#all_h_ours

ALL(H)OURS returns with their second mini-album, WITNESS, six months after their debut mini-album, ALL OURS, back in January this year. Comprises of seven members; KUNHO, YOUMIN, XAYDEN, MINJE, MASAMI, HYUNBIN, and ON:N, ALL(H)OURS, is a play on the phrases “all ours” and “all hours” which represents the group’s commitment to always give their all in everything they do.

ALL(H)OURS shares the highlights of their new album, future plan and more in the recent roundtable session with global media outlets.

Is there a reason you went with such up-tempo song to promote this comeback?

YOUMIN: For this comeback, we wanted to showcase our full potential and ambition. We decided that the best way to convey this to the public was through a song that excites and resonates with listeners.

If you were a song from the latest album [WITNESS], which one would you be and why? Which one do you think you resonate with?

XAYDEN : I choose "Blah Blah" because the concept of the song is about a model who exudes coolness effortlessly. I see myself in that role, so I choose this song.

KUNHO: I choose "Bout That Issue" because it is about an issue, or hot topic, and I'd like to be that, the center of the world.

YOUMIN: I think it is "SHOCK" because I have the charm to shock everyone once I make an appearance. 

ON:N: I also choose "SHOCK" because it is a very exciting song, and I think I'm like that.

HYUNBIN: I choose "Blah Blah" because the song sends the message that I'm the best regardless of what others say. I have high self-confidence, so I choose this song.

MINJE: I choose "PSYCHO MANTRA" because I want to be mysterious and I like the dreamy vibe of the song.

MASAMI: I also choose "PSYCHO MANTRA" because it is a dark, chic song and I think it is vibe that I can effortlessly exude.

From left: KUNHO, ON:N

Given that “SHOCK” is a fast-paced, high-energy song, what was the most challenging and enjoyable aspect of learning its choreography?

ON:N: The most challenging part, which we would all agree on, is the dance break. After the bridge, leading up to the highlight, there are several fast-paced and energetic dance moves. It was difficult to express and execute them effectively. We practiced extensively, closely monitored our progress, and worked on enhancing our strength and energy to perform the choreography.

On the other hand, the most enjoyable aspect was the paired choreography, which we had more parts compared to our previous title track, "GOTCHA." Working on that was a genuinely fun experience for us.

All of you are credited for participating in the writing of "ALL OURS" from your debut album and "Blah Blah" from WITNESS. Can you each share what it was like to work on these songs and how you collaborated together on it?

XAYDEN : "Blah Blah" is a song we actually prepared for our debut album, presented to us by our rap instructor with its flow and melody already in place. Our task was to write new lyrics, which initially posed a challenge. With the framework set, our word choices were limited, making it difficult to choose a topic. We decided to brainstorm freely, throwing out any ideas and selecting the best among them. Once the concept of the song took shape, everything else fell into place smoothly.

MASAMI: As I had to write the lyrics in Korean, I faced some challenges. Initially, I wrote the lyrics in Japanese and then translated them into Korean. If I encountered difficulties, I sought help from other members

KUNHO: Additionally, for "Blah Blah," we participated in writing the lyrics, but for "ALL OURS," we were also involved in composing. This allowed us to freely express our colours and thoughts through the song.               

What was your favourite part of being involved in the production process?

HYUNBIN: My favourite part was writing the start of the second verse of "Blah Blah." Additionally, the vocal parts were executed very well by the members, and the lyrics carry significant meanings. All of that combined made it a great experience overall.

MINJE: Also, the part that we put a lot of effort into was when we sing "we make a new wave." It's a very high-pitched part, so it was challenging to sing. Overcoming that challenge makes this part especially meaningful to us.

ON:N: To add on to the lyrics "we make a new wave," the song flows with a rap part following a verse, then the pre-chorus explodes with a high-pitched note. I believe it's the highlight of the song, so please keep a close eye on it.

From left: XAYDEN, HYUNBIN, MINJE

Coming back so soon after your debut, what has been the biggest difference this time around, beyond showcasing a new colour and discovering a new sound?

XAYDEN : For our debut, we focused on showcasing the songs and dances we had practiced so far. With our second album, based on our prior experience, we learned the importance of even the smallest facial expressions on stage. We paid attention to how we would be portrayed through the lens of the camera and made sure not to show our fatigue while performing strenuous choreography. I think these are areas where we've grown.

YOUMIN: I personally think that to pull off the song "SHOCK," a certain level of muscle mass was needed. So, all the members worked out diligently not only to lose weight but also to build physical strength and power.

Do you have any songs, movies or shows that have inspired your personal or musical styles?

YOUMIN: Personally, I've been greatly inspired by Justin Bieber. Listening to his songs helped me practice vocalization. Our members know this well because I used to listen to his songs all day. So, I would say Justin Bieber's voice has been a major inspiration for me.

ON:N: My role model is Taemin from SHINee, and I had the privilege of meeting him when we performed at NGLA in April. I told him he's my role model, and he responded by saying that he should work harder, which deepened my respect for him. I greatly admire his mindset and his dance moves, and I aspire to follow in his footsteps.

KUNHO: Also, inspired by the concept of goblins, our album drew inspiration from various anime and movie characters, including those from Marvel and DC movies. Personally, I found inspiration in the movie "Fast and Furious" for its themes of speed and power.

Now that we are halfway through the year, how do you plan to continue making your mark in the remaining months?

KUNHO: As the title track suggests, "SHOCK," we aimed to make a significant impact on the K-pop industry. To increase our recognition, we incorporated Drift Phonk into K-pop, and we will continue challenging ourselves with new genres to constantly present new versions of ourselves to our fans.

XAYDEN: We also have several events planned overseas, and through various activities both in Korea and abroad, we want to let people know more about our group, ALL(H)OURS. If we get the chance and time within the year, I'd love to make another comeback.

From left: MASAMI, YOUMIN

What kind of legacy would you like to leave behind as ALL(H)OURS members?

KUNHO: I aspire to become someone who can make a positive impact and serve as a role model for others to aspire to emulate.

XAYDEN : I'd love to compose and write lyrics, so I want to write a hit-song for our group. I want to leave it as a legacy for ALL(H)OURS.

Is there a message that you'd like to leave for your fans?

YOUMIN: I always express to our fans how grateful we are for their love and support, and we strive to reciprocate that love through our performances on stage. As we move forward, we will draw energy from your support during the promotion of "SHOCK" and in all our future activities. We promise to keep evolving and showing you even better versions of ourselves. We love you all!

KUNHO: To our fans abroad, we will engage with you through various media and create diverse video content. Please continue to send us your love and support.

Thank you EDEN Entertainment and Helix Publicity for the invitation.

Watch ALL(H)OURS '도깨비(SHOCK)' MV here!

*photos courtesy of EDEN Entertainment

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