A great release from 2Z and fresh new music from WAKER, Onew, VXON and a debut from XLOV.
“Something Special” by 2Z
“Momentum” by 2Z
It’s always “Something Special” when 2Z is back with new music. So the title of one of their two title tracks is certainly a perfect fit. “Something Special” is an excellent mood maker of a track. Very much representative of 2Z’s cool and charismatic sound. But of course, the band is very versatile. And “Momentum” allows them to showcase their other sides as they rock out with the energetic track. I think it is one of their best all-out rock tracks so far. And having these two title tracks side-by-side is really such a great showcase for this criminally underrated band!
The other two tracks on Glorious Youth are equally as great as well including “Sleepless Night” and “Summer of War”. An awesome start to the year from 2Z!
“Always Be There” by WAKER
WAKER celebrate their first anniversary with the release of special single “Always There”. The sweet track is a nice treat for fans who have been with them in their first year. And it was a strong debut year for them. Looking forward to their 2025!
“Winner” by Onew
Onew releases his latest mini album and “Winner” is a great title track. A hopeful, uplifting message and Onew’s always excellent vocals make for an easily enjoyable and meaningful experience. The other songs on the album Connection are good, but my favorite might be “Promise You”.
“Agila” by VXON
With their amazing 20:20 album last year, I was really anticipating this new single from VXON. Sadly, I was left a bit underwhelmed with “Agila”. It’s an alright song. But somehow it seems to come up short in many ways to pretty much every track from 20:20. Aside from some awkward production, the song seems like a step back for the group who took a huge leap with their music last year. VXON quickly shot up to become my favorite P-pop group. But perhaps that high expectation affected how I’ve received “Agila”.
“I’mma Be” by XLOV
It’s a very attention-grabbing debut for new group XLOV. “I’mma Be” is a definitely a strikingly different kind of track. Some moody sensuality and a familiar R&B/hip-hop-powered chorus definitely has you taking notice of these rookies. Will be keeping an eye out for them this year!