GOT7 - A

"I know you want me"

I don't know why I initially slept on this song. I think it's because GOT7's debut track earlier this year was a little underwhelming, and they're from JYP, which is my least favorite of the big three Korean agencies (although I love its president, Park Jin-young). Jin-young wrote this track, and it's pretty evident because it has that soulful, addictive beat and feel to it that characterizes the best of his music. It's a ridiculously catchy single, and the seven (!) band members carry it off perfectly. I particularly love the music video, which reminds me of an old musical or something. If this was in English, it could easily be a big hit in the States. Either way, it should feature prominently on your summer playlist.



(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. Buy the mini album here. Follow me on twitter and facebook.

Bleachers - Like A River Runs

"When I fall asleep, I can see your face"

In a summer that has been (for me, at least) entirely dominated by international music, Bleachers' debut album has been a nice American surprise. Bleachers is the side-project of Jack Antonoff (of fun. fame). The album was released last week after three amazing singles. Those singles remain the best portion of the album, but the rest of the songs aren't exactly slouchers. Maybe a little more mellow, but still good. Like A River Runs is a late-album energizer, with surging production and a shout-along chorus. It represents what I consider the best qualities of Antonoff's music. If you like this, you should also check out his work with the band Steel Train. The song Bullet, in particular, is a nice aural companion to this one.



(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. Buy the album here. Follow me on twitter and facebook.

G.R.L. - Ugly Heart

"Your face is a work of art"

I am shocked that his song hasn't been a total smash worldwide by now. Honestly, it's only a matter of time. It's already blowing up in Australia. I'm not a huge fan of girl groups, so it takes something special for me to stand up and pay attention. G.R.L. are that something special. From their attitude/charisma to their campy, fun style to their surprisingly amazing songs, they are bound to be the next big thing. Honestly, they remind me of the Spice Girls a little in that they're both incredibly refreshing and utterly packaged. Sometimes strong branding isn't a bad thing. Each of these girls seems to inhabit their own cartoony character. Oh, and let's not forget about the song. This is a solid gold hit, through and through. The melody is amazing, the lyrics are great, and the whole thing reminds me of classic, 90's pop goodness. Check out the fab music video below and find yourself converted.



(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. Buy the single here. Follow me on twitter and facebook.