Aloha Friends!! It's been literally over a year since I've blogged and wow, I honestly, didn't think I'd do this again lol. It's been a crazy year since we last spoke. So much has happened and I can't wait to share it all with you, along with posting more new content for you all!
So where have I been?
WELL, in this past year, I finished up college! In my last post, I talked about my little San Francisco staycation during the spring break of my junior year of college, and since then, I've worked my butt off to finish off my last year of college! Senior year of college was tough, but so much fun. I took lots of classes and learned so many career-applicable skills and graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Business Administration, Marketing. I also worked as a marketing research intern for a startup and learned so much and had a really great time, not only because I honestly enjoyed the work I did, but also because I had literally the world's greatest bosses. I was super sad when my internship ended!
It's a really strange feeling to be writing this post, especially since some of my earliest posts on this blog were updates about my freshman year of college. It's crazy to sit here and reflect on the past four years, to think about having my first jobs, meeting lots of new people and making so many new friends, moving to and living in different places every year (except junior and senior year - thank god!), being independent and self-sufficient, and lastly, to think about the fact that I have to be an ACTUAL ADULT now. Life really does move and change in the craziest ways.
And that my friends, is what I've been up to! Other than college and work, I hung out with friends and made lots of great memories, of course, but the bulk of my time was spent studying to GET DAT DEGREE.
I'm so excited to be blogging again, and I hope you're excited for me to be back too! I can't wait to start posting fun stuff again, probably less K-Pop content than before, not because I'm not into it anymore, but because my bias is in the military right now and I just can't lol. As for what's coming next, I'm looking forward to sharing some of my "expertise" about college, in case any of you are soon to be uni students or current students who just want to know more about other people's experiences, and of course, more posts about beauty and lifestyle!
I can't wait to share new content with you, and I hope you're looking forward to it too!
See you soon!
With Love,
Caitlyn <3
Connect With Me!
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest
Influenster
Poshmark
Click here for discounts and other free stuff!
ColourPop (15% off your purchase!)
Urban Decay Beauty Junkies
American Eagle Outfitters (extra 20% off your purchase!)
Monday, November 11, 2019
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
Spring Break 2018: The Palace Hotel
Aloha Friends!!! Literally, I have no idea how, but I fell off the face of the earth for a while, but I found my way back and here I am!!! All jokes aside, my life is a joke right now. I'm a mess. I don't know how I kept up with blogging in the past, but I'm here and I'm going to try again lol. I have some super exciting posts lined up, so stay tuned... but today I have a special little blogpost about what I did over my spring break! I literally did this one little thing during spring break, but it's still something, right? Other than this, I didn't do anything else (even though I think we can all agree that I SHOULD'VE been blogging...). Anyways, that one little thing was... stay at the BEAUTIFUL Palace Hotel in San Francisco!
The Palace Hotel holds a very special place in my heart. I've been staying there, eating there, having high tea there, since I was literally a baby. It's located in the Financial District, just blocks away from Union Square, but still around the hustle and bustle of the downtown life. It is the home of the breathtakingly gorgeous Garden Court (where I have tea almost every Christmas!) and is so dreamy, you'll fall in love the moment you walk in. The Palace is one of my favorite hotels (my number one is The Nines in Portland!) and I'm glad I had the opportunity to stay again.
The Palace is newly remodeled, with beautiful gray and blue walls and art, the rooms and halls feel light and airy. My room was wonderful! There was a super cute elephant made of towels that greeted me when we walked in, as well as a plate of my favorite food, CHICKEN STRIPS!!! There also was crowns and lollipop scepters and a lovely amenity sent by the front desk managers (just a few perks of visiting a lot lol). All were great touches and really added to how great the stay was.
Overall, I had such a wonderful stay with my family. We brought our dog, who was a suburban pup before, but is a city girl now, and she loved it as well! The staff were incredibly accommodating and kind, especially the doormen who knew me by name and greeted me every time I came and went. Every stay at the Palace Hotel is comfortable, luxurious, and memorable, and I highly recommend staying there at least once in your life!!
As always, thank you so much for reading!! I've missed blogging and I'll *try to get back into a routine asap! What's your favorite hotel?
With Love,
Caitlyn <3
*no promises lmao
Caitlyn's Links:
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
SoundCloud
$15 Credit for Prints at Parabo.Press with code: UHXOGJ
Become an Urban Decay Beauty Junkie!
Get Your SnackFever Subscription Box!
PLAY! by Sephora Box
 |
| Photo courtesy of sfpalace.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of booking.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of sfpalace.com |
Overall, I had such a wonderful stay with my family. We brought our dog, who was a suburban pup before, but is a city girl now, and she loved it as well! The staff were incredibly accommodating and kind, especially the doormen who knew me by name and greeted me every time I came and went. Every stay at the Palace Hotel is comfortable, luxurious, and memorable, and I highly recommend staying there at least once in your life!!
As always, thank you so much for reading!! I've missed blogging and I'll *try to get back into a routine asap! What's your favorite hotel?
With Love,
Caitlyn <3
*no promises lmao
Caitlyn's Links:
YouTube
SoundCloud
$15 Credit for Prints at Parabo.Press with code: UHXOGJ
Become an Urban Decay Beauty Junkie!
Get Your SnackFever Subscription Box!
PLAY! by Sephora Box
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Cat Reviews: Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
Aloha Friends!!! Long time no blog... I promised you guys that I'd post more since I was on winter break from school, but turns out I will super busy and didn't have time to post. I'm so so soooo sorry, but I'm back today and I have a special review for you guys!!!
Today's special Cat Reviews is of Maple Holistics's Tea Tree Oil Shampoo! Maple Holistics was super nice and reached out to me and asked if I'd like to try their products, and of course I just couldn't say no. Their Tea Tree Oil Shampoo claims to keep your hair soft and dandruff free, while also moisturizing your hair and scalp to promote hair growth. It also claims to be soothe your scalp and skin if it's irritated, as well as fight lice. It is cruelty, parabens, GMO, and gluten free too!
When I received the shampoo, I was really excited because tea tree oil is known for it's amazing healing and restorative abilities. You can use it to treat wounds, heal scars, etc., so I was literally over the moon when I got to try it in a shampoo form. The first thing I noticed about the shampoo was the smell. You definitely can't miss it, it's smells really strongly of tea tree oil, which is what you'd want it to smell like, of course. Though the smell was really strong, it showed me that this is definitely an all natural shampoo that didn't include any fragrances or chemicals that could potentially irritate my scalp and skin. When you're in the shower, the smell is SUPER STRONG, it's inevitable (aka why your farts smell stronger in the shower lol), but it wasn't unbearable or anything. Surprisingly, the shampoo lathered A LOT more than I expected, since natural and "free-of-everything" shampoos rarely lather well, it was really nice. I like shampoos to lather because it feels like it's actually doing a job. Is that only me?? I conditioned my hair with my usual L'Oreal conditioner after using the shampoo since I have generally pretty dry ends. Once I got out of the shower, I noticed that my scalp was pretty pink, but that happens to me often when I try a new hair product since my scalp is sensitive. Aside from the redness, I noticed my scalp was actually pretty flaky too. I'm sure if I didn't wash the shampoo out well enough, leaving residue, or it's a result of my overly sensitive scalp reacting to the new shampoo. I gave it a second try, and the same thing happened, so I decided to discontinue use and gave it to my brother, who actually REALLY LOVES IT.
My brother has been on the hunt for a good tea tree oil shampoo that will help him with how oily his scalp is, as well as to promote more hair growth, and THIS WAS IT. He wasn't a huge fan of the scent, like me, but loved everything else about it. He had noticeably thicker and less oily hair after using the tea tree oil shampoo; it was honestly amazing to see. He was so impressed with the shampoo, that he went and purchased the tea tree oil conditioner to use along side the shampoo and GOD HIS HAIR IS SO GREAT NOW. He already asked me to help him purchase another bottle of the shampoo soon!
Overall, Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Shampoo was a huge hit for my brother, but sort of a miss for me. I really wanted to love it. My hair felt nice and clean after I washed my hair with the shampoo, but it just didn't look great and my scalp didn't react well to it. I'm really happy that it worked for my brother and that the conditioner is the perfect partner for the shampoo!
Thank you so much to Maple Holistics for sending me their awesome Tea Tree Oil Shampoo! They are such a wonderful brand that makes amazing natural products from human shampoo to pet shampoo, and you'd like to try them out, CLICK HERE where you'll be able to explore their brand and request free samples!!
As always, thanks so much for reading!!! I hope you all have the chance to give Maple Holistics a try, whether through their free sample program, or by purchasing something. Let me know what you thought about any of their products that you've tried too!!
With Love,
Caitlyn
Caitlyn's Links:
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
SoundCloud
$15 Credit for Prints at Parabo.Press with code: UHXOGJ
Become an Urban Decay Beauty Junkie!
Get Your SnackFever Subscription Box!
