The group's new attempt paid off for ILLIT. A musical change that showcases a calm and delicate sensibility, different from the bright and bubbly image they previously showed, is receiving a positive response.
ILLIT (Yoon-a, Min-ju, Moca, Won-hee, Iroha) released their first single album, "NOT CUTE ANYMORE," on the 24th. The title track of the single, which shares the same name as the single, is a pop song based on a reggae rhythm that intuitively expresses their desire not to be seen as merely cute.
The minimal sound of "NOT CUTE ANYMORE" is gentle yet peculiarly addictive. ILLIT's pure vocals, sung as if speaking to the other person, and the distinctive melody line seize the ear. The five members' more mature aspects and the expansion of their musical scope are appealing.
ILLIT held a release celebration fan event, "graduation from cuteness," at Megabox COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on the 24th and explained the meaning of this new release. The members said, "This is not a simple concept change. We wanted to show our more colorful selves who have grown one step."
Their performance is also drawing attention. In the music video, ILLIT attracted attention with expressionless faces and restrained movements. The chic yet cool attitude enhances their haughty charm, and the brief smile they show when hiding their faces with their hands and then revealing them shakes the viewer's heart.
Global fans have offered praise such as "'NOT CUTE ANYMORE' that has reached the realm of cuteness" (dosu****), "The winter's fluffiness is surprisingly pleasing. A song with an addictive charm that doesn't get old" (gjcp*****), and "A song that's easy on the ears. ILLIT's unique atmosphere is unrivaled" (wkdxjr***).
An upward trend is expected on domestic and international music charts. The title track "NOT CUTE ANYMORE" not only entered Melon's "Hot 100" at No. 8 on the day of release but also reached No. 1 on Japan's AWA real-time rising chart. In addition, it ranked on iTunes' "Top Songs" in more than 10 countries/regions and placed high on YouTube trending music.
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