Group IVE (An Yujin, Gaeul, Ray, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, Leeseo) is setting its sights on another consecutive hit.
IVE is pre-releasing the title track of their new mini-album ‘Looks Can Kill’ at 6 p.m. on the 19th through various music streaming sites.
Previously, IVE continued the ‘IVE syndrome’ by achieving remarkable results on music charts and music broadcasts with their 2nd full-length album ‘REVIVE+’. Following their sixth Perfect All-Kill (PAK) with the double title track ‘BANG BANG’, they claimed a total of 9 music broadcast wins alongside ‘BLACKHOLE’. Notably, ‘BANG BANG’ has maintained its position near the top of domestic major music charts even in its 9th month since release, securing a long-running success.
The new album ‘Looks Can Kill’ expands the ‘girl fantasy’ universe that IVE has showcased so far. Following cupids and magical girls, they introduce another alter ego, the ‘girl hero’, portraying IVE’s confident and alluring presence that dominates the atmosphere merely by existing.
The album features a total of six tracks, including the title track of the same name, ‘Mirror Mirror’, ‘SNAKESKIN’, ‘CRUMBS’, ‘Girls Girls Girls’, and ‘Glow Motion’. Through these six songs with distinct atmospheres and charms, IVE demonstrates their wide-ranging musical spectrum.
The title track ‘Looks Can Kill’ captures IVE’s signature confidence and agency. Catchy synth pad rhythms blend with heavy bass, dynamic drums, and electronic sounds to deliver intense energy. In particular, the final chorus that unfolds explosively after the bridge is expected to maximize the song’s immersion.
Returning after 8 months, An Yujin shared, ‘Whenever we present a new album, my excitement grows alongside the ambition to show an even better side of us. Since we are returning with the keyword ‘hero’, please look forward to a more confident and self-assured IVE.’ Jang Wonyoung stated, ‘The process of showing a new side every time is an enjoyable challenge for us. We prepared hard to show a unique side while maintaining IVE’s distinct colors, and we hope you will enjoy the new story IVE is unfolding together.’
Regarding the ‘hero’ keyword, An Yujin explained, ‘IVE has expressed the mindset of believing in and loving oneself through various music. While the last album expanded that message from ‘me’ to ‘us’, this time we captured the process of positively influencing each other and creating new changes.’
As for the parts she focused on specially, Gaeul said, ‘I paid a lot of attention to expressing the ‘hero’ in IVE’s own style. While capturing a different atmosphere from before, I tried to preserve our unique charm, so I hope you enjoy both the music and the performance. Also, Liz and I participated in writing the lyrics for ‘Crumb’, and I am glad that our current image and colors are well reflected.’
Ray shared, ‘I participated in writing the lyrics for the title track ‘Looks Can Kill’ and worried about naturally weaving in the album’s concept and narrative, so I am proud it turned out well. We also attempted various visual experiments, and I’m glad many people found it interesting. Discovering new sides of ourselves while shooting various concepts was fun, so please keep an eye on IVE’s diverse charms in each concept.’
Regarding the pre-release song ‘Looks Can Kill’, Leeseo expressed, ‘The charm of this title track will be felt even more when you enjoy the music and performance together. I prepared it with the unnies, pondering how to bring out the song’s vibe on stage, so please look forward to the stage filled with IVE’s confident charm.’
In particular, Liz expressed her anticipation, saying, ‘I hope people will listen to this new album and think, ‘As expected, it’s IVE.’ I also hope it becomes music that energizes listeners the moment they hear it, or gives them confidence on certain days. I hope this promotion leaves a good memory so that people continue to wonder about the music IVE will present in the future.’