PLAY! by Sephora Box
Today's special Cat Reviews is of Maple Holistics's Tea Tree Oil Shampoo! Maple Holistics was super nice and reached out to me and asked if I'd like to try their products, and of course I just couldn't say no. Their Tea Tree Oil Shampoo claims to keep your hair soft and dandruff free, while also moisturizing your hair and scalp to promote hair growth. It also claims to be soothe your scalp and skin if it's irritated, as well as fight lice. It is cruelty, parabens, GMO, and gluten free too!
When I received the shampoo, I was really excited because tea tree oil is known for it's amazing healing and restorative abilities. You can use it to treat wounds, heal scars, etc., so I was literally over the moon when I got to try it in a shampoo form. The first thing I noticed about the shampoo was the smell. You definitely can't miss it, it's smells really strongly of tea tree oil, which is what you'd want it to smell like, of course. Though the smell was really strong, it showed me that this is definitely an all natural shampoo that didn't include any fragrances or chemicals that could potentially irritate my scalp and skin. When you're in the shower, the smell is SUPER STRONG, it's inevitable (aka why your farts smell stronger in the shower lol), but it wasn't unbearable or anything. Surprisingly, the shampoo lathered A LOT more than I expected, since natural and "free-of-everything" shampoos rarely lather well, it was really nice. I like shampoos to lather because it feels like it's actually doing a job. Is that only me?? I conditioned my hair with my usual L'Oreal conditioner after using the shampoo since I have generally pretty dry ends. Once I got out of the shower, I noticed that my scalp was pretty pink, but that happens to me often when I try a new hair product since my scalp is sensitive. Aside from the redness, I noticed my scalp was actually pretty flaky too. I'm sure if I didn't wash the shampoo out well enough, leaving residue, or it's a result of my overly sensitive scalp reacting to the new shampoo. I gave it a second try, and the same thing happened, so I decided to discontinue use and gave it to my brother, who actually REALLY LOVES IT.
My brother has been on the hunt for a good tea tree oil shampoo that will help him with how oily his scalp is, as well as to promote more hair growth, and THIS WAS IT. He wasn't a huge fan of the scent, like me, but loved everything else about it. He had noticeably thicker and less oily hair after using the tea tree oil shampoo; it was honestly amazing to see. He was so impressed with the shampoo, that he went and purchased the tea tree oil conditioner to use along side the shampoo and GOD HIS HAIR IS SO GREAT NOW. He already asked me to help him purchase another bottle of the shampoo soon!
Overall, Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Shampoo was a huge hit for my brother, but sort of a miss for me. I really wanted to love it. My hair felt nice and clean after I washed my hair with the shampoo, but it just didn't look great and my scalp didn't react well to it. I'm really happy that it worked for my brother and that the conditioner is the perfect partner for the shampoo!
Thank you so much to Maple Holistics for sending me their awesome Tea Tree Oil Shampoo! They are such a wonderful brand that makes amazing natural products from human shampoo to pet shampoo, and you'd like to try them out, CLICK HERE where you'll be able to explore their brand and request free samples!!
As always, thanks so much for reading!!! I hope you all have the chance to give Maple Holistics a try, whether through their free sample program, or by purchasing something. Let me know what you thought about any of their products that you've tried too!!
With Love,
Caitlyn
Caitlyn's Links:
YouTube
SoundCloud
$15 Credit for Prints at Parabo.Press with code: UHXOGJ
Become an Urban Decay Beauty Junkie!
Get Your SnackFever Subscription Box!
PLAY! by Sephora Box
Friday, January 5, 2018
Cat Reviews: SnackFever LOVE K-POP Box
Aloha friends!! Sorry for missing Wednesday's post - I was busy at work so I didn't have time to write a post - but to make up for it, I'll be posting Monday, Wednesday, AND Friday next week!! Whoooooo!!!! Anyways, today's post is my review of the SnackFever LOVE K-POP box!
This isn't my first time receiving a SnackFever box, I got one last June (that was also KPop themed) and loved it, so when I saw they were offering a K-POP box, I had to snag it. This Kpop box isn't just any Kpop box, however. It is EXO themed!!! Aka, another reason I needed it in my life. I was hesitant to buy it when I saw the price, it was $56.99, but thank god for coupons so I didn't have to pay that much lol. It was a one-time box, which is different from SnackFever's usual subscription boxes, and featured 7 Kpop goodies, including premium items, 1 Korean snack loved by EXO, and a special sticker by SnackFever. It shipped from Busan, South Korea, and took a little while to ship, which is understandable since I did order around the holidays, but once it did ship, it arrived really quickly! Below are all the goodies that came in my box!
