[Exclusive Interview] ablume Want to be Artists Who Bring Positive Energy

Photo Cr. MASSIVE E&C

Three talented artists—Aran, Sana, and Sio—have emerged from the challenges that once surrounded their previous group FIFTY FIFTY to form a new musical collective called ablume. After weathering significant industry upheaval, these performers have chosen to continue their artistic journey together, demonstrating remarkable resilience and solidarity.

Their debut release as ablume  "Echo" on May 9 is an intimate two-track collection that showcases both vulnerability and strength. The project reflects their decision to reunite and move forward as a unified creative force, with deeply personal music that aims to connect authentically with listeners.

The album opens with 'Never Far Away (Prologue),' a contemplative track that reveals the emotional journey the trio experienced before deciding to reform. The song explores themes of enduring connection and loyalty, even during periods of separation. Musically, it features understated vocals paired with gentle piano arrangements, creating an atmosphere of reflection and hope. Rather than relying on elaborate production, the track's power lies in its simplicity and emotional honesty.

The collection's centerpiece, 'Echo,' represents a more confident declaration of their renewed partnership. This uplifting anthem celebrates lasting bonds and mutual support through life's challenges. The production shifts to a brighter, more energetic sound featuring guitar elements and dynamic rhythms that evoke feelings of freedom and joy—like summer adventures and spontaneous road trips. The song incorporates modern elements including drill-influenced rap sections, while the recurring chorus reinforces their commitment to one another. An instrumental version is also included in the release.

We recently chatted with ablume about their journey, creative process, deeply personal music that marks this new chapter in their careers and answer questions that their fans weblume are curious about.  

What was it like recording "echo"? Were you guys nervous about making music again after a long time?

ARAN: Honestly, I think I felt more anxious than nervous. I kept thinking, “This is such a precious new beginning. I have to get this right. I need to sing better. Why am I always falling short?” Those thoughts kept running through my head, and at one point, I even cried. Looking back now, I realize just how full of passion I was in that moment. I don’t think I could’ve been more sincere. I just wanted to pour every bit of myself into it.

SAENA: I was definitely nervous. I tend to get anxious when recording in general, but this time it felt even more intense because it had been a while, and I really wanted to do well. I think I struggled a bit at first because I couldn’t quite get into the right flow due to the pressure. But as the session went on, I gradually settled in and was able to focus more.

SIO: Rather than feeling nervous, I was excited. The moment I opened the studio door, I felt this rush of anticipation like, “We’re finally starting again.” The first time we heard “Echo,” it felt like a song that was made just for us. I couldn’t stop smiling while recording, and bouncing ideas off each other during the session was so much fun. For us, making music again felt like finally being able to breathe.

How do you feel about the reception of "echo"?

ARAN: I was honestly worried about whether we could meet the expectations of people who already knew us. So when I saw how positively people were reacting, I felt so relieved. I can’t count how many times I said, “Thank goodness.” These days, instead of just being happy about the response, I find myself wondering, “What can we show them next?” I think it’s because I genuinely want to do right by our listeners. I feel a real sense of responsibility.

SAENA: The first thing I felt was gratitude. Honestly, I didn’t expect anything. I had no idea what kind of reaction we’d get. I just told myself, “Let’s be thankful that we even get to start again. Let’s enjoy this moment fully.” But when so many people responded with genuine love and support, I was incredibly moved and deeply thankful.

SIO: At first, I was a little scared. It had been a long time since we released music, and I felt the pressure of meeting our fans’ expectations. But as I read through the comments one by one, I realized this song had brought comfort to people, and that made me emotional. The phrase, “Thank you for coming back,” really stuck with me. It reminded me why we do this, why we make music. “Echo” became a real emotional turning point for me.

What or who inspired you guys to become artists? Is there an artist that you want to collaborate with?

ARAN: Ever since I was little, I’ve listened to so much music and admired countless artists, but if I had to choose just one, I’d say Adele. I’m not sure why, but I vividly remember my mom playing “Someone Like You” on the speakers at home. Even though I was too young to fully grasp the emotions in the song, it was through that track that I quietly learned what “longing” felt like. Looking back, her deep, weighty voice seemed to tell me that music doesn’t have to fit into any mold. I think that’s also what influenced me to embrace my own deeper vocal tone. Adele was the first artist to truly inspire me, so if I ever got the chance to sing an acoustic ballad with her one day… that would honestly be a dream come true.

SAENA: I’d say my biggest inspiration is my parents. Looking back, my dad used to play classical music every morning, so starting the day with music just felt natural. And my mom was the one who recognized my passion early on and encouraged me to dance, which became a huge turning point in leading me down this path. As for a dream collaboration, I would love, someday, to work with Jacob Collier. His music feels absolutely transcendent to me. Even within complex harmonies, there’s so much beauty, and there have been moments when his songs genuinely moved me to tears. He’s an artist I truly hope to connect with through music one day.

SIO: One of my biggest dreams is to create an album rooted in rock. I think that genre lets you pour your emotions out in such a raw and honest way, and I’d love to show that side of us someday. In that sense, the artist I’d love to collaborate with is Slash from Guns N’ Roses. His signature playing style is incredibly cool to me, and I think working with him could lead to something bold and cinematic. It would be such a powerful creative experience. And there’s another artist who left a deep impression on me - YEBBA. The moment I hear her sing, a wave of emotion just hits me. Her vocals are both delicate and powerful, and they instantly draw you in. Someday, I hope to make music that carries that kind of sincerity and emotional impact.

