Since bursting onto the scene on June 8, 2021, EPEX has been making waves in the K-Pop industry. Comprising the exceptional talents of WISH, KEUM, MU, A-MIN, BAEKSEUNG, AYDEN, YEWANG, and JEFF, this powerhouse octet has consistently shattered norms and pushed the boundaries, redefining the very essence of music and expanding its possibilities.
The group recently made a compelling return with their sixth mini-album, Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2: Can We Surrender?. Marking the culmination of their Bipolar album series that commenced with their debut in 2021, this EP delves into the harsh realities faced by boys when pushed to their limits. It artfully concludes the themes of adolescent anxiety and first love explored in the earlier Prelude of Anxiety and Prelude of Love series.
Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2: Can We Surrender? is a clear indication of EPEX's evolution and growth, encompassing a broad spectrum of musical styles while conveying powerful messages. Notably, the title track, "FULL METAL JACKET," marks a distinct deviation from their customary style – an intense, rock-heavy composition that defies their previous title tracks.
In a recent media roundtable interview, the members share insights into the making of their latest album, how they've matured since their debut, and give fans a glimpse into the inspiration behind this bold musical move.
In a spectacular journey through their latest album, Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2: Can We Surrender?, EPEX members share exclusive insights, offering fans a glimpse into the intense preparation, societal messages, and the evolution of their music.
Memorable Moments and Intensity Unleashed
"FULL METAL JACKET" emerged as a hard-hitting, rock-heavy anthem, diverging from EPEX's traditional sound. YEWANG reminisces about the first encounter with the song during album preparation, highlighting the choreography's incredible intensity that left the entire group in awe. A-MIN adds to the narrative, revealing the novelty of working with backup dancers, a fresh experience that marked a memorable moment in their artistic journey.
"This was the first time we worked with backup dancers for our performance, and the practice sessions with them were a new experience for us. It's a memorable moment for me." - A-MIN
Showcasing Charms Through Melody and Lyrics
Choosing a song that encapsulates the essence of EPEX is no easy task, given the diversity within their discography. AYDEN nominates "No Roof," emphasizing its reflective lyrics portraying a teenage mindset and its embodiment of EPEX's distinct vibe. BAEKSEUNG, on the other hand, champions the title track, "FULL METAL JACKET," recognizing its alignment with the group's strong and intense style.
"I personally recommend the track 'No Roof.' The lyrics reflect the mindset of a teenage boy, and the song carries EPEX's distinct vibe. I would say this track truly embodies the essence of EPEX." - AYDEN
"I believe that the title track of this album, 'FULL METAL JACKET,' truly represents our unique style. While promoting this song, I noticed that the strong and intense style aligns perfectly with EPEX, from observing the facial expressions or the performances of the members." - BAEKSEUNG
Coping with Realities and Resonating Messages
Since their debut, EPEX has fearlessly addressed social issues that resonate with today's youth. KEUM sheds light on their approach to dealing with tough topics, emphasizing the importance of remaining cool-headed. In moments of downtime, the members opt for individual pursuits, catching up on sleep. However, in times of stress, they come together to talk or make up for lost sleep.
"The message we aim to convey through this album is not to avoid difficult situations, but rather to encourage everyone to come together to face them." - KEUM
Dark and Light Concepts: A Balancing Act
EPEX seamlessly navigates between dark and light concepts, with BAEKSEUNG expressing a personal affinity for both. However, he notes the group's growing confidence in embracing the dark concept during the promotion of their latest album. Looking ahead, EPEX plans to experiment with a range of concepts, teasing the possibility of a more mature version in their next album.
"I personally believe that both concepts suit the members really well. However, during the promotion of this album, I feel like we've grown more confident in embracing the dark concept." - BAEKSEUNG
Future Themes: Evolving Perspectives
As the members transition into adulthood, AYDEN reveals a shift in their thematic focus. With all members no longer minors, the group plans to explore more adult-oriented issues in the future. Topics like unemployment may find their way into upcoming albums, presenting these issues from EPEX's unique perspective and stylistic approach.
"Starting this year, all EPEX members are no longer minors. This means that in the future, we may tackle more adult-oriented issues rather than teenage concerns. For instance, topics like unemployment could be addressed." - AYDEN
Maturity Across Comebacks: A Constant Evolution
Reflecting on their maturity through each comeback, YEWANG emphasizes that with every new song and promotional cycle, the members achieve their intended goals from previous promotions. KEUM sheds light on the challenges faced during their latest comeback, citing the highly intense choreography as the most significant hurdle that tested their stamina and mental strength.
"Given the highly intense choreography for this comeback, I believe the most significant challenge for us was maintaining the stamina and mental strength required to endure it all." - KEUM
"With every new song and comeback, I believe that all the members achieve what they had in mind during their previous promotions." - YEWANG
Impactful Narratives: Connecting with Fans
With Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2: Can We Surrender?, the group aspires to connect with fans on a deep, emotional level. WISH expresses the hope that fans perceive the sincerity of their message as young adults. The goal is for fans in the same age group to relate and feel a shared emotional journey through the song.
"I hope that the fans think that we are saying what we can about this issue as young adults ourselves. I also wish that fans in the same age group could relate and feel that we've shared our emotions all together through the song." - WISH
Bipolarity and Musical Expression: A Journey Across Albums
Exploring the theme of bipolarity in "FULL METAL JACKET," WISH and AYDEN share insights into the integration of anxiety and teenage love into their albums. AYDEN notes the progression from exploring love in their previous album to delving into the highest level of anxiety in the latest release. The Bipolar album series, spanning six EPs, marks a journey of artistic evolution for EPEX.
"The themes of anxiety and the love experienced by teenage boys have been integrated into the albums. The title track, 'FULL METAL JACKET,' delves into the most significant level of anxiety so far." - WISH
"In our previous album, we explored the theme of love, and in this album, we delve into the highest level of anxiety." - AYDEN
Inviting Newcomers into EPEX's World
For those new to EPEX, WISH and AYDEN recommend "SUNSHOWER" as the perfect starting point. With its pleasing sound and broad appeal, the song serves as an introduction to EPEX's musical versatility. AYDEN encourages listeners to explore other tracks, realizing the diversity of EPEX's capabilities.
"I recommend the song 'SUNSHOWER.' It's a track with a pleasing sound and a public appeal, making it a song that sounds great right from the first listen." - WISH
"I agree with WISH. 'SUNSHOWER' is a fantastic song to get to know EPEX for the first time. Then, I would love for them to try listening to other songs and realize that EPEX is capable of many different things." - AYDEN
Legacy Aspirations
Looking into the future, the members share their aspirations for EPEX's legacy. YEWANG envisions the group being remembered as a team of eight talented, well-rounded, and handsome boys who share their stories through music. MU aspires for EPEX to be hailed as a legendary group capable of flawlessly executing a wide range of concepts. KEUM dreams of their inclusion in a K-pop textbook, solidifying their impact on the genre.
"I hope our group is remembered as a team of eight talented, well-rounded, and handsome boys who share their own stories with the public through music." - YEWANG
"Furthermore, I want EPEX to be remembered as a legendary group capable of flawlessly executing a wide range of concepts." - MU
"To be more specific, if there was ever to be a textbook on K-pop, I would want EPEX to be included in it as an example." - KEUM
Visuals, Team Atmosphere, and Musical Style
When asked about their biggest strengths and charms, the members provide diverse perspectives. KEUM humorously points to their visuals, highlighting the group's aesthetic appeal. BAEKSEUNG emphasizes the friendly atmosphere they create as a team, coupled with their unique musical style and performance. MU believes the group possesses charms that are unique to them, setting them apart in the industry.
"Our visuals!" - KEUM
"I personally believe it's the friendly atmosphere we create as a team and the unique music style and performance that only EPEX can deliver." - BAEKSEUNG
"I'm convinced that the charms we possess as a group are unique to us and cannot be found in any other." - MU
Focused Musical Storytelling: Lyrics, Singing, and Dancing
YEWANG directs attention to the depth of EPEX's musical storytelling, urging fans to pay close attention to the song lyrics. As artists tailoring their music to their age group, he encourages listeners to appreciate the unique singing and dancing style that defines EPEX.
"Since we infuse our own stories into our music, I hope people pay attention to the song lyrics. Additionally, as artists who create music tailored to our age group, I hope people pay close attention to our singing and dancing style." - YEWANG
Evolution Across the Bipolar Series
Discussing the evolution across the Bipolar album series, WISH and AYDEN highlight the improvement in individual skills and a more detailed, comprehensive approach to lyrics. WISH notes the sharpening of the message conveyed through their music, making it clearer over time. AYDEN emphasizes the natural progression in expressing emotions as their skills are enhanced.
"Our individual skills have definitely improved, and I can confidently say that the content of our lyrics has become more detailed and comprehensive. Initially, our lyrics might have been a bit too abstract, but over time, we've sharpened the message we aim to convey through our music, making it clearer." - WISH
"With the enhancement of our individual skills, we've naturally become more adept at expressing our emotions. Additionally, as all of our songs are enjoyable to listen to, we've also developed better ways to express them." - AYDEN
Farewell to Bipolarity: A Culmination of Love and Anxiety
As the Bipolar series concludes, A-MIN shares a final sentiment, highlighting the exploration of love and anxiety intertwined. The six EPs have allowed EPEX to delve into the finer details of the broader message they wish to convey, marking a culmination of artistic exploration.
"When we initially made our debut with the Bipolar album series, we explored the message that love and anxiety are closely intertwined. Over the course of the six EPs, I believe we've delved into the finer details of the broader message we want to convey." - A-MIN
What Lies Ahead for EPEX?
With the Bipolar series behind them, the members tease what lies ahead for EPEX. KEUM shares spoilers about the upcoming music, encouraging fans to anticipate the group's continued evolution. A-MIN expresses excitement about exploring a wider range of concepts and styles now that the series has concluded, promising a dynamic future for EPEX.
"We've already shared some spoilers with our fans about the music we've been working on. I hope our fans look forward to how EPEX will continue to evolve and what concept and song we'll have for our next comeback." - KEUM
"We've been alternating between two contrasting concepts throughout the Bipolar series, but now that the series has concluded, we're excited to explore a wider range of concepts and styles in our future releases." - A-MIN
As EPEX bids farewell to the Bipolar series, their journey continues with a promise of innovation, versatility, and a commitment to delivering music that resonates on a profound level. With each chapter, they invite fans to join them on a musical odyssey that transcends genres and expectations, solidifying their status as trailblazers in the world of K-pop.
Connect with EPEX on X, X(Members), Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Listen to their discography on Spotify.
*Special thanks to the members of EPEX, C9 Entertainment, and Helix Publicity for inviting Hellokpop to participate in this media roundtable.
Image and Video Credits: C9 Entertainment