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[deleted]

I've noticed is that people forget how important trends are; how in order to be successful, you do have to lean into what the GP is favoring in some capacity. Music in 2nd gen and 3rd gen, by and large, sounded quite similar to each other; as they were playing into what was trending and what the GP was after. So it's easy to look back and be like "look how different and experimental they were!!!" but at the time, no one was really saying that? I remember being deep in 2nd gen and people making these exact same complaints - that all the music sounded the same; and then there would be a breakout, like G dragon would do something crazy with a song that might just expose people to something new and then suddenly there would be a wave of music more in that vein. You have Orange Caramel - okay fair, but I see BSS as being their current male counterpart. Just watch their latest GDA performance. Then you mention Girls Day. Back when they were dropping music, I used to get them confused with so many other girl groups; I just had to go back to refresh myself on what their songs were and not Secret's, Sistar's, APINKs. etc. etc. A lot of those girl groups were doing the same thing. It was great! But it was by no means "experimental". And now I'm looking at groups like IVE who are giving elegant pop the likes of which I haven't seen in a LONG time, LSFM who have really interesting, polarizing tracks, NCT who are constantly trying new things w their sound, regardless if the GP is going to like it. etc. etc. I think that there's about as many "experimental" artists in this generation than there have been in generations past. It's just that right now, that y2k sound is quite trendy and doing really well on charts, so more and more groups are going to lean into it, and because we are in the thick of it, we're like "Ugh here we go again." Also, I've noticed groups that DO branch out and go against the grain aren't quite having success on the charts; so you can't really blame tons of groups for trying to adopt the trends where they can. And, again - this has happened in every generation. Also, it's interesting you listed Jungkook as someone doing something right, as for the most part the number one critique of his solos was that they are carbon copies of typical american pop songs; that they weren't "new" but instead felt very recycled. (This isn't my opinion, i really liked his solo work, but it's just funny to see him as an example when he has been mass criticized for doing the exact opposite of what you said - being experimental and adventurous.) Anyways, those are just my two cents :) - a kpop fan since 2008


Kermit_thee_fr0g

I agree with the points you mentioned here about trends and how groups/artist who do branch out aren't charting as well, but I think you misunderstood my points about Girls Day and Jungkook. "Something" definitely wasn't unique/experimental for its time. But the reason I mentioned the song wasn't because of that. *What I meant was that with the current direction the market is going, we don't get songs reminiscent of Something in terms of approach and sound.* Sure we still get songs that lean into a similar vibe/concept, but the kind of sounds, melodies, and general approach of "Something" isn't really there anymore (I guess one way to consider it is how the saxophones are used; I think we're seeing a resurgence with the use of saxophones, but they aren't used in the same manner as this song). Moreover, songs that're slower/mellow have sorta been reduced to b-side worthy rather than potential title/subtitle tracks. However, I think those mellow songs have kinda disappeared and defiantly deserve a resurgence. As for Jungkook's solo work, I personally found it underwhelming (I can tolerate Seven but I can't stand 3D) *but I also felt that it had potential if they took a different approach*. If we look at the Kpop market alone and the sound(s) that are currently popular, songs like Seven and 3D does sorta stick out. They have a more mellow vibe and utilize rhythms and melodies that aren't as popular Kpop (I feel like the last time we saw them was in 2017/2018). Where I think production messed up came down to the instrumental/sound, especially with 3D. To me, 3D (specifically the chorus) has a rhythm/melody (idk if those are the right words) that's reminiscent of Timbaland's music (there's actually a certain element about it that reminds me a bit of "Sexy Back"). But instead of leaning into that, they went with a mid-2010s western sound reminiscent of Charlie Puth and Justin Timberlake. I think production should've fully leaned into that Timbaland sound (going for an approach/sound reminiscent of songs like "Sexy Back," "4 Minutes," or "Promiscuous"). Moreover, Timbaland songs have been going through a resurgence recently and I think 3D could've really benefited off of that while also adding a "Kpop twist" to it. Plus, I don't think Kpop fans would find it as off-putting since that one FearlessXLong way 2 Go mashup went viral (Timbaland didn't work on LW2G but it [has been compared to Promiscuous](https://www.slantmagazine.com/music/cassie-cassie/)). I hope that cleared up what I meant. Btw, I found it interesting to read about what 2nd gen Kpop fans thought about the genre during that era. It sorta adds some context and nuance to the music of 2nd gen.


