Singer Taeyang's new solo album "Rise" has been receiving attention both outside and within Korea.

U.S. Billboard spotlighted the Big Bang member's most recent album on June 2, praising Taeyang as a "rare K-Pop R&B star."

The music website and magazine explained the album in depth, stating that the tracks are a mix of dance, hip-hop and gospel type music.

It was noted specifically that the 26-year-old singer eliminated all special effects and sounds, choosing to go with a more simple R&B style melody that allows his soothing vocals to be the main focus of the song.

"Taeyang's new album is quite like John Legends piano performance of 'All of Me' at the Grammy Awards," wrote Billboard.

The music video for Taeyang's title song, "Eyes, Nose, Lips," was released on June 3, along with the album. The highly addictive single features a piano melody along with Taeyang's voice, presenting a clean and fresh R&B sound.

Since its release, "Rise" has been topping iTunes charts all around the world. So far, the album hit No. 13 on the official U.S. iTunes Album charts and No. 1 on the R&B/Soul albums chart, according to the publication Popdust.

"Rise" reached No.10 on the Mexican iTunes album chart and No. 11 in Canada. It's ranked within the top twenty in both Australia and New Zealand.

Taeyang is set to release his first Japanese album on August 13, and will begin his solo tour, "Sol Japan Tour 2014" on August 12.

During a recent interview with Noonchi, Taeyang opened up about his solo career and love for music.

"It was very difficult for me. As a solo artist I'm a certain way, and as a member of Big Bang I have to be different," stated Taeyang, regarding his solo career.

When asked about his thoughts on relationships, the singer gave an honest response, even including his own experience with his first love.

"I know it once I see it. I don't need to have a conversation; I just know it when she passes by. I think to myself 'I need to meet someone like her.' I've already come across three people like that. I slipped on all three. Hopefully, next time," stated Taeyang.

He continued, "My first love. This is before my debut. I think that feeling still lingers. Even now, when I'm sick, or in pain, or tired, I still see her in my dream. It's a long story of how we broke up. It's not that I can't let her go. I still think about her, and I'm not sure if I could meet someone like her, again."