I don’t remember which article it was now, but I mentioned that I wanted to talk about TIPI-TAP because one, I hadn’t even realized Kep1er released a new album and two, that I liked it. I thought I was following them on Twitter, but I wasn’t.
I had thought SOOMPI or someone else I follow would have mentioned it, and they probably did, but yeah, idk I completely missed it. Then I got caught up with writing my last couple of articles of the year, and they just kept getting pushed back. But now is the perfect time to cover them and this flawless album, so let’s get into it.
Kep1er keeps getting better and better with every release. Similar with fromis_9, once I have one of their songs pop up on shuffle, I can’t help but want more from them and have them in rotation. I’ve already been listening to Kep1er more over the last couple of weeks. TIPI-TAP is my second favorite mini album of Kep1er’s atm. Magic Hour is still number one for me, she’s goated.
“sync-love” is the album opener and it’s great. It continues that Electronic, Pop, Hyper-Pop, Y2K sound that’s everywhere in Kpop right now. The verse following the chorus is a little choppy in delivery, but it’s short-lived. I like that there’s a dance practice for it too.
Most importantly, “sync-love” sets up “TIPI TAP” wonderfully. “TIPI TAP” also has that Electronic, Pop, Y2K sound, and it’s super catchy as well. I don’t love the music video. It feels a bit low quality. I’m not sure if it’s a filter being used, or if the company just went cheap. I do like their angel wings backpacks during that part of the video, that was cute. Overall, not crazy about the styling or quality of the music video.
“Drip” slaps. I think it’ll be a great summer song. It’s a bit choppy too with the delivery of “drip drip drip” in the chorus, but again, it’s short-lived. “Bitter Taste” following “Drip” is perfect. You get some subtle baddie vibes in “Drip” but they lean into it more in “Bitter Taste”. The song placement and sound transitions are so smooth on this album.
“Heart Surf” is the album closer, and it’s my favorite song off the album. I love a midtempo track like this. I was curious about whom all worked on this song and album. No surprise, there’s a couple of Jam Factory people scattered throughout the album. Love that for us. You can read more about that here.
I’ve been working on my list of physical albums I want to buy again, and Kep1er will definitely be on this list. I hope they do some touring in the States later this year, I’d love to see them live. But I love this album, it’s short, but doesn’t overstay its welcome. I don’t even know what I would add to these songs to make them be three to three and a half minutes long.
You can start it, walk away and have some great music for the next like 15 minutes without having to really think about it. I’ve added it to my fave 2025 albums list as an honorary mention. I’m trying to keep everything as organized as possible this year. Same with making my fave songs of the year playlist as well.
What do y’all think about TIPI-TAP? What’s your fave song from the album? Who’s your fave member? Tell me everything in the comments! Next up is our first Kpop anniversary article, and it’s on 9Muses. I’m so excited. Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, Threads, & BlueSky.
Until next time!
Take care,
Ash💫