I really loved the way the box was set up, and that incredible detail that went into it. The box is custom to the theme, which is different from my last box, which was just a regular SnackFever box, so I really appreciate the effort and care that went into designing the packaging. It was difficult to take a photo of everything while it was in the box, so enjoy this fun little quick-unboxing video (featuring my cat who always wants to be the center of attention...)
WHAT WAS IN THE BOX?
Like I mentioned earlier, the LOVE K-POP box featured 7 Kpop goodies, including premium items, 1 Korean snack loved by EXO, and a special sticker by SnackFever. I was honestly really impressed by everything that came in the box. It was nothing like the KoreaBox I received a while back. These are quality items. Although the items weren't official, which would have honestly made the high price of this box more understandable, it wasn't the cheap, poorly made items I've gotten in the past from other boxes.
When opening the box, the first item was the little card with all the info about all the limited edition, one-time boxes that SnackFever offered. Ours is the LOVE K-Pop box, in case you forgot lol.
Next up is the "special sticker by SnackFever". It's honestly super cute, and a great memento of getting this box. If I was still loading my laptop with stickers, this one definitely would make the cut.
Next in the box was this super cute mirror! One side is EXO's photo and the other is a mirror. It's the perfect size for your purse or backpack and the quality is actually really great. Like you know Forever 21 mini mirror quality? This is like 50 times better. I couldn't find a similar one to what I got, but here's a Chanyeol one that's a similar style for $1.50!
Following the mirror was this adorable mini 2018 calendar. This is probably my favorite item in the box because I love calendars lol, and the quality is really great. The only thing about it however, is that I wish the manufacturer put EXO related anniversaries and important dates in it, like members' birthdays, EXO-L day, debut day, etc. It's not that it's a bad thing that the calendar doesn't have it, I just think it would've been a great detail to add. Get the same calendar here for $7.50!
Next is this SUUUUUPER cute pouch! This is the one item in the box that really impressed me in terms of quality. The gold metallic that makes up the EXO on the front is not just cheap iron on vinyl that a lot of these pouch often have, but it's like some good quality stuff lol. The zipper pull is cool too! It's a little two-sided keychain with EXO's photo! Get a similar one here for $13.99!
After the pouch, I discovered two sticker sheets!!! Those who know me well know how much I LOOOOVE stickers, so I was super happy when I saw these, and I was even happier when I saw that one sheet is a standing sticker, and the other is label sticker. I'll uhm, probably never use them because they're so cute, but I'm glad I can stare at them lol. Get the same Standing Stickers here for $6.99! Get the same label sticker here for $5.50!
And FINALLY... A SNACK!!! The "Korean snack loved by EXO" was none other than Pepero! This particular one is White Cookie flavored, or basically, cookies and cream. I was honestly kind of disappointed to see that it was just Pepero, since it's now something you can get in most grocery stores in the States that have an "Asian" section. Also, I know EXO are brand ambassadors for Pepero right now, but like I've never even seen them eat it other than in the CFs soooo... All that aside, I'll still eat it because I love Pepero, but does EXO...? Get yourself some yummy White Cookie Pepero here for $9.99 for a pack of four!
Next in the box was an adorable little EXO name tag, like the ones you see the kiddos wearing at school in Kdramas lol. This was the one item that had me a little disappointed about it's quality. The sticker that is sitting on top of the plastic plate is off center and cut a little off too, but I'll still put it on my backpack because I like it. Get a similar one here for $9.90!
The LAST item in the box was one that I wasn't expecting! It's a cute EXO mini blanket!!! We all remember my gripe about the last EXO mini blanket I got, but this one is so much better!! It has that really soft, plushy feeling on the side with the image and my cat really liked it (I think she likes Sehun lol). Even though it is SUUUUPER small, like really frickin small, I still like it. Would I use it? Idk what I'd use it for so... But overall, I think the quality is great and it was even better than Chanyeol's face was in the front of the package lol. Get the same one here for $30! (I don't think it's the same plushy material tho)
FINAL THOUGHTS
Overall, I did really enjoy the SnackFever LOVE K-POP box. Like I already mentioned, I think the price point was a little shocking at first, but after looking up the items or similar ones, I think the price isn't necessarily fair, but understandable. Although I think they could do without charging $3.99 for shipping... I am still surprised by the great quality of the items in the box, and I still really appreciate the time and effort that went into putting this box together. My only real complaint about this box is that I wish it included more snacks! It is a SNACKFever box, so I just thought there would be more snacks, or at least a snack that's harder to find here in the States. Maybe I just love snacks too much lol, but I do think that if SnackFever were to come out with this box again, or something similar, I recommend you snatch it!! Everything I've ever gotten from SnackFever did not disappoint, so definitely give them a try if you haven't already!
