Cho Duk-Bae Vol. 1 (조덕배 1집) (1985)

Seven years after an unsuccessful independent release, Cho Duk-Bae made his official debut with this record in 1985. Cho’s laid-back, soothing folk style, and his signature lyrical themes: nighttime, mysterious women, yearning etc. are all on display here. Though it doesn’t get billing on the front cover, the leadoff track “My Old Story,” a plea to a lover that got away, is the best-known song from this album.

This album today is available on CD as a two-for-one package featuring Cho’s first two albums, and the track sequencing is different. The sequence here is the original one.

Image via ManiaDB

Cho Yong-Pil Vol. 7 (조용필 7집) (1985)

Released in 1985, Cho's 7th album is considered by many to be one of his best. Rockers like "Yesterday, Today, And...," "Oh Darling," "The Unknown World," and the oft-covered "We're Going on a Trip," all collaborations with Ha Ji-Yeong, are among his best-known songs. However, the ballads "You, Who I See in Tears" and "Wildflower" are also standouts, as well as the Yoo Jae-Ha composition "Because I Love."

Cho's output is extensive and consistently high-caliber, so trying to choose individual albums among his many releases can be a daunting task. However, for the prospective collector, this album wouldn't be a bad place to start.

Cover art via ManiaDB.