VAV is back and ready to capture fans' hearts in this exclusive interview.
The return of VAV in the K-Pop scene can be summed up in a single word: finally. This moniker perfectly captures the collective sigh of relief fans, and peers felt about the group's long-awaited return. And it's no wonder the third-generation idol group, which has long been considered underrated for various reasons, is starting to get the recognition they deserve.
Since their debut in 2015, A Team Entertainment's boy group, VAV, has emerged as a hidden gem in third-generation K-Pop. Consisting of members St.Van, Ace, Ayno, Jacob, Lou, and Ziu, VAV recently returned to the K-Pop scene with Subcönscióus, marking their first comeback after nearly three years (two years and nine months, to be exact) since Made For Two was released in September of 2020.
Admittedly, we, like many others across the globe, were late to the fandom, as they first caught our attention in 2019 with their first self-produced album, THRILLA KILLA. Now four years later, we can't imagine an industry without them. They have shown tremendous talent, earning positive comments from fans across the globe for their live vocals during previous tours as well as most recently on the YouTube channel "it's Live."
With ethereal visuals, strong vocal and rap prowess, astounding dance skills, and mature charms, VAV has proven time and again that they are a group worth paying attention to.
To commemorate VAV's long-awaited comeback, the members joined me to dish on their latest album, Subcönscióus, what VAV means to them, share a special message for VAMPZ, and more. Keep reading to learn more about St.Van, Ace, Ayno, Jacob, Lou, and Ziu!
First of all, congratulations on the release of your latest album, “Subcönscióus.” It’s so great to have VAV back! How does it feel to be back on the K-Pop scene? Did you feel any pressure making this comeback?
VAV (ACE): I would say we were indeed overwhelmed by this comeback, not only because it has been a while since we released a new album but also because we were highly involved in the production process. However, the happiness and the hopes we had preparing for this album were actually greater than the pressure we felt.
When you stepped back into the studio together, how did that experience feel? Was it different than your previous releases?
VAV (ST.VAN): We had a very long hiatus, so every moment I spent preparing was exciting yet nervous at the same time.
VAV (AYNO): It was a moment we all confirmed that the members want to continue as one, as VAV. It was truly an unforgettable and precious moment.
What did you miss the most about being away for so long?
VAV (JACOB): I missed performing on stage with the members, and our fans, VAMPZ.
That time spent away from VAMPZ must have evoked a spark or passion to return on stage. Did that play a role in the creation of this album?
VAV (ACE): Of course. There were some challenging moments during the production process, but we managed to pull through thinking about presenting our music to our fans. “Designer” is such a lively, charismatic song that takes listeners on such a fun ride. What would you say was the primary goal or intended feeling you wanted to convey with the track?
VAV (AYNO): I hope all the listeners of “Designer” would go ahead and design their own life without being too self-conscious! I really want this track to boost their self-esteem whenever people listen to it.
What was the most difficult track to record for you on the album?
VAV (ST.VAN): I found “Cause I Miss You” challenging because it was a type of song that I shouldn’t be too relaxed or too pumped up while singing it.
All six members participated in the production of the album. Can you tell us more about each of your roles?
VAV (ST.VAN): All of the members participated in the production of the album, including choosing the concept and our outfits as well as selecting the tracks to be included. LOU wrote the lyrics to the title song, and ACE wrote the lyrics to “Call U Mine” and “Reason.”AYNO choreographed for “Call U Mine” and wrote, “By My Side.” And the last track, “Cause I Miss You” was written by me and LOU. As you can see, members participated greatly in this album which makes this album more special.
Additionally, Members LOU and AYNO participated in writing the lyrics for “Designer.” Can you tell us about your creative process? What inspired you to write the song?
VAV(LOU): I was really self-conscious growing up. But if someone had told me that the path I have chosen is right and that I should go ahead with it without worrying too much, it would have been very encouraging to me. I wrote the lyrics to “Designer,” wishing to encourage like-minded people.
What does VAV mean to you?
VAV(ST.VAN): VAV is entirely me, Lee Geum Hyuk (ST.VAN’s birth name). I have spent most of my life as a part of VAV.
VAV(ACE): It is like a gift that was given to me as I was living an ordinary life. VAV is a great gift and a blessing, and I want to continue treasuring it.
VAV(AYNO): It represents the epitome of my bright 20s.
VAV(JACOB): VAV is like my home.
VAV(LOU): VAV is like a flower in a pot. It is a group that I slowly look after to make sure it grows well.
VAV(ZIU): A family.