Category: TCC First Listen


  • BAND-MAID Fires Up a Volcanic Eruption

    Hard Rock Intensity on Single ‘ENERGETIC’ The queens of hard rock are back to erupt the foundations of the music scene. BAND-MAID’s volcanic new three-track single, ENERGETIC, which was released on 24 June 2026, demonstrates the scorching power surge for the internationally acclaimed Japanese rock act. Signed by Pony Canyon, the powerhouse ensemble composing of…

  • Maximalist Fury on ‘METAL FORTH (Deluxe)’ The undisputed queens of kawaii metal are back once again to push the boundaries of heavy music to even further plains. METAL FORTH (Deluxe) was released 26 June 2026 and it is a 15-track deluxe version of METAL FORTH, which was released 8 August 2025. This is more of…

  • Stray Kids Hit Full Speed with ‘RUN IT’

    The kings of fourth-generation K-pop are back, and they’re out to remind the world exactly why they’ve earned that title. With just a few days’ notice, Stray Kids surprised fans by dropping pre-release single “Run It”, giving STAYs a taste of what’s to come ahead of their upcoming mini album and highly anticipated world tour.…

  •  II – The 2nd Mini Album: Instinct and Grit

    RIIZE expand their Emotional-Pop Universe on ‘II’ RIIZE is back and they are officially refusing to play it safe. The group’s highly anticipated EP, II – The 2nd Mini Album, was released on 15 June 2026 and opens an exciting new evolution chapter for the six-member act. Managed under SM Entertainment and RCA Records, members…

  • Kire “War” Review: A Brooding, Emotional Battle of Identity and Control

    With “War,” Kire steps into a darker, more emotionally charged space, delivering a track that feels less like a song and more like an internal conflict unfolding in real time. It’s not just about battle in the literal sense; it’s about tension, identity, and the quiet violence of trying to hold yourself together. Sonically, “War”…

  • Running for the Last Tube: VAIWATT & S.Lang’s Latest Ride

    Last Tube To London sees VAIWATT and S.Lang attempt to bottle the excitement of a city that never truly sleeps. Built around energetic guitars and a straightforward punk n’ roll foundation, the track offers plenty of momentum, but doesn’t always leave a lasting impression. The song’s biggest strength lies in its energy. From the outset,…

  • TREASURE NEW WAV Album Review: A Bold Shift Into Hip-Hop Energy

    With NEW WAV, Treasure step confidently into a sharper, more hip-hop driven era that feels like both a reset and a statement. Moving away from the brighter pop tones of their earlier releases, this fourth mini album leans into attitude and rhythm. The project opens with “IF I”, a bold title track built on minimal…

  • Chrich’s “PASS IT ON” Is a Hidden Gem That Demands Your Attention

    Some songs feel like they’re trying to grab your attention immediately. “PASS IT ON” does the opposite. Chrich takes a more understated approach, letting the track build naturally through its atmosphere and emotion rather than relying on flashy production choices. From the opening moments, there’s a sense of confidence in the song’s simplicity. The instrumental…

  • I, God: Becoming Divine

    XLOV I, God Concept Photo II (Source: Reddit)

  • AND2BLE “Sequence 01: Curiosity” Review : A Promising K-pop Debut Full of Potential

    As the K-pop industry continues to welcome new generations of artists, rookie group AND2BLE make their first impression with Sequence 01 : Curiosity, a debut EP that showcases youthful energy, polished production, and a clear artistic direction. Released as the group’s first official project, Sequence 01 : curiosity introduces listeners to AND2BLE’s musical Identity through…