With Christmas just around the corner, K-pop fans are getting themselves ready for the Christmas classics, the award shows and reminiscing about 2015. But what will 2016 have in store for the fans in Europe?
Well the good news is that we can announce the first K-pop concert of 2016, with the help of our friends over at Kompas Events. Boy band History announced their tour, where they will be making stops in Helsinki, London, Paris and Bucharest. This was also backed up with a video of the members greeting their European fans. It seems that tickets will go on sale after Christmas, so be sure to start saving your money now so you can treat yourself in the new year to a concert that’s definitely going to be worth the wait.
You can check out their latest Japanese debut release “Lost” below, and show some support for Kompas Events and History. Be sure to check back to MCM Buzz for any updates about the tour.
With Christmas just around the corner, K-pop fans are getting themselves ready for the Christmas classics, the award shows and reminiscing about 2015. But what will 2016 have in store for the fans in Europe?
Well the good news is that we can announce the first K-pop concert of 2016, with the help of our friends over at Kompas Events. Boy band History announced their tour, where they will be making stops in Helsinki, London, Paris and Bucharest. This was also backed up with a video of the members greeting their European fans. It seems that tickets will go on sale after Christmas, so be sure to start saving your money now so you can treat yourself in the new year to a concert that’s definitely going to be worth the wait.
You can check out their latest Japanese debut release “Lost” below, and show some support for Kompas Events and History. Be sure to check back to MCM Buzz for any updates about the tour.
As some of my followers will know, last month I taking was a long and well deserved holiday to re-inspire and catch up with some good friends, idols and work. That’s right, I went to South Korea, a dream of mine for about 16 years. Of course I did the usual touristy things and explored Seoul city, but I was also invited to watch and partake in my first ever true Korean K-pop concert, with a little help from Kinetic Vibe and B1A4 (and experienced what could potentially be bought to Europe for B1A4’s European tour).
I was invited to join one of the members of Kinetic Vibe to the September 13th show (the last performance in Seoul) at the Yonsei Culture & Art Center Amphitheater, a venue known to many as a place where a lot of Korean dramas and movies are filmed. It was placed amongst the most picturesque scenery, but upon one of the biggest mountainous climbs I have ever had to trek. Before we arrived I was informed that B1A4 don’t accept fan gifts as a rule, nor do they accept money for charity. Instead they pick a worthy charity and ask fans to donate towards them – in this case fans were asked to bring stationary goods like pens, pencils, notebooks and art supplies. Every fan that bought something for the charity (no matter how little or big) was given a B1A4: Adventure Eco Bag and a certificate to state that they had donated to a good cause (items that were only available if you attended their concert and donated to the charity). Personally, I felt happier knowing a child from a worthy cause was getting some enjoyment from money I would have spent on the members, but not knowing if they would have gotten my gifts.
Image From: kdramaheidi.wordpress.com
Upon arriving at the arena we were greeted by staff members who checked our tickets, gave us our wristbands, and then to my surprise gave me a fan banner which had all the instructions of when to use it on the back in English, Korean, Chinese and Japanese; as well as an inflatable cushion to sit on (because we would be seated on concrete steps). The ticket price came in at just 90’000 won (roughly £45) for a mid tier seat which was dead central – perfect view of the stage and close to the walk ways. Probably not that different to a top tier ticket price in the UK, but then again, the UK are notoriously more expensive than anything going on in South Korea. The ticket organisation was also really well done. Everyone was seated and no one was running to get to their seats. If you arrived early you were placed in the queue in an ordered fashion based on your row and seat number, eliminating the need to queue up at stupid o’clock in the morning to make sure you secured yourself a prime place in the standing pit.
Once seated it was apparent that fans had travelled from all over the world to be there. The staff were really interacting with fans by joking with them in general (and in multiple languages). Compared to European concerts where people sometimes complain about the rudeness and strictness of staff, it seemed like there was a mutual respect and understanding here. The stage was set up with many large screens, big bright lights, and what looked like fire, water, confetti and firework cannons around the vicinity. About 15 minutes before the show a large number of mimes and clowns walked amongst the pathways between the crowds, making people laugh. There was even a battle between eight different sections and clowns to see which section can scream the loudest. The mood was being set for a fun filled “Adventure” concert.
