NCT DREAM Celebrates 9th Anniversary with Spectacular Comeback: 'Go Back To The Future'

"As we approach our 9th anniversary, our passion feels as fresh as if we debuted just 9 days ago. We will show you our youthful and passionate side." (Haechan)

NCT DREAM is back with renewed vigor. On the 14th, the group held a press conference at Lotte Cinema in Songpa-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of their 5th studio album, 'Go Back To The Future'.

This album is a spectacular journey through time, as NCT DREAM explores the past, present, and future in search of their brightest selves. It includes a total of 9 tracks, featuring double title tracks 'BTTF' (Back To The Future) and 'CHILLER'.

The title track 'BTTF' conveys a message of reflecting on a regret-free past and returning to their most brilliant future, as NCT DREAM gains the power to change the future through time travel. The dynamic sound, which seems to traverse past and future over a signature synth bass, enhances the SF vibe of the song. The other title track, 'CHILLER', is notable for its experimental sound, unique synth texture, and unpredictable progression.

For the first time since their debut, NCT DREAM is making a comeback with double title tracks. Mark expressed, "I think we are a 'narrative powerhouse' with such a delicious storyline. As NCT DREAM, now in our 10th year, there is so much to talk about within the concept of time travel. We have iconic elements like hoverboards and the pajamas from our 'Chewing Gum' days. We thought we could have fun with these elements."

Both title tracks were penned by hitmaker KENZIE, who crafted an organic narrative. Mark shared, "KENZIE, who directed our debut song 'Chewing Gum', wrote the lyrics and perfectly captured the organic feel of the two songs. I want to give a shoutout to KENZIE for writing such distinct yet connected lyrics."

Ahead of the album release, NCT DREAM held a solo concert at the Gocheok Sky Dome from the 10th to the 12th. Renjun added, "I heard KENZIE was moved to tears while watching our concert," hinting at their close relationship.

The members are confident about the new album. Chenle stated, "We came back with determination," while Renjun said, "We have confidence as high as the sky and as deep as the earth." Mark humorously added, "We are as confident as Jeno's muscles, as impressive as his physique. Those who attended the concert know how amazing it was."

Reflecting on their 9th anniversary, NCT DREAM will celebrate this milestone in August. Jisung expressed, "I am grateful to have been active with fans and members for 9 years. As a group that can hold a concert at Gocheok Dome, I feel confident."

NCT DREAM boasts a special bond from their long time together. The members recently went camping to strengthen their friendship before the comeback. Renjun shared, "It was meaningful as we went with the message to work hard together. We had fun, shared our thoughts, and played a recreation game I prepared. I hid rolled-up 1,000 won bills for the members to find." Mark added with a laugh, "It wasn't 1,000 won, it was 50,000 won bills, so we all searched diligently."

NCT DREAM plans to stay busy in the second half of the year. Haechan hinted, "We will continue with the album tour, and there might be something fun at the end of the year. It will be a fulfilling year." He added humorously, "Like a restaurant's marinated crab, it will be a packed year. Enjoy it deliciously."

NCT DREAM continues to convey dreams and hope. Mark stated, "As a group that started as minors, we have grown to further develop and expand our dreams. We want to maintain and achieve this dream rather than pursue a different one. Even if the format changes, we want to keep this message."

NCT DREAM's 5th studio album 'Go Back To The Future' will be released at 6 PM today.

Reporter Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia one@tenasia.co.kr