Interested in trying out SnackFever?? CLICK HERE TO TRY IT OUT!
As always, thanks so much for reading!!! Did you get the LOVE K-POP box too or have tried SnackFever before?? Tweet me what you thought about it @thecaitlynlee!!!
With Love,
Caitlyn <3
Caitlyn's Links:
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
SoundCloud
$15 Credit for Prints at Parabo.Press with code: UHXOGJ
Become an Urban Decay Beauty Junkie!
Get Your SnackFever Subscription Box!
PLAY! by Sephora Box
This isn't my first time receiving a SnackFever box, I got one last June (that was also KPop themed) and loved it, so when I saw they were offering a K-POP box, I had to snag it. This Kpop box isn't just any Kpop box, however. It is EXO themed!!! Aka, another reason I needed it in my life. I was hesitant to buy it when I saw the price, it was $56.99, but thank god for coupons so I didn't have to pay that much lol. It was a one-time box, which is different from SnackFever's usual subscription boxes, and featured 7 Kpop goodies, including premium items, 1 Korean snack loved by EXO, and a special sticker by SnackFever. It shipped from Busan, South Korea, and took a little while to ship, which is understandable since I did order around the holidays, but once it did ship, it arrived really quickly! Below are all the goodies that came in my box!
WHAT WAS IN THE BOX?
Like I mentioned earlier, the LOVE K-POP box featured 7 Kpop goodies, including premium items, 1 Korean snack loved by EXO, and a special sticker by SnackFever. I was honestly really impressed by everything that came in the box. It was nothing like the KoreaBox I received a while back. These are quality items. Although the items weren't official, which would have honestly made the high price of this box more understandable, it wasn't the cheap, poorly made items I've gotten in the past from other boxes.
When opening the box, the first item was the little card with all the info about all the limited edition, one-time boxes that SnackFever offered. Ours is the LOVE K-Pop box, in case you forgot lol.
Next up is the "special sticker by SnackFever". It's honestly super cute, and a great memento of getting this box. If I was still loading my laptop with stickers, this one definitely would make the cut.
Next in the box was this super cute mirror! One side is EXO's photo and the other is a mirror. It's the perfect size for your purse or backpack and the quality is actually really great. Like you know Forever 21 mini mirror quality? This is like 50 times better. I couldn't find a similar one to what I got, but here's a Chanyeol one that's a similar style for $1.50!
Following the mirror was this adorable mini 2018 calendar. This is probably my favorite item in the box because I love calendars lol, and the quality is really great. The only thing about it however, is that I wish the manufacturer put EXO related anniversaries and important dates in it, like members' birthdays, EXO-L day, debut day, etc. It's not that it's a bad thing that the calendar doesn't have it, I just think it would've been a great detail to add. Get the same calendar here for $7.50!
Next is this SUUUUUPER cute pouch! This is the one item in the box that really impressed me in terms of quality. The gold metallic that makes up the EXO on the front is not just cheap iron on vinyl that a lot of these pouch often have, but it's like some good quality stuff lol. The zipper pull is cool too! It's a little two-sided keychain with EXO's photo! Get a similar one here for $13.99!
After the pouch, I discovered two sticker sheets!!! Those who know me well know how much I LOOOOVE stickers, so I was super happy when I saw these, and I was even happier when I saw that one sheet is a standing sticker, and the other is label sticker. I'll uhm, probably never use them because they're so cute, but I'm glad I can stare at them lol. Get the same Standing Stickers here for $6.99! Get the same label sticker here for $5.50!
And FINALLY... A SNACK!!! The "Korean snack loved by EXO" was none other than Pepero! This particular one is White Cookie flavored, or basically, cookies and cream. I was honestly kind of disappointed to see that it was just Pepero, since it's now something you can get in most grocery stores in the States that have an "Asian" section. Also, I know EXO are brand ambassadors for Pepero right now, but like I've never even seen them eat it other than in the CFs soooo... All that aside, I'll still eat it because I love Pepero, but does EXO...? Get yourself some yummy White Cookie Pepero here for $9.99 for a pack of four!
Next in the box was an adorable little EXO name tag, like the ones you see the kiddos wearing at school in Kdramas lol. This was the one item that had me a little disappointed about it's quality. The sticker that is sitting on top of the plastic plate is off center and cut a little off too, but I'll still put it on my backpack because I like it. Get a similar one here for $9.90!
