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wave to earth is a Korean-based alternative/rock band consisting of three members: Shin Donggyu (drummer), Daniel Kim (vocalist and guitarist), and Soonjong Cha (bassist). While some of the band’s songs are performed in Korean, most of them are in English. In late 2019, Shin Donggyu and Daniel Kim started creating music and were joined by bassist Soonjong Cha in early 2020, leading to the release of their EP, wave 0.01. Since then, they have become well-known for their popular tracks such as “seasons” and “light.”

Their latest album, flaws and all, showcases the band’s sonic excellence with its chilling and breathtaking instrumentals. Fans have eagerly anticipated the album’s release after the band dropped singles leading up to it starting in 2021.

The album features fourteen tracks that chronicle the band’s soft, indie-rock feel with hopeful and lovestruck lyrics. wave to earth manages to evoke a warm and sunny feeling, reminiscent of shades of orange that can best be compared to receiving a comforting embrace. The harmonization of vocals mixed with smooth instrumentals makes the album such an easy listen. Their ability to maintain a soulful tone while mixing energy throughout the album was really impressive. Overall, this album will definitely become a staple in my collection. If you are looking to expand your music taste, especially to a global group, wave to earth and flaws and all is a good place to start.

Let’s take a breakdown of some of my favorites from the album:

novelle vague

novelle vague, which translates to “new wave,” is named after the French New Wave film movement that emerged in the late 1950s and served as a source of inspiration for wave to earth. Drawing an analogy to this period, the band portrays a relationship that seems to fade away, much like the era. As one of their Korean tracks, the band pair sultry vocals with high tempo instrumentals to make it an incredibly satisfying musical experience.

“Will my footsteps stop by the time I’m out of breath?
The place to go back is fogged up now
If we go forward, would there be something to see?
I really have no expectations, yeah”

bad

bad is also one of my personal favorites from the album. This cozy song creates a feeling of feeling calm and relaxation with lyrics that describe the perfect day of hanging out with someone you love.

“Coffee in the morning, you and the sun
There’s a brown hue in your eyes
How pretty it is
I think I’m in love?”

daisy.

daisy. is another song that truly embodies the style of wave to earth–soulful and melodic. When listened to, especially through headphones, the song boasts an undeniably addictive production that truly echos in your head.

“Oh, sunny day
It’s like burn in my youth
Shade is my place but you live by the sun
If you want me to
Well I’ll be the rain you need”

Listen to the full album front to back here for the best experience: