"Wee Woo" stands not only as one of K-pop's best debut singles, but a lasting reminder of what could have been. With a promising start and an unexpected disbandment after just two years, Pristin's all-too-quick time together will likely go down as one of the decade's biggest K-pop mysteries - especially when one considers how strongly they began with this disco-tinged bubblegum thumper. But the late-2015 single "If You Do" marked a turn towards sentimental R&B for the band that remains a cornerstone of their sound today. Since entering the scene in 2014, GOT7 have proven one of their strongest points as a group is their ability to tackle all kinds of genres and moods.
As the song quietly ends, we finally get the full scope of where their heart’s at: “You’re all I need.” - JOSHUA MINSOO KIM
Through this constantly shifting musical landscape, NU’EST sound like they’re on an arduous journey to reassure their lover. It begins as a sultry ballad à la Ciara’s “Promise,” abruptly shifts gears into a pre-chorus drawn from Ghost Town DJ’s “My Boo” and then fires off a dramatic chorus complete with post-dubstep wobbles. There’s an elegance with which “Overcome” traverses its many musical passages. The 13-member-strong WJSN found their sweet spot early in their careers with their sophomore release "Secret." The sublime synth-pop sound still acts as an anchor for the girl group to soundtrack their intricate dance formations and otherworldly music videos, all kicked off by this dreamy single. If their concept is “flying to the sky like a butterfly,” Yuju’s belted high notes take them there. “Navillera” elevates their discography to another level with squelching synths plucked out of a vintage anime opening. Aside from their wholesome image and impressive choreography, this six-piece shot to the top with a characteristic sound: orchestral pop melded with electric guitar. But GFriend pulled that off by giving their cute-concept-next-door a retro twist. It’s not easy to follow up your biggest hit with your best song.