NRG vol.6

Seven years after they first came to hit the K-pop market, NRG (New Radiancy Group) have been going stronger and stronger as the tiptop dance group. Once awarded the 1998 Seoul Gayo Awards winner for Best Newcomer, these four young men are still fresh and new in terms of their musical inspiration. Now with their sixth studio album "NRG vol.6" coming to town, we are able to witness once again their unfailing supply of talents and musical variations.

"I O U" starts the album with an amazingly big contrast in the arrangement. At the very beginning, NRG shows off their vocal skills singing acappella in harmony. As the tune goes on, it however puts on an R&B vibe to demonstrate their creativity.

Their hip-hop tunes are no original work too! Track 4 is one of the most interestingly presented songs. It begins with a pop style as if it were making a tribute to the 30's and 40's oldies. It then fulfills its hip-hop mission in the middle when the four of them take turns to show off their vocal. What is most anticipated would definitely be the music video of this track with their stunning hip-hop dance moves. Other tunes that share the similar concept in the production include "Look at me" and "Boss".

Another sure thing of course is the romantic "Loving You". NRG never stops to offer you surprises even on soft ballads. The rap episode in between the tune brings a breath of fresh air into the hypnotic atmosphere.

"Sign of Wind Tree" (Track 6) blends the traditional Korean percussions together with the blowpipes in the arrangement. With their sharp sense of modernity and their groovy presentation, NRG gives new life to this crossover tune.

One common criticism boy bands receive is their immature singing skill or their lack of opportunity to exhibit it. "another one", nevertheless, can be the best counter argument. "My Girl", on the other hand, impresses us with the guitar playing.

To rally national support for the Korean team participating in the 2004 Olympics, NRG has especially come up with a cheer-on song (Track 3). Accompanied by the uplifting beat, the four men boost the morale of their fellow athletes one by one and give a living example of teamwork.

The whole production of "NRG vol.6" is credited with originality in terms of the arrangement and the rendition. And so besides Track 3, the whole song list can also be the best representation of the dynamics in Korea.

Tracks recommended: "Loving You", "Sign of Wind Tree" (Track 6) &"another one"

Reviewed by doll doll (Hong Kong)

Translated by Holly (Hong Kong)