Reviews written by AM
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Lim Jeong Hee Vol. 3 - Before I Go J-Lim
Lim Jeong Hee Vol. 3 - Before I Go J-Lim
(3)Our Price: US$13.99List: US$19.99Save: US$6.00 (30%)Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:1 people found the following helpful
April 5, 2008 Excellent Album, Worth It!I disagree with the previous reviewer - this album is nowhere near a 1 out of 10. The Westernized influence is certainly present here but that doesn't automatically make the album less listenable.
Jeong-hee's voice is as beautiful as ever and there are a number of songs that exmplify her gift. My favorite track would be "Haeyo" which features Miryo from BEG, followed by "Andwae" - a gorgeous ballad.
I commend LJH for branching out, trying new styles, and ultimately pursuing her dreams to make it as an international artist. This album is not perfect by any means but it's quality is still better than many works out there. I truly enjoyed listening to this album and I know you will too if you give it a chance.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
YounHa Vol. 1 Repackage Album - The Perfect Day to Say I Love You
YounHa Vol. 1 Repackage Album - The Perfect Day to Say I Love You
(3)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Usually ships within 21 daysRelated promotions:1 people found the following helpful
March 21, 2008 This made me a fan.I'm a bit late in joining the Younha fan-bandwagon but I'm glad I got in nonetheless. This album is a superb fusion of Japanese creativity and the addictive Korean sound.
Her petite frame and baby face looks can get quite deceiving as this girl can absolutely rock it out! Comprised mainly of midtempo Pop-Rock and the occassional ballad, this album's style is a bit of rarity in the mainstream KPop market. Nonetheless, it's tremendous success affirms the excellent quality of the album.
This CD's been in my car for at least 1 month now, on constant replay, and I think it's going to remain there for a while. I'd highly recommend this to anyone, any day.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Crown J Vol. 2 - Miss Me?
Crown J Vol. 2 - Miss Me?
(2)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:1 people found the following helpful
December 28, 2007 Definitely Missed!Crown J's comeback does not disappoint as his second album is the ish. The beats are harder, the groove is smoother, and the skillful rap is ever-so present. Many hip-hop in the current K-Pop scene can match this artist's talent and charisma, both on- and off-stage.
Away from the music, his character is also excellent. I love watching him goof off with the rest of the Korean celebrities on game shows and TV specials. Finally a rap artist who doesn't front like he's "all black and gangsta".
A rapper with class, Crown J owns the spotlight once again with this great album. Definitely a must-have CD for everyone!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Girls' Generation Vol. 1 - Girls' Generation
Girls' Generation Vol. 1 - Girls' Generation
(14)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Usually ships within 1 to 2 daysRelated promotions:2 people found the following helpful
November 24, 2007 Well Done!This album is fantastic and truly expresses So Nyeo Shi Dae's energy, youthfulness, and charm.
The digipak casing is beautifully made with a glass tray. The booklet included is filled with the girls' gorgeous pictures which I'm sure you've all seen over the net.
The music itself has top-notch vocals -- after all, this is what the groups' main forte is but the song styles will not appeal to some. I for one, love the compositions, composed mainly of mid-tempo pop tracks, soft ballads, and dance numbers. Definitely a good set and fantastic first effort from the nine young ladies. I truly see a great future for So Nyeo Shi Dae and what a way to kick start it with an awesome album!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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Mr. Tyfoon Vol. 1 - Mi vida Payaso
Mr. Tyfoon Vol. 1 - Mi vida Payaso
(1)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:September 29, 2007 No exag -- this album is GOOD!Without hesitation not exaggeration, "Mi Vida Payaso" is one of the best albums of 2007. It's hip and happenin', it's catchy, it's original, and for a Korean group to take on the Latin vibe with such intensity and prowess is just beyond wild. Just like Stony Skunk took on reggae, Mr. Tyfoon takes on Latin hip hop with a bang.
There are a lot of acoustics, mixed with hot beats and melodies in this album. The vocals are solid, and with the supporting cast consisting of superstars like Eun Ji Won (Sechskies), Kil Gun, and Miro (Brown Eyed Girls) it's no wonder this album's completely off-the-hook!
