Rumbling with the Best in K-pop
Rumble Fish represented a strong rock group with heavy pop rock influences. Unlike Japan, which hosts some of the best rock in the world, Korea is not known for it. Throughout the band’s existence, 2003 – 2010, Korea had been known for their pop and ballads. Even when idol pop, starting with Girls’ Generation, exploded onto the world stage in 2009, Rumble Fish kept strong with their musical pop rock roots.
Music videos also made them more known in the Korean music industry. MVs such as Smile Again [MV], Spring Comes Flowers Bloom (봄이 되어 꽃은 피고) [MV], and I Go (previously embedded on this post) were popular among the fans. A personal favorite of mine is the song Lucky Day (예감 좋은 날), as it combines both the powerful voice of Choi Jin-yi with catchy drums and guitar sounds.
But don’t just take my word for it. Onew from the popular boy band, SHINee, recommended this song to his fans, as he believes it’s a very powerful song. It looks like both Onew and I both have something in common: our undying respect for Rumble Fish.
Great music, Jangta! I didn’t know about the group, but I’m more surprised in the change of type of music, Choi has really done a complete turn around. The good thing is that the band was signed before the genre change… the sad thing is that the change is what’s gotten Rumble Fish the most fans.
Is there any website to buy her albums? I think I saw one album in YesAsia, but other digital places? iTunes maybe?
Wow! Oki, you have my attention, what albums of Rumble Fish should I listen to?
Thanks for the comments! To your replies below:
@Amy: I think Choi was somewhat forced to go more towards ballads and soft-rock after the group’s break up. As you know, ballads is the easiest choice to go as a solo singer here in Korea. I do agree though in that most fans were into the group’s pop-rock tunes from 2003-2010.
As for where to buy her albums, I know YesAsia, iTunes, Kyobo Book Store (Korean), Evan Records (Korean) and Hot tracks (Korean) are places to buy them. Let me know if you need help if you plan on buying from a Korean chain.
@Julyssa: I would say to start with Swing Attack, Open the Safe, and One Sweet Day to start out :).
@Jangta, I’m actually stopping in Seoul for about a week around March 21st, so I’m kinda looking forward seeing Korean albums in stores hahaha. Are there any gigs Between Mar21-28? Concert or gigs in Hong-dae?