for them, and we just know they’re going to have the best time performing for you all.
P1Harmony aren’t content to sit back and coast on past wins. Just a year after topping charts with ‘DUH!,’ the six‑member group are back with EX, a five‑track mini album designed with the Western market in mind and delivered with a creative genre blend that’s rare in 4th‑generation K‑pop. It’s their first English‑language collection, yet it closes with a Spanish version of the title track, proving that this crew aren’t afraid to stretch their sound or their languages.
Image Source: Courtesy of FNC Entertainment
From their world tour to daytime‑TV appearances and an ever‑growing global fan base, the stakes for P1Harmony have never been higher. So does EX live up to the hype? Here’s the thing: rather than delivering a safe, uniform sound, the group lean into variety and personality. Each song feels like a conversation with a different side of the band; at times playful, at others introspective, and occasionally downright celebratory. That diversity is both the album’s hook and its charm!
‘EX:’ Synth‑Pop Sparkle With A Playful Message
The opening and title track, ‘EX,’ is a shimmering synth‑pop anthem built on catchy hooks and crisp digital textures. It’s light and breezy, almost like stumbling onto a carefree afternoon on a boardwalk. The lyrics, delivered entirely in English, celebrate independence and self‑discovery without sounding preachy. There’s even a gently feminist streak in the way the chorus suggests every woman deserves to explore and have fun without needing permission or an explanation. With Keeho and Jiung sharing centre stage, the song’s bright vocal interplay underpins a melody that lingers long after the final synth sweeps.
Listening closely, you can sense the group’s desire to expand their sonic palette. The title track’s production folds in soft digital textures and spirited rap verses, but the heart of the song lies in its chorus; an earworm that borrows from 80s synth‑pop while keeping one foot firmly planted in 2025. It’s the kind of tune you could imagine blasting in an arena or singing along to at a festival, which makes sense given that EX arrives just before their largest U.S. tour yet.
‘Dancing Queen:’ Pop‑Rock Euphoria With A Nostalgic Glow
Then P1Harmony pivot into pop‑rock territory. ‘Dancing Queen’ is the EP’s stadium‑ready moment, driven by buoyant guitars and the group’s commanding vocals. You know what? It recalls the energy of classic boy band anthems without feeling like a throwback. Keeho’s vocal tone pairs with Theo’s warm harmonies, creating a chorus that feels destined for late‑night singalongs.
What sets ‘Dancing Queen’ apart is its effortless blend of sweetness and edge. In thelyrics, the protagonist invites their lover to own the night and dance without apology. The instrumentation shimmers with layered guitars and a driving beat, and there’s a subtle nod to 70s disco in the groove, yet the song never slips into pastiche. It’s playful and earnest in equal measure; the kind of track that would fit right over the credits of a feel‑good rom‑com!
‘Stupid Brain:’ Emotional Honesty Wrapped In Downtempo Grooves
If ‘Dancing Queen’ is all about letting loose, ‘Stupid Brain’ turns inward. The track opens with lush strings and almost orchestral drama before flipping into a hip‑hop‑tinged beat. That contrast might sound chaotic on paper, but it works, creating a unique blend that showcases the group’s versatility. While the production nods to mid‑90s R&B, the song’s structure is thoroughly modern, with bubbled synths and a downtempo groove that feels tailor‑made for a rainy‑day playlist.
Lyrically, ‘Stupid Brain’ is relatable to anyone who has ever overthought a situation. The song expresses the frustration of being stuck in your own head, unable to silence intrusive thoughts even when surrounded by friends. The melody dips and sways, giving space for introspection, and Keeho’s soulful delivery underscores the vulnerability of the message. A surprise guitar solo midway through adds a classic rock flavor, bridging the song’s orchestral intro with its pop‑R&B core!
Honestly, it’s the EP’s heart, offering a glimpse into the group’s emotional range. While it might not explode like a single, it’s the kind of track listeners return to when they need to feel heard.
