Starship’s new group, AEN opens its first chapter with the debut EP "A NEW ERA OF NOW" on August 5.
AEN demonstrates their determination to forge their own path forward. Their debut leaves a distinct impression, going beyond the mere arrival of a new team to redefine the present moment through a contemporary sensibility. AEN’s identity is further defined by the close bond they share with their fans; they position themselves as figures who inhabit the same time and space as their fans, embodying the concept of being "by your side, anytime, anywhere." Rather than distant, untouchable figures, they are a group that naturally appears whenever they are needed. They carve out a unique style by blending conventional K-pop idol visuals with an unconventional approach to content and sophisticated performances.
All members; Jiyong, Bomin, Kyuhyun, Haru, Junseo, Kaira, excluding Haruto—previously participated in Starship’s survival show Debut’s Plan adding depth to the group’s identity. Having already weathered public scrutiny and expectations, their reunion as a unified team gives their debut a more defined significance.
The debut title track 'X to Z (Next to me)' is the song that most quickly reveals the essence of AEN. It features an electronic-rock fusion sound—combining gritty electric guitar with a heavy synth-bass—layered with a message of unwavering conviction and connection amidst the chaos of an unknown world.
At the heart of the music lies a vow to stand by one another, transcending all boundaries, and a driving force propelling them toward broader possibilities. The song leaves an impression defined by the coexistence of expansive scale and intimate warmth; an overwhelming sense of scope blends naturally with a tender sensibility. One can hear both the team’s ambition to reach great heights and their desire to draw close to the listener, simultaneously showcasing just how far AEN can go and how intimately they can connect.
This EP, comprising ten tracks—five songs each in Korean and Japanese versions—captures the spirit and sensibility of a debut group. True to their aim of targeting the Japanese market, their decision to embrace both languages from the start naturally reveals the team's direction. Listening through these five tracks makes AEN’s strengths even more apparent. 'Clockwise' powerfully declares their determination to move toward the future at their own pace, while "X to Z (Next to me)" drives home a message of conviction and connection. 'Focus On Me' embodies the confidence that sharpens on stage; 'CHILLS' captures the radiant moment of stepping onto the stage, revealing a side of themselves hidden within ordinary daily life; and 'HIGHFIVE' encapsulates the youthful energy of ascending to greater heights together. This team does not limit itself to a single mood. From the drive to move forward and the conviction to stand by one another to a commanding stage presence and a shared, growing energy—each track wears a unique expression yet ultimately converges into a unified team identity.
Ultimately, "A NEW ERA OF NOW" not only marks AEN’s debut but also serves as a definitive showcase of the group’s core strengths: an affectionate desire to remain close to their fans, an energy that radiates with sharpness and sophistication on stage, and the conviction to carve out their own era in the here and now. With this debut EP, AEN clearly demonstrates exactly who they are.