Daily Non-K-pop Spotlight: “Love, Heart, Faith” by Kimhwol

Western musicians could stand to learn a thing or two from Korean Indie. Whether it’s indie rock or a gentle folk-singer/songwriter track like this one from Kimhwol, brilliant touches and genre innovations abound. In “Love, Heart, Faith,” Kimhwol’s airy, precise vocals float over a dreamy soundscape.

 

The song begins in indie folk fashion, with sustained mellotron. Eventually, understated piano chords begin to drive the ballad. The second verse features intricate, busy piano parts that are expertly engineered to stimulate the brain without stealing focus. 

 

But the song takes a turn from indie folk to full blown adult contemporary at 3:24 with a cinematic orchestral run featuring rolling drums and a harp flourish. The song’s climax is sweet and stirring, and is a fitting end to a beautiful and restrained piece.

 

If you like what you hear, give Kimhwol a follow on Instagram.