When the large lights dimmed and the screens began to show the B1A4 members, the usual screams and cheering began, but I was in for a very big surprise. I will note here that the whole concert was a no go zone for anything electrical, which meant no cameras, phones, tablets or recording devices. If you were found to have taken photos or videos throughout the concert, you would be asked to leave. It was nice to see that the fans took note of this rule, and it was also really nice to experience the concert without the lights from thousands of mobile phones in front of you.
Although it was hinted that B1A4’s “Adventure” concert was going to be similar to a circus, I was not expecting it to be on such a big scale. There was a live band, a marching band, flag bearers, clowns, dancers, and of course the antics and personalities of the B1A4 members themselves, which created a whole different atmosphere to the usual “shout because your favourite member is on stage” feeling. I found myself relaxing, feeling welcomed within the Korean BANA fandom and actually taking part in all of the fan chants whilst singing and dancing when asked by the members to do so. Ranging from a collection of older most loved songs to a collection of songs from their latest “Sweet Girl” album, there was a lot to sing about. Plus the members truly knew how to utilise and dominate the stage fully. A few key moments during the concert came with a drumming segment where all of the members stood in a line, wearing vests that bared their arms, with nothing but a spotlight on each member. In front of them were some large barrel drums, and in a spine tingling and goosebump inducing performance the members played the drums like true professionals. Hopefully the same feeling and performance will make its way to the stage on their European tour.
There was a very cute segment of the concert where the boys had to go change their clothing for the next song, so in true K-pop concert style a VCR (video) was prepared to play on the big screens. Member Jinyoung (known as the prince of the group) did a voiceover to a small chibi cartoon character of himself, explaining his ideal type of girl. The other members CNU, Baro, Sandeul and Gongchan also joined in the fun and began to explain what they liked in a girl. As each member was explaining, a camera would pan the crowd and then all of a sudden the member would shout “STOP” and the camera would zoom in on a singular fan as they are asked to act cute. In doing so a member of staff would then go to the fan and hand them a special present box and a rose, given by the member who told the camera to stop. This was a new and cute and way to interact with the fans, but also a new take on fanservice that didn’t involve bringing the fan up on stage. Fanservice is pretty huge in Korea, but it is often overlooked as doable within the restrictions of health and safety, and security, for both the artists and the fans. In Korea there appears to be a bond and trust that fans won’t do anything to harm the idols. This was proved when a chair was placed directly in front of myself and Jinyoung proceeded to walk up to the chair as the lights went out. When the lights came back on fans went wild around the whole of the venue as the members had placed themselves in front of fans on the lower, middle and upper tiers, ready to serenade, hold hands, and interact with the surrounding fans. At this point I was completely blown away by the hidden beauty that Jinyoung held. From a more professional point of view, I was more in awe at just how well behaved the fans sitting directly in front of each member were. There was obviously excited shuffling in their seats, laughing, crying and a few very excited little yelps of a scream; but there was no pushing, yelling, grabbing or rudeness. In fact, fans were singing along and genuinely enjoying that small moment they had with the B1A4 members. I also noticed how each member of the group was studying every single one of their fans faces, smiling, giving nods of recognition and giving over an appreciative aura.
As the concert was coming to an end, keeping with the term ‘fanservice’, fans began to shout their chants for an encore, but they probably weren’t ready for what was to come. The members came out with many bottles of water, with staff members behind them carrying even more bottles of water. Whilst singing and jumping around on stage, the members then jumped off the stage and went through the whole of the concert arena. There was a moment where CNU, Baro and Gongchan were just an arm stretch away from where I was sitting as they asked fans to stand up to sing and dance, and began to throw water amongst the fans. By this time I didn’t care that I was getting wet, nor did any of the other fans, especially when Sandeul and Jinyoung began dancing with fans and holding their hands. The end was literally one big party. During the very last moments fans were greeted with a parade of the dancers, bands, and members who all waved and received praise and cheers from BANAs. With one final bow and wave to the fans, the boys bid farewell.
If there was something I learnt from this concert, it’s that BANAs are one of the kindest, heartwarming and genuine fan groups I have had the pleasure of meeting. In terms of concerts, I don’t think I will ever experience something on that scale within Europe (though I understand that Kinetic Vibe are thriving to bring the same essence of a true Korean K-pop concert to European fans). From extensive fanservice, special stages, and the involvement the members and staff had with fans, it was truly a delight to see. Instead of turning fan projects away, organisers worked together with different fan groups and helped to make special fan events happen. The tickets were well priced, the venue was beautiful and the design and organisation of the stage and the way it was used to its fullest was spot on.
