4Minute’s HyunA has released her third extended play album “A Talk.” HyunA last presented her sultry vocals on the 4Minute mini album “4Minute World”. She received critical acclaim for the growth of her range and performance style on the 2013 Troublemaker album “Chemistry.”

HyunA is undeniably one of the sexiest female vocalists in K-Pop but she has been more restrained on her previous solo releases “Bubble Pop!” and “Melting.”

It is obvious that she no longer wants to be known, outside of K-Pop,as the girl in the music video for PSY’s “Gangnam Style.” On “A Talk,” HyunA approaches the level of confidence and competency that is witnessed with artists like 2NE1’s CL.

The new album opens with a 1:20 introduction track, which sets tone for the rest of the five track album. “A Talk” then transitions to “French Kiss,” a track which is consistent with the trademark sound of 4Minute. “French Kiss” is an uptempo song with lyrics from Brian Lee and EXID’s LE.

The third track on “A Talk” is the lead promotional song “RED.” “RED” is a pop infused electronic dance song that challenges listeners to refrain from dancing.

HyunA is a K-Pop idol who often receives attention by music critics from publications such as “SPIN” ,on a level that is comparable to G-Dragon or CL. This often seems wholly attributed to her stunning appearance. HyunA justifies this level of attention with “RED, “ which will hopefully be a catalyst for future releases. On “RED,” HyunA provides evidence that she can make the transition into the lucrative mainstream EDM market, in a manner similar to CL or G-Dragon.

“From When Until When” incorporates the soulful vocals of BEAST’s Yang Yoseob in a very unique way. HyunA does not have a high vocal range which often presents a challenge for ballads. The addition of Yang Yoseob balances this out, making “From When Until When” one of the standout songs on “A Talk.”

EXID’s LE joins HyunA for the racy song “Blacklist.” HyunA has performed songs that have contained profanity in the past, with one of the most notable instances being her delivery of Chris Brown’s “Birthday Cake.” As opposed to seeming contrived, her hip hop persona on “Blacklist” rings with sincerity.

“Blacklist” is the perfect conclusion to an album where HyunA establishes that she is on a path beyond being 4Minute’s sexpot.

Listen to the new HyunA album ‘A Talk’ HERE.