‘Night of My Life:’ 2010s EDM Nostalgia Meets Unbridled Joy
Just when you think the EP might settle into moody reflection, ‘Night of My Life’ bursts through with sparkling EDM‑inspired energy. The song is pure, unadulterated fun. It’s simple, self‑hyping lyrics revolve around embracing the moment, dancing under the stars and having the best night possible, echoing the carefree charm of early 2010s pop anthems. There’s a playful electronic whistle that punctuates the chorus, and the beat builds to a euphoric drop that wouldn’t feel out of place in a DJ set.
Fans of LMFAO or early Calvin Harris will appreciate how ‘Night of My Life’ channels the party‑rock spirit of that era while giving P1Harmony space to show off their vocal agility. In a clever twist, Intak takes a turn singing on the final chorus, adding texture to the track’s soaring finale. If ‘Stupid Brain’ is for introspective nights, this song is for living in the moment; a high‑energy reminder that sometimes joy should simply be embraced!
‘EX (Spanish Version):’ Bridging Cultures With A Bilingual Banger
Closing the EP is a Spanish version of the title track; an unexpected twist that underscores P1Harmony’s eagerness to reach beyond linguistic boundaries. It’s the group’s first official Spanish release, following their earlier covers and Latin‑inspired songs like ‘Sad Song,’ and it reveals a comfort with the language that feels authentic rather than forced. The playful lyrics remain, but hearing them delivered with a different cadence gives the melody a brand‑new dimension.
Culturally, the move is significant. K‑pop acts rarely produce full Spanish versions of their songs, and when they do, it’s often as a one‑off novelty. Here, P1Harmony treat the Spanish version as a natural extension of the original, not just a marketing gimmick. For bilingual P1ece, it’s a thrill to hear familiar words roll off their tongues; for monolingual listeners, it’s a testament to the universality of pop music. Either way, the track signals the group’s commitment to building community across borders, a sentiment echoed throughout their broader discography!
Beyond The Music: Creative Control And A Tour To Match
Part of what makes EX compelling is the group’s hands‑on approach. Members Keeho, Jiung, Intak and Jongseob are credited as creative producers, continuing a tradition of deep involvement that fans have come to expect. That creative input is evident in the EP’s thoughtful sequencing and willingness to experiment. From synth‑pop to pop‑rock, R&B, EDM and Latin pop, the project moves effortlessly between genres without feeling disjointed, a testament to both the group’s musicianship and the production team’s vision.
The timing of EX’s release isn’t accidental. It drops just ahead of P1Harmony’s largest U.S. arena tour, P1ustage H: Most Wanted, which is scheduled to hit major cities like Newark, Chicago and Los Angeles before heading to Latin America. Pairing an English‑heavy EP with a multilingual tour is a savvy move: it gives new listeners an accessible entry point while rewarding longtime fans with fresh material. The tracks on EX are designed to translate well to live stages; imagine the opening synths of ‘EX’ echoing through an arena, the guitar licks of ‘Dancing Queen’ sparking a singalong, or the EDM drop in ‘Night of My Life’ triggering a sea of light sticks.
Image Source: Courtesy of FNC Entertainment
Final Verdict: A Polished Yet Adventurous Detour
So, is EX worth your time? Absolutely! At just over fifteen minutes long, the EP packs more variety into its runtime than many full‑length albums. Its five tracks feel like distinct chapters in a cohesive narrative, each revealing a different facet of P1Harmony’s artistry. The members’ vocals shine, the production is tight, and the willingness to experiment, linguistically and stylistically, keeps the project feeling fresh!
For longtime stans, EX offers another layer to a discography that already spans boom‑bap hip‑hop, hyper‑pop, reggaeton and synth‑driven anthems. For newcomers, it’s an accessible introduction to a group poised for global growth. More than anything, the EP serves as a reminder that pop music can be both fun and thoughtful, polished and playful. It’s a genre‑blurring, multilingual journey that leaves you wondering: if this is just a mini album, what sonic adventures might P1Harmony embark on next?
Image Source: Courtesy of FNC Entertainment
Which song is your favorite on the EP? Let us know in the comments below, or tell us over on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
