Battle of the B-Sides: NCT U, Secret Number, Girls' Generation, TAN, TVXQ

Nick

March 4

Battle of the B-sides K-pop's title tracks might gain most of listeners' attention, but many album tracks are worth equal spotlight. I call these "buried treasures."

Beyond this, K-pop's albums deliver thousands of additional tracks that settle for a more limited audience. It's these songs that will become a part of my "battle of the b-sides" feature.

In this feature, I'll be putting on my A&R hat and taking a listen to five randomly-selected K-pop b-sides. I'll write a mini review for each, including a Bias List rating, and rank them from least to most favorite. The winner will join a special Bias List B-side playlist. Think of it like my own little agency, hand-selecting songs I'd like to pitch to my nonexistent artists!

You can check out all rounds of my Battle of the B-sides here!

Battle of the B-sides: Round Sixty

NCT U – New Dream (2018)

Sometimes OST songs bear unexpected fruits. This version of "U" is actually just Taeil and Jaehyun, but that's more than enough. I love hearing their voices over a groovy dance/rock track like this. The chorus has a nice sense of heft and the performance is gutsy and exciting. The instrumental could probably be beefed up just a bit, but overall this is a definite win.

Hooks	8
Production	8
Longevity	9
Bias	9
RATING	8.5

Secret Number – Dangerous In Love (2021)

This has actually been performed a few times and has a dance video, but it's not a title track. That's a shame, because it's better than most title tracks! I love the retro synths and chugging energy of the instrumental. The performance has a nice, straightforward polish free of gimmicks and the drive behind the chorus is very satisfying. A hidden gem, for sure!

Hooks	8
Production	9
Longevity	9
Bias	9
RATING	8.75

Girls' Generation (SNSD) – Look At Me (2013)

This isn't necessarily the sound SNSD are known for, but the quirky electro hip-hop of Look At Me is very fun. The song totally transforms as we blast into its offbeat chorus, ramping up the tempo and energy. The contrast is interesting and feels like a precursor to hyperpop. It may be more of a showcase for the producers' skills than the girls themselves, but the end product is quite addicting.

Hooks	9
Production	9
Longevity	9
Bias	8
RATING	8.75

TAN – Freeze (2023)

We have another unit track in this battle, courtesy of TAN's Changsun and Hyunheop. This entire album is quite strong. This isn't my favorite track but it's a very enjoyable, lighthearted summer bop. Featherweight melodies are buoyed by a fun, hip-hop meets rock instrumental.

Hooks	8
Production	8
Longevity	9
Bias	8
RATING	8.25

TVXQ – Rumor (2011)

This is a very SM-centric battle! TVXQ are hard to beat, especially when their vocals are given such chance to sparkle. Rumor is an addictive R&B groove with airy harmonies and icy strings. It starts a little slow, but once the chorus gets going the track boasts surprising energy. It's the kind of song that easily gets under your skin. In a weaker battle, it would might easily coast to the top spot.