This month was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by long-awaited returns, debuts, and a touching tribute.
April brought a diverse array of new K-Pop releases, featuring both group and solo debuts alongside the long-awaited returns of groups emerging from hiatus due to mandatory military service. The month showcased the genre's versatility, with emerging talents making their mark with infectious melodies and captivating choreography while established artists enchanted audiences with their ethereal vocals and magnetic stage presence. Additionally, the comeback of veteran groups stirred nostalgia among fans, reaffirming the enduring bond between artists and their dedicated supporters. Amidst these exciting debuts and triumphant returns, April also saw a touching tribute to a fallen beloved idol, celebrating the profound connection he continues to have with his devoted fanbase.
Here are my top 10 favorite new releases for April 2024. If you don’t have time to read them all, scroll to the end to see my top 3 recommendations.
TXT - Deja Vu
TOMORROW X TOGETHER mesmerized fans with their sixth mini-album, "minisode 3: Tomorrow," dropping the captivating title track "Deja Vu" on April 1st.
NOWADAYS - OoWee
NOWADAYS, CUBE Entertainment's fresh boy group, marked their debut on April 2nd, igniting excitement with the dynamic title track "OoWee."
I.M (MONSTA X) - LURE
MONSTA X's I.M captivated listeners with his sultry return, unveiling the enticing third mini-album "Off the Beat" featuring the alluring title track "LURE."
ONF - BYE MY MONSTER
ONF made a triumphant comeback on April 8th, enchanting fans with their 9th mini-album, "Beautiful Shadow," showcasing their signature style.
NCHIVE - RACER
NCHIVE entered the K-Pop industry on April 9th, making waves with their debut single album and the adrenaline-pumping title track, "RACER."
DKZ - Like a Movie
DKZ stunned audiences with their second Mini Album, "REBOOT," dropping the mesmerizing title track "Like A Movie" on April 12th.
ONEWE - Beautiful Ashes
ONEWE delighted fans on April 17th, returning with their fifth mini-album, "Planet Nine: Isotropy," following the eagerly awaited return of members Yonghoon and Kanghyun from military service.
DOYOUNG (NCT) - Little Light
NCT's DOYOUNG embarked on his solo journey on April 22nd, captivating listeners with his debut mini-album "YOUTH" and the heartfelt title track, "Little Light."
YUQI (G)I-DLE - FREAK
(G)I-DLE's YUQI made a stunning Korean solo debut on April 23rd, mesmerizing with the highly cinematic and cool title track, "FREAK."
SEVENTEEN - MAESTRO
SEVENTEEN made a grand entrance on April 29th with the compilation album "17 Is Right Here," shaking up the scene with the edgy title track "MAESTRO."
Bonus: JINJIN (ASTRO) - Fly (Duet with. MOONBIN)
On April 19th, JINJIN of ASTRO honored MOONBIN's memory with the release of "FLY," a touching duet recorded before his passing, serving as a heartfelt tribute on the first anniversary of his departure.
Be sure you listen to NCHIVE's “Racer,” SEVENTEEN's “MAESTRO,” and DKZ's “Like A Movie.”
I hope to “see” you next month for my May roundup of favorites.