Yerin Baek has consistently proven her range and artistry throughout her career. Active in the industry since 2007 at just 10-years-old, she has built an impressive discography as a soloist since 2015 and, more recently, as the vocalist of the rock band The Volunteers. Her ability to evolve while maintaining a distinct musical identity makes every release an exciting moment for listeners.
As expected, her latest album ‘Flash and Core’ was an immediate must-listen for us. Below is our full track-by-track breakdown of this rich and multifaceted project.
Serving as the album’s intro, ‘DUST ON YOUR MIND’ immediately draws listeners in with atmospheric background noise that slowly expands into layered instrumentals and beats. It’s a captivating opener that sets a powerful tone and raises expectations for what’s to come.
Featuring Qim Isle, ‘No man’s land’ introduces Yerin’s melodic rap, an exciting sonic twist for the album. The cinematic arrangement, intriguing instrumental choices, and the darker contrast between Qim Isle and Yerin create a moody, OST-like atmosphere that stands out.
‘Save me’ brings listeners back into a sound more familiar to Yerin’s signature style. The jazzy instrumentals are flawless, the lyrical flow is smooth, and the subtle pace shifts introduce an EDM-inspired texture while maintaining the track’s softness. It’s polished, stylish, and beautifully balanced.
The album’s title track takes us into funky, retro territory with standout instrumentals and electrifying solo sections. ‘MIRROR’ exceeds expectations with its vibrant energy and impeccable production, truly one of the album’s highlights.
Opening with soft piano acoustics is ‘Put it back on’, this indie ballad showcases Yerin’s heavenly vocals paired with emotionally rich lyrics. It’s delicate, heartfelt, and beautifully intimate, a moment of stillness in the album’s dynamic journey.
- “I became everything I swear I’d never be”
A standout line that lingers long after the track ends.
‘TO’ continues the piano-driven theme but with a more intense arrangement. The orchestral additions transform it into an absorbing, cinematic listening experience. Its emotional depth, dynamic structure, and striking concept make it one of the most memorable tracks on the record.
Alternative vibes take over in ‘Take pills’, complete with the sound of pills shaking in a bottle. Dreamy yet dark, this track feels like a trippy, alt-pop journey. The layered background vocals add a haunting and hypnotic quality.
Shifting to a brighter tone is ‘Another season with you’, this track offers a light pop-rock feel with late-summer warmth. A little funky and wonderfully smooth, its groovy arrangement and romantic lyrics make it an easy favorite, and a refreshing mood lift in the album.
‘Karma calls’ brings an alt-rock edge with electric guitar, bass, and percussion that shine through its bold mixing. The sectional transitions are exceptional, and the vocal layering elevates the song’s emotional intensity and musical richness.
‘Lovers of Artist’ leans deeper into rock, blending synthy beats with a vibey, atmospheric build-up. It’s dynamic, textured, and showcases Yerin’s ability to experiment with genre blends without losing her identity.
‘Television star’ revives the album’s jazzy side, infused with touches of blues. The vocals are gorgeously delivered, and the rap section, featuring Qim Isle, adds a smooth contrast that enhances the track’s charm.
Opening with alternative beats and a dreamy composition, ‘You broke my heart but…’ leans into neo-pop influences. It delivers a refreshing listening experience that’s airy, emotional, and quietly addictive.
A retro ballad rich in synth textures and standout keyboard instrumentals, ‘in the middle’ feels sentimental and longing. Its vocal progressions are stunning, building a song that is both nostalgic and beautifully expressive.
Featuring Rejjie Snow, this track is an absolute showstopper. With jazz-and-blues bar energy, sophisticated dramatics, and a striking vocal-rap interplay, ‘Your Yerin’ feels theatrical, polished, and wholly unforgettable.
Closing the album, ‘Teary lover’ leans into dreamy, chill-pop territory. Its soft progression, delicate mixing, and gentle emotionality create the perfect ending to the journey that ‘Flash and Core’ delivers; calm, reflective, and beautifully resolved.
This review was first published in our 2025 magazine, you can find your free copy here.