Hopefully this has created a little bit of excitement about the B1A4: Adventure Tour in Europe, for it really does seem like Kinetic Vibe want to bring one of the best Korean inspired, immersive concerts to Helsinki, Berlin and Madrid. With a little support from European BANAs and K-pop fans alike, Kinetic Vibe can create the concert YOU want. Tickets for the B1A4: Adventure Tour in Europe are now on sale and available at the Kinetic Vibe website, and should you have any questions about the upcoming concerts then head on over to the Kinetic Vibe Facebook and Twitter pages. In the meantime be sure to keep checking back to MCM Buzz for more updates on the B1A4 European Tour as well as your update on K-pop around the world. Show your support of B1A4 by watching their latest music video for “Sweet Girl” below!
As some of my followers will know, last month I taking was a long and well deserved holiday to re-inspire and catch up with some good friends, idols and work. That’s right, I went to South Korea, a dream of mine for about 16 years. Of course I did the usual touristy things and explored Seoul city, but I was also invited to watch and partake in my first ever true Korean K-pop concert, with a little help from Kinetic Vibe and B1A4 (and experienced what could potentially be bought to Europe for B1A4’s European tour).
I was invited to join one of the members of Kinetic Vibe to the September 13th show (the last performance in Seoul) at the Yonsei Culture & Art Center Amphitheater, a venue known to many as a place where a lot of Korean dramas and movies are filmed. It was placed amongst the most picturesque scenery, but upon one of the biggest mountainous climbs I have ever had to trek. Before we arrived I was informed that B1A4 don’t accept fan gifts as a rule, nor do they accept money for charity. Instead they pick a worthy charity and ask fans to donate towards them – in this case fans were asked to bring stationary goods like pens, pencils, notebooks and art supplies. Every fan that bought something for the charity (no matter how little or big) was given a B1A4: Adventure Eco Bag and a certificate to state that they had donated to a good cause (items that were only available if you attended their concert and donated to the charity). Personally, I felt happier knowing a child from a worthy cause was getting some enjoyment from money I would have spent on the members, but not knowing if they would have gotten my gifts.
Image From: kdramaheidi.wordpress.com
Upon arriving at the arena we were greeted by staff members who checked our tickets, gave us our wristbands, and then to my surprise gave me a fan banner which had all the instructions of when to use it on the back in English, Korean, Chinese and Japanese; as well as an inflatable cushion to sit on (because we would be seated on concrete steps). The ticket price came in at just 90’000 won (roughly £45) for a mid tier seat which was dead central – perfect view of the stage and close to the walk ways. Probably not that different to a top tier ticket price in the UK, but then again, the UK are notoriously more expensive than anything going on in South Korea. The ticket organisation was also really well done. Everyone was seated and no one was running to get to their seats. If you arrived early you were placed in the queue in an ordered fashion based on your row and seat number, eliminating the need to queue up at stupid o’clock in the morning to make sure you secured yourself a prime place in the standing pit.
Once seated it was apparent that fans had travelled from all over the world to be there. The staff were really interacting with fans by joking with them in general (and in multiple languages). Compared to European concerts where people sometimes complain about the rudeness and strictness of staff, it seemed like there was a mutual respect and understanding here. The stage was set up with many large screens, big bright lights, and what looked like fire, water, confetti and firework cannons around the vicinity. About 15 minutes before the show a large number of mimes and clowns walked amongst the pathways between the crowds, making people laugh. There was even a battle between eight different sections and clowns to see which section can scream the loudest. The mood was being set for a fun filled “Adventure” concert.
When the large lights dimmed and the screens began to show the B1A4 members, the usual screams and cheering began, but I was in for a very big surprise. I will note here that the whole concert was a no go zone for anything electrical, which meant no cameras, phones, tablets or recording devices. If you were found to have taken photos or videos throughout the concert, you would be asked to leave. It was nice to see that the fans took note of this rule, and it was also really nice to experience the concert without the lights from thousands of mobile phones in front of you.
Although it was hinted that B1A4’s “Adventure” concert was going to be similar to a circus, I was not expecting it to be on such a big scale. There was a live band, a marching band, flag bearers, clowns, dancers, and of course the antics and personalities of the B1A4 members themselves, which created a whole different atmosphere to the usual “shout because your favourite member is on stage” feeling. I found myself relaxing, feeling welcomed within the Korean BANA fandom and actually taking part in all of the fan chants whilst singing and dancing when asked by the members to do so. Ranging from a collection of older most loved songs to a collection of songs from their latest “Sweet Girl” album, there was a lot to sing about. Plus the members truly knew how to utilise and dominate the stage fully. A few key moments during the concert came with a drumming segment where all of the members stood in a line, wearing vests that bared their arms, with nothing but a spotlight on each member. In front of them were some large barrel drums, and in a spine tingling and goosebump inducing performance the members played the drums like true professionals. Hopefully the same feeling and performance will make its way to the stage on their European tour.