The LAST item in the box was one that I wasn't expecting! It's a cute EXO mini blanket!!! We all remember my gripe about the last EXO mini blanket I got, but this one is so much better!! It has that really soft, plushy feeling on the side with the image and my cat really liked it (I think she likes Sehun lol). Even though it is SUUUUPER small, like really frickin small, I still like it. Would I use it? Idk what I'd use it for so... But overall, I think the quality is great and it was even better than Chanyeol's face was in the front of the package lol. Get the same one here for $30! (I don't think it's the same plushy material tho)
FINAL THOUGHTS
Overall, I did really enjoy the SnackFever LOVE K-POP box. Like I already mentioned, I think the price point was a little shocking at first, but after looking up the items or similar ones, I think the price isn't necessarily fair, but understandable. Although I think they could do without charging $3.99 for shipping... I am still surprised by the great quality of the items in the box, and I still really appreciate the time and effort that went into putting this box together. My only real complaint about this box is that I wish it included more snacks! It is a SNACKFever box, so I just thought there would be more snacks, or at least a snack that's harder to find here in the States. Maybe I just love snacks too much lol, but I do think that if SnackFever were to come out with this box again, or something similar, I recommend you snatch it!! Everything I've ever gotten from SnackFever did not disappoint, so definitely give them a try if you haven't already!
Interested in trying out SnackFever?? CLICK HERE TO TRY IT OUT!
As always, thanks so much for reading!!! Did you get the LOVE K-POP box too or have tried SnackFever before?? Tweet me what you thought about it @thecaitlynlee!!!
With Love,
Caitlyn <3
Caitlyn's Links:
YouTube
SoundCloud
$15 Credit for Prints at Parabo.Press with code: UHXOGJ
Become an Urban Decay Beauty Junkie!
Get Your SnackFever Subscription Box!
PLAY! by Sephora Box
Friday, December 29, 2017
Cat Reviews: EXO: Universe - Winter Special Album 2017
Aloha Friends!!! The day you've all been waiting for it FINALLY here! Today I'm going to be reviewing EXO's Winter Special album, Universe!!!
STOP!! CICK HERE TO LISTEN TO UNIVERSE -WINTER SPECIAL ALBUM 2017 BEFORE YOU CONTINUE READING!
If you're a return reader, you already know how much I love EXO's winter albums, so you can only imagine how excited I was to finally hear their newest winter album, Universe. Universe has a completely different vibe than the past winter albums. This album has mostly rock ballads that make you long for a warm blanket, a hot chocolate, and an even hotter EXO member to cuddle with. This album seems more emotional than the ones before it, but it's perfectly fitting for the winter season.
An Overview and Album Artwork:
Universe includes 8 new songs, three of which are just different versions of the title track, Universe. Like I mentioned above, the overall vibe of this album is pretty bleak(???) for lack of a better word. It doesn't have any songs that have that fun, cutesy vibe, like "Falling For You" from For Life, or "불공평해 Unfair" from Sing For You. I think the new vibe shows a more mature side of EXO and I'm honestly really feeling it. This album had a barista concept which is cool I guess? I don't really get how it goes with the songs, but I mean I'm still and EXO-L aka I love whatever EXO does. They want to be baristas for this album? I'll have an iced latte. (Sorry I wanted to make a joke I just didn't have anything to work with...) Their concept photos for this album were great. Chanyeol looked great, no complaints. I'll include the photos at the end of this post! As for the album artwork, the digital version of the album features a piping hot cup of idk what in what seems like space, so that's cool. It fits the vibe of the album so I'm not mad at it. Interestingly enough, there isn't a Chinese version of all the songs on this album, but just a Chinese version of the title track, Universe. I don't mind though, because I don't usually listen to the Chinese versions (sorry to my own heritage lol). I honestly don't know what comes in the physical version, but mine is on the way (I think...) and once it comes, I'll be sharing it with you, as always!
The Songs:
1. Universe
How many times have I said that Universe is the title track in this post? Well... It is and it's pretty damn good. It has a really great rock ballad melody. It's a really great song to fall asleep to, not that it's boring but it's super soothing and relaxing. Not to spoil it for anyone, but spoiler alert, Sehun actually sings and he sounds so good!!! The music video is honestly kinda strange. It's coffee/barista themed and I honestly just don't get it. It's not strange in a bad way at all though, like I actually really like it, I just don't frickin get it lol.