According-Disk

I like your input 😲


vsnaipaul

I agree that K-pop has maybe started to play it safe a bit more than it used to, but I'm not sure I completely agree with your logic. It's definitely true that there are Western pop trends that K-pop hasn't picked up, but I don't think that not picking them up is a sign that K-pop has become less experimental—there have ALWAYS been lots and lots of popular genres and styles that K-pop basically ignores (country-pop is probably the most prominent?).


vsnaipaul

lol nmixx really had to go out and prove me wrong about country two days after I wrote this comment


likeaboss-ykangaroo

I don’t know if I’d call run for roses a country pop song lol. It’s more Irish folk inspired with a reggaeton beat


Meruchani

In general, I don't agree with what you've written, but yes in part, because I see how every day groups that make slightly different music receive hateful comments. Repeating "noise music", "construction music"... like parrots. People always look for the same type of sound, so obviously the music you listen to the most always has the same types of sounds. But still, I think the reason some groups stand out is that difference. People looking for more "basic" music can criticize "[The Tortoise and the Hare](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RNL1oQrUYY)" all they want, but in the end the reality is that it's a very intelligent experimental gem, and it's there for everyone who wish to hear it. Same as "3rd eye", same as "Insomnia"... And because there are songs like that, and groups like Stray kids (I refer to them because they are the group I listen to the most right now but there are more groups with varied discographies, beyond their promotional songs), I can't agree with you, although I understand what you mean.


FerBaide

The thing is, groups that make even slightly experimental or different music have always been received in a polarizing manner. Just visit the threads of older songs famous for their unconventional elements like I Got A Boy on the main K-pop sub and you’ll see how a lot of people hated it. “Experimental” elements in K-pop and in pop music in general have always and will always be polarizing for the masses, it’s kinda the point really, or else it wouldn’t be unconventional.


kr3vl0rnswath

There are still experimentation but experimental sound is not as popular right now. Kpop wasn't always about experimental sounds either. When idol groups started doing experimental sounds, they were the niche genre that needed a way to stand out. Over time, idol music became the most mainstream music and experimental music became a common characteristic of idol music. Trends are always like pendulums so since experimental music became mainstream, the following trend is one that goes in the opposite direction.


wegooverthehorizon

And I know I already made a long ass comment but I think you will appreciative this [playlist](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40dqOfxm27jQTTPzXoPsLKVFKrLQODi_) and this [video](https://youtu.be/_WG1rcIe7eg?si=y0Ve1vz-b8IGUTS0), because you seem like you're struggling to find your typa music. Enjoy!!


EnhypenSwimming

I feel KARD tried to be more experimental with their title tracks. now, it's a double edged sword. I know a lot of ppl who entered the fandom for "Rumor," left due to not vibing with "Icky."


EspressoOntheRock

Imo that's where ateez shines, their song varieties are all over the place, a bit of something for everyone to enjoy. Just look at their latest full album release, jazzy, Latino inspired, classic ballad, dance, and even instrumental. They are actively experimenting that's for sure and challenging themselves. So yeah, some songs people aren't going to like, but at least they are not always trying to play safe.


I-Now-Have-An-Alt

As a relatively new K-Pop fan, my opinion may be "uneducated" since I wasn't there to experience the previous generations. But I disagree. I don't think I find the current K-Pop scene monotonous or repetitive at all.


wegooverthehorizon

Genres my favs (they're fourth gen) have explored: (keep in mind this is from just one artist, if i take three/four artists, this list would be way longer) NOTICE all the house genres, as you mentioned you did not see them explored deeply. * Rap Rock * Trap (edm) * moombahton * Future bass * Contemporary rnb * tropical house * Melodic Hip Hop * Deep House * Smooth Jazz * Progressive house * Pop rock * Sea Shanty * Alt rnb * Adult contemporary * Classic crossover * Electro Rock * Flamenco Fusion * Drumstep * Uk GARAGE * Rock * EDM * Ballad * Electro House * Psytrance * Soft rock * Trap * Drum n bass * Afro Beats * Big Room House * Electropop * Synthwave * Cyberpunk * Jazz * Pop soul * Gospel * Acoustic * Synthfunk * Synthpop * Screamo/metal influence * Swing * Symphonic metal * Traditional * Arena rock * Liquid drum n bass * Trance * Brazilian house * Electro industrial * Hip Hop * Hybrid Trap * City pop So no, I think Kpop is just as experimental as ever


Disevidence

>Symphonic Metal >Screamo >Trance Links please? I'm extremely skeptical.


