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| Photo Credit: MYSTIC STORY |
Billlie has unveiled their pre-release single “cloud
palace ~ false awakening,” officially launching their 2026 promotional
activities. The track completes the group’s original narrative arc known as the
“palace” trilogy, which follows their second and third mini albums, the
collective soul and unconscious: chapter one and the Billage of
perception: chapter two.
The new song, “cloud palace,” is dedicated to their fandom,
Belllie’ve, and centers on the concept of a “false awakening.” Sonically, it
blends an enigmatic soundscape with the members’ soft, nuanced vocals, creating
a dreamy, floating atmosphere for listeners. The pre-release also features two
remix versions: “cloud palace (Before moonset mix)” and “cloud palace (Before
moonrise mix).”
With “cloud palace ~ false awakening” marking both a closing
chapter and a new beginning, Billlie continues to expand the intricate universe
that has defined their artistry since debut. Known for weaving layered
narratives into their music, the group approaches each release like a carefully
unfolding story — one that invites listeners to look a little closer and feel a
little deeper.
'cloud palace' 𝐁efore sunset live
We joined BILLIE and our media colleagues and spoke with the
members about the role of storytelling in their sound, how this latest release
fits into the larger “palace” trilogy, and what fans can expect as Billlie
steps into their next era.
So far, your EPs have been grouped under themes like 'the
collective soul and unconscious' and 'the Billage of perception.' How does
storytelling play a role in your concept and sound?
SIYOON: I think storytelling for Billlie plays the
role of bringing sound, concept, and emotions together as one. When we're
making a song, once we clearly define what story to tell, the genre, vocal
tone, and overall mood follow naturally. So even when we experiment with
different sounds each time, everything can still be connected through a single
flow and shared emotion.
Where does 'cloud palace ~ false awakening' fit in your
overall storyline?
SHEON: This pre-release single serves as the final
chapter of the 'palace' trilogy. It carries the realization that the
"cloud palace" we reach at the end of the fog and the maze isn't
something outside of us, but something within ourselves. It feels like a
conclusion, yet at the same time, it feels like a starting point that allows us
to look ahead to the next story built upon that realization.
What kind of concepts and sounds can fans see expanded
upon from the original album 'the collective soul and unconscious: chapter one'?
MOON SUA: The album that continues into chapter two will carry forward the questions and confusion we explored in our earlier albums, while also showing how much Billlie's perspective has changed over time. If the “palace” series was about losing our way under the sun and the moon and searching for ourselves, this new chapter brings us to the realization we reached at the end of that long journey. I think the storytelling will grow deeper, and it'll be an album where we can express clearer emotions and experiment with a wider range of sounds.
HARAM: If the first chapter was about searching for
emotions and stories, I think our biggest growth now is that we know exactly
how to express those emotions through music. Even if the genres or formats
change, we're building a solid, stable tone of Billlie. In that sense, this
chapter will show a more mature side of Billlie.
TSUKI: I think the biggest growth lies in how much we
got to understand about Billlie. Back then, it was more about the process of
searching for what belonged to Billlie. Now, we can make our own choices in
what story to tell and why. Musically, we have also learned how to convey our
emotions with more depth and to utilize the atmosphere from negative space, and
I believe that added to solidifying Billlie's identity.
KW: What's something you've learned from another member
recently that stuck with you?
HARUNA: While recording, I rediscovered our members'
voices in a new way. Although we've always been together, every time we prepare
for a comeback, I realize that they had this kind of voice I didn't know of. I
think it's really meaningful that there's always something new to learn every
comeback.
If 'cloud palace ~ false awakening' is the doorway into
your upcoming album, what kind of world or mood are you inviting listeners
into?
SUHYEON: "cloud palace" invites listeners
to the boundary between dreams and reality. I think the sense of awakening you
feel just before fully waking up and subtle tension set the overall mood of
this album. Moving forward, the stories Billlie will share will be filled with
more sincere and honest emotions. We hope you look forward to our next album as
well.
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