It should come as no surprise that, as the obvious ahgase I've made myself out to be, GOT7's comeback has been the topic of greatest concern since its initial announcement with Jinyoung's discharge. (That event in itself summoned plenty of ecstatic wails and relieved sighs, of course.)
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One of my first Black Friday purchases were sticker sets and notepad from AhgaseBaby. Due to the Canada Post strike though, this package did not cross the international border until early into the new year. Not long ago, the package finally found its way into my hands.
The set included a handful of freebies, including purple heart stickers bearing GOT7's rebranded, post-JYPE logo in a lovely lavender gradient. My main order consisted of an Encore sticky note pad, MBTI ahgase sticker sheet, and an IGOT7 heart sticker. The timing of its arrival could not be more ideal, for there was just a few days left before the official release of WINTER HEPTAGON.
The set included a handful of freebies, including purple heart stickers bearing GOT7's rebranded, post-JYPE logo in a lovely lavender gradient. My main order consisted of an Encore sticky note pad, MBTI ahgase sticker sheet, and an IGOT7 heart sticker. The timing of its arrival could not be more ideal, for there was just a few days left before the official release of WINTER HEPTAGON.
Words could not wholly describe the experience of witnessing the first OT7 release since 2022. PYTHON was everything ahgase could have wanted but never expected: GOT7 had succeeded in reinventing their sound as a unit, but remaining true to their core. The track showcased overwhelming charisma, evident through a "flex yet wholesome" (termed by yours truly) storyline, and furthermore exhibited the incredible growth of each member in their solo pursuits. The undeniable uniqueness and simultaneous harmony of it all re-affirmed the analogy of the group being a rainbow: individually discernible yet completely cohesive.
In spite of the wintry, bone-chilling conditions accompanying my office commute, the journey was far from dreary and lonely. For the first time in a long time, I experienced happiness that originated from the soul - a sense of pure bliss and inner peace, seamless and unattainable in any other endeavour. Limited are the joys that the external world can provide, even with the elimination of disruptions incited by one's surroundings. But the impacts of GOT7 are everlasting and eternal, therapeutic, restorative, and invigorating in ways that only ahgase can appreciate.
PYTHON was a masterpiece. For starters, the underlying beat practically announced its status as the title song. As expected of a BamBam production, the sound was alluring without being overbearing. As for the members, they flawlessly delivered well-enunciated lyrics in both English and Korean. Admittedly, there was more English than expected of a domestic release, with an extravagant proportion of English across the entire album as well.
SMOOTH evoked a Bruno Mars aura intertwined with dandy vibes of Pretty Please. Jackson's style was thoroughly embedded in the track, however there was a noticeable departure from his earlier releases. No longer were his words mumbled nor the background tracks clashing. Over the eight years of establishing Team Wang, Jackson was able to slowly define himself as an artist, then transition that experience to incorporate the aptitudes of the other members. SMOOTH was an easy listening song - a once unthinkable description given early releases of Papillon and Fendiman.
Our Youth / 청춘드라마 was apparently a title track candidate. Co-written by Ars/Youngjae, the melody and execution stays true to GOT7's core sound. It stays true to the GOT7 that ahgase know and adore, but subtly hints at evolution as well.
REMEMBER is a very Yugyeom-like track, with a slow tempo, modest R&B elements, and unusually quick lyrics. Similar to my observations regarding SMOOTH, Yugyeom has also refined his sound as an artist over the years, under the liberal management of AOMG. In 2021's Point of View: U, his first EP under the hip hop label, I admit to having trouble differentiating between the songs. But, with every new release, including single releases of Ponytail, LOLO, La Sol Mi, and 1 Minute from 2024's TRUST ME, I've gradually grown to enjoy the tracks tremendously and even play them on loop! Consistent with other veteran ahgases though, I did find the track being too brief at just 2 minutes and 13 seconds.
Darling is characteristic of Jay B's intended artistic approach towards up-and-coming releases. Mellow yet sharp, it's a track that embodies both whimsy and romance in a carefree manner.
