K-Pop Spotlight: A.C.E
This week, we’re highlighting five-member boy group A.C.E to celebrate the release of their new mini-album, SIREN:DAWN. We caught up with them about their new single, “Higher,” which was released on Wednesday, their inventive underwater photoshoot, and the first songs they remember loving. Check out our full interview below!
How does the sound and concept of your new mini-album, SIREN:DAWN, and single, “Higher,” differ from your previous comebacks?
JUN: The last album was a Korean goblin concept, and this time it is a mermaid concept. In this album, we tried our best to show you more sentimental and sad feelings as well as aesthetic aspects. You can find these things in the music video, but especially the lyrics.
In terms of visuals, there are touches of the mermaid in our outfits’ see-through material, plastic pants, and different accessories for each member. There’s a real difference of feelings from the traditional Korean visuals of the last album.
Your album photos are always so inventive. Can you tell us a little about shooting underwater? Do you have a favorite concept from your photoshoots?
KIM BYEONGKWAN: The underwater shooting was more difficult than I thought. I had more respect for Jun and Chan, who shot underwater in the last album; their photos were amazing. They were like my mentors for this underwater shooting. My favorite pictures are the ones I took on the water.
CHAN: Jun and I already had an experience from the last album. So, this time, we proceeded in a skillful and relaxed situation. I like the “MOON” concept photos: I could express the energy that I wanted to express in that concept, so I hope you look forward to it.
Outside of music, what are you most passionate about? Are there any hobbies you use to de-stress?
DONGHUN: Staying home alone and relaxing is my thing. Occasionally, I’ll write songs with lyrics about stress and worries.
WOW: I relieve my stress by browsing the Internet. I get a lot of inspiration from watching fashion-related videos.
What’s the first song you remember loving?
JUN: “A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men.
I’ve always loved R&B songs. Among those R&B songs, this song touched me a lot when I came across it with lyrics that could show my love and respect for my mother. I used to sing it a lot, too.
DONGHUN: “Nocturn” by Lee Eun-mi (“녹턴” by 이은미).
The lyrics of the song and Lee Eun-mi’s emotions touched my heart and comforted me. I played this song whenever I was having a hard time.
WOW: “Timeless” by SG Wannabe.
This song introduced me to SG Wannabe, but it also became my go-to song.
KIM BYEONGKWAN: “Lovely Sweet Heart” by SeeYa (“사랑의 인사” by 씨야).
When I was really young, my friend recommended this song—I thought the atmosphere and lyrics were so beautiful!
CHAN: My father used to run a record store, so I’ve been listening to many songs since I was young. I don’t remember any particular first song, but the kind of music I listen to a lot these days is “Let’s Go Picnic” by George (죠지). This is my favorite kind of music genre, and the lyrics are so pretty.