There was a very cute segment of the concert where the boys had to go change their clothing for the next song, so in true K-pop concert style a VCR (video) was prepared to play on the big screens. Member Jinyoung (known as the prince of the group) did a voiceover to a small chibi cartoon character of himself, explaining his ideal type of girl. The other members CNU, Baro, Sandeul and Gongchan also joined in the fun and began to explain what they liked in a girl. As each member was explaining, a camera would pan the crowd and then all of a sudden the member would shout “STOP” and the camera would zoom in on a singular fan as they are asked to act cute. In doing so a member of staff would then go to the fan and hand them a special present box and a rose, given by the member who told the camera to stop. This was a new and cute and way to interact with the fans, but also a new take on fanservice that didn’t involve bringing the fan up on stage. Fanservice is pretty huge in Korea, but it is often overlooked as doable within the restrictions of health and safety, and security, for both the artists and the fans. In Korea there appears to be a bond and trust that fans won’t do anything to harm the idols. This was proved when a chair was placed directly in front of myself and Jinyoung proceeded to walk up to the chair as the lights went out. When the lights came back on fans went wild around the whole of the venue as the members had placed themselves in front of fans on the lower, middle and upper tiers, ready to serenade, hold hands, and interact with the surrounding fans. At this point I was completely blown away by the hidden beauty that Jinyoung held. From a more professional point of view, I was more in awe at just how well behaved the fans sitting directly in front of each member were. There was obviously excited shuffling in their seats, laughing, crying and a few very excited little yelps of a scream; but there was no pushing, yelling, grabbing or rudeness. In fact, fans were singing along and genuinely enjoying that small moment they had with the B1A4 members. I also noticed how each member of the group was studying every single one of their fans faces, smiling, giving nods of recognition and giving over an appreciative aura.
As the concert was coming to an end, keeping with the term ‘fanservice’, fans began to shout their chants for an encore, but they probably weren’t ready for what was to come. The members came out with many bottles of water, with staff members behind them carrying even more bottles of water. Whilst singing and jumping around on stage, the members then jumped off the stage and went through the whole of the concert arena. There was a moment where CNU, Baro and Gongchan were just an arm stretch away from where I was sitting as they asked fans to stand up to sing and dance, and began to throw water amongst the fans. By this time I didn’t care that I was getting wet, nor did any of the other fans, especially when Sandeul and Jinyoung began dancing with fans and holding their hands. The end was literally one big party. During the very last moments fans were greeted with a parade of the dancers, bands, and members who all waved and received praise and cheers from BANAs. With one final bow and wave to the fans, the boys bid farewell.
If there was something I learnt from this concert, it’s that BANAs are one of the kindest, heartwarming and genuine fan groups I have had the pleasure of meeting. In terms of concerts, I don’t think I will ever experience something on that scale within Europe (though I understand that Kinetic Vibe are thriving to bring the same essence of a true Korean K-pop concert to European fans). From extensive fanservice, special stages, and the involvement the members and staff had with fans, it was truly a delight to see. Instead of turning fan projects away, organisers worked together with different fan groups and helped to make special fan events happen. The tickets were well priced, the venue was beautiful and the design and organisation of the stage and the way it was used to its fullest was spot on.
Hopefully this has created a little bit of excitement about the B1A4: Adventure Tour in Europe, for it really does seem like Kinetic Vibe want to bring one of the best Korean inspired, immersive concerts to Helsinki, Berlin and Madrid. With a little support from European BANAs and K-pop fans alike, Kinetic Vibe can create the concert YOU want. Tickets for the B1A4: Adventure Tour in Europe are now on sale and available at the Kinetic Vibe website, and should you have any questions about the upcoming concerts then head on over to the Kinetic Vibe Facebook and Twitter pages. In the meantime be sure to keep checking back to MCM Buzz for more updates on the B1A4 European Tour as well as your update on K-pop around the world. Show your support of B1A4 by watching their latest music video for “Sweet Girl” below!