2. Universe - Chinese Version
Since this is the only Chinese version of any of the songs on this album, I'm forced to listen to it when I put the album on shuffle but I'm honestly not mad at it. For me, the Chinese versions of the songs kinda ruin them for me, but the Chinese version of Universe is really good and preserves the really great rock ballad feel.
3. 지나갈 테니 Been Through
I read a lot of comments about this song before I listened to it and everyone was like "omg so good!!! I love it so much!!! Everyone's going to love it!!!!" so imagine my expectations when I finally heard it... Well, they were met and I fricking love this song. I'm really impressed with the direction that EXO went with this album. It's SO different, and this song really puts that on display. I honestly would've loved this song as the title track too.
4. Stay
Like 지나갈 테니 Been Through, I read a lot of really good feedback about Stay before I listened to it so I had high expectations and once again, EXO came through. It's another example of a song that really displays how different this album is than any of their other albums. When I hear this song, I imagine a really dramatic K-drama scene where a couple is standing on a path lined by cherry blossom trees, one of them just told the other that they needed to break up and walks away, the other stands there alone, sad. If you can't picture it, lay down, close your eyes are really listen to the song lol.
5. Fall
Uhm so I love this song sooooo much guys. For some reason, it reminds me of Justin Timberlake and I really love JT so... Baekhyun oppa's "oh" and "hey" in the later chorus KILL ME. I've honestly never been a huge fan of Baekhyun's voice, like he's a great singer, but he really impressed me in this song for some reason. His voice really stood out. Not to forget to mention that I really really REALLY love Chanyeol's rap in this song like it's so smooth and makes me melt (even though everything he does makes me melt).
6. Good Night
I'm going to start by saying that this is my absolute favorite song on this entire album. It reminds me of my favorite B2ST (RIP) song, also titled Good Night, and if any of the EXO members ever sang this to me, you'd best bet I'd pass out aka good frickin night for me. But this song just has that little more upbeat, but still a little ballad-y vibe that I love so much. And Chanyeol's chorus and his verse about how the a beautiful night without you finds him again UGJHHHHHHHHHH. Omg and Umin oppa's "Baby good night" I'm already dead good night.
7. Lights Out
A rock ballad? THIS IS IT. Lights Out is THE rock ballad of this album. It's literally just vocals and piano which is amazing because it really showcases how great of vocalists EXO is. Like with Fall, Baekhyun's voice really stood out to me, like be made this song his bitch and the song is totally fine with it. Baekhyun's little "whoa whoa" in the background around 2:12 remind me of Frank Ocean, and idk if you guys know already but I love Frank Ocean so much so I have a deep appreciation for this "whoa whoas".
8. Universe - CD Version
Don't bash me but I honestly cannot tell the difference between this version of Universe and the non-CD version of Universe. They're the same length and everything like WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE???? If you know please tweet me @thecaitlynlee because ya girl does not have a clue. Either way, it's still a great song, no matter what version you're listening to so I have no complaints.
Picking Favorites:
I didn't make my ranking so obvious in my reviews this time (right?). Anyways, you guys know already that Good Night is my favorite, but here is my ranking of all the songs!
1. Good Night
2. Fall
3. 지나갈 테니 Been Through
4. Universe (Both CD and non-CD versions)
5. Stay
6. Lights Out
7. Universe - Chinese Version
Final Thoughts:
I think you guys can already tell that I love this album. I really like the different direction that EXO went in for this album and none of the songs disappointed. EXO's winter albums are always my favorite, like find me listening to them any time of the year honestly. I'm really glad I can add this to my EXO winter albums playlist and jam out all year long!!!
As always, thanks so much for reading!! What was your favorite song from Universe?? Let me know!!!
As promised, here are the concept photos for this album!! (Don't forget that you can click the photos to view them larger!)
With Love,
Caitlyn (Park) <3
Buy EXO Universe - Winter Special Album 2017 (Physical)
Buy EXO Universe - Winter Special Album 2017 (Digital)
Listen to EXO Universe on Spotify
Watch EXO Universe Music Video
Caitlyn's Links:
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
SoundCloud
$15 Credit for Prints at Parabo.Press with code: UHXOGJ
Become an Urban Decay Beauty Junkie!
PLAY! by Sephora Box
STOP!! CICK HERE TO LISTEN TO UNIVERSE -WINTER SPECIAL ALBUM 2017 BEFORE YOU CONTINUE READING!
If you're a return reader, you already know how much I love EXO's winter albums, so you can only imagine how excited I was to finally hear their newest winter album, Universe. Universe has a completely different vibe than the past winter albums. This album has mostly rock ballads that make you long for a warm blanket, a hot chocolate, and an even hotter EXO member to cuddle with. This album seems more emotional than the ones before it, but it's perfectly fitting for the winter season.
