Mesmerizing vocals, gloomy, psychedelic sounds, and clean instrumentals. Nell made their mark as an indie rock band and effortlessly conquered both mainstream and underground stages with their music. The band formed in 1999 and were picked up by the legend of K-pop, Seo Taiji himself while they were playing at a live club at the home of many indie bands, Hongdae. They were the first band to be signed by Goesoo Indigene, the entertainment company created by Seo Taiji. Consisting of Kim Jong Wan (vocal), Lee Jae Kyung (lead guitar), Lee Jung Hoon (bass), and Jung Jae Won (drum), Nell is now considered one of the best rock bands in Korea.



Heavily influenced by British bands such as Radiohead and Muse, Nell's songs take you down the path of a heavy and depressing memory lane, but does it in a very beautiful and dream-like way, making you appreciate those unwanted memories. "Time of walking on remembrance" from Nell's 6th album, 'Separation Anxiety' is named one of the top songs that Nell released (daum music). The relaxing melody created by a keyboard along with the beats accompanies the sentimental lyrics. Kim Jong Wan's soft yet powerful vocals soak you with various emotions.


MV with English subtitles here .

Although many people argue about Nell's identity, the once indie group was signed under WOOLLIM Entertainment (the same one as INFINITE!) since 2006 and are technically not considered an "indie" group anymore. But to everyone's relief, the band still veers away from mainstream music shows and even managed to keep their own color to their music. "Thank You" (2004)


"Thank You" performed live here.

Dubbed as "a cure for loners", Nell guested on 'Yoo Hee Yeol's Sketchbook' back in April with their latest album, 'Slip Away', while unveiling some questions about Nell as a band and as individuals. Kim Jong Wan said when he was asked why he only writes songs with heavy topics, "I think I am mostly outside playing when I'm happy. But when I'm alone, I don't really feel necessarily happy."

"And the things that were left behind" (2012)



After their 7th album, 'Slip Away' was released, top idols such as Taecyeon and Kang Ji Young even admitted that they were suffering from "Nell-syndrome". The music of Nell captures the hearts of many listeners because of the way it reflects with those who have been in love or have experienced hurt and pain. Rather than focusing on the feel-good sounds that most indie bands produce, Nell drags out the darkest memories, acting like alcohol to a deep cut; it stings but it will heal you.

'Slip Away' was their best album yet, and definitely worth the wait as it was packed with music that has sophisticated layers of sounds and beats. And unlike their earlier albums, where it included a lot of shouting and hard-rock guitar sounds, this album showed how mature Nell has gotten throughout the years.

Nell will continue to amaze the public with their consistent yet revolutionary melodies and with the hopes of opening grounds for both indie and Korean rock-bands.

== Additional Recommendations:

01. "Stay" [Let It Rain]

02. "Beautiful Stranger" [Slip Away]

03. "Peterpan has died"

04.  "Can you shut up for 1 minute"

05. "Good Night"