Firstly, sorry for delivering the news a little late, and missing all the fun. Our very good friends over at Kinetic Vibe recently announced that they would be bringing the K-pop boy group B1A4 to Europe.
Although Kinetic Vibe had already secured Helsinki and Madrid for stops on the European tour, a third destination was yet to be decided. To keep things fun and to include fans worldwide, they gave Banas (that’s what B1A4’s fans are called) the chance to pick between Berlin and Milan as the third and final destination. Fan voted passionately as they took part in one huge SNS event, and the overall winner was Berlin.
Previously Kinetic Vibe had hinted that something big was coming to Europe with quirky daily updates leading up to the big unveiling, including a set of Emoji posters that represented each member of the group, or their “Goodnight, Sweet Dreams” poster which tied in with B1A4’s song “Goodnight”.
Although some of the UK fans will be disappointed that B1A4 will not be playing in London this time round, do not fret: B1A4 will come back and visit more European countries in the future, especially if this tour goes well. Having been to their recent concert in Seoul and seen them on previous concerts, tours and events organised by the Kinetic vibe team, I can vouch that these performances are going to be events no B1A4 fan will want to miss out on.
Madrid, Spain
Date: Sunday, 13 December 2015
Place: Palacio Vistalegre (Sala San Miguel)
Time: 7:00pm
Tickets: www.Kineticvibe.net
Keep your eyes open for my upcoming review of B1A4’s “Adventure 2015” open air concert in Seoul, South Korea, as well as updates on any special events, and news about B1A4’s upcoming European tour. In the meantime, be sure to pop along to Kinetic Vibe’s new website, Facebookand Twitter and show them some support, and be sure to watch the video below of B1A4’s latest song “Sweet Girl”.
With TOPP DOGG‘s London concert upon us MCM Buzz sent out a small team to report on the event, get some photos and even hold an exclusive interview with the 12 members P-goon, Kidoh, Gohn, Sangdo, B-joo, Hansol, Xero, Yano, Nakta, Jenissi, A-tom and Hojoon.
Arriving at The Troxy, there was already a large queue outside, predominantly teenage girls going crazy with excitement: singing, dancing and having a general good time. We were called into the venue early to prepare for our interview, and while we waited we scoped out the venue itself. We were surprised that the event was completely seated as the The Troxy is a medium-sized venue: this is definitely an event more akin to those you see for K-pop groups in Japan or for the smaller fan meetings in Korea. There was a lower floor, upper floor and upper tier but despite the seats, the fans stood throughout, singing and dancing to the music.
Interview completed, we waited for the show to begin, watching fans running to their chairs and talking to complete strangers who obviously shared the same interests. There was a nice sense of community and we can guarantee that some new friendships were made that night. As soon as the lights dimmed the hall was filled with high-pitched screams whilst a video began to play showing the handsome TOPP DOGG members touring other countries. As soon as the video finished the band members appeared on the stage to even louder screams and began to perform their first set of songs: “Open The Door” and “Follow Me“. At this point the crowd were beside themselves singing along and showing pure dedication to the group of men up on the stage.
There was a nice moment when the members introduced themselves individually and filled the hall with laughter and screams once again; their witty jokes and cuteness winning over the crowd. They decided to calm the hyperactive crowd by performing some of their chilled music – “Keep Smiling” and “Cigarette” – which had the desired effect and left fans calm and doe-eyed. This was followed by another video break where the boys were playing a game to choose teams for another game that would happen later on during the concert.
It was then time for the specialist sub-groups to show off a little bit. The rappers Jenissi, A-tom, Kidoh and Yano performed “Pretty Mo’F#cka” to the crowd’s delight, whereas the dancers of the group performed their own little piece and were joined with the rest of the members when they began to dance to Mark Ronson FtBruno Mars’s “Uptown Funk“. Something fans were happy to see was when the members performed their own rendition of Ellie Goulding‘s “Love Me Like You Do” which the group had teased fans with as a music video before their tour.
Having whipped the crowd into a frenzy, it was time for some games with some lucky members of the audience. Before the concert began, specialised wrist bands were given out, each with its own unique number. After calling out random numbers TOPP DOGG participated in a “Chinese Whispers”-style game but it came with a twist: instead of whispering they had to use their bodies and dance out their subject. The event caused lots of laughter and was really amusing and funny to watch. The lucky chosen fans and winners of the game were given some merchandise (bandana and signed poster) and were allowed to get a group picture with TOPP DOGG.