An Overview and Album Artwork:
The Songs:
1. Universe
2. Universe - Chinese Version
Since this is the only Chinese version of any of the songs on this album, I'm forced to listen to it when I put the album on shuffle but I'm honestly not mad at it. For me, the Chinese versions of the songs kinda ruin them for me, but the Chinese version of Universe is really good and preserves the really great rock ballad feel.
3. 지나갈 테니 Been Through
I read a lot of comments about this song before I listened to it and everyone was like "omg so good!!! I love it so much!!! Everyone's going to love it!!!!" so imagine my expectations when I finally heard it... Well, they were met and I fricking love this song. I'm really impressed with the direction that EXO went with this album. It's SO different, and this song really puts that on display. I honestly would've loved this song as the title track too.
4. Stay
Like 지나갈 테니 Been Through, I read a lot of really good feedback about Stay before I listened to it so I had high expectations and once again, EXO came through. It's another example of a song that really displays how different this album is than any of their other albums. When I hear this song, I imagine a really dramatic K-drama scene where a couple is standing on a path lined by cherry blossom trees, one of them just told the other that they needed to break up and walks away, the other stands there alone, sad. If you can't picture it, lay down, close your eyes are really listen to the song lol.
5. Fall
Uhm so I love this song sooooo much guys. For some reason, it reminds me of Justin Timberlake and I really love JT so... Baekhyun oppa's "oh" and "hey" in the later chorus KILL ME. I've honestly never been a huge fan of Baekhyun's voice, like he's a great singer, but he really impressed me in this song for some reason. His voice really stood out. Not to forget to mention that I really really REALLY love Chanyeol's rap in this song like it's so smooth and makes me melt (even though everything he does makes me melt).
6. Good Night
I'm going to start by saying that this is my absolute favorite song on this entire album. It reminds me of my favorite B2ST (RIP) song, also titled Good Night, and if any of the EXO members ever sang this to me, you'd best bet I'd pass out aka good frickin night for me. But this song just has that little more upbeat, but still a little ballad-y vibe that I love so much. And Chanyeol's chorus and his verse about how the a beautiful night without you finds him again UGJHHHHHHHHHH. Omg and Umin oppa's "Baby good night" I'm already dead good night.
7. Lights Out
A rock ballad? THIS IS IT. Lights Out is THE rock ballad of this album. It's literally just vocals and piano which is amazing because it really showcases how great of vocalists EXO is. Like with Fall, Baekhyun's voice really stood out to me, like be made this song his bitch and the song is totally fine with it. Baekhyun's little "whoa whoa" in the background around 2:12 remind me of Frank Ocean, and idk if you guys know already but I love Frank Ocean so much so I have a deep appreciation for this "whoa whoas".
8. Universe - CD Version
Don't bash me but I honestly cannot tell the difference between this version of Universe and the non-CD version of Universe. They're the same length and everything like WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE???? If you know please tweet me @thecaitlynlee because ya girl does not have a clue. Either way, it's still a great song, no matter what version you're listening to so I have no complaints.
Picking Favorites:
I didn't make my ranking so obvious in my reviews this time (right?). Anyways, you guys know already that Good Night is my favorite, but here is my ranking of all the songs!
1. Good Night
2. Fall
3. 지나갈 테니 Been Through
4. Universe (Both CD and non-CD versions)
5. Stay
6. Lights Out
7. Universe - Chinese Version
Final Thoughts:
I think you guys can already tell that I love this album. I really like the different direction that EXO went in for this album and none of the songs disappointed. EXO's winter albums are always my favorite, like find me listening to them any time of the year honestly. I'm really glad I can add this to my EXO winter albums playlist and jam out all year long!!!
As always, thanks so much for reading!! What was your favorite song from Universe?? Let me know!!!
As promised, here are the concept photos for this album!! (Don't forget that you can click the photos to view them larger!)
With Love,
Caitlyn (Park) <3
Buy EXO Universe - Winter Special Album 2017 (Physical)
Buy EXO Universe - Winter Special Album 2017 (Digital)
Listen to EXO Universe on Spotify
Watch EXO Universe Music Video
FOLLOW EXO!
Caitlyn's Links:
YouTube
SoundCloud
$15 Credit for Prints at Parabo.Press with code: UHXOGJ
Become an Urban Decay Beauty Junkie!
PLAY! by Sephora Box
Park Chanyeol aka the barista of my dreams
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)