By Han Sang-hee
Staff Reporter
Boy group SHINee will release their third mini album, ``2009, Year Of Us,'' Oct. 19, offering their unique sound and style to fans once again.
The main track, ``Ring Ding Dong,'' and its teaser music video, released online last Wednesday, are already attracting fans who have been waiting for the five-member group to return with something new.
The band indeed came back with a different look, donning darker and edgier outfits and makeup, a contrast to their earlier style that shouted out cute, sweet and fresh.
Many renowned artists, such as singer-songwriter Yoo Young-jin, Kenzie and Kim Young-hoo, contributed to the album, while Luna from girl group f(x) and ballad singer Kim Youn-woo joined in as guest singers.
Ring Ding Dong is an ``Afro-electro'' number with groovy drum rhythms mixed with electro beats, while ``Y.O.U. (Year Of Us)'' shows the members' gratitude and love for their fans.
While their previous two albums ``Amigo'' and ``Romeo'' were about SHINee as a group, ``2009, Year Of Us'' focuses on each individual's distinctive style. Onew's first solo number ``The Name I Loved'' will satisfy ballad fans as he offers his strong vocals alongside veteran singer Kim, while Minho and Key are expected to wow fans with their rap battle number ``Get Down.''
Making its debut in 2008, SHINee garnered fans both here and abroad with their young and boyish image, quite different from groups like TVXQ and Big Bang, who concentrated more on their edgier, sexier side.