K-pop powerhouses IVE are back, and this time, they are peeling back the glittering layers of confidence to reveal something deeper, bolder, and more mysterious. On August 25, the six-member group – An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, and Leeseo – dropped their fourth mini-album, IVE SECRET, across all major music platforms, sending shockwaves through the industry.
The new album aims to redesign the group’s established image. While maintaining their signature confidence, An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, and Leeseo explore a hidden, contrasting attitude, presenting a more nuanced version of themselves. This theme of secrecy was woven through a variety of pre release images and video content, building anticipation for the record’s consistent message across its six tracks.
Described as an exploration of emotions hidden behind polished perfection, IVE SECRET maintains the group’s trademark boldness while introducing a compelling sense of vulnerability and duality. Across six tracks, IVE paints a vivid soundscape of complexity and reinvention.
Leading the charge is the hypnotic title track “XOXZ”, an IVE-coined phrase meaning “Love you, good night, see you in my dreams.” Built on a tense foundation of 808 bass, brass flourishes, and hard-hitting drums, the track pulses with moody energy. Minimalist vocals weave around hushed raps, creating a dreamlike allure that lingers long after the last note. Elevating the song even further, member Jang Wonyoung joins forces with hit lyricist Seo Ji-eum, reuniting the duo behind previous hit “Attitude” to craft an enigmatic narrative of love, secrecy, and emotional codes that feel like whispered confessions.
The album also features standout tracks like “Wild Bird,” “Dear, My Feelings,” “GOTCHA (Baddest Eros),” “♥beats,” and “Midnight Kiss,” each unveiling different shades of IVE’s artistry. From atmospheric ballads to rhythm-driven anthems, the record underscores their evolution as artists who can command both spectacle and intimacy.
Accompanying the release is the visually stunning “XOXZ” music video, which invites fans into a secret dreamworld crafted on IVE’s terms. It’s a surreal playground of power and fantasy, underscored by choreography that is already making waves thanks to its bold point dance teased earlier on social media.
IVE SECRET and “XOXZ” are out now on all major streaming platforms. Watch the full music video and join the dance challenge on IVE’s official channels.
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