"This is the most intense work from THE BOYZ so far." (Jacob)
THE BOYZ will release their 9th mini-album, 'TRIGGER' (導火線), on October 28th. To celebrate the release, their agency shared a Q&A featuring all the members, highlighting key points of the new album, the title track, and messages for fans.
This comeback marks their return after seven months. Kevin expressed his excitement, saying, "It feels thrilling to introduce new music right after wrapping up our tour. Through this album, fans will discover a fresh sound and new aspects of THE BOYZ."
'TRIGGER' conveys explosive ambitions. The group uses the imagery of lighting a fuse to symbolize their determination to keep evolving. The album encourages listeners to burn away old rules and forge new paths.
Jacob emphasized the intensity of this project, saying, "'TRIGGER' showcases the most powerful side of THE BOYZ to date. From the outfits to the visuals, we're excited to present a new style to our fans."
Hyunjae added, "This album reflects our commitment to paving a new path. Rather than sticking with familiar concepts, we aimed for a bold, challenging concept to continuously show our fans a new side of THE BOYZ."
THE BOYZ to Release Title Track 'TRIGGER' with a Bold Performance and Dynamic Sound
The title track of THE BOYZ's 9th mini-album, 'TRIGGER' (導火線), stands out with its dramatic melodic shifts. It opens with an intense house-electro pop sound and evolves into a grand hip-hop arrangement.
Sunwoo highlighted key aspects of the song, saying, "The chorus's powerful sound, paired with the raw, explosive choreography, is the focal point. I hope fans pay special attention to the TRIGGER performance."
The choreography was crafted with the help of world-renowned choreographers. Baek Koo-young from '1MILLION' led the project, alongside BADA LEE from the champion team 'BEBE' of Street Woman Fighter 2, raising the performance's quality and impact.
The new album explores a variety of musical themes under the concept of 'TRIGGER' (Ignition). It features six tracks, including 'Bite Back', 'BAD', 'Slip Away', 'Re-wind' and 'They See Me Dream,' alongside the title track.
Entering their 8th year since debut, THE BOYZ reflected on their journey. Jacob shared, "The 'fuse' that has fueled our growth has always been the fans who have stood by us."
The members summarized the new album in one word. New stated, "It's TRIGGER. I hope this album sparks a significant wave of change." Juyeon added with enthusiasm, "Explosion!"
Meanwhile, THE BOYZ will host a comeback live event on their official YouTube channel at 4:30 PM today, where they will introduce the new album 'TRIGGER' directly to their global fans.
[Full Q&A with THE BOYZ]
Q. It's been about seven months since your last release. How do you feel about this comeback?
(Sangyeon): This album was prepared even during our world tour. Since we put a lot of effort into it, I believe many people will love it.
(Kevin): I'm thrilled to share new music right after finishing our tour. Through this album, 'TRIGGER', you'll see new sounds and sides of THE BOYZ.
Q. What new charm do you aim to show compared to your previous works?
(Jacob): 'TRIGGER' is the most intense project we've done so far. From the outfits to the visuals, I think we'll be able to show a brand-new style to our fans.
(Hyunjae): We made up our minds to carve a new path. Rather than relying on familiar concepts, we wanted to present a bold and challenging image of THE BOYZ.
Q. You released teaser images themed around 'revolutionary figures' with concepts like Vanguard, Pioneer, Flash, and Riot. What new challenges did you take on for this album?
(Younghoon): We took on bold new hairstyles. We experimented with new concepts, and I hope our fans will look forward to seeing various new sides of me.
(Eric): For the first time since our debut, I dyed my hair black. I also tried a fully slicked-back style, and I'm really grateful and happy that fans have appreciated the new look.
Q. Can the members highlight what makes the title track 'TRIGGER' stand out?
(Sunwoo): The powerful sound of the chorus and the raw, explosive choreography are key highlights. I hope everyone focuses on the 'TRIGGER' performance as well.
(New): Since 'TRIGGER' stands out with dynamic shifts throughout the song, it's perfectly suited for performance. I believe fans can expect the signature dazzling performance of THE BOYZ.
Q. What elements did you focus on in the 'TRIGGER' choreography?
(Q): 'TRIGGER' has one of the most powerful and technically challenging choreographies we've done so far. Pay attention to the dramatic movements and conceptual acting to fully enjoy it.
(Juyeon): There's a part in the pre-chorus where we sing, "bring back 원해 난," and the angle and flow of the moves are some of my favorites. Look forward to it!
Q. What's the main attraction of the 'TRIGGER' music video?
(New): The conceptual storyline and world-building are key points. We also had a record number of extras in this video, which really enhanced the final product.
