A sonic kaleidoscope of genre fusion and experimental sampling, these five LOONA B-Sides will start you off on your journey through the LOONAVERSE. With a whole library’s worth of solo, subunit, and full group tracks under their belt, LOONA has something for everyone!
“LOONATIC”
Upon first listen, “LOONATIC,” by LOONA’s second subunit ODD EYE CIRCLE (made up of members Choerry, Kim Lip, and Jinsoul), might sound like an unfinished track. Decorated with dream pop production sensibilities rarely heard in KPOP, “LOONATIC” is a testament to LOONA’s playful creativity and command over the many different genres they have explored over the years. Mirroring lyrics like, “The milky way that wraps itself around me/ A song of transparent moonlight,” the members’ voices are enveloped in an intoxicatingly repetitive instrumental. Their words are buried deep in the mix, almost like they’re communicating with the listener from another galaxy.
“Rosy”
“Rosy” tells the story of two girls who find themselves in a cat and mouse game due to the complexities of their romantic feelings toward each other. The track is filled with conflicting themes, creating dissonance through reflective, melancholy lyrics overlaying a bright, staccato piano motif. “Rosy,” like many of LOONA’s tracks, teeters between playful mischief and moody mystique. This is strengthened by the cheerful, yet apathetic vocal performances from members Hyeju (formerly known as Olivia Hye) and Gowon, as well as a featured rap by member Heejin. The vocal work on “Rosy” demonstrates the magic of LOONA’s unorthodox debut project, where different member combinations make for a refreshing dynamic within every track.
“WOW”
It is the dream of many idol groups to become a symbol of hope, motivation, and encouragement for their fans. Through self-assured and introspective messaging found in both their solo and full group releases, LOONA have achieved just that, and “WOW” is no exception. Explosive and upbeat, “WOW” provides the perfect boost of energy for those days where a morning cup of coffee is not enough. With lyrics like, “So girl/ Start right now/ Oh yeah girl/ The moon’s rising now,” this track is a celebration of women all around the world, encouraging them to be confident and strong without reservation. “WOW” is one of many LOONA B-Sides that highlight the members’ vocal prowess and musical sensibilities. Check it out on their fourth mini-album, ‘&‘!
“frozen”
“Frozen,” the third track off of LOONA/yyxy’s mini album, ‘beauty&thebeat‘, unfolds like a storybook. With its twinkling bright synths and a soundscape so open that it evokes the mental image of running through a field of wildflowers, “frozen” demonstrates LOONA’s ability to tackle every genre. The track comes to a climax with Gowon’s iconic spoken word performance over a sustained high note by fellow LOONA/yyxy member, Chuu. With her addictive vocal tone (which fans describe as “crunchy”), Gowon narrates, “You’re like the sun/ The new season I finally met/ I’m scared to break down, so melt me.” The track would make a perfect addition to either a movie soundtrack or your morning commute!
“Curiosity”
Which LOONA B-Sides got you into the LOONAVERSE? Let us know on our Instagram and Twitter!
Want to give the members of LOONA some love? Follow ARTMS on Instagram and Twitter here, Loossemble on Instagram and Twitter here, follow Chuu on Instagram and Twitter here, and follow Yves on Instagram here!
