As NOWZ celebrates their first debut anniversary, they have many reasons to celebrate as they release their 1st mini [IGNITION]. It marks not only a musical beginning but a symbolic one; following a recent rebrand and name change, it signalled a renewed commitment to redefining their identity and rising as a leading group in the industry.
The five members, Hyeonbin, Yoon, Yeonwoo, Jinhyuk, and Siyun, are marking a new beginning, and this album is the perfect start. [IGNITION] features five tracks, including the title song EVERGLOW. With themes of embracing imperfection as part of youth's beauty and instead choosing to learn as they grow, which is a relatable theme many fans will be able to deeply connect to.
Leading the album is the title song, EVERGLOW, a strong alternative rock track driven by electric guitar riffs and intense metal sounds. With the message, “Like a flame that continues to burn even in the ashes, we will never fade,” it reflects NOWZ’s attitude of resilience and determination to never give up. The accompanying music video portrays a powerful image of youth, with a journey in search of hope within a dystopian world.
A key magical ingredient to the album is who produced the album: EL CAPITXN. Many will know him as the man behind numerous hit songs like BTS’s Take Two, SUGA’s Daechwita, TXT’s Farewell Neverland, and the debut EP WHO WE ARE by newly debuted rookie group AHOF. If that wasn't enough, NOWZ members JINHYUK and SIYUN participated in writing for the album.
An eclectic mix of genres is featured on the album, with their pre-release single Fly to the Youth (Feat. YUQI) showing the group’s emotional and refreshing charm through a cinematic soul pop style.
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| Photo Courtesy of Cube Entertainment |
Meanwhile, Problem Child is a standout track with an addictive hook and a tight kick snare; with the addition of powerful vocals, it's a hit. It also goes to show strength and courage to choose to challenge societal norms and recognise oneself outside of others’ standards and what is considered “right,” leaving a lasting impression.
Louder brings a high energy with its dance-pop synths and upbeat guitar sounds. While DAY_AND delivers a vibrant sound paired with sentiment. This track in particular is a special one, as it marks NOWZ’s first fan song, carrying a heartfelt message about wanting to be with their fans (DAY_AND) in everyday life.
Throughout their journey, NOWZ has demonstrated a powerful presence with outstanding vocal and performance skills that surpass expectations for a rookie group. Singing about the many shades of youth and heading toward a bold transformation, the members of NOWZ are set to leave a striking impression as representatives of 5th generation K-pop with their latest release.
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