Korean music and art has been on the rise in recent years, and the refreshing indie rock band, Wave to Earth, began in the industry in 2015. Almost immediately, their jazz-drumming and lo-fi based music began to gain popularity in the U.S.
Since their debut single, “Daisy,” the band released two extended play (EP) albums, “Summer Flows 0.02” and “Wave 0.01,” both published in 2020.
After those successes, Wave to Earth put out their first full-length album, “0.1 Flaws and All” on April 23. To no surprise, I fell in love instantly and knew the album would not miss.
With the words “How could my day be bad when I’m with you?” the album kicks off to an upbeat, jazz-based song titled “Bad,” which has earned Wave to Earth some recognition just as their most popular release “Seasons” did. Wave to Earth says here that the most efficient way to boost an off day is by spending time with someone you love.
Following “Bad” is the second song on the album “Sunny Days.” This song represents its title perfectly, reminiscent of spending time with a lover on a sunny day and taking in the serotonin from the weather.
“Peach eyes and blue skies” are the central lyrics of the third track, “Peach Eyes.” Not only can one find beauty in their lover’s eyes but also comfort. The strong and connected relationship being described sums up the song’s chorus: “How could I not rely on you, peach eyes.” This track is refreshing and continues the album’s happy theme of true love.
The fourth track, “Evening Glow,” takes a slightly different, melancholic approach. This tune not only takes a slower and steadier sound, but it describes the seeking of refuge in physical comfort and touch during a hard time. The lyrics “I might be full of flaws, but you will crave my heart” lay out the idea of yearning to support another person while still being flawed internally.
“Pink Horizon,” the fifth song on the album, sticks out from the rest. It has the shortest duration and has no lyrics to go along with it. The interlude consists of a beautiful, lo-fi sounding melody. Although the song does not contain a meaning or words, I still love hearing this track. It feels like a one-minute break to allow relaxation.
The next song takes a similar title to the track before with the name “Pink.” This song is also contrary to its others: it is written and sung in Korean. As the song carries on, lead singer Kim Daniel continues to reminisce about the purity and wonder of romantic connection. “Pink” ultimately argues for looking at the world through rose-colored glasses.
“Calla” is the seventh song on the album. It plays at a steadier pace like “Evening Glow” does. On the surface, “Calla” takes the familiar love song theme like the others, but it contains a deep, metaphorical twist. The song takes on a deeper definition than the tracks prior to it, telling the story of a wilting flower that Wave to Earth named “Calla.” Daniel assures the flower, however, that he will be there to support the flower despite the lack of sunlight it is receiving. “Calla” has one of the deepest and symbolic meanings of the album, and I love how the concealed message speaks to me.
To finish off the album is by far my favorite song “Love.” Wave to Earth composed this song with elegance, maintaining a great balance between a melancholic and classical instrumental. Just like “Pink,” “Love” is sung in Korean. The song pictures a story of one struggling to overcome challenges and find out who they really are. They yearn for hope and to find love to give them strength. They are broken down, but as the song continues, the listener discovers growth and how love can be transformative. Wave to Earth established the idea of impactful love, and I am all for it-this song touches my heart.
Because of Wave to Earth’s success, they released a second disc, or b-side, of “0.1 Flaws and All” containing six songs. I could go on about the beauty of the rest of the album, but it is best to stop at my recommendation of the song “Homesick” off of disc two.
Wave to Earth has risen to popularity after the release of “0.1 Flaws and All,” and with their beautiful and heart-striking love songs, they have nothing left to do but succeed in America.