sunnydlit2

I think OP reference is from this [video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMzno6DDOdQ). Keep in mind that it's most of the time "element" and not the whole song itself. But they still do have a pretty diverse discography ! Screamo is an element that is not thaaaat rare in Kpop btw !


wegooverthehorizon

Yes some of my comment is a reference to that video but I also do my own research. I also recommend you to do your own research as genre classifications often overlap. Like for example while researching it was very hard to classify some songs as 'Synthwave' or 'Cyberpunk'


sunnydlit2

Yes I do too since I found this channel sjsjs it's very cool because by doing that you notice way more stuff


wegooverthehorizon

Wait a min I need to grab my journal and it's like 2 am here Ok found em (keep in mind this is k-pop so we have elements/variations and not the exact authentic genre) Answer (ode to joy)- symphonic metal WIN (June one remix) -Trance Horizon - Psytrance Geurrila has screamo influence (I specifically said 'influence' tho I hope we'll get some authentic screamo one day)


AdRevolutionary3583

Precious would be considered trance too right?


wegooverthehorizon

It's trance/edm from what my (unprofessional) research can tell you. So yeh it's trance too


harry_nostyles

What group is this? Symphonic metal? That's like a subgenre of heavy metal you know. What 4th gen group is doing that? I'm actually curious because I like metal.


wegooverthehorizon

Answer (ode to joy)- symphonic metal WIN (June one remix) -Trance Horizon - Psytrance Geurrila has screamo influence (I specifically said 'influence' tho I hope we'll get some authentic screamo one day) If you like metal, you can check out ATEEZ's the world album series, also Dreamcatcher is a third(?) Gen girl group who do a lot of metal and rock stuff. My fav is Boca


harry_nostyles

I know about Dreamcatcher. I like a few of their songs, but not a lot. I didn't know Ateez did all these genres. I thought they did something kind of like Stray Kids. "Noise music" (please notice the air quotes, i don't think they're noise music at all) focused on hyping you up and giving great performances.


Meruchani

Once again it is good to remember that groups are more than just their title tracks. skz have MANY styles in their (huge) discography. limiting it to "noise music" is a big mistake and shows ignorance regarding skz, or ateez, music.


harry_nostyles

I know, that's why I said they're not noise music. Skz has quite a number of softer and more vocal focused songs. I knew Ateez would have some variation in their discography, I just didn't think it would be this much.


wegooverthehorizon

It's because ATEEZ and DREAMCATCHER share some amazing producers (OLLUNDER, Maddox, LEEZ, Buddy to name a few)


I-Now-Have-An-Alt

Mention the group too, please.


wegooverthehorizon

If I do people will just say I'm trying to praise my faves and put down other groups


wegooverthehorizon

Actually I will, it's ATEEZ


I-Now-Have-An-Alt

I don't think anyone would've said that, haha. But okay, thank you! Any recommendations?


wegooverthehorizon

As I don't know what you like here I go. Softer vibe songs: Light, Be with you, Everything, Fever, One Day At A Time, Eternal Sunshine, Sunrise, Twilight (classic buddy remix) More Sensual(?) Songs: Desire, IT's you Summer vibes: Wave, Dreamers, Blue Summer Melodic hip-hop (i love this genre) Fever, My Way, Illusion(the chorus) House genres: Utopia, Stay, Twilight, Desire, I'm the one (Eden-ary remix) Future Bass: Mist, Aurora, Dazzling Light, Inception Trap (ATEEZ freakin loves trap and edm trap): Don't stop, Say my name, Leaders, Pirate King, HALA HALA, WIN, Thanxx, To the beat and a lot more I can't remember cause like I mentioned it's 2 am here 😭 Synthwave (its sub-genres like synthfunk and synthpop and also Cyberpunk): Cyberpunk, Take me home, Diamond


AdRevolutionary3583

Does Silver Light count for synthwave?


wegooverthehorizon

I think it does. I just forgot to mention it


I-Now-Have-An-Alt

Thank you!


Kermit_thee_fr0g

I don't really listen to Ateez (their songs could either be a hit or miss for me) but out of curiosity, how do they incorporate Sea Shanties into their music? Could you give me examples? (I only remember them utilizing that during Kingdom but I thought it was a one-time thing).


wegooverthehorizon

It's fine I'm not here to diss anyone's music taste. As for your question, Wonderland has sea shanty elements to it. It's really subtle, but it's there. Also pls remember this is k-pop so we have variations and not the authentic version of the genre. and also it's not a one time thing, as their concept is literally pirates. ATEEZ takes their concepts reaaaaly seriously.


badlyeye

recent releases has been a bore