SuperM makes big return with hybrid remix to deliver hope amid pandemic

“K-pop Avengers” SuperM held an online press event Friday before the release of its first studio album “Super One.” Courtesy of SM Entertainment

By Dong Sun-hwa

In a rare move to target the global market, Korean record label SM Entertainment launched "K-pop Avengers" SuperM in 2019, consisting of seven members from its existing boy bands EXO, SHINee and NCT. The septet's first step was a hit ― last October, SuperM became the first K-pop act to top the Billboard 200 chart with its debut album.

Now, the band ― comprising EXO's Baekhyun, Kai, NCT's Lucas, Taeyong, Mark, Ten and SHINee's Taemin ― is ready to shake the music scene again with the vibrant hybrid remix “One,” which blends two singles “Monster” and “Infinity.” It is the lead track of the group's first full-length album “Super One” unleashed Friday.

“The process of combining two songs was enjoyable and I felt a sense of accomplishment for tackling another challenge,” Taemin said during an online press event, Friday.

“SHINees's 2012 release 'Sherlock' was also a hybrid. I think my previous and recent recording experience has given me more knack.”

Swedish production duo Moonshine said in a video message that the pair was satisfied with the results, saying it was challenging at first to lay two songs properly.

“I think it is one of the greatest songs we have written,” the duo said.

Through the lyrics, the members show their determination to fly high despite many hardships facing them. Front man Baekhyun hinted they would exhibit powerful and energetic performances.

“It seems the true color of SuperM is finally visible in this album,” he added.

The album offers 15 tracks of diverse genres ― including “One,” “Monster” and “Infinity" ― with a common message of hope, Kai said.

“People are going through hard time these days, so we want to deliver them hope through our music,” he said. “We also want to show our unity and synergy.”

“Super One” also contains the addictive “Wish You Were Here,” the tropical house “Big Chance,” the dynamic “100,” the oriental “Tiger Inside,” the gospel hip-hop “Better Days,” the R&B “Together At Home,” the trap hip-hop “Drip,” the rhythmical “Line 'Em Up,” another hip-hop “Danger Woman,” the harmonious “Step Up,” the slow jam “So Long” and the up-tempo “With You.”

The seven-piece act wrapped up the event by disclosing its goals and wishes.

“I hope SuperM can grasp an opportunity to come up with the songs that highlight our vocal or sentimentalism,” Taemin said.

“I was pressured at first because our debut album secured the top spot on Billboard 200 chart,” Baekhyun said. “But now, I think it will be just enough for me if our music can encourage people and give them positive energy.”

In collaboration with Marvel Studios, SuperM will also release various goods for fans.