TIDAL WAVE, another supposed contender for the title track, is addictive beyond belief and likely one of my favourites off the album. With just a few listens, its potential to be extended into a full-length production is irrefutable. That said, the decision to opt for Python was one made with sound judgement. The serpent concept is simply suitable for the timing of release and also concept adoption.
OUT THE DOOR was an evident Mark/DNA Team production from the first listen. It quickly assumed my top spot (next to Python) for its quirky, tongue-in-cheek lyrics and high teen vibes. In particular, I was marvelled at the wholly English composition and Jinyoung's more-than-impressive opening verses. His pronunciation instigated shivers down my arms, concurrently causing my eyes to widen and mouth drop agape. Again, the artistic evolution of each member remains clear; a supportive artist management team has also proven critical to the success and wellness of each member.
her aligns with ahgase's overall prediction of a Jinyoung-produced track: serene, with complex vocabulary, and the ability to summon waterworks with a single note. Upon diving deeper, one will uncover lyrics depicting a beautiful past. Instead of snapshots of settings, the story guides listeners through an emotional connection comprising of memories and lingering breaths.
Yours Truly, / 우리가 할 수 있는 말은. is, without a doubt, the heptet's heartfelt letter to ahgase. At the current time of writing, I've intentionally refrained from investigating the lyrics, in fear of tearing up partway. The unspoken bond between GOT7 and their global fandom is one that which I take immense pride. Regardless of the time that passes and regardless of solo or OT7 releases, my status as an ahgase has never once been shaken. GOT7 is my home, as much as ahgase is theirs.
SMOOTH evoked a Bruno Mars aura intertwined with dandy vibes of Pretty Please. Jackson's style was thoroughly embedded in the track, however there was a noticeable departure from his earlier releases. No longer were his words mumbled nor the background tracks clashing. Over the eight years of establishing Team Wang, Jackson was able to slowly define himself as an artist, then transition that experience to incorporate the aptitudes of the other members. SMOOTH was an easy listening song - a once unthinkable description given early releases of Papillon and Fendiman.
Our Youth / 청춘드라마 was apparently a title track candidate. Co-written by Ars/Youngjae, the melody and execution stays true to GOT7's core sound. It stays true to the GOT7 that ahgase know and adore, but subtly hints at evolution as well.
REMEMBER is a very Yugyeom-like track, with a slow tempo, modest R&B elements, and unusually quick lyrics. Similar to my observations regarding SMOOTH, Yugyeom has also refined his sound as an artist over the years, under the liberal management of AOMG. In 2021's Point of View: U, his first EP under the hip hop label, I admit to having trouble differentiating between the songs. But, with every new release, including single releases of Ponytail, LOLO, La Sol Mi, and 1 Minute from 2024's TRUST ME, I've gradually grown to enjoy the tracks tremendously and even play them on loop! Consistent with other veteran ahgases though, I did find the track being too brief at just 2 minutes and 13 seconds.
Darling is characteristic of Jay B's intended artistic approach towards up-and-coming releases. Mellow yet sharp, it's a track that embodies both whimsy and romance in a carefree manner.
TIDAL WAVE, another supposed contender for the title track, is addictive beyond belief and likely one of my favourites off the album. With just a few listens, its potential to be extended into a full-length production is irrefutable. That said, the decision to opt for Python was one made with sound judgement. The serpent concept is simply suitable for the timing of release and also concept adoption.
OUT THE DOOR was an evident Mark/DNA Team production from the first listen. It quickly assumed my top spot (next to Python) for its quirky, tongue-in-cheek lyrics and high teen vibes. In particular, I was marvelled at the wholly English composition and Jinyoung's more-than-impressive opening verses. His pronunciation instigated shivers down my arms, concurrently causing my eyes to widen and mouth drop agape. Again, the artistic evolution of each member remains clear; a supportive artist management team has also proven critical to the success and wellness of each member.
her aligns with ahgase's overall prediction of a Jinyoung-produced track: serene, with complex vocabulary, and the ability to summon waterworks with a single note. Upon diving deeper, one will uncover lyrics depicting a beautiful past. Instead of snapshots of settings, the story guides listeners through an emotional connection comprising of memories and lingering breaths.
