On April 24, Big Ocean brought their ‘THE GREATEST BATTLE’ tour to Avalon Hollywood, delivering a night centered on inclusivity and community. The three-member K-pop group, comprised of Chanyeon, PJ, and Jiseok, was formed by Parastar Entertainment and the first K-pop group with members with hearing impairments. They opened the concert with “Cold Moon,” a track from their latest album, The Greatest Battle. While softer than some of the album’s other songs, the track still carried an energetic atmosphere that had fans cheering from the very beginning. They continued the show by performing every song from their first mini-album, Follow. The set began with “Glow,” followed by “Flow” and “Blow.” What made this section of the concert especially memorable was how, before each song, they took time to teach the audience what they wanted them to do during the performance, whether it was creating a wave from one side of the venue to the other or showing fans how to sign key words that were also incorporated into the choreography. These moments felt special because they encouraged everyone to be involved while also learning throughout the show. Before the solo stages began, fans saw a performance by Big Ocean’s first sub-unit, Big Ocean JJ, made up of PJ and Jiseok, as they performed “Bucket Hat.” The performance carried a youthful yet powerful energy from start to finish, something fans were especially excited for after watching a playful VCR introducing the iconic bucket hat and the amazing powers it had. After performing songs from their previous albums, each solo stage brought a unique atmosphere that allowed the audience to see a different side of each member while also hearing about the inspiration and passion behind their performances. One standout moment came during PJ’s stage, when Jiseok selected a fan from the crowd to play PJ’s “ex” for the duration of the song. That was when we met Miku, who had the chance to share the stage with PJ during his solo performance. We were able to speak with her afterward about the experience. “When I first got called on stage, I didn’t think they were talking to me, but when I realized it was for me, I was confused but also very happy to be chosen by the members to join PJ on the stage! It was truly an amazing experience being on stage and seeing PJ performing his solo song right in front of me. I also had so much fun acting as his ex. It was an unforgettable moment. I miss it already,” she shared. Toward the end of the show, Big Ocean performed their latest title track, “One Man Army,” which recently went viral on social media for both the group’s striking concept and the powerful message behind the song. “One Man Army” speaks about finding the courage and determination to keep fighting even when the odds are against you. Before the performance began, fans were first shown the music video, which added another emotional layer to the experience. Watching the group bring the song’s message to life on stage was powerful and captivating. Big Ocean is a group to watch for their powerful, deep passion for performing. They have created a community where everyone can feel heard and a part of not only at their concerts but also on social media. By incorporating sign language into their choreography, they bring inclusivity and learning opportunities into K-pop. Be sure to follow Big Ocean to keep up to date with its activities. A special thank you to Parastar Entertainment for making the experience possible!

Popularly known as the life of the party wherever he goes, Jackson Wang reminds us that life is a party through the storytelling of his MAGICMAN2 album. The experience is brought even further to life on his latest World Tour of the same name, which kicked off March 31st at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. Opening with the album’s first track, “High Alone,” concertgoers were immediately pulled in by over-the-top theatrics, makeup, styling, and choreography that immersed us in the raw mind and soul behind his layered music. Jackson made his entrance by literally descending from above, setting the tone with the song’s vulnerable messaging. It invited fans to experience the show through a more emotional and personal lens than his previous work. That sense of closeness carried throughout the night. Jackson invited fans onstage for intimate dance moments during songs like “Contact” and “Closer,” bringing them directly into his world and reinforcing their importance in his journey as an entertainer. After making us scream, he made us cry, transitioning into an emotional stretch of the set with songs like “Not For Me,” “Blue,” and “Everything.” His husky vocals and lonely lyrics took us through what felt like every stage of grief, and left us in awe of how far he’s come. But Jackson wouldn’t leave us in that space for long. Making up for the tears, he reignited the crowd with high-energy performances of “BUCK” and “TITANIC,” joined by his fellow crewmates – KINJAZ. Jackson Wang feels like a friend to everyone. He’s the kind of person you feel like you already know, and you probably do, whether it’s from his professional athlete background, his more than 12-year career in music as a K-pop idol, solo artist, and producer, or his knack for popping up in unexpected places alongside fellow entertainers and local celebrities. His magnetism comes from something simple but rare, and that is a genuine love for building deep relationships and constantly creating new connections. The way he blends culture into both his life and music speaks to that authenticity and it’s something that makes his concert experience unique and great. The most stand out part of the night, was by far, witnessing Jackson’s growth as an artist and performer. From upbeat dance tracks to emotional, guttural ballads, to grand-scale choreography complete with acrobatics and pyrotechnics, he commands the stage with a newfound confidence in his vision, artistry, and sense of self. Watching him confront and overcome the darker alter ego that is MAGIC MAN made this new era feel both powerful and deeply personal, leaving fans inspired to reflect on their own journeys. If you’re looking for a much needed escape from the chaos of everyday life, this is one party you don’t want to miss! The MAGICMAN2 tour is happening now! Live your Magic