This posthumously released album comes with the heartbreaking story of the recently passed Kim Doma. Following the loss of the singer, guitarist Gunwoo finished the album that the two had started together. It's a beautiful tribute to the singer and is full of incredible music, such as this sweet indie-pop track, Crouching for comfort.
Zenly came out on Christmas Eve of last year as if indie-folk songwriter chinyoonhae was giving us all an early present. But one that you can listen to whether you've been good or bad. Platform favourite Dajung provides guest vocals on this subtly moving track.
One of the most fun live bands in the country, Bulgogidisco are well known for their mix of hard rock and disco. This year, they added another genre to their back catalogue with some synth-pop collaborations with Luli Lee. Lead single Bichulae has since become their biggest hit, and it's easy to see why.
TRPP burst onto the scene in 2021 with a shoegaze-influenced love letter to early-90s British/Irish rock. With their second album Here to stay, the band put their shoegaze leanings into overdrive (ahem) with a darker, more fuzz-driven sound. The album's title track is a pulsating and warm distortion pedal-bashing gem that would make MBV proud.
What a year it has been for Soumbalgwang. After moving in a heavier direction, the band won Best Album and Best Song at the 2022 KMAs and became the most must-see live act in the country. The energetically brooding Room demonstrates what the buzz is all about, building up slowly to a thrashing climax.
Paper River's 2022 album, where, there was was one of the most surprising releases of the year. This breezy, atmospheric folk album gently washes over the listener like a sun shower. It's absolutely full of ethereal gems such as the soothing Home, a dreamy track that makes you feel like you're flying.
With the simultaneous release of three singles back in October, Meaningful Stone continued to move away from her earlier folky roots and into rockier territory. Kiddo, Psychomania, and Trash all draw on a post-grunge, alt-rock influence that suits The Stone well. The menacing verse and anthemic chorus make Kiddo our choice.
This hauntingly minimalist lullaby from newcomer Nor is as beautiful as it is fleeting. In just under a minute and a half, this one-verse-one-chorus acoustic track passionately explores feelings of jealousy, fear, and missing someone. It's a special debut and one that makes us excited to see what Nor does next.
In October, emo-noister Asian Glow released Coverglow pt. 1, an album of covers featuring reworkings of songs by 7 Seconds, The Front Bottoms, and The Go! Team. The album finishes with a sublime rendition of Ikareta Baby by Japanese dream-dub band Fishmans. Powerful synth strings and great vocals from Bomul make this a must-hear.
Right at the start of 2022, super-bassist (of indie band jisokuryClub) Hongbi released one of the best EPs of the year in I'm a Loser. Full of aloof appeal and surprising variety, the four-track release is one of our most played this year. Opener humming~ demonstrates the singer's knack for disarming melodies and subtle grooves.