The Korean Indie world is often an untapped realm. With most focus on K-pop, this genre doesn’t get as much emphasis as it warrants. A band to watch within the Korean Indie genre is orange flavored cigarettes. They came onto the scene in 2021. With a few singles and two EPs on Spotify, they’re slowly increasing in visibility. 50k+ monthly listeners will likely only keep growing, as their sound is quality. Here’s a review of some of their most popular tracks.
Their biggest single is “orange flavored cigarettes”, a track that combines complexity and simplicity. It features a laid-back beat, strumming electric guitars, and a groovy bass. The lyrics relay a relatable conundrum: Our conversation looks like that ocean//Should I stay or should I leave//I can’t see the waves//Where have all your words gone.
This track has over a million streams on Spotify and is followed by “noah”, a song on its way to a million streams, sitting at just over 500k. The song continues the groovy vibe of their title track. No doubt that they’ll be known for this sound–it’s psychedelic funk in style. Chill and dreamy, it’s the perfect music to put on in the background for studying or on a road trip.
“melting tides” is more of the smooth, chill funk vibe. The female vocals are delicate, airy, and consistent throughout. It’s the perfect pairing as it melts into the melody instead of taking a spotlight. And that’s really the point of this musical style–it allows you to drift away. It’s blissful, a safe place to rest your mind and relax. But if fans also want to focus on the lyrics, they’re easy to follow: I feel like a fool cause of you//Why do I only think of you//I feel like I’m drowning in a pool//Oh please pull me in if you feel the same way about me.
Something to note is that this band sings in all English. That’s impressive for a South Korean based indie group that primarily tours nationally and in Japan. This makes their music more accessible to a global audience. However, these tracks really don’t need to be in a particular language; they’d be enjoyable regardless because of the way the vocals melt into the songs and there’s not a heavy lyrical focus. This also helps transcend borders.
“te amo” feels very upbeat compared to other tracks. It has an 80s feel to it. The vocals are more at the forefront than any of the previous songs. “te amo” also has a surprising rhythm change mid-song. The lyrics are not safe for children or the workplace, as there are some sexual references. However, there are a few tender lines as well: Whispering in my ears//Now we have no tears//We believe in us//To the end of the world.
“pepper” is a groovy, echoey psychedelic track. I particularly liked these song lyrics the most. They’re simple like the others, but relatable. I liked the lines: When that day comes will I regret this?//Too stupid to think about that question//You know, there’s always a “but”//You can stay if you like, not too far// You can stay if you like, not too close.
All in all, orange flavored cigarettes is definitely making moves in the indie scene. Their music is easy to enjoy and will be accessible to many people. I have no doubts they’ll only continue to grow! To keep up with orange flavored cigarettes, make sure to follow them on Spotify or sign up for their newsletter on their website.
—-Ellie Boyd
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