Their first single 'Carnival' is electrifying and addictive and has gotten considerable playtime on the air - smart choice to introduce people to this group. Another song worth mentioning is Geoul (Track 8). With Miro (Brown Eyed Girls) on the female rap, and Kim Chan Min (5tion) with supporting vocals this song is indescribable. I feel that I can't do any justice to this album by continuing to describe the art that it is. My suggestion - pick up a copy and treat yourself to an amazing that's truly worth the money.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Mina Vol. 4 - Minastasia
Mina Vol. 4 - Minastasia
(2)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Related promotions:1 people found the following helpful
September 29, 2007 It Keeps Getting BetterI'd have to agree with the first reviewer about the packaging -- it's truly exceptional. The design is original and the quality of the material used is exceptional. The booklet is just as fabulous, with Shin Mina gracing each glossy page. I'd say this is truly a smart move and a goo selling point of the album.
The music and overall of the album is excellent as well. I enjoyed all of Mina's first three albums and had no doubt that I would enjoy 'Minastasia'. Yes, her vocals aren't the best, but it's not bad either. I think it's suits her dance/pop/hip-hop style very well. The same genres mentioned is the general composition of the album. To put it shortly, it's 'a party in a disc'. The songs flow well, are dancable, and are well performed.
Her sexy image has overshadowed her talents as a singer/performer but music fans know that no one lasts this long in the industry without having that special something. Mina definitely has it, and continues to show it in this latest compilation.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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Baek Ji Young Vol. 6
2 people found the following helpful
September 24, 2007 Different.I've always had an interest in Baek Ji Young's works, right from the beginning. I've stuck with her as a fan all the way from her debut back in 1999. I don't know if it was really the vocal, the grand performances, her appeal, or whatever -- I've just always been interested in her as an artist.
"The Sixth Miracle" pretty much solidifies the point-of-no-return for her with the Koreana-Latina music which made her a household name in the late 90s, early 00s. This album is comprised entirely of sad ballads, adult contemporary, and some R&B songs. No Latin-flavored songs whatsoever. Slightly disappointed, but not disheartened, she's truly matured into her own, proving to be a strong balladeer. The first 7 tracks is strictly romantic, low-tempo tracks, while the latter 7 is a mixture of mature, mid-tempo AC & R&B songs.
Seasoned KPop listeners may still be looking for someone to fill that void that BJY had sorely left, and no newcomer has been able to fulfill. Faranee (2002), Oliver (2003), and a few others have attempted to forge a stronghold in BJY's old-skool Latin style but were quite unsuccessful. We will have to continue on with the wait as this album will provide none of that. Nonetheless, this is a solid album, and a solid effort from Ji-young, recommended for those who like to diversify their collections, but not for after-era, hardcore fans who'd expect her to retain some of her old genre.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Seo Moon Tak Vol. 6 - Leap of Truth
Seo Moon Tak Vol. 6 - Leap of Truth
(1)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:September 23, 2007 Powerful As AlwaysSeo Moon Tak's still in the game and is back with her 6th full album entitled "Leap of Truth". Only a small percentage of artists make it past a few albums and SMT proves once again why she continues to shine.
This album, like every album she has produced is power packed with powerful, alternative and rock songs. The passion is unmistakable. The voice is uncanny. All songs are equally enjoyable and is recommended for those who want a bit of edge in their tunes.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Oksoo Photo Studio Vol. 1
Oksoo Photo Studio Vol. 1
(1)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:September 23, 2007 Soft-Rock / Adult-ContemporaryI came across this album by accident and didn't really know what to expect. Oksoo Photo Studio vol. 1 is a contemporary, soft rock album that's very easy to the ears. No power jams, no tearful ballads, just band instruments and steady vocals. If I may, it's like a lesser Yoon Do Hyun album.
Overall, not a bad album but not the most interesting neither. I'm quite neutral on this one.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Eru Vol. 3 - Eru Returns
Eru Vol. 3 - Eru Returns
(7)Our Price: US$14.99List: US$20.99Save: US$6.00 (29%)Related promotions:1 people found the following helpful
September 22, 2007 Ballad-Lovers SelectionPrior to writing this review, I've had very little exposure to Eru's music, and Eru himself as a celebrity. There were a few stints on TV where I caught a glimpse of him and he seemed like the serious and quiet type. I had a feeling that his music would be similar to Tei's or Ha Dong Kyun's. I did hit on his dominant genre though: Ballads.
The tracklisting caught my eye immediately, not because of any strange titles or fancy artwork. It was merely because there were no English titles in any of his tracks. This may be inconsequential but I thought I'd mention it here anyhow as it's pretty rare these days. On to the music!