If you could swap talents with another member for one day who would it be?

ARAN: I can’t choose just one! I’d pick Saena’s diligence and Sio’s versatility. Together, that sounds like the perfect combination.

SAENA: I’d love to take one strength from each member. If I could have Sio’s quick execution and Aran’s deep sensitivity, I think I’d become someone who’s both efficient and emotionally rich.

SIO: I’d pick both Aran and Saena! Aran is super laid-back and relaxed, which somehow adds this unique charm to her music. Saena, on the other hand, is incredibly diligent and organized. I really admire how she always gets things done without fuss. Even just borrowing one quality from each of them would make for a pretty amazing day.

How would each member describe their fashion sense with just one word?

ARAN: Hmm… I’d say “modern-chic-lovely.” I know it’s not exactly one word, but that’s the best way to describe my style.

SAENA: Antique. I’m drawn to classic and vintage aesthetics. There’s something fascinating about styles that carry traces of time. I love browsing vintage shops and putting together outfits in my own unique way.

SIO: Pop! I like bold colors and unexpected details. Lately, I’ve been really into lace accents and polka dot patterns. Those little things that make an outfit stand out.

What are members' favorite flowers?

ARAN: I’ve always loved lily of the valley. I’m not sure why, but even as a kid, I thought it was the prettiest and most precious flower. I still feel the same way. I think I’d be incredibly happy if someone gave me a bouquet of them.

SAENA: Lately, I’ve found myself drawn to hellebores. They bloom quietly in the snow-covered season and represent winter, which is my favorite time of year. There’s something warm and comforting about them, like a quiet strength. I especially love the ones with dark, deep tones.

SIO: My favorite flower is the sunflower. It turns to follow the sun, and to me, that feels like the pure act of wholeheartedly chasing something. I want to be someone who, like a sunflower, always has the energy to pursue what I truly want.

If you could be a Disney princess, who is it and why?

ARAN: Without a doubt, Tiana. I was especially drawn to her as a child. The path she created for herself was so inspiring. Starting from nothing, staying strong, and chasing her dream without giving up. Her determination really resonated with me. She faced the world with courage, no matter what others said. Her story felt less like a fairytale and more like the bold, beautiful life of a real woman. I remember thinking, “I want to chase my dreams with that same courage someday.”

SAENA: I’d choose Raya from ‘Raya and the Last Dragon.’ She overcomes so many hardships with nothing but trust, and through that journey, she becomes stronger and wiser. I admired how she knew when to step forward and when to step back. Her sense of balance was so powerful. I want to become someone like that too. Someone others can trust, someone who can see things with clarity and wisdom. If I could be that kind of person, I think I’d feel proud of myself, and I’d be able to leave a better impression on those who support me.

SIO: I think I’d pick Belle. She’s quiet but has a strong sense of self and a rich inner world. I admire how she sees beyond appearances and focuses on what truly matters – someone’s heart. And let’s be honest… the library! I’ve always been jealous of that giant library.

Fans love your voices so much, would you like to try a live mash-up of songs?

ARAN: It’s actually one of my dreams to put together a medley or mash-up of our songs and perform it live someday. I’d love to make that happen when the time comes!

SAENA: Absolutely! I’d love to try a mash-up stage. If we get the chance, I’d be excited to take it on and have fun with it!

SIO: Definitely! I think it’d be so fun to mix older tracks, new songs, or even ones with completely different vibes and turn them into a single story on stage. It would also be a great way to show what we can do live, so I’m all in for the challenge.

Are there any genres that you want to try in the future?

ARAN: I think it’d be fun to try something a little cooler and edgier, like a genre with a bold, chic vibe. Something along the lines of TLC’s “No Scrubs” would be really exciting to take on.

SAENA: There are so many genres I’d love to explore in the future. Lately, I’ve been really drawn to styles like trip-hop or jazz. Something slow and dreamy with a touch of hip-hop mixed in. It’s the kind of sound I’ve been listening to a lot recently, and I’d love to try it for myself one day.

SIO: Lately, I’ve been wanting to try more lyrical pop with acoustic sounds. There’s something really beautiful about expressing delicate emotions through simple instrumentation. I think it would be meaningful to create a moment on stage where the voice and lyrics alone leave a lasting impression even without flashy performances.

What are your goals for this year?

ARAN: I really want to perform. It doesn’t matter how big the audience is. I just want to sing, dance, and run around on stage. I’m determined to keep growing and put on a performance we can all be proud of.

SAENA: My goal this year is to continue our music journey with strength and good energy, both mentally and physically. This debut single album marks our first step forward, and I hope we can share more of our stories through future releases. On and off stage, I want to become an artist who brings positive energy to others. More than chasing records, I hope this year becomes one that stays in people’s memories.

SIO: Musically, my biggest goal is to create an album that fully reflects our journey and who we are. I also want to meet our fans face-to-face through live performances and share those special moments together. There’s something so powerful about locking eyes with the audience on stage. On a personal level, I want to be more open and express myself more honestly. This year, I don’t want to hold back. I want to tell our story with confidence.

Follow ablume
Website: ablume.co.kr
Instagram: @ablume_official / (Company): @massive_enc
X: @ablume_official / (Members): @ablume_twt
TikTok: @ablume_official
YouTube: @ablume_official

A special thank you to ablum and MASSIVE E&C for the interview.