Daily Non-K-pop Spotlight: “a colorless footprint” by Choi Nakta

This track from Korean indie artist Choi Nakta hearkens back to the sounds of American adult contemporary from the 90s and 00s. Artists like Dave Matthews, Duncan Sheik, and Jason Mraz come to mind. It features a busy, round bass line; drums treated with a heavy room sound; mixolydian color chords; and a groove driven almost entirely by acoustic guitar.

What sets it apart from nostalgic American adult contemporary, though, is its heavy emphasis on lush grand piano; the genre-specific Korean vocals, which feature a distinctively pure tenor tone; and a breakdown during the song’s bridge that shifts the mood entirely, allowing a biting electric guitar to shine through. It’s a post-genre choice that really surprised us in the best way.

 

Overall, it’s comfort music. It hearkens back to simpler times and feels bright, energetic, organic, and real. It’s definitely worth a listen.

 

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