(Ju Haknyeon): I heard we'd be doing water scenes, so I thought it would just involve getting slightly wet. But we ended up doing underwater filming at depths of up to one meter. It was my first time trying that, so it was challenging but satisfying.
Q. Q contributed lyrics to 'bAd', and Eric wrote for 'Re-Wind'. Could you tell us about the stories behind these songs?
(Q): I'm really grateful to the company for giving me the opportunity to write lyrics. For 'bAd', I tried to capture the concept and mood of the song with fitting words.
(Eric): I wrote the lyrics for 'Re-Wind'. I usually draw inspiration from everyday life or my imagination. For this song, I thought of our fans, expressing my excitement about staying connected with them.
Q. You debuted the track 'Bite Back' during your 'GENERATION II' world tour. What do the members consider the song's 'killing point'?
(Juyeon): 'Bite Back' features wild, instinctive choreography in the chorus. The dance matches the raw energy of the lyrics, and the rap part brings a fresh, creative style that many fans turn to when they want to see a bold side of THE BOYZ.
(Sunwoo): There's a part in the chorus where we spread our arms wide open. That part delivers a heavy impact, and I think it's the song's biggest 'killing point.'
Q. Now in your eighth year since debut, what do you consider the defining moment that has fueled THE BOYZ's growth?
(Jacob): Our fans have been the 'fuse' that sparked our growth. THE BOYZ exists because of THE B.
(Kevin): The 'Road to Kingdom' competition was a defining moment for us. It took place during the pandemic, without a live audience, and it was a fierce contest. However, we surpassed our limits, strengthened our trust, teamwork, and synergy, and that effort gave us the opportunity to meet even more of our fans today.
Q. This year has been filled with nonstop activities both at home and abroad. What was the most memorable moment of the year?
(Younghoon): I think the most memorable moment was our recent 'GENERATION II' concert. Meeting THE B in each country gave me the energy to feel confident that we'll do great with this 'TRIGGER' comeback.
(Hyunjae): Every moment on tour was special. Feeling the overwhelming love from THE B in person is a precious and deeply appreciated memory.
Q. What are your goals for the activities surrounding this album, 'TRIGGER'?
(Sangyeon): The top priority is to stay healthy and enjoy this comeback with THE B.
(Ju Haknyeon): My personal goal is for 'TRIGGER' to enter the Billboard charts!
Q. If you had to express the 9th mini-album 'TRIGGER' in one word, what would it be and why?
(Sangyeon): It's THE BOYZ itself.
(Jacob): "Restaurant." Each track offers a unique flavor, so no matter which one you choose, you'll enjoy it and want to keep listening.
(Younghoon): The Boyz jeong-jjajang! (An expression meaning 'quintessential THE BOYZ.')
(Hyunjae): 'Newness.' I believe the album will showcase a fresh charm of THE BOYZ.
(Juyeon): 'Explosion!' From the songs to the choreography, every element bursts with energy.
(Kevin): 'Experience.' This album awakens the senses from start to finish without a single dull moment.
(New): 'TRIGGER.' I hope it sparks a significant impact and brings about change.
(Q): 'Beginning.'
(Ju Haknyeon): 'Explosion!' The songs, music videos, and choreography are all packed with explosive energy, making the term perfect.
(Sunwoo): 'A new beginning and end.'
(Eric): 'Grandeur.' The choreography, music video, and sound are all grand and majestic.
Q. Do you have a message for THE B, who has been with you through every moment?
(Sangyeon): Let's always smile together, THE B!
(Jacob): Thank you for always being there, and for waiting for this comeback! We've worked hard, so let's enjoy it and create more wonderful memories together.
(Younghoon): I believe THE B's constant support and love are what make THE BOYZ who we are today. Although we can't always be physically with you, know that we're always cheering for you in spirit. We want to return the love we've received with even more.
(Hyunjae): Thank you for always running with us, THE B. Love you, heart! ♥
(Juyeon): We are truly grateful for your continuous love, support, and encouragement. Without THE B, we wouldn't be here. We'll do our best with this album too. Thank you!
(Kevin): Whether near or far, we deeply appreciate every fan's support, and each one of you is precious to us.
(New): Thank you for always waiting, expecting great things, and staying with us. I want to tell you every day how much we love you.
(Q): As we approach our 7th anniversary, I want to sincerely thank THE B for sticking with us and giving us strength. Without you, we couldn't have made it this far. Thank you for the time, love, and energy you've given us.
(Ju Haknyeon): Thank you so much for being with us until now, and let's stay together forever! I love you.
(Sunwoo): Please remember that it's because of THE B that we can pursue our dreams. Thank you so much, and I love you.
(Eric): To our beloved THE B, who stand by us through every season—keeping us warm in the cold and cozy in the heat—thank you and love you always. I look forward to walking through many more seasons together with you. ♥