After the members leave the stage to change outfits and have a very well-earned rest, another video began to play and the crowd finally found out what that earlier game to decide groups was about. The teams had to enter a haunted house to retreieve an item from the heart of the building; this alone caused mass laughter once again.
When TOPP DOGG return to the stage once again they perform two more songs, one of which was “Top Dog“, a firm favourite of MCM Buzz’s. At this point the members line up and explain to the audience what they like about being in London and performing for their fans; some of their words were really heartfelt, and some were funny. It really did feel that they had a blast coming to London and performing for their UK fans. The last song before they leave the stage was “Arario” of which fans sang along to.
The sea of fans begin to chant “Encore” into the darkness of the hall, and on cue the members come out to perform two last encore songs. When they finished their songs they said their last goodbyes and genuinely look like they don’t want to leave the stage. Both fans and group members look exhausted but completely full of adrenaline and admiration, but everyone knows the show must end at some point. The lights go down, the members leave the stage, and the lights came back on to an empty space.The fans, though, were more reluctant to leave.
Attending the show was a little daunting for the team as a few of them had never been to a K-pop concert before, nor had they heard too much about TOPP DOGG beforehand. Although they had heard their music and seen their music videos they didn’t really know much more about the group than that. TOPP DOGG, though, won them over completely and left a great lasting impact on them.
MCM Buzz would like to thank TOPP DOGG and Stardom Entertainment for their invitation to attend the concert and to interview the members. We look forward to what TOPP DOGG have up their sleeves for the near future and to reporting on their growth as a must-follow K-pop group. Be sure to check out our TOPP DOGG In London photo album on the MCM Buzz Facebookpage for more photos from the concert and from our exclusive interview with the members which you can read here!
Photographer: Sarah Tsang Writers: Kay Ibrahim & Kpopkimi
With TOPP DOGG‘s London concert upon us MCM Buzz sent out a small team to report on the event, get some photos and even hold an exclusive interview with the 12 members P-goon, Kidoh, Gohn, Sangdo, B-joo, Hansol, Xero, Yano, Nakta, Jenissi, A-tom and Hojoon.
Arriving at The Troxy, there was already a large queue outside, predominantly teenage girls going crazy with excitement: singing, dancing and having a general good time. We were called into the venue early to prepare for our interview, and while we waited we scoped out the venue itself. We were surprised that the event was completely seated as the The Troxy is a medium-sized venue: this is definitely an event more akin to those you see for K-pop groups in Japan or for the smaller fan meetings in Korea. There was a lower floor, upper floor and upper tier but despite the seats, the fans stood throughout, singing and dancing to the music.
Interview completed, we waited for the show to begin, watching fans running to their chairs and talking to complete strangers who obviously shared the same interests. There was a nice sense of community and we can guarantee that some new friendships were made that night. As soon as the lights dimmed the hall was filled with high-pitched screams whilst a video began to play showing the handsome TOPP DOGG members touring other countries. As soon as the video finished the band members appeared on the stage to even louder screams and began to perform their first set of songs: “Open The Door” and “Follow Me“. At this point the crowd were beside themselves singing along and showing pure dedication to the group of men up on the stage.
There was a nice moment when the members introduced themselves individually and filled the hall with laughter and screams once again; their witty jokes and cuteness winning over the crowd. They decided to calm the hyperactive crowd by performing some of their chilled music – “Keep Smiling” and “Cigarette” – which had the desired effect and left fans calm and doe-eyed. This was followed by another video break where the boys were playing a game to choose teams for another game that would happen later on during the concert.
It was then time for the specialist sub-groups to show off a little bit. The rappers Jenissi, A-tom, Kidoh and Yano performed “Pretty Mo’F#cka” to the crowd’s delight, whereas the dancers of the group performed their own little piece and were joined with the rest of the members when they began to dance to Mark Ronson FtBruno Mars’s “Uptown Funk“. Something fans were happy to see was when the members performed their own rendition of Ellie Goulding‘s “Love Me Like You Do” which the group had teased fans with as a music video before their tour.
Having whipped the crowd into a frenzy, it was time for some games with some lucky members of the audience. Before the concert began, specialised wrist bands were given out, each with its own unique number. After calling out random numbers TOPP DOGG participated in a “Chinese Whispers”-style game but it came with a twist: instead of whispering they had to use their bodies and dance out their subject. The event caused lots of laughter and was really amusing and funny to watch. The lucky chosen fans and winners of the game were given some merchandise (bandana and signed poster) and were allowed to get a group picture with TOPP DOGG.