Right from the get go, "Duriraseo" showcases Eru's distinct voice and it's something that's truly unique. This is a good thing as there are many, many generic vocals out there that are unable to distinguish themselves from stock.
The album had two shades of ballads: the dark and sorrowful types, and the uplifting and victorious kind. These styles are pleasantly embedded into the album, changing the pace and the mood at just about the right time, whilst maintaining the listener's interest. Another characteristic feature of this album is the mixture of orchestral strings and rock instruments. It's somewhat similar to Hong Kyung Min's instrumentals but personified, Eru-style.
Overall, the album is a good pickup for Ballad fans, but may not be suitable for those looking for pop and dance numbers.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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Ha You Sun 2nd Single - 1234Ever
Ha You Sun 2nd Single - 1234Ever
(2)Our Price: US$9.99List: US$13.99Save: US$4.00 (29%)Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:September 21, 2007 Excellent Single!Who knew that Ha U-Sun would continue on with a musical career? Honestly, I was fairly surprised myself. Not to say that her first single was a total disaster (I actually loved it!), but the response was more of her scandalous past rather than her music. Nonetheless, I was very excited upon hearing about her second effort.
"1.2.3.4ever" is a very catchy and cheerful track which is a complete reversal of her first single's title track, "Question". The track is fresh and is just a joy to listen to. Apart from all the criticisms, she has a very sweet voice and can definitely hold her own. "Oneul..Seulpeum" is an off-beat track that reveals more of U-Sun's sexy and husky vocals - a good pre=cursor to "Spark". The last track has the makings of an awesome dance song. Very dancy...I can already see everyone grinding in the Korean clubs to this beat.
Overall, I'm extremely satisfied with Ha U-Sun's second effort. The tracks are strong, the packaging is nice, and it is indeed worth the $10 that YesAsia'll charge you.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Yoo Seung Jun Vol. 7 - Rebirth of YSJ
Yoo Seung Jun Vol. 7 - Rebirth of YSJ
(7)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Usually ships within 1 to 2 daysRelated promotions:3 people found the following helpful
September 21, 2007 Still Hip With TimesWeeestsiiiide is back! The long wait for Yoo Seung Jun's is finally over. The YSJ faithful always knew that he would make a triumphant return one of these years. I'm so glad that it's now.
Over these years, he has not lost his edge. "My World" is a very fitting song for the triumphant comeback. A slow-tempo hip-hop track, that is true to YSJ-style. It resembles "Wow (Version 1" slightly but is a masterpiece in it's own right.
"6 In The Morning" and "Radio" picks up the pace to set the dance mood underway. "Baby Talk 2 Me" switches to a bit more of an R&B feel that somewhat feels like a YG Track - excellent track that's easy to groove to.
"Missing U" swerves over to a melodic, easy-listening track which features a beautiful backup vocal from Baek Jin Sil. The track is very uplifting and is definitely a hidden gem in this album. Although YSJ is known for crazy dancing skills and powerful performances, many would be surprised that he's also able to pull of the tender love songs. A perfect example of which is the singular, ballad "Hu.Ae." The final track, "One For Me" closes off the amazing revival of Yoo Seung Jun's career with a bang.
Truly, truly, an awesome album from a living legend. Regardless of what happened in the past, his abilities and musical prowess still outshine all negative criticisms and silences all naysayers. In his own words: "Guess who's baaaack?!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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Brown Eyed Girls Vol. 2
Brown Eyed Girls Vol. 2
(2)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:1 people found the following helpful
September 8, 2007 Amazingly Beautiful~Next to Ji Eun's "Rain", Brown Eyed Girls' second album was my most-anticipated album of the summer. Their first album took a few listens for me to fall in love with it and it eventually drew me to become a full-scale fan. I feel that this album will have the same effect with other music fans as well. Not to say that this isn't a great album - because IT IS - it's just a bit unconventional, when compared to popular recent releases in K-Pop. Having said that, I love the Brown Eyed Girls for demonstrating what it's like to make amazing albums.
With trumpets blazing and powerful voices blaring, the track "Namjaneun Eopda" introduces the album well. The feel of the song is a commemorative one, something like introducing a milestone, and is very nice start. Additionally it features YoungJi of another power-vocal group, the Bubble Sisters which adds more flavor to the song.
"Naega Utgo Isseoyo" is the second track and is a solo by Ga-in. Simply said, it's very beautiful but I can't help but wonder why she's singled out in the album, elected to merit a solo track. We already know that they're all amazing singers and having to showcase one member just didn't seem right.
