Some new digital releases I listened to on my way to Canada...

Artists in today's new single feature:
(Row 1) Bekah, Brave Brothers, (Row 2)  GP Basic,
(Row 3) Jang Hye Jin and Yesung,
(Row 4) BGH to, and Goo Ji Sung

I'm currently writing this blog in my Aunt Rodel and Uncle Carl's home in Mississauga, Canada. I took two weeks off from work so that I could attend a family reunion that my dad's side of the family had organized to help everyone reconnect, share and pass on stories (especially for the younger ones). When I received the invite, I took it as a sign for a well-deserved break from work.

The great thing about being on a vacation is that I'm also able to listen to take some time to listen to music --- especially some new singles that have just recently come out.

8Eight returns to enchant with their soulful and mellow sound...

The members of ballad group 8Eight (L to R): Baek Chan, Jo Hee and Lee Hyun

While reading on the ballad group 8Eight, it's interesting to see how much of a following they have. The trio of Lee Hyun, Jo Hee and Baek Chan is probably one of the most sought after vocal groups in South Korea. All three are impressive vocalists that have embarked on solo and collaborative careers, and are stars in their own right, but still maintain their close bond as a functioning ballad unit under JYP Entertainment's sub-unit, Big Hit Entertainment.

They just released their new self-titled mini-album yesterday together with a new MV for their launching track, "그 입술을 막아본다" (roughly translated as "Cover Your Lips"). The group is well known for their excellent vocal talent and range, and a mellow sound that experiments with different genres and doesn't restrict itself to ballads.

Let 4MEN into your hearts with the release of "The Artist"...

The boys of 4MEN --- (L to R): Kim Young Jae, Shin Yong Jae, and Kim Won Joo

It's not surprising to find some group that have long been in hiatus coming back after years of hibernating in the cooler of K-drama OST album and collaboration work. A very good example of this is 4MEN, a relatively well-known ballad group in Korea, making a comeback after a 3 year hiatus with their new album, "The Artist", that was released June 7th.

I think I've mentioned in a previous post that ballads hold a special place in my heart. I'm a softie, and I like a good cry every now and then. If there's one thing that this group is well-known for is insanely great vocal harmony, and an inexplicable ability to make people feel a great amount of emotion through their songs.

Alex dishes up jazz and ballads in "Just Like Me"...

Don't we just all dream about "Mr. Right"? A guy who has a great smile, a great body and who's an all around gentleman to boot! Well, let's just say Mr. Right were able to sing really well... he would be Alex Chu (I know, I'm stretching it a bit for an intro... but he really is a charming guy!).

After a two-year hiatus, Alex just recently released his second solo album, "Just Like Me" yesterday, and I have to say that he has succeeded in flooring me down with his smooth and romantic vocals.