After the members leave the stage to change outfits and have a very well-earned rest, another video began to play and the crowd finally found out what that earlier game to decide groups was about. The teams had to enter a haunted house to retreieve an item from the heart of the building; this alone caused mass laughter once again.
When TOPP DOGG return to the stage once again they perform two more songs, one of which was “Top Dog“, a firm favourite of MCM Buzz’s. At this point the members line up and explain to the audience what they like about being in London and performing for their fans; some of their words were really heartfelt, and some were funny. It really did feel that they had a blast coming to London and performing for their UK fans. The last song before they leave the stage was “Arario” of which fans sang along to.
The sea of fans begin to chant “Encore” into the darkness of the hall, and on cue the members come out to perform two last encore songs. When they finished their songs they said their last goodbyes and genuinely look like they don’t want to leave the stage. Both fans and group members look exhausted but completely full of adrenaline and admiration, but everyone knows the show must end at some point. The lights go down, the members leave the stage, and the lights came back on to an empty space.The fans, though, were more reluctant to leave.
Attending the show was a little daunting for the team as a few of them had never been to a K-pop concert before, nor had they heard too much about TOPP DOGG beforehand. Although they had heard their music and seen their music videos they didn’t really know much more about the group than that. TOPP DOGG, though, won them over completely and left a great lasting impact on them.
MCM Buzz would like to thank TOPP DOGG and Stardom Entertainment for their invitation to attend the concert and to interview the members. We look forward to what TOPP DOGG have up their sleeves for the near future and to reporting on their growth as a must-follow K-pop group. Be sure to check out our TOPP DOGG In London photo album on the MCM Buzz Facebookpage for more photos from the concert and from our exclusive interview with the members which you can read here!
Photographer: Sarah Tsang Writers: Kay Ibrahim & Kpopkimi
Fans of the Korean rock scene will know of Galaxy Expressfor their high octane, runaway bullet train escapades. A scintillating tour de force trio, Park Jonghyun, Lee Juhyun and Kim Heekwon wildly whiplash audiences with a centrifugal forging of raw, sweaty, psychedelic rock’n’roll. Their new album “Walking on Empty” was released on 6 August and pays homage to their past as well as paving a new future of strength with their growth into new adventures.
The band had toured the UK back in 2013 – just as the hype for the Korean indie scene began to make a stir, and with a mix of explosive performances accompanied by their garage rock, punk, and psychedelic sounds, the trio have wowed audiences all over the world by holding gigs in Canada, the US, Taiwan, France, China, Japan and Russia. MTV Iggy wrote about the band, describing how, “With their amped energy and stage exhibitionism, they’re the best live act to come out of Korea since… well, maybe ever.” The group’s unique sound, which is pretty far from mainstream, means they stand out from the crowd, and for all the right reasons.
On 1 April 2010, the members announced that they planned to write, record and release an album within just 30 days: this was rightly titled “Wild Days”. True to their word, a month later the album was released and went on to win the band “Musician of the Year” at the 2011 Korean Music Awards. The trio went on to perform at a multitude of stages at some big events, such as South by Southwest (SXSW), Japan’s Summer Sonic Festival and they were even the opening act for Linkin Park when they toured South Korea.
Skipping forward to 2014, their new album “Walking On Empty” was recorded over a year, with the music being recorded in May 2014 and the vocals recorded in April 2015. Recorded and mixed by Adrian Hall, known for his work with Black Eyed Peas, Depeche Mode and Ray Davies, it was mastered at the famed Abbey Road Studios by Miles Showell, who has worked with legends such as Eric Clapton, Pete Townshend and Underworld.
Of the new album, guitarist and vocalist Park Jonghyun says, “We took a lot more time making this album than we have with our past albums. I think having no set deadline to meet gave us more time to think about what exactly we wanted to do and allowed us to create an album that is a lot calmer and more detail-oriented than our previous offerings. With ‘Walking on Empty’ all ten of the tracks have their own unique feel and character. We’re really happy with how the album turned out and we think it’s really good… but then we think all of our albums are really good.”
When asked about why he chose to work with Adrian Hall and Miles Showell, Jonghyun happily replies, “We wanted to try something different that we’d never done before. We’ve made some rough recordings in the past but this time we thought it would be cool to try and make a more polished, professional-sounding album. And we have wanted the chance to work with renowned engineers for several years now, so it seemed like a good time to finally do it with this album. When we started Galaxy Express, we never imagined that we’d one day have an album that was associated with Abbey Road in any way!”
