Rumble Fish’s brand of classy and cool modern rock has the ability to strike a variety of emotional chords with its listeners.

The female-fronted popular Korean rock act has produced some really touching work. This is especially true for Rumble Fish (럼블피쉬) as of late with the their third studio album, Open the Safe.

Much of Open the Safe is pretty calm and soothing rock music. Some tracks lean toward something more akin to a ballad and others are packed full of energy; they catch you off guard and jump out of the speakers. It’s a good variety that is diverse enough to keep things interesting but alike enough that everything is woven together with a consitent aural fabric.

The album’s title is more than fitting. Prior to this album I had known of the band, but only briefly before I moved on. But what I heard, I liked. For me, listening to Rumble Fish’s latest release was like going to the bank, opening my safe deposit box to find a lot of big bills inside — money that had been stashed away and since forgotten about. It’s suprising. But once you remember you put the money there, you kick yourself. “This is so good, how could I forget!?” At least (re)discovered Rumble Fish.

I really enjoy the voice and style of Rumble Fish’s lead singer, Choi Jin-Lee. Her vocal ability is apparent along with her stylish presence, great looks, and a good touch of cuteness. Vocally, it seems she’s years beyond her age. She is a good reflection of the band. Actually, I’m willing to bet that it’s the other way around, of course.

One of the most poignant tracks off of Open the Safe is titled “Smile Again”. The song itself and its accompanying music video are wonderful.

An in-video description of things describes “Smile Again” best:

This is the title song to Rumble Fish’s 3rd album, “Open the Safe,” It’s a bright and hopeful song filled with the group’s trademark modern-rock flair. The music video is about bringing hope and laughter to people who have experienced sorrows and setbacks. The piece is diving into four episodes including “A Guy and a Girl About to Break Up” and “Jobless Young Man.”

The style, effects, cinematography, and stories told in the video are all wonderful. Cheerful clowns make everyone’s lives better I guess. Jin-Lee’s so damn cool too.


 

• Buy Open the Safe
• The softer side of Rumble Fish (video)