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| Credit: Fantagio |
Global artist, actor, and ASTRO member CHA EUN-WOO has released his highly anticipated 2nd mini album ELSE, marking his first music project in a year and nine months. ELSE is out now via Fantagio and Kakao Entertainment. The new body of work captures CHA EUN-WOO’s evolution as a vocalist and performer, revealing a side of him fans have yet to see.
ELSE — meaning “other” or “different” — explores what emerges when CHA EUN-WOO steps outside expectations and breaks free from the familiar frameworks that once defined him. If his first solo album ENTITY served as a reflective search for his inner essence, ELSE pushes past those boundaries, offering a dynamic, unfiltered chapter rooted in instinct, emotion, and artistic freedom.
Structured around two contrasting emotional directions, ELSE balances raw, instinctive energy with delicate, sharpened sensitivity, presenting a compelling tension that draws listeners into his expanded world. Through genre-spanning production, intimate vocal delivery, and cohesive storytelling, the mini album showcases CHA EUN-WOO’s musical depth and his willingness to reveal more of his true self.
“Sweet Papaya” opens the album with a burst of pop-funk energy, blending funky guitar riffs and a laid-back groove with playful, tropical imagery that channels his youthful, effortless charm.
Anchoring the album is the infectious focus track “SATURDAY PREACHER”, a retro-inspired disco anthem blending nostalgic synth textures with a groovy, pulsing bassline. With its addictive hook and CHA EUN-WOO’s captivating falsetto, the track embodies the electric energy of a Saturday night — portraying an irresistible presence capable of awakening the passion hidden inside everyone.
“Selfish” shifts into a more cinematic pop sound, fusing trap beats with soft rock textures as it tenderly explores the innocent desire to be a little selfish in love. The mini album closes with “Thinkin’ Bout U”, a warm and emotive pop ballad that captures the quiet ache of longing. Across all four tracks, CHA EUN-WOO’s distinctive tone and versatility shine through, weaving a narrative that is both personal and sonically diverse.
Up next, the music video for “Sweet Papaya” is slated for release Nov 28, 3:30pm KST / Nov 27, 10:30pm PST. CHA EUN-WOO is currently completing his mandatory military service, with his discharge scheduled for January 2027.