With the third track, we're back to the mid-tempo pace. "Tteonara Miseugim" blends the girls' voices perfectly and is a definite highlight of this album. Mi-ro's rap is exceptional in this one. Her unique and raw rapping style cannot be missed and it is amazing how she flows seamlessly into the melody.
By "Sullae" (4th track), it becomes obvious that a see-saw approach of genres is written all-over this album. We're presented with a low-tempo track that can only be described as angelic. The harmony is outstanding and Je-ah totally owns the song with her amazing voice in this title's hook. This is my favorite track of the bunch and you'd have to hear the song for yourself as my words can do it no justice.
With "Neoege Sogatda" we're back into a mid-tempo pace with a bit of jazzy flavor from the intro song. This is one lesser tracks of the album, which is saved by Mi-ro's rapping prowess and excellent vocal control of the group.
"Hapirimyeon" is another gorgeous ballad. What I liked most about this song was the valiant expression of a single feeling, through four unique voices. Very powerful, very emotional, and an excellent song indeed.
With "Oasis", BEG shies away slightly from their comfort zone, moving into uncharted waters of a Summer-y stylized track. I felt that this was a bit of a risk for them as this did not readily fit their image. So many have failed transitioning over into different genres due to this but I think they pulled it off quite well. In fact, it was a big hit, and continues to rank up in the charts today. I witnessed an interview where the Brown Eyed Girls were asked about what they felt about this change of pace. Admittedly, they were a bit concerned of how the public would react. They stated that they gained much confidence with Lee Jae-hoon (from the group Cool) on board. I thought that this was a very smart move to collaborate with a seasoned veteran, and helped Oasis become the accomplishment that it is today.
"Nunbusige Joheun Nal" is a very sweet ballad, which is just perfect in every way. A very mellow track where each one of the members shines, the blending is magnificent and is one of the best ballads I've heard yet from 2007. In my opinion, this is where our ladies excel the most and Im just enthralled whenever I come across each one of these gems.
The most unique composition of this album goes to the ninth track entitled "Triangle". It's this kind of creativity and musical mastery that puts BEG above everyone else. The successful fusion of folk-pop and rap is just astounding and I can honestly say that I've never heard any other mainstream K-Pop song that resembles this. Triangle is an excellent track that'd certainly be remembered for a long time.
"Choemyeon" picks up where the eighth track left off - it's an even more delicate and soothing ballad. Its beauty shines not because of the display of vocal range, but the melody and the beautiful instrumentation. Its effect on the listener is similar to what one would experience listening to Lee Soo Young's classic hits.
Track 11, "Naekkeoya" switches the album's gears back into pop mode and is a refreshing track in its own right. Another successful crossover from the beloved BEG. With a funky delivery, and quite a catchy-beat, this is just a fun song to play that has the power to uplifts one's spirits in any given day.
I love how we're given a beautiful sample of true Brown Eyed Girls acappella in the first few minutes of "How Could I Love You?" (Track #12). The orchestral instruments come in shortly and the closing vocal track is upon us. A delightful end to a spectacular, diversified, and well-performed second album.
In conclusion, the wait was well-worth it and I was extremely pleased with the Brown Eyed Girls second effort. This album is an awesome pickup for anyone and is highly recommended. I guarantee that this will not be one of your music albums that just picks up dust through time.
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Girls' Generation 1st Single - Into The New World
Girls' Generation 1st Single - Into The New World
(4)Our Price: US$9.99List: US$13.99Save: US$4.00 (29%)Usually ships within 1 to 2 daysRelated promotions:10 people found the following helpful
August 7, 2007 Excellent & Exciting~!A very strong single from SM new team, So Nyeo Shi Dae. I truly have no complaints about "Dasi Mannan Segye (Into The New World)" as it's everything that can be expected of an SM Entertainment masterpiece.
It's clear that the label has picked the cream of the crop from the (in)famous, and grueling auditions that thousands and thousands of young hopefuls attend each year. The single's main track is a solid, pop-dance track with a lot of feeling, attitude, and confidence. It's as if these girls already know that they'll dominate from here onwards, which I do believe is highly likely.
So Nyeo Shi Dae's cast is attractive, vocally-talented, and can dance very well from what we've seen thus far. All they need to do now is keep it up and we're in for an amazing ride with Korea's glamour label once again.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Ji Eun Vol. 1 - Rain
1 people found the following helpful
August 7, 2007 2007's Best Album; No QuestionPerfection is an understatement for Ji Eun's first album entitled "Rain". I literally get goosebumps everytime I play this album. The compositions, song selection, and of course, her amazing vocals leaves me breathless and wanting more and more.
