Jun. K – ’77-1X3-00′ Album Review

This post is by guest writer Jara Rowe.

2PM’s Jun. K released yet another incredibly consistent solo album titled 77-1X3-00 shortly after his solo debut album, Mr. No Love. This album is rather special because it’s his last album before the mandatory military service. There’s a prominent jazz spirit weaving throughout the album, but 77-1X3-00 in fact dabbles in many genres across R&B, hip hop, pop, and even swing. Jun. K shows us he’s got it all — from vocals, rap, to producing skills.

Track 1 – Alive Pt2

77-1X3-00 kicks off strong with many unique musical elements including a strong synth in the opening track Alive Pt2. This song is a unique mix of classical music and hip hop with a soft melody. Jun. K’s vocal and rap skills are on point and captures the listeners’ attention right away. The musicality and production value that went into this track is simply outstanding.

Track 2 – No Shadow

Jazzy horn sounds and snaps open No Shadow with Jun.K’s hauntingly sensual voice sprinkled on top. This sweltering, magnetic tune has a definite R&B and soul flavor not so foreign to Jun.K, but mixes in unexpected modern elements to make it special. There is even a trap section featuring Jun.K’s rap in this stylistic track.

Track 3 – No Goodbye

Opening with a bluesy vibe, No Goodbye mellows out the album a bit. There’s a hint of nostalgia in the backtrack, but Jun. K’s delivery modernizes it. This is a sensual number as Jun. K discusses not wanting to leave the woman he’s with.

Track 4 – Phone Call

Phone Call is a dreamy R&B number that expresses loneliness. Jun. K effortlessly shows his vocal and rap capabilities in a smooth manner. The styling of this track is westernized and reminded me a lot of Dean.

Track 5 – Mary Poppins

Mary Poppins is a neo-soul track where Jun. K is able to show off his vocal range. This sophisticated style is one that suits him very well. However, Mary Poppins comes off as bland compared to some of the other songs on 77-1X3-00.

Track 6 – Good Morning

With colorful synth washes and bright piano strokes, Good Morning has an old-school pop rock vibe. The vocals just float over the backtrack to make this an effortless sounding production. Good Morning is a bright and airy song bound to put a smile on your face.

Track 7 – Walking On the Moon

Walking On the Moon is a great and creative union of genres. The piano and horns give it a jazz and swing foundation, but Jun. K’s delivery adds more hip hop flavor. There’s also a hint of mystery in Walking On the Moon that could be illustrated well in a music video.

Track 8 – Just One Night

With lots of brass, drums, and many other musical embellishments, Just One Night is a cool concoction of a good time. Jun. K oozes swag as he puts his rapping skills on display over the jazz track.

Track 9 – Love Letter Remix

Love Letter Remix is a refreshing mix of music styles. There’s a big band feel mixed with a hip hop trap flavor. Jun. K’s musicality and backtrack come together to form a great pop ditty in Love Letter Remix.

Track 10 – 결혼식 (Your Wedding)

A solemn song titled Your Wedding concludes 77-1X3-00 with sentimentality. The lyrics regretfully talks about an ex-lover’s wedding to someone different. The delivery is full of emotions and allows a softer side of Jun. K’s vocals to be displayed.

What Do You Think?

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