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With K-pop groups like BTS and Blackpink gaining fans by the day, people have started to wonder what other groups South Korea has to offer. Finding a new boy or girl group to fall in love with can be easy, but what about underrated ones that haven’t gained the international recognition they deserve? Roller Coaster (also known as 롤러코스터 or Rollercoaster), a mixed-gender acid jazz band active from 1999 to 2006, is a prime example. Roller Coaster should be on the radars of not only Korean music lovers but listeners of music in general.
Roller Coaster
The acid jazz music scene in Korea was unfortunately non-existent before the debut of Roller Coaster. The band that reminded people of The Brand New Heavies has also been categorized as modern rock. Usually, the formation of a band is the initial debut of its members into the industry, but for Roller Coaster this wasn’t the case. The members were already making their strides into the music business before coming together.
They were also talented enough to create their first album with a small budget, and have it turn out successful. Instead of booking professional studio space, they rented the necessary equipment and set it up at home. Even with their own well-known reputations, the band’s beginnings were humble.
Meet The Members
Composed of two men and one woman, Roller Coaster followed the Korean nineties trend of being a mixed-gender group. Joe Won Sun was the band’s vocalist and keyboard player. She’s been well-known for her featured chorus work on numerous albums. Her most-known feature is in the song “Happen Ending” by Epik High. In 2009 she released her first solo album titled Swallow.
Choi Jin Woo, who went by Jinu, was the bass player. Currently, he goes by the alias Hitchhiker. He is contracted with SM Entertainment as a composer and has composed at least one song for every K-pop group under the label. Before Roller Coaster, Jinu had come out with two solo albums, and even after the band’s departure, he’s still putting out singles of his own.
Lastly, Lee Sang Soon was the guitar player who was known before for playing guitar sessions for many different artists. He also debuted with the band Baby Blue. Lee Sang Soon is active today, as many have seen him on Korean television, appearing in Hang Out With Yoo (How Do You Play?). He also has his own show with his wife Lee Hyori, a popular solo artist and ex-girl group member, titled Hyori’s Bed and Breakfast that can be found on Netflix.
Recommended Jams
When a friend suggests a new artist to listen to, this question usually pops up: “Where do I start?” There’s no need to worry about this with Roller Coaster as one song per album has already been chosen to bless your ears with musical talent. All of the band’s songs can be found on Spotify for your convenience. Now, relax and move along to Korean acid jazz.
“Come Closer”
Album: “Roller Coaster” (1999)
The first track from Roller Coaster’s debut album successfully sets the mood for their music. “Come Closer” is jazzy, funky, and definitely a club song from the early 2000s scene. There are several flares of musical instruments coming together that boost the mood from the swaying, mellow feel of the song in general. The very short guitar solo flows well and doesn’t disrupt the song for listeners who aren’t as pulled toward instrumental solos.
“Cheer Up Mr. Kim”
Album: “In Everyday Matters” (2000)
With a cheeky maraca shake leading to a beginning that is reminiscent of the seventies, it’s no wonder “Cheer Up Mr. Kim” made the recommendations list. The stressed syllables of some lyrics by Joe Won Sun create a rollercoaster effect of going up and down the curves of a ride. And if you’re like me, a good “wa wa wa wa” at the end of a song is always appreciated.
“Butterfly”
Album: “Absolute” (2002)
If you don’t know Korean and were worried you couldn’t sing along to any of the songs, you’re in luck! “Butterfly” has simple lyrics that listeners can repeat, and then groove to the flow of the rap. While it’s not the fastest beat, compared to the first two recommendations this song picks up the pace a bit. When you’ve melted into the ambiance of the song, you’ll feel as if you’re riding the beat to the moon.
“Sunflower”
Album: “Sunsick” (2004)
The guitar playing of Lee Sang Soon stands out in “Sunflower” alongside the drums as it creates the feeling of summer. Elements of jazz can be strongly felt as well. As one of my favorites, I like to imagine an outdoor cafe or bar that has cleared space for a dance floor. On that dance floor, couples would be swaying to the beat, possibly dancing slow bachata.
“I Can’t Hide It”
Album: “Triangle” (2006)
On Roller Coaster’s last album, “I Can’t Hide It” brought out the electric guitar and snares for a song that resembled more rock than jazz or funk. If you get immersed in a song when you sing, imagine belting out the whines and dramatically executing the sighs of Joe Won Sun. The drums are skillfully played, and create a beat that goes along great with a confident walk.
Open Your Ears!
Many artists are underrated in every country, and when they are discovered, or rediscovered, their music should be shared. It’s time for everyone to open their ears to the variety of sound that’s being produced in the world. While there are songs that can be played endlessly on repeat, trying new genres can be fun too!