Davichi Vol. 1 - Amaranth

A female pop and R&B duo consisting of members Lee Hae Ri and Gang Min Kyung, Davichi made their debut in early 2007 with Amaranth. The richness of their distinctive, husky vocal timbre and the depth of emotions give the duo an edge over other numerous newbies. Using less falsetto, and more chest vocals, Davichi pulls and sustains the high notes with much control. Their debut album contains mostly easy listening and mid-tempo ballads with lyrics that speak volumes about love's pain, loss, and sorrow.

Interestingly, many of the album's lesser-known tracks wound up as my favorites. Ibyeore Bandaemal ("Separation's Opposition") is a country-style pop number that invites you to self-retrospection. Adorned with Davichi's silky, viscous vocals, the song carries out a sweeping melody of past regrets. Exuding similar outpourings of sentiment is Keureongeoni ("Keureongeoni"), a smooth, jazz-tinged ballad shimmered with layers of gentle piano and guitar arrangement. Before swelling to its climax, the song makes a momentary pause; then sputters out a twister of emotions.

If you're a fan of SG Wannabe and See Ya, you will find Ripseutik Jitge Pareugo ("Putting on Heavy Lipstick"), a trot-infused mid-tempo ballad, very much to your liking. Kicking off with Bossa Nova style guitar chords, the song bleeds tears with words like: "Never again will I fall in love/never again be so foolish/put on my lipstick/cut off my long hair/wipe off the pain you gave me". In another weeper, Kyeoukyeou ("Barely Barely"), Davichi tweaks their vocals to resemble Park Hwayobi's trademark R&B vibrato, which strikingly complements the lyrics that speak of barely making it through the day.

It would seem odd to mention all other tracks in the album and leave out Miwuhdo Saranghanikka ("Love You Even Though I Hate You"), the very song that gave Davichi, their first shot of fame. Unfortunately, the song sounds like a blend of many typical Korean ballads and as a result, falls short of getting my vote. The song contains some disheartening lyrics like: "Even though I know about everything you did me wrong/ I'm willing to be deceived over and over again/ that's how women are". But some verses stand out for their poetic charm, such as: "You never liked me wearing thick makeup/ looking into the mirror/ thinking my face was heavily made up/ wiped them all off with my tears". Now how sad is that?

For those who are marking cloudy days in their relationship forecast, or for anyone in need of a good cry, I recommend Davichi's Amaranth, which offers a gentle meditative remedy. By the way, after fully recovering from the cold, I regret to say that my natural voice came back.