Kathy's Bench: Oct 8, 2011

By Catherine Deen of OMG Yahoo Philippines

Hallyu superstar Kim Hyun Joong made a promise to his Filipino fans when he swung by Manila for a promotional tour last August. During his press conference at the EDSA Shangri-La hotel, he promised to release an October follow-up to his hit solo debut mini-album, "Breakdown." As far as Henecians, (as his fans are known) are concerned, "Hyunjoongie" never breaks a promise, and look! It's true!

KeyEast Entertainment, Hyun Joong's management, has released the album jacket photo for "Lucky," his second mini-album. The retro-themed album cover features a vintage-styled image of Hyun Joong in a purple and red polo underneath a sports blazer, blue slacks, and three rings on his left hand, which apparently is brushing his ear. In keeping with the "lucky" theme, behind him are faded images of what appear to be lottery cards; in front of him are two cards, one of which features his mascot, U:ZOOSIN, beside the word "Jackpot."

KeyEast has also released the track list of "Lucky." Produced in collaboration with Day Break and Common Ground, the title track and first single is an energetic, guitar-driven uptempo track featuring a brass section - a brass section!! - and plenty of bravado. The mini-album "Lucky" also features the frantic album opener "Do You Like That," the heart-touching ballad "I'm Your Man," and the swoon-inducing love song "U."

Looks like Kim Hyun Joong is really making do with his promises. I distinctly remember him saying that he will try to include a Manila stop to his Asian-wide tour. Given the incredible reception he had the the "Hi-Five Touch" event in Trinoma, will this be the next promise he keeps? Stay tuned.

Are you a Henecian? What do you think of Kim Hyun Joong's new concept?