Let me start this off by saying that while I know that Hyolyn is from SISTAR, I’ve never really listened to their music. *gasp* I know but its true. I like to stay in my little kpop bubble and enjoy the artists I already know.  Now that I’m slowly building up my youtube channel doing reactions and reviews on kdramas, I’m discovering new music & artists. Very pleased that I’m doing it too.

Now Hyolyn…wow. I was browsing youtube and the teaser for Lonely popped up.

I am a sucker for piano chords and haunting melodies. So naturally I was excited to hear the rest of the song. Fast forward, like what a day? I found out she released another teaser for ANOTHER song (wha???)

First thought…okay this is her edgier side, I can dig that. Second thought wow, she’s wearing some really short shorts (not uncommon I know). Third though, is that a real tattoo?

So I wasn’t really interested in One Way Love but it was okay because I was still excited for Lonely. I watched both of the videos and spazzed.

Spazzing over Lonely because it was everything I’d hoped for. Spazzing over One Way Love because the teaser did NOT do it justice in my opinion. I love when kpop and R&B collide. Seriously. The bass line, the drum track. It reminds me of this 90s song I loved when I was in high school younger.

I don’t know why but it does… and don’t laugh at my extreme throw back/age 0_o

Anyway when the album came out on iTunes, I quickly decided I HAD to have those two songs if not more.

The whole album is solid meaning that I wouldn’t mind listening to it on the road, while cleaning the house, pretty much anywhere. Hyolyn has a strong voice and effortlessly moves between rapping and singing, hitting the high notes, you name it! I like how she has Mad Clown on one of her tracks. I discovered him when while I was doing Daebak City for Aewen Radio and am so glad that I did. I love his unique voice and flow pattern.

So bottom line? Definitely check out Hyolyn’s Love & Hate and buy it if you can. I ended up just getting Lonely & One Way Love but the other songs are definitely good.

Tracklist: