K-pop boy group EVNNE made their first comeback with their second mini album, [Un: SEEN], on January 22nd, 2024. The title track, “UGLY,” is a song that blends together elements of tech house, R&B, and heavy bass, creating a unique and catchy melody and hook. Just like the release of their first mini album, [Target: ME], this album’s goal is to show off the group’s free-spirited image, emphasizing their strengths and their versatility.
Although the goals of [Target: ME] and [Un: SEEN] are similar, the members still find that there are differences between the two mini albums, musically and lyrically. “We aimed to reveal a stronger and more intense side of EVNNE to the public,” started SEUNGEON. “Our previous album portrayed a naughty boys’ image, and in this one, we embraced a more mature persona.” Building a little more on the concept, JIHOO also shared his thoughts: “Our previous album revolved around positioning us as the “target,” capturing the audience’s attention. In [the new album], we aimed to showcase the dual aspects of the group— the visible and the hidden.”
Just like the previous album, a few members also took part in writing and composing for [Un: SEEN]. However, HANBIN shared that, just between the first and second mini albums, the group has already evolved and grown. “For our debut album, we were mostly involved in lyrics writing, but for this album, we expanded our roles to include composing. This allowed us to showcase the individual abilities of each member and served as an opportunity to witness the potential we hold as a group.”
“I participated in the lyrics and composition of the song, “Festa,” started leader KEITA. “The inspiration for this track stemmed from the festive atmosphere during a fan meet-up and the excitement I had while interacting with our fans. I drew a comparison between that to a festival.” Continuing on, SEUNGEON also shares his process for writing the fourth track, “Chase.” “Initially, I got into the process with the mindset to challenge myself and to gain experience. I concentrated on writing lyrics with pronunciation that complements the melody and aligns with the dreamy vibe of the song,” he said. “I’m pleased to have shared my lyrics with our fans through this song.” Participating in penning “Syrup,” JEONGHYEON explained, “Drawing a parallel between the group’s irresistible charms and the word ‘syrup,’ I aimed to emphasize our talents and appeal through the lyrics. My goal was to encapsulate all of our charms in this song, allowing listeners to get a good sense of what it is by simply listening to the song.”
“While we initially portrayed a younger, immature version of troublemakers in the title track of our previous album, “TROUBLE,” the representation of troublemakers in this album takes on a more mature tone, delving into individual pain that we’ve never revealed before. I believe the title track truly encapsulates the refined image of troublemakers we aim to convey to the world in this album.”
Ji Yunseo
Even with five diverse songs on the mini album, the group agreed that their title track is a perfect representation of who EVNNE is. “As EVNNE takes on the concept of troublemakers, I think the track “UGLY” best captures this. We’re able to show an intense, powerful aspect of the group through this song,” began JEONGHYEON. “Until now, we haven’t been able to showcase a particularly powerful side of the group. I hope to demonstrate this facet of our group through “UGLY,” he concluded. Adding on to his member’s sentiments, YUNSEO agreed that the new song portrays a new side of the group: “While we initially portrayed a younger, immature version of troublemakers in the title track of our previous album, “TROUBLE,” the representation of troublemakers in this album takes on a more mature tone, delving into individual pain that we’ve never revealed before. I believe the title track truly encapsulates the refined image of troublemakers we aim to convey to the world in this album.”
Releasing [Un: SEEN] to showcase the group’s diverse charms, the members also have their own thoughts on what makes them special: “EVNNE has more rappers than vocalists, so inevitably, we often present hip-hop type of music to the public,” started YUNSEO. “The vocalists skillfully contribute to the group’s mood with tones that harmonize seamlessly with the overall vibe, which in turn complements the rap verses in our music. This synergy between the vocalists and the rappers creates a unique charm for EVNNE as a group. Additionally, our stage presence is marked by its intense and powerful energy, which is another significant strength for us.” SEUNGEON also chimed in, “Each member of EVNNE is highly versatile, possessing exceptional abilities and skills. We’re all capable of handling various parts of a song or any position within the group. We are not tied to any specific genres or concepts, allowing us to tackle any type of music.”
Despite this being the group’s first comeback, EVNNE has already achieved some of their goals with this recent release: “My goal [for our group] would be winning first place on a music show,” shared SEUNGEON. “In this comeback, we secured the top spot on the Bugs music charts, and I wish to attain similar success on other charts, with a particular dream of making it onto the Billboard charts someday.” At time of press, EVNNE has already won their first and second music show wins on Show Champion and Music Bank.
