Reviewed by Esosa Zuwa, a writer. As BTS’s youngest member, Jungkook is often dubbed the “Golden Maknae,” or “Golden Youngest.” It’s fitting, then, that Golden is his debut solo album, emphasizing his Midas touch. Golden is an entirely English album that encapsulates a mainstream pop sound, full of radio and chart-friendly hits. It has catchy hooks that resonate with longtime BTS and Jungkook stans and … Continue reading Golden
Reviewed by Esosa Zuwa, a writer. Kim Taehyung, better known as V, released his debut EP Layover on September 8, 2023, marking the latest installment of BTS solo music. A swinging, simplistic album about love, heartbreak, and longing, it’s inspired by ’50s doo-wop melodies and ’70s jazz. One could say V has an old soul—yet one nevertheless immersed in the present. Curated and created by producers … Continue reading Layover
Written by Esosa Zuwa, a writer. D-Day is Agust D’s manifesto to the self. It’s the thrilling conclusion in a sonic trilogy about breaking free from the burdens of society. Joined by the likes of longtime BTS producer Kyang Hyo-won (Pdogg) and producer Vincent Watson, Agust D, better known as Suga from BTS, provides thought-provoking social commentary and reflections on regrets. The pre-release single “People … Continue reading D-Day
Written by Esosa Zuwa, a writer. For years, fans have been enraptured by BTS member Park Jimin’s face, watching him deliver dreamy vocals and charm the world with stunning visuals. In his newest album, Face, Jimin asks listeners to look beyond his well-loved visage, giving a glimpse into his self and psyche. Inspired by deep mental introspection during the pandemic and produced by the likes … Continue reading Face
Reviewed by Esosa Zuwa, a writer. Japanese-British pop singer Rina Sawayama is holding the girl—or holding herself, at least. Hold the Girl, Sawayama’s second album, was released on September 16, 2022. More personal, toned down, and intimate in its approach than her debut, SAWAYAMA, it still maintains the punchy, alternative, nu-metal, dance-pop sound. Hold the Girl, mainly recorded in 2020 and 2021, takes listeners on … Continue reading Hold the Girl
Reviewed by Aarushi Kumar, a writer. On September 23, 2022, Australian pop rock band 5 Seconds of Summer (5SOS) released its fifth studio album, 5SOS5. Featuring 19 tracks, the album manages to maintain ties to its predecessors while pushing the band’s lyricism and instrumentation to new heights. The main themes in 5SOS5 are those of reflection and growth: indeed, the band’s debut showcase for this album … Continue reading 5SOS5
Zenith Review Magazine 