U-KISS is for me the most underrated Kpop idol in Korea! I don’t know why they aren’t as popular as they are all around the world. They aren’t rookies anymore actually.. but still they don’t have that much of a following in the Kpop world. I’m not sure why, it could be because when they debuted, Kpop was ruled by the likes of DBSK, Super Junior, SS501 and Big Bang. However, it’s been years now and I can’t comprehend why they’re not that popular. – end of rant..
I like Ukiss since I heard Bring It Back to Old School. I think they have a certain charm for me that’s why I like them. Also, as I was new to Kpop that time and I did not understand absolutely any Korean, I was kind of happy to find Ukiss that time — because some of the member can speak English. I think this was the reason I liked them from before until now. I appreciate it a lot that they were the first to reach out to the international audience using English.
So them boys have released a new single called Standing Still from their album Collage and AJ is back from his hiatus! Wohoo.
The Video
Well, to me there is nothing really special about the video… just them dancing with some screens of a girl with very scary green cat eyes. I’m not sure why she is there.. but I think it might have something to do with the song or something. I am guessing that the concept of the video was to show that the person is strong after all hardships.. love I guess in the video and is standing still. It’s just my guess.
Personally, I think this is not the best Ukiss video. I mean, they’ve done this concept before. It reminds me a lot of Manmanhani (Am I That Easy?) and Bingeul Bingeul. But every time they release a video, I look forward to their dances. I don’t want to compare them to any other group, but I am just happy to see them even after all these years, they are still doing the thing they are good at.. making good songs and good music.
Ukiss fighting!
The Song
It’s a nice song! Not the best Ukiss song though.. 0330 is still my favorite, but not bad at all. When I hear this song it’s like it’s something different from their past songs, but at the same time there is some Ukiss sound that I feel I am familiar with. I can’t really pinpoint. But this song is not as strong as Stop Girl or Manmanhani. I think it would get some getting used to appreciate it fully. But it’s Ukiss just the same so I like it.
A bonus for all Kiss Me’s is that AJ is on this song! I’m sure Kiss Me’s have missed him.. but he’s back! It’s nice to see all Ukiss together.. though I still miss Xander and Kibum. Great to have him back. Also, I like that they are giving a lot more recognition for Soohyun’s talent now. I love Kevin, but Soohyun’s voice is more powerful for me.. but he’s not given too much attention.
Now… what I really like about Ukiss songs is that they pay attention to the English of the songs. Well.. maybe not all the songs (I remember r squared pi!). But at least they try to make an effort especially with the lyrics and the pronunciation. As an international Kpop fan I appreciate that little details. Although 90% of the song is sung in Korean, but at least the other English parts are done right. No biggie– no pressure on K-entertainment companies, just a friendly reminder from an international fan!^_^
Glad to have them back!
Final Verdict: It’s not the best Ukiss song, but I like it just the same. Because it’s Ukiss. They’re underrated but they are as talented as other Kpop artists. The MV is just so-so though.
**credits: ukiss2008@yt + as tagged
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