If you are in Korea between 2-4 October, the Zandari Festawill be taking place and is a chance to see Galaxy Express as well as a whole plethora of acts from around the world performing along the streets and inside the famous indie clubs of Hongdae.
Galaxy Express are also interested in returning to Europe. Says Jonghyun, “We are hoping to play abroad again soon. It’s always a blast getting to travel and share our music with different people around the world. Hopefully we can visit some more new places and get back to some of the great countries we’ve played already again in the future.” So keep your eyes peeled.
Be sure to keep checking back to MCM Buzz for more coverage of the band, as well as other great music from all areas of the Korean music industry. If you have the chance, be sure to check out Galaxy Express on iTunesand show your support for the band’s latest album “Walking on Empty”. In the meantime prepare to tap your feet and nod along to their latest music video release “Time Keeps Rollin’ By”.
Fans of the Korean rock scene will know of Galaxy Expressfor their high octane, runaway bullet train escapades. A scintillating tour de force trio, Park Jonghyun, Lee Juhyun and Kim Heekwon wildly whiplash audiences with a centrifugal forging of raw, sweaty, psychedelic rock’n’roll. Their new album “Walking on Empty” was released on 6 August and pays homage to their past as well as paving a new future of strength with their growth into new adventures.
The band had toured the UK back in 2013 – just as the hype for the Korean indie scene began to make a stir, and with a mix of explosive performances accompanied by their garage rock, punk, and psychedelic sounds, the trio have wowed audiences all over the world by holding gigs in Canada, the US, Taiwan, France, China, Japan and Russia. MTV Iggy wrote about the band, describing how, “With their amped energy and stage exhibitionism, they’re the best live act to come out of Korea since… well, maybe ever.” The group’s unique sound, which is pretty far from mainstream, means they stand out from the crowd, and for all the right reasons.
On 1 April 2010, the members announced that they planned to write, record and release an album within just 30 days: this was rightly titled “Wild Days”. True to their word, a month later the album was released and went on to win the band “Musician of the Year” at the 2011 Korean Music Awards. The trio went on to perform at a multitude of stages at some big events, such as South by Southwest (SXSW), Japan’s Summer Sonic Festival and they were even the opening act for Linkin Park when they toured South Korea.
Skipping forward to 2014, their new album “Walking On Empty” was recorded over a year, with the music being recorded in May 2014 and the vocals recorded in April 2015. Recorded and mixed by Adrian Hall, known for his work with Black Eyed Peas, Depeche Mode and Ray Davies, it was mastered at the famed Abbey Road Studios by Miles Showell, who has worked with legends such as Eric Clapton, Pete Townshend and Underworld.
Of the new album, guitarist and vocalist Park Jonghyun says, “We took a lot more time making this album than we have with our past albums. I think having no set deadline to meet gave us more time to think about what exactly we wanted to do and allowed us to create an album that is a lot calmer and more detail-oriented than our previous offerings. With ‘Walking on Empty’ all ten of the tracks have their own unique feel and character. We’re really happy with how the album turned out and we think it’s really good… but then we think all of our albums are really good.”
When asked about why he chose to work with Adrian Hall and Miles Showell, Jonghyun happily replies, “We wanted to try something different that we’d never done before. We’ve made some rough recordings in the past but this time we thought it would be cool to try and make a more polished, professional-sounding album. And we have wanted the chance to work with renowned engineers for several years now, so it seemed like a good time to finally do it with this album. When we started Galaxy Express, we never imagined that we’d one day have an album that was associated with Abbey Road in any way!”
If you are in Korea between 2-4 October, the Zandari Festawill be taking place and is a chance to see Galaxy Express as well as a whole plethora of acts from around the world performing along the streets and inside the famous indie clubs of Hongdae.
Galaxy Express are also interested in returning to Europe. Says Jonghyun, “We are hoping to play abroad again soon. It’s always a blast getting to travel and share our music with different people around the world. Hopefully we can visit some more new places and get back to some of the great countries we’ve played already again in the future.” So keep your eyes peeled.
Be sure to keep checking back to MCM Buzz for more coverage of the band, as well as other great music from all areas of the Korean music industry. If you have the chance, be sure to check out Galaxy Express on iTunesand show your support for the band’s latest album “Walking on Empty”. In the meantime prepare to tap your feet and nod along to their latest music video release “Time Keeps Rollin’ By”.
