October 1, 2024
GarageBand is often seen as an entry-level DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), but it has powerful tools that, when used effectively, can create professional-quality tracks. Many indie musicians and...
Read moreOctober 1, 2024
When working with MIDI in Ableton, one might notice that although MIDI clips can send program changes, most of Ableton's native plugins don’t seem to respond to these changes effectively. This can...
Read moreSeptember 21, 2024
Read moreSeptember 20, 2024
One of the most common challenges for songwriters is deciding whether to write the music or lyrics first. This can feel like a "chicken-or-egg" situation, but there's no one-size-fits-all answer...
Read moreSeptember 20, 2024
Releasing a new single or album is a huge milestone for any musician. However, without proper planning, your work may not get the attention it deserves. It’s not just about putting the song online...
Read moreSeptember 20, 2024
When it comes to music production, getting the low end right can be tricky. Many producers face a common issue: after the initial mix sounds perfect, a few days later, the low end starts to feel...
Read moreSeptember 19, 2024
For many aspiring musicians, the dream of creating a professional-quality home studio seems out of reach due to costs and space constraints. However, with the right strategies and tools, it's...
Read moreSeptember 18, 2024
Collaborating on music remotely has become more common, but as you’ve experienced, it can be a challenge to get it right. Audio latency, control sensitivity, and lack of real-time feedback are...
Read moreSeptember 18, 2024
In today’s digital age, building a loyal fanbase is essential for musicians to thrive. Social media platforms have become powerful tools for connecting directly with fans, sharing music, and...
Read moreSeptember 18, 2024
As a songwriter, it can be frustrating to have melodies or lyrics in your head but no way to bring them to life without instrumental skills. Thankfully, with modern technology, there are apps and...
Read moreSeptember 18, 2024
Creating music often feels like an intricate puzzle. You might have a melody that you love, but when it comes to pairing it with chords, you feel stuck. If you're in this situation, you're not alone.
Read moreSeptember 18, 2024
As an indie musician, creating professional music while sticking to a budget can be challenging. You might not have the resources to afford high-end software or pay for expensive marketing...
Read morePhoto Source: Rolling Stone
NCTzens, the wait is finally over. On October 6, NCT 127 returned with their fifth album, Fact Check, accompanied by a futuristic music video for the album’s title track.
In 2016, SM Entertainment debuted NCT, a boy group that currently consists of 26 members. Among this group, five subunits exist: NCT U, NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, and NCT DoJaeJung. Each subunit has their own unique sound and performances. Since their debut in 2016, NCT 127 has become known for their experimental hip-hop and R&B music, while showcasing their strong vocal and rap abilities. With their new nine-track album, Fact Check, their sound becomes far more mature and powerful. The comeback features Taeil, Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Winwin, Jongwoo, Mark, and Haechan.
The album’s single, ‘Fact Check,’ is an energetic Afrobeats-inspired dance track that oozes confidence. It carries the electro-synth rhythm that NCT 127 is known for with a trendier sound to engage new listeners. The chorus consists of a repetitive beat using percussive elements. The bridge also showcases the outstanding vocal performances of members Doyoung, Jaehyun, Taeil, and Haechan. Then it leads into a cool rapping section from Mark and Taeyong, accompanied with dramatic drumming. The lyrics express the group’s unmatched confidence in their music, despite any attempts to ‘fact check’ their credentials. In the music video, the group hops to different landmarks across Seoul, as well as more futuristic landscapes.
The album’s b-sides are great gems as well. ‘Space’ is a groovy, chill song that masterfully utilizes a saxophone. ‘Parade’ is a fun hip-hop song that showcases the group’s versatility. ‘Angel Eyes’ is a lively 80s-inspired rock song, co-written by Mark and Taeyong. Continuing the summer vibes, ‘Yacht,’ is an easy-listening song, perfect for a night on a yacht. ‘Je Ne Sais Quoi’ blends NCT 127’s signature style of rap with R&B vocals over a grungy bass. ‘Love is a beauty,’ presents sentimental lyrics written by Taeil, Taeyong, and Mark. The emotional ballad, ‘Misty,’ co-written by Mark and Taeyong, is sure to send shivers down your spine. The album concludes with ‘Real Life,’ discussing the magical feeling of being loved.