MUSIC
ENHYPEN's Dark Fantasy Saga: A Journey of Identity, Growth, and Fan Connection
The unique album storyline that ENHYPEN has built is considered a key driver in their rise to becoming a top global group. As they prepare to release their 7th mini-album 'THE SIN : VANISH' on the 16th, we revisit the epic saga of the seven vampires that has unfolded over the past five years, starting from their debut album 'BORDER : DAY ONE'.
■ Establishing Identity Amidst Chaos - 'BORDER', 'DIMENSION', 'MANIFESTO'
ENHYPEN's narrative begins with deeply human emotions rather than grand fantasy. The boys, who have crossed the unknown 'BORDER' into a new world, reflect the feelings of newcomers in the music industry. Their journey through confusion and dilemmas ('DIMENSION') mirrors the self-discovery of idols facing various challenges. During this process, the members realize their mission and roles, declaring their intention to find 'our own answer' and move forward ('MANIFESTO').
Even as they build this growth narrative, ENHYPEN's music is infused with fantasy elements. In their debut song, they reveal their 'white fangs' ('Given-Taken' lyrics) and express love with 'my heart thirsts because of you' ('FEVER' lyrics), hinting at their vampire identity. This seamless blend of reality and fantasy has become the foundation of ENHYPEN's meticulously crafted narrative.
With the 'BLOOD' series, ENHYPEN enters a deeper 'dark fantasy' world, awakening to the existence of 'you'. 'You' represents a fateful community connected by blood ('BLOOD'), a presence worth protecting even at the cost of sacrifice. The members express a blind devotion to 'you', who accepts them with their vampire secret ('ROMANCE'), and are engulfed by a strong desire to transform 'you' into a vampire like themselves ('DESIRE').
The story with 'you', also referring to their fandom ENGENE, has fostered fan immersion and unity. As a result, all five albums in the 'BLOOD', 'ROMANCE', 'DESIRE' series surpassed 1 million copies in first-week sales, with three becoming double million-sellers. Notably, their second full album 'ROMANCE : UNTOLD' achieved triple million-seller status, highlighting ENHYPEN's rising prominence as their narrative deepens.
Having established themselves as a new leader in K-pop with their steady growth, ENHYPEN is set to open a new chapter in their 'dark fantasy' saga with 'THE SIN : VANISH'. This album breaks societal taboos of a world where humans and vampires coexist, telling the story of lovers choosing to elope. As a 'concept album', it promises a meticulously connected experience through tracks, lyrics, and sound.
A blockbuster-scale production akin to a full album is anticipated. Every aspect, from music to visuals and marketing, is intricately interwoven to induce a new level of immersion. Expectations are high for the fresh thrill ENHYPEN will bring as they expand the boundaries of entertainment.
Kim Ji-won, TENASIA Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr
