“We want to hear that our group ‘KARD’ has paved the way for co-ed groups.” (Reflecting on the debut of ‘All Day Project’, a co-ed group under The Black Label)
“I hope this leads to a boom in co-ed groups.”
This may sound somewhat pretentious, but it is true. The only co-ed group that has actively continued to work in the music industry so far is KARD (J.Seph, Somin, BM, Jiwoo). Of course, if you look closely, there are co-ed teams across various genres, but KARD is the only team that aims for trendy music with idol backgrounds.
KARD recently made a comeback with their mini album ‘DRIFT’, marking their return to the public after a long time. It has been about a year since the release of their mini album ‘Where to Now’ last August. During their meeting with Maeil Business Newspaper's Star Today, the members repeatedly apologized to their fans for the long hiatus.
“It took us 11 months just to gather songs. We wanted to collect good songs and share great music, which took a long time. We apologize to the fans who have waited so long. However, we have returned confidently and proudly in the way that we and our fans wanted.” (J.Seph)
The reason this comeback is particularly noteworthy is due to the recent launch of the new co-ed group ‘All Day Project’ by The Black Label, led by producer Teddy. This team has garnered significant attention in the music industry, especially with member Annie, who is known to be the daughter of Shinsegae's Vice Chairman Jeong Yoo-kyung.
BM stated, “It’s true that interest in co-ed groups has increased with the debut of All Day Project. They are an amazing team,” adding, “Thanks to them, we are also being exposed and mentioned, and we hope our songs are heard in many places as well.”
This year marks their 8th anniversary since debut. While All Day Project is currently a hot topic, KARD's consistent efforts in paving the way for co-ed groups should not be overlooked. Somin expressed, “Seeing the debut of All Day Project, I wonder if it was because of us that another co-ed group emerged. I hope more co-ed groups will follow in the footsteps of KARD and All Day Project.”
She also mentioned, “Our team has a certain maturity and composure that comes with age. Just by looking at the stage, All Day Project exudes youthful energy. We have a calm yet intense energy, which is our strength.”
The title track of this album is ‘Touch’, which is the second track. The song features a trendy reinterpretation of 2000s vibes with lively percussion that naturally gets you moving. BM explained, “We wanted to actively use the unique weight of past music sources and evoke that era's feeling,” adding, “We aimed for a catchy song that makes you want to listen to it.”
The members made efforts to fully utilize the advantages of being a co-ed group that they have developed over a long period. J.Seph shared, “Every time we record, I feel that being co-ed enriches the song,” stating, “Diverse song styles emerge through our unique members. We were able to complete it by comparing various elements both vocally and performance-wise.”
Additionally, J.Seph noted, “Especially during concerts, the advantages of being a co-ed group are highlighted. The fans' reactions are tremendous when we perform paired choreography. I believe it’s an appeal that only co-ed groups can make.” BM added, “I think those who watch our performance will find it visually enjoyable. There’s a charm and freshness in the co-ed combination.”
The album consists of a total of 5 tracks, including the title track ‘Touch’, ‘BETCHA’, ‘Before We Go’, ‘Top Down’, and ‘Pivot’. Instrumental versions of ‘Touch’ and ‘Pivot’ are also included. It captures KARD's journey of moving forward in their own direction amidst numerous challenges.
“All five songs are not the music color we have released so far,” they said, “It was an opportunity to glimpse another side of our music, and we really prepared hard because we wanted to do better. There were no difficulties, and we practiced a lot for perfect synergy.” (Somin)
KARD, which has held concerts in Europe and South America, will meet domestic fans at their world tour ‘DRIFT’ on the 19th at Yes24 Wonder Hall in Seoul. This will be their first solo concert in Korea in about five years. Jiwoo expressed, “It’s been almost 5-6 years since we last met in person,” adding, “I’m happy to be performing in Korea. On one hand, I’m worried about whether people will come, but I want to showcase what we have built over the past 8 years beautifully in Seoul.”
Along with the excitement, Jiwoo also expressed a concern. “I injured my ankle, so I haven’t been able to practice properly. I’m worried about whether I can perform well at the concert while catching my breath and checking the choreography,” he said. Hearing this, J.Seph reassured, “As breathing is important, I think we can fill in the gaps and complete it well,” emphasizing their teamwork and bringing smiles.
Through this album, KARD aimed to repay their fans' love.
“Fans are our biggest driving force and our path. Without fans, we wouldn’t have been able to achieve anything until now. I believe it’s important to actively communicate with fans to move forward on our path.” (Jiwoo)
In conclusion, they stated about this album, “It’s the album we made with the least pressure. We think it turned out well without putting in too much ambition,” expressing their hope that people will take more interest in the co-ed group KARD.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
