BIBI is an exceptionally talented and often overlooked artist, primarily associated with the Korean R&B genre; however, her sound transcends traditional labels. She stands out as one of the most captivating voices in the contemporary music landscape, particularly in an industry that can be dismissive of women who candidly express their personal struggles, whether they stem from mental health or romantic challenges. Her debut album, Lowlife Princess: Noir, offered profound insights into the impact of Korean society on women and the complexities of their interactions with men.
Following nearly three years since the launch of her debut, BIBI has returned with her sophomore album, EVE: ROMANCE, and she’s embracing a more liberated artistic approach. During this hiatus, she has transformed her music-making process into a playful exploration rather than a chore. This new album sees her experimenting with various styles and themes, while continuing to carve out her unique identity across genres she admires. The body of work she has created to date is remarkably impressive for an artist of her age, and EVE: ROMANCE is poised to further heighten anticipation for her future endeavors.
14 Real Man
Track 9 – 3:02
Upon my initial listen to EVE: ROMANCE, “Real Man”initially resonated the least with me; however, I have a feeling it might grow on me over time. The instrumentation is intriguing, particularly the synths that lead the track, complemented by an electric guitar that injects a cool vibe into its hip-hop rhythm. The vocal effects introduced in the second half during BIBI’s rap segment caught me by surprise, feeling quite distinct from the rest of her vocal presentation throughout the album.
I’m still deciphering the lyrics, which plays a significant role in my overall impression of the track. I plan to revisit it after allowing it to sit with me for a while longer.
13 Burn It (feat. DEAN)
Track 8 – 3:32
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJkJb6MCqKYhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJkJb6MCqKY
As a dedicated fan of DEAN, I was thrilled to hear this collaboration, which unites two of my favorite artists. The song was released as a b-side to “Derre”in November 2024, and it perfectly encapsulates the sultry R&B style that both artists are known for, showcasing their vocal synergy.
The lyrics delve into the intoxicating nature of desire, highlighting how attraction can often surpass conventional boundaries. The accompanying music video reflects these themes through its expressive choreography, subtly celebrating the myriad forms of attraction. While there are standout tracks on the album that overshadow this one, I find myself returning to it frequently.
12 Winter (Unreleased)
Track 14 – 1:58
“Winter (unreleased)”concludes EVE: ROMANCE on a poignant note, showcasing BIBI’s exceptional vocal prowess against a backdrop of just an acoustic guitar. This track effectively employs the metaphor of winter to convey the isolation she experiences while awaiting the return of her beloved. Despite its brevity, the song encapsulates a depth of yearning that could fill an entire album.
BIBI expresses, “The more I love, the more you will leave me,”a sentiment that feels familiar yet resonates anew through her unique delivery. A standout moment occurs when she likens a drifting paper boat to the warmth of memories that sustain her through this lonely winter. The delicate boat moves across the water without looking back, prompting her to reflect on her own situation.
11 Sugar Rush
Track 6 – 2:29
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_B-0iPCbaUhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_B-0iPCbaU
“I don’t need a man for no dessert
I got popsicles in my freezer
I got thirty-one flavors
No free samples, boy, you gotta pay first
I make bread, but I ain’t no baker
Good girl on her worst behavior”
The music video for “Sugar Rush”is vibrant and playful, featuring Soyeon of i-dle and Yena, alongside male dancers donning rat costumes, enhancing the song’s whimsical nature.
10 Pygma Girl
Track 4 – 3:37
In “Pygma Girl,”BIBI’s vocal choices are captivating as she continues exploring the theme of desire that is prevalent throughout the album. Her voice adopts a sultry quality, occasionally whispering and merging words almost seamlessly for effect. The track also features her impressive rap skills, layered over a minimalistic piano accompaniment.
Hints of bossa nova emerge, particularly during the extended outro, where the piano is complemented by richer instrumentation. Overall, it represents a fresh sound for BIBI while staying within familiar thematic confines.
9 Derre
Track 7 – 2:36
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6N6jOt7heYhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6N6jOt7heY
“Derre,”which debuted alongside “Burn It,”generated significant buzz following its promotional teasers, particularly for its LGBTQ+ themes highlighted in the music video. BIBI’s character navigates her attraction to a female classmate, leading to a dramatic moment when she saves her during a fire, underscoring the concept of heat both literally and metaphorically.
The song opens with an engaging groove, transitioning into a somewhat chaotic chorus that initially left me unsure. However, its uniqueness has gradually won me over. The lyrics poignantly address the conflicting emotions often found in clandestine relationships, a relatable experience for many listeners.
8 Hangang Gongwon
Track 12 – 3:58
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uta7Qawk0hMhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uta7Qawk0hM
BIBI’s work is imbued with symbolism, and “Hangang Gongwon”is no exception. This mellow track employs natural imagery to reflect on a relationship that seems irretrievably lost. The music video depicts BIBI meeting a man in the park, only to let him walk away—a decision she comes to regret, which later plays out in a poignant scene featuring an older woman in a similar situation.
“It’s okay, the moon will rise soon
And then the sun will shine again, so don’t worry
The river will flow, the river will flow, the river will flow
Don’t worry, I’ll lay my body for the big sea”
The visual narrative feels cinematic, and the song offers a delicate yet powerful transition from the preceding track, prompting deeper reflections on personal themes.
7 Bluebird
Track 13 – 3:00
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdbiVcksUAIhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdbiVcksUAI
In the aftermath of a harsh winter, we all yearn for the warmth of spring.
BIBI’s gentle voice serves as a source of comfort, offering solace to listeners through rich acoustic melodies. Her sincerity is palpable, evoking a genuine emotional response. Though I typically gravitate towards her more upbeat tracks, the simplicity and beauty found in these softer songs truly resonate with me.
6 Apocalypse
Track 1 – 2:57
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWL1Tzl0YdYhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWL1Tzl0YdY
The album kicks off with “Apocalypse,”characterized by ethereal vocals melded with a dreamy instrumentals. BIBI immediately plunges into the thematic depth suggested by the album title. She articulates a sense of entrapment brought on by temptation and the tethering of love that persists in the face of challenges such as infidelity.
“If this is a sin, I’ll gladly take the punishment
Plant an apple tree on my hips
A forest where life begins
Before love ever existed
What was it that made us”
The accompanying music video unfolds in a vibrant fantasy world, underscoring the contrast between her idyllic dreams and the harsh reality she faces. Ultimately, viewers are left to ponder whether she will indulge in temptation or break free from it.
5 Bam Yang Gang
Track 11 – 2:26
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smdmEhkIRVchttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smdmEhkIRVc
The viral success of “Bam Yang Gang,”after its February 2024 release, finally brought BIBI the recognition she rightfully deserves. This track diverges from her typical style, introducing listeners to a softer, more introspective facet of her artistry that feels reminiscent of a nursery rhyme—a tune that lingers in memory.
“As you were leaving, you said to me
‘You always want way too much’
No, what I’vе always wanted was one thing
Just one thing, sweet chestnut red bean jelly”
In the music video, BIBI’s character contemplates her partner’s assertion that she is too demanding, only to realize that all she’s ever sought is the simple joy and comfort symbolized by her favorite treat. This profound realization empowers her, helping her to confront both her desires and self-identity, even if it’s just for a fleeting moment of sweetness.