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| Photo Cr. Emma Vurdien // KpopWise |
Alternative rock band ONEWE delivered an emotional night of powerful performances and special moments during their Los Angeles concert at the historic Palace Theater, part of their ‘O! NEW E!volution IV’ North American tour. Known for their live-band approach in an idol-dominated industry, ONEWE consists of five multi-talented musicians: Leader YONGHOON (vocals, guitar), KANGHYUN (guitar), HARIN (drums), DONGMYEONG (vocals, keyboard), and GIUK (bass, rap). This year marks the group’s 10th anniversary, and they truly brought a decade of passion, growth, and talent to life onstage. Their genuine love for their fans, WEVEs, shone brightly throughout the show.
Opening with “Rain To Be,” the band emerged dramatically in silhouette, the atmosphere immediately heightened by HARIN’s sharp drumming and GIUK’s deep bassline. The crowd erupted as DONGMYEONG wielded a keytar, with YONGHOON and KANGHYUN rounding out the explosive rock formation on guitars. They wasted no time launching into “OFF ROAD,” with YONGHOON descending the stage stairs to sing among the crowd, urging everyone to join in. The chemistry between the members, especially during their synchronized guitar solos, made it clear that the band was there to create a truly memorable night.
Opening with “Rain To Be,” the band emerged dramatically in silhouette, the atmosphere immediately heightened by HARIN’s sharp drumming and GIUK’s deep bassline. The crowd erupted as DONGMYEONG wielded a keytar, with YONGHOON and KANGHYUN rounding out the explosive rock formation on guitars. They wasted no time launching into “OFF ROAD,” with YONGHOON descending the stage stairs to sing among the crowd, urging everyone to join in. The chemistry between the members, especially during their synchronized guitar solos, made it clear that the band was there to create a truly memorable night.
Opening with “Rain To Be,” the band emerged dramatically in silhouette, the atmosphere immediately heightened by HARIN’s sharp drumming and GIUK’s deep bassline. The crowd erupted as DONGMYEONG wielded a keytar, with YONGHOON and KANGHYUN rounding out the explosive rock formation on guitars. They wasted no time launching into “OFF ROAD,” with YONGHOON descending the stage stairs to sing among the crowd, urging everyone to join in. The chemistry between the members, especially during their synchronized guitar solos, made it clear that the band was there to create a truly memorable night.
The setlist smoothly shifted from intense rock to emotionally resonant ballads. “EVILDOER” showcased DONGMYEONG’s crisp, soaring high notes while GIUK and KANGHYUN tore through guitar riffs. During “Kiss in the Rain,” purple lights cast a moody glow over the stage as YONGHOON and DONGMYEONG’s vocals intertwined in a deeply felt chorus.
Midway through the show, ONEWE surprised fans with covers of well-known songs. YONGHOON kicked things off with a smooth performance of Charlie Puth’s “Attention,” earning cheers from the crowd and a funny compliment from KANGHYUN, who joked, “I saw Charlie Puth in Korea, but you are more sexy.” DONGMYEONG kept the playful vibe going, dancing and singing to “APT” by Rosé and Bruno Mars. The energy soared as the band launched into “Closer” by The Chainsmokers and “Lucky Strike” by Maroon 5, with the members jumping around and hyping up the crowd. HARIN’s dynamic drum solo was another highlight, showing off the band’s impressive musical talent.
“Roommate” brought a reflective pause, with the crowd raising their phone lights in unison. The band’s iconic track “Regulus” was met with reverence, ending in a breathtaking high note from YONGHOON. GIUK rallied the crowd, expressing his desire to shift the mood by saying, “How about we switch up the vibe and turn this place into a rock festival?” “Sole Star” and “GRAVITY” reignited the energy, with fans chanting along and the band radiating pure joy. During “0&4,” the members stepped forward closer to the edge of the stage, and encouraged fans to sing the song’s intro.
As the concert neared its end, the mood turned sentimental as the members shared heartfelt messages of gratitude. YONGHOON said, “I want to thank you for making us, who are not special people, into special people.” DONGMYEONG sweetly responded to him, “You are special,” with WEVEs wholeheartedly agreeing. GIUK expressed surprise at their growing U.S. fanbase and shared that, because so many fans showed up, he believes it’s time for an English album. HARIN was candid about pushing through illness and exhaustion the morning of the show to perform tonight, but said that spending time with the fans had lifted his spirits. KANGHYUN asked the audience to promise they would continue to support the band and come see them again. +
After sharing these sentimental messages, the band decided to take a photo on stage with the audience. YONGHOON asked everyone to shout “LA galbi,” which initially confused many in the crowd. He quickly explained that he believes galbi (갈비), a Korean BBQ dish, is especially delicious in Los Angeles. This playful moment further showcased the genuine, light-hearted bond the ONEWE members share with each other.
The encore kicked off with HARIN’s spirited drum solo before the rest of the band returned in their tour merch, with DONGMYEONG, sporting new stylish black-framed glasses. The final encore songs, “Crazy good,” “Pleasant,” and “Eraser,” were pure fun, filled with playful dancing and interactive chants, including YONGHOON walking through the aisles while singing to fans. He closed the night by holding his mic stand over the crowd and then over HARIN’s drums for a dramatic finish, ending the show on a high, both musically and emotionally.
Throughout the show, ONEWE shared countless heartfelt moments with their fans, radiating genuine love and comfort. Their presence left no doubt how much this experience meant to both the band and their audience. Though this is only their first world tour, it certainly won’t be their last. After a decade in the industry, ONEWE has proven they’re here for the long run, and as they move forward, their bond will only grow stronger. They’ll continue creating music that deeply resonates with fans.
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