THUNDER FEVER is CIX’s most dynamic album yet. In this exclusive interview, the group opens up about their bold new sound and the emotional depth behind their music.
CIX is a powerhouse in the K-Pop industry, known for their incredible talent, magnetic presence, and ever-evolving sound. Since their debut in 2019, the group has consistently delivered dynamic music that resonates with fans worldwide. Originally a five-member group, CIX has transformed into an even more powerful force as a four-member unit. From their Hello Chapter series to the OK episodes, their discography is filled with genre-defying tracks that showcase their versatility and artistry. With every release, CIX brings fresh energy, leaving a lasting impact on the K-Pop scene and proving their undeniable musical brilliance.
Their latest release, THUNDER FEVER, is no exception. Dropped on January 23, 2025, this mini album explores the tumultuous nature of emotions, blending intense, stormy imagery with personal reflections. The title track, "THUNDER," is an electrifying display of their talent, with an infectious electronic pop beat and a powerful dance break that captures the CIX’s talents like never before. The album’s five tracks each tell their own compelling story, showcasing CIX’s growth and their ability to dive deep into complex emotions while maintaining their signature sound.
In this exclusive interview, we sit down with CIX to learn more about their journey as a group, their growth as artists, and the creative process behind THUNDER FEVER. The members open up about their challenges, their newfound resiliency, and what’s next as they continue to push boundaries and redefine K-Pop. Get ready for an inside look at CIX, one of the most talented and exciting groups to in generation four K-Pop.
Hello CIX! Congratulations on the release of your seventh mini album, THUNDER FEVER. What was the creative process like for this album, and how does it feel to finally share it with your fans?
HYUNSUK: The process wasn’t much different from our previous albums, but we started working on the album a little earlier this time. Perhaps because we enjoyed the recording process and music video shoot, the preparation felt much shorter than it actually was. We felt confident about this album, as we dedicated a lot of time and teamwork to enhancing the quality of our performance. Since we put so much into the preparation, we were excited to present it to FIX.
With THUNDER FEVER marking a new chapter for CIX, how does it build upon your previous albums, especially in terms of musical style and concepts?
BX: Like our previous albums, this album also includes a variety of genres, such as dance, electronic, and ballad. I believe that our ability to seamlessly embody and perform any genre or concept in CIX’s unique style represents the true ‘growth’ we want to showcase to our audience through this album. We still have so much more to show you in the future, so please continue to support us!
CIX is constantly pushing boundaries. How did working on THUNDER FEVER help you discover new sides of yourselves as artists?
YONGHEE: I’ve improved my ability to express a wider range of facial expressions more quickly and actively. I practiced a lot because I wanted to convey richer emotions that matched the energy and uniqueness of this song on stage. I personally think I’m doing well, and I hope our fans enjoy this side of me, too.
SEUNGHUN: I once again realized how hard I can push myself. I’ve always taken pride in making the most of my time, but while preparing for this album, I experienced a lot of changes in my surroundings and environment. That made me even more determined to do well and work harder.
The album explores powerful emotions like anxiety and desire. How did each of you connect personally to the themes while creating the music?
BX: I think I find it harder to focus when I try to connect my real self with the version of me in the album’s universe or storyline. However, when I have to think about the concept, I try to block out unnecessary thoughts and immerse myself in the concept completely. I tried to be a powerful lightning bolt—do you guys think I succeeded?
HYUNSUK: These emotions are critical in creating a stronger team, but during the album preparation process, I often find myself feeling anxious about my work and passionate about giving my best effort at the same time. I believe these emotions naturally became embedded in the album. Normally, I would try to suppress them, but this time, they helped me embody the concept and created great synergy.
“Thunder” is an incredibly powerful title track. Can you walk us through the concept behind the song and how it reflects the album’s themes?
YONGHEE: This song captures the confusion and electrifying sensation that comes with love as intense as thunder or lightning. As the title track, I believe it represents the album THUNDER FEVER most accurately.
CIX is known for creating title tracks that get stuck in listeners’ heads. What makes “Thunder” different from or similar to your previous title tracks?
HYUNSUK: I think the common factor is that our songs leave a strong impression and get stuck in your head instantly as if you’ve been struck by lightning—just as the title suggests. The difference would be the added intensity, especially in the dance break section.
YONGHEE: Like all of CIX’s songs, I think the addictive melody is the common factor. The difference this time is that we have the most intense and fast-paced choreography yet!
Fans love to talk about the ‘killing parts’ of your songs. Are there any specific lyrics or moments in “Thunder” that you think will stand out and leave a lasting impression on fans?