Yours Truly, / 우리가 할 수 있는 말은. is, without a doubt, the heptet's heartfelt letter to ahgase. At the current time of writing, I've intentionally refrained from investigating the lyrics, in fear of tearing up partway. The unspoken bond between GOT7 and their global fandom is one that which I take immense pride. Regardless of the time that passes and regardless of solo or OT7 releases, my status as an ahgase has never once been shaken. GOT7 is my home, as much as ahgase is theirs.
With the long-awaited release date coinciding with my mandatory office attendance, I had entered into Monday looking forward to relishing the tranquility of the office for fangirl purposes. To my utter horror, members of the management began to file in shortly after I had settled in, nixing any and all possibilities to stream the music video and album to my heart's desire. My hopes for the morning were shattered, but at least I became more productive in terms of work duties.
An email was circulated around noon, notifying that heat was not functioning in the office and advising that staff head home for the day. Frankly, the conditions hadn't appeared to deviate from standard conditions at all. Moreover, I had come well equipped with HEATTECH layers, hand warmers, and two scarves. The daily lunch walk would proceed as planned.
Stopovers were made at HomeSense and Dollarama, though ultimately did not incur any spendings due to the hassle of transport and the inconvenience posed by a single customer purchasing enough bottled beverages to hydrate an adult hockey team.
Stopovers were made at HomeSense and Dollarama, though ultimately did not incur any spendings due to the hassle of transport and the inconvenience posed by a single customer purchasing enough bottled beverages to hydrate an adult hockey team.
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Gong Cha's Monday Daily Special of Brown Sugar Milk Tea with 2J has flickered in my mind since spotting the promotional poster last week. Consequently, I led the way towards the northwest corner of Queen and Spadina to satisfy this craving. The interior was quiet (read: deserted) on both the previous and current occasion; for a weekday lunch hour, I supposed the low traffic would be expected for a bubble tea shop. Seating was available in the form of booths along the east perimeter, but space was quite limited, just like the North York outpost.
I strode up to the cashier, murmuring to my coworker about the lack of customers. The man behind the counter acknowledged our presence, then immediately retreated back to the backless stool between the bar area and order counter. He remained engrossed in his phone until I neared the counter once more, and was required to wait for him to finish his round of Candy Crush before I could order. The Daily Specials, as I learned, applied to Regular/Medium sizes only; additional toppings and size upgrades would incur extra charge, though the precise amount was not confirmed. When I pressed for further details, the man merely shrugged and responded with "Seventy cents or something?" when he had the option of entering the option into the POS system for exactness.
Suffice to say, his attitude was starkly unpleasant and the furthest from friendly. Given this, I was astounded when my order was prepared with swiftness and accuracy. The drink itself was, surprisingly, better than my go-to locations and aligned with my ice and sugar level specifications, as opposed to being cloying. The accompanying bamboo fibre straw appeared flimsy, but somehow endured and did not snap as expected. A plastic carrying bag for a single drink was also provided free of charge upon request, which is superior to CoCo's twenty-five cent paper bag policy.
Suffice to say, his attitude was starkly unpleasant and the furthest from friendly. Given this, I was astounded when my order was prepared with swiftness and accuracy. The drink itself was, surprisingly, better than my go-to locations and aligned with my ice and sugar level specifications, as opposed to being cloying. The accompanying bamboo fibre straw appeared flimsy, but somehow endured and did not snap as expected. A plastic carrying bag for a single drink was also provided free of charge upon request, which is superior to CoCo's twenty-five cent paper bag policy.
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Beyond offering different daily specials at $4.99, a sign adverting Happy Hour specials from 4-6 PM was also seen tucked away underneath the menu screens. In general, I'd commend the location as being convenient and strategic, as this section of downtown is largely devoid of bubble tea joints; one would have to venture further north into Chinatown or east of the intersection into the retail-focused section of Queen West to get their fix. Operating with speed during working hours makes this Gong Cha location great for those looking to grab and go, but, as per the bulk of Google Reviews, one is not to expect overflowing hospitality or kindness from the grouch behind the counter.