The album is composed of strong ballads and R&B tracks that are diverse enough to attract even genre-specific listeners. Anything more that I say cannot do this album enough justice. I love this album, and I'm glad that Ji Eun has graced the Korean music scene to share her amazing talent with all of us.
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Ivy Vol. 2 - A Sweet Moment
Ivy Vol. 2 - A Sweet Moment
(9)Our Price: US$14.99List: US$20.99Save: US$6.00 (29%)Related promotions:March 18, 2007 The Excellence Continues~Ivy, Ivy, Ivy...you rock my world!
After the immense success that is "My Sweet and Free Day", I wasn't sure how Ivy's 2nd would fare compared to that masterpiece. It's quite difficult to match an album that's set the bar to the level that she's set for herself. Yet, with "A Sweet Moment" she successfully follows up with a bang.
The music is as vibrant and unique, and the vocals are still beautiful and fresh -- staying true to Ivy's prowess as an artist. With this, I'd say that Ivy's set to stay with the elites for as long as she'd like.
An album worth buying, the bonus picture book is wonderfully-made, showcasing Ivy's natural beauty which is, on its own, an item worth buying. Definitely a must buy for lovers of great music!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
October 27, 2006 Sweet, sweet, sweet.
Another one of my most sought-out albums that I've recently picked up. Definitely glad to have this easy-listening album. Filled with soft, mid-tempo tracks and of course, Ash's extremely cute voice--so cute that I feel like I can cuddle it--it's definitely a hit.
The most memorable track would have to be track #5, "Valentine", which is a remake of Western country artist, Martina McBride's "My Valentine" -- it's so sweet when sung in Korean. "First Love" (track #8) is also an exceptional duet song that fuses both male and female vocals perfectly.
Fantastic recording by the new singer of that time!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
The First Album
October 26, 2006 Could Not Ask For MoreAfter all these years, I've finally been able to get my hands on this album and my excitement about it hasn't dwindled one bit.
It's one of those albums that represents two extremes of character--the rough and rebellious side as well as the sweet and carefree personality. Both are tremendously represented in Penny's 1st. The album goes back and forth to these two major themes, and each one is an amazing hit track. It would be rather pointless to name a favorite because I truly love each song in this album.
I guess if there was one that struck me the most, it would be track #8 "Mistake". This song has nice acoustic melodies, is very sweetly sung, is sorrowful, and is heartwarming as well. It's really touching and is a masterpiece in its own right, in my opinion.
I really consider this album a blessing from the music gods. Amazing...Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Shinhwa Vol. 1
Shinhwa Vol. 1
(10)Our Price: US$12.99List: US$18.99Save: US$6.00 (32%)Usually ships within 1 to 2 daysRelated promotions:October 15, 2006 Great start!Everyone knows what a goldmine this group is to those who have had them signed. I really don't know how SM managed to find 6 amazing artists who were able to spell out hit after hit and more importantly, manage to stay together for as long as they have. It's quite unbelievable.
The album itself, being the legendary Shinhwa's first is quite nice actually. Their youth clearly shows and it's actually refreshing hearing it now. It's bubbly with this album compared to their recent releases as expected and I don't resent that for a minute. Mix in a bit of wannabe-hip-hop-rapping and it's just what was right for fans at the time.
The album's certainly not as epic as their name is now but it's a piece of art to be remembered for it's significant role in the group's career.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Rich vol.3 - Dream Hunter
Rich vol.3 - Dream Hunter
(2)Our Price: US$15.99List: US$22.99Save: US$7.00 (30%)Related promotions:October 15, 2006 Such a sweet deal~With this album, I've finally been able to 'accept' Rich for his music. "Dreamhunter" is definitely his best work out of all his albums thus far. This set contains more variety than "I Have A Dream" (1st) and "Dreaming on the Hill" and is in turn more captivating and enjoyable.
He still maintains the smooth, mature themes as he's known for so his fans shouldn't be too upset. His diversification in styles attests to his ability to grow as an artist. Ironically enough, track number one on this album is "R i s k" and he took that indeed and produced an excellent album.
Additionally, this album is probably one of the great deals out there--amazing music, bonus VCD, box sheath covering, double-decked jewelcase, and a cellphone strap charm. Man oh man....totally packed for the money!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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