P&P Spotlight: oceanfromtheblue

South Korea has so much more to offer than the K-pop groups that have achieved worldwide mainstream success. Don't get us wrong, we love a high-energy anthem from BLACKPINK, BTS, or TOMORROW X TOGETHER, often accompanied by impressive dance choreography. However, the steadier Korean R&B songs - like those of today's feature, oceanfromtheblue, deserve just as much recognition if not more.

Image courtesy of Warner Music Korea, graphic created by Karly Ramnani

YOU'LL LOVE oceanfromtheblue IF YOU LISTEN TO: Frank Ocean, Stray Kids, Mac Miller, Wallows, CLC

Incorporating neo-soul, hip-hop, and synth influences into his music, oceanfromtheblue's mesmerizing and heartfelt delivery in every track will leave you with chills. In contrast to the heavily controlling, calculated tendencies of K-pop entertainment agencies, oceanfromtheblue opts for a more authentic approach. For instance, his recent self-titled album came to life with an intimate group of ten producers, collaborating with the artist in song camp style. Each track on oceanfromtheblue is still impactful standing alone, but together they naturally form a personal story.

The entire record is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, but a few moments just stood out to us while listening. Sultry conversational elements against a bold electric guitar riff added an edge to "Open Your Mind." That unique move yielded a sensation that we've never heard anything like before - not to mention the breathtaking key change towards the end of the song! Smooth, effortless vocals complement soothing piano and strings in the opening track, "Breath." For fans of CLC, the relatively more upbeat "Come Back Home" features the girl group's former member Yeeun.

oceanfromtheblue is an innovative, driven artist whose discography truly contains something for everyone. If you're a fan of K-pop, R&B, hip-hop, or alternative music, we'd highly recommend giving him a listen. Here's a playlist we've curated to help you get started!