SEUNGHUN: The line “Rougher, shaking my whole body, dampen me” naturally makes me think of a powerful thunderstorm with heavy rain, which is why I consider it the killing part of the song. As for the dance, I believe the part where I move my body in sync with the beat at the center of the stage around the end of the first verse is the killing part.
BX: This song has a separate dance break at the end where you can fully enjoy our performance. It’s very pleasant and thrilling when the intense choreography fits perfectly with the song, and I believe our fans will notice and love that part.
Your music videos always elevate the songs. What were some of the most challenging moments during the filming of “Thunder,” and how did you overcome them?
SEUNGHUN: The first thing that comes to mind is the choreography! This is our most powerful choreography yet, and filming the synchronized group dance scenes for the music video was the most challenging part. However, since the atmosphere on set was lively and fun, all the members and the dancers were able to enjoy the filming process.
HYUNSUK: This was our first time filming a music video abroad. Unlike designated sets and studios, where unexpected situations rarely occur, we filmed in locations like shopping streets, which made it challenging to secure filming spots. However, thanks to the help of many staff members, we were able to complete the music video successfully.
Were there any surprises or unexpected moments during the making of THUNDER FEVER that stood out to you?
BX: We filmed the music video outside of Korea and had an additional shoot in Korea. The final scene filmed in Korea was a dance performance on a helipad. Unfortunately, it rained and snowed heavily that day, so we couldn’t include that scene in the final product, which was a bit disappointing. However, the finished music video turned out so amazing that all my disappointment faded, and I felt completely satisfied.
What’s been the most rewarding part of working on THUNDER FEVER? Is there a particular moment or achievement with this album that you're especially proud of?
YONGHEE: I was personally very satisfied with how amazing the jacket photos turned out! Since our fans have waited for us for a long time, I wanted to show an improved version of myself. I practiced a lot and focused on personal growth while preparing for this album, and seeing those efforts reflected on stage makes me proud.
SEUNGHUN: The biggest motivation behind this album was the love our fans have shown us. When our fans, who had waited for us with endless support, thanked us for simply being ourselves, that moment made me incredibly proud. I think the greatest achievement of this album is that our love and trust in each other have grown even stronger.
With this being your seventh mini album, how do you feel CIX’s sound has evolved since your debut?
BX: CIX always prioritizes the quality of our songs when preparing for an album. We constantly discuss how to enhance our music, and I believe our collective efforts have accumulated over time, allowing us to develop the ability to create even greater music. Moving forward, we will continue to stay true to our unique identity while presenting a variety of styles that keep things fresh and exciting. Please continue to cheer on CIX’s journey!
HYUNSUK: We worked hard to bring you a diverse range of music. I hope CIX’s individuality shines through within that variety. It felt as challenging as cooking a nice fusion dish, but once you listen to the album, you will know we succeeded in our goal! I feel like we have taken another step forward.
You’ve made so many amazing tracks—if you had to pick a song from your entire discography that best matches your personality, which one would it be and why?
BX: I think the song “REWIND” suits me the best. I believe it’s one of the coolest songs we’ve released, and as a rapper, I prefer strong, intense songs to which I can freely add my rap.
SEUNGHUN: I think “THUNDER” is the song that suits me the most. Once you see the performance, you’ll understand why I feel so confident about it!
YONGHEE: I like “Wave.” I personally resonate with refreshing songs, so I think it’s the track I can manifest the most successfully.
HYUNSUK: I like songs like “458” that have an explosive feeling. I think it best captures my powerful stage presence.
If each of you had a superpower from THUNDER FEVER, what would it be and why?
BX: I want the ability to turn back time. If I could rewind time, I think I’d be able to correct the things I regret.
SEUNGHUN: How about the power to capture hearts? Anyone who makes eye contact with me will instantly become our fan! What an exciting idea!
YONGHEE: This might be a bit of an eccentric and goofy idea, but I’d love to throw a baseball at 200 km/h and make history in the baseball world.
HYUNSUK: I would like to be able to teleport. I can use the time I save on traveling for self-improvement and rest!
Lastly, please leave a message for FIX reading this.
SEUNGHUN: Please continue to show lots of love and support for CIX! Your endless love and encouragement give us the strength and determination to keep moving forward. We will always stay true to our original intentions and continue striving for the top as a team. We love you!
Listen to CIX's discography on Spotify or Apple Music.
*Special thanks to the members of CIX, C9 Entertainment, and Helix Publicity for this exclusive interview.
Image and Video Credits: C9 Entertainment