TWS Breaks Boundaries with New Mini Album 'Play Hard'

"We wanted to surprise those who have been listening to our music by showing them a different side of TWS." (Youngjae)

The group TWS has boldly shattered their limits. TWS (Shinyu, Dohoon, Youngjae, Hanjin, Jihoon, and Kyungmin) held a media showcase on the 13th at Yes24 Live Hall in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of their fourth mini-album 'play hard'.

The album features a total of six tracks, including the title track 'OVERDRIVE', the pre-released song 'Head Shoulders Knees Toes', 'HOT BLUE SHOES', 'Caffeine Rush', 'overthinking', and 'I'll Be Your Tomorrow(내일이 되어 줄게)'. Shinyu stated, "This album showcases all the charms we haven't been able to show before." Youngjae added, "We prepared with the mindset of breaking TWS's limits, just like the lyrics of the pre-released song," raising expectations.

The album title 'play hard' embodies the meaning of throwing all youth and passion into it. Dohoon expressed, "Preparing for this album made me realize what I'm passionate about. I prepared like crazy." Jihoon also shared, "While preparing for the album, I got to know more about what I love and myself. I'm happy to take on new challenges with my precious members."

The title track 'OVERDRIVE' portrays TWS's intense emotions and passion when deeply in love. It cleverly uses the guitar effect 'OVERDRIVE' tone to express the overheated feelings towards the other person. The song offers a refreshing yet energetic charm with its addictive guitar theme riff, heavy drum tones, and bouncy bassline.

Member Jihoon participated in writing the lyrics for the title track, infusing his affection for the team. Jihoon said, "I used the sentiments I shared at a concert. I once said, 'It's okay if it rains because the members are like the sun.' I'm grateful to be with members who make me feel this way."

Jihoon also contributed to the choreography of the title track. He expressed, "It was an honor to participate in the choreography work. I learned a lot and am thankful." He explained, "I wanted the members to be happy on stage. Since the song is about being passionately in love, I thought we should genuinely enjoy ourselves on stage. I aimed to create parts where we could make eye contact and synchronize with each other to truly have fun."

The pre-released song 'Head Shoulders Knees Toes' showcases TWS's intense charm. The group has previously expanded their musical spectrum with songs like 'Oh Mymy: 7s', 'Double Take', and 'Freestyle'. The new pre-release track boldly reveals this intense color.

While the album highlights new attempts, TWS's unique identity remains intact. Shinyu stated, "The sound may differ from before, but the message TWS wants to convey is the same. Like the album title, TWS has always approached everything with passion, and this album expresses that passion even more intensely." Dohoon added, "I think we've successfully attempted change while maintaining the refreshing vibe associated with TWS."

TWS's strength lies in their 'clear intensity'. Youngjae commented, "Many people say TWS's songs are lively and refreshing, but the dances seem challenging. The combination of clear energy and intense passion is what makes our performances enjoyable to watch."

With this release, TWS aims to earn the title of 'stage geniuses'. Jihoon remarked, "We put a lot of thought into the performance. The six members always prepare the stage with one heart and one mind," his eyes sparkling with excitement.

TWS's fourth mini-album 'play hard' will be released at 6 PM today.

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