Trekking back, an unfamiliar storefront caught my attention on the south side of Queen Street. Through the rear windows a TTC streetcar, I spotted Nekonab.
Trekking back, an unfamiliar storefront caught my attention on the south side of Queen Street. Through the rear windows a TTC streetcar, I spotted Nekonab.
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Upon closer inspection, it was another collectible/blind box store. The animated googly eyes were a fun touch, but I predict the niche boutique's lifespan to be no longer than its Scarborough competitors.
Concluding the day was a Double Chocolate Brownie from Tim Hortons. As my nearest location would shutter at 3 PM, my order would be shifted to the Bay Concourse location within Union Station instead. Obtaining the item was easier said than done, for weaving through the atrocious number of rush hour commuters, yelling homeless citizens, sand-/silt-/concrete-clad labourers was absolutely tragic - not to mention my steadily overheating state!
Fortunately, the pick-up was straightforward and the treat fudgy and gratifying - much, much tastier than the end-of-day slab from near King station.
Fortunately, the pick-up was straightforward and the treat fudgy and gratifying - much, much tastier than the end-of-day slab from near King station.
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With my browsing partner temporarily out of the picture, the usual routine of task-tending and post-exercise relaxation could resume. Nearly one week later than planned, my blue mane were restored with the help of blue and violet semi-permanent dye.
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Meals of the week would comprise of Homemade BBQ Pork with Choy Sum over leftover Mikaku Udon, Steamed Pork and Pickled Radish with Broccoli over Rice, delightfully sweet Japanese Yellow Yam, and Steamed Basa Fillet with Scallions, Ginger, and Soy Sauce. T&T's Frozen Pork With Salted Mustard Greens would be used to supplement the sustenance supply, providing buttery slices of stewed pork belly in an extremely savoury braising broth.
Low commitment creations included: Biscoff HK Milk Tea, Passion Fruit Assam Tea (Bloom's Assam tea powder is too gritty for applications beyond baked goods), "Dubai Chocolate" Matcha Latte, and S'Mores using Maria Biscuits. The round, wheat flour-based cookie was better suited than Biscoff but nevertheless less favourable than medium-porosity graham crackers. Meanwhile, the oddly popular Matcha Latte spinoff was extremely satiating, just as with the original kunafa-containing chocolate creation.
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Without productions of my own, I giddily partook in consumption of a Lemon Blueberry Scone and Traditional Fruit Hot Cross Bun. Both were scrumptious, but the atypically square scone especially so with its bountiful layer of blueberries.
When the availability of heat in the office was uncertain, all staff were recommended to continue working from home. The direction was well received, with my response consisting of delight, increased indulgence in GOT7 content, and retrieval of Hana Kizakura Junmai Ginjo. As expected of the Junmai classification, the sake was smooth with a delicate, well-rounded floral essence representative of its dainty cherry blossom exterior.
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Thus, aimless laps were made throughout the neighbourhood before eventually making my Shoppers round.
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Contrary to my gas-saving tendencies, I was advised to keep the car running. A tedious Drive-Thru adequately answered to this need, and I emerged ten minutes later with a Spinach & Feta Savoury Egg Pastry and Brewed Coffee duo.
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The Spinach & Egg Savoury Pastry was served warm and fresh, with an exceptional fragrance that alluded to flakiness. Unveiling the specimen at home, however, it wasn't found nearly as flaky as anticipated. It also offered a lighter bite than the buttery, gratifying pastry I had been expecting. Nevertheless, the treat filled me with contentment, and was a refreshing change from the Canadian chain's often too-sweet baked goods.
My Brewed Coffee, with additions of a Caramel Toffee Syrup and Oat Milk at fifty cents each, brought me to a cost of $2.09, while the entire order to just $4.86 after applying in-app offers. The coffee was passable, as all are of Timmies' creations after incorporation of milk and sugar. For reasons beyond me though, Oat Milk appeared to curdle within the beverage, making for a separated appearance but otherwise undetectable drinking experience. Let it be known that neither the syrup nor oat milk were detectable either.
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