ONEW Brings Intrigue and Emotion in His Long-Awaited Comeback
SHINee’s ONEW returns after a five-month hiatus with the release of his highly anticipated second full-length album, ‘PERCENT’, available on major streaming platforms as of June 15 at 6 p.m. KST. Following his January release of mini album ‘CONNECTION,’ this comeback dives deeper into self-expression and sonic experimentation.
‘ANIMALS’: A Journey Into Raw Instinct
The album’s title track, ‘ANIMALS’, captures the liberating moment of surrendering to instinct. Fueled by a crisp bassline, acoustic guitar layers, and unpredictable synths, the song builds a tension that mimics an animal’s raw energy. ONEW steps away from repetition, delivering a constantly evolving narrative that adds thrilling dynamics throughout the track.
The accompanying music video evokes ONEW’s personal message of awakening inner instincts under the full moon. “Most of us hide our true selves in everyday life, but I hope people feel the joy of being themselves—even if just for a moment,” ONEW shared through his agency.
A Diverse and Thoughtful Tracklist
‘PERCENT’ boasts 11 tracks, each carrying distinct emotions and styles. Smooth and soulful ‘Silky’ kicks things off with a theme of rest and laziness, while ‘Caffeine’ captivates with its addictive harmonies. Romantic vibes continue in the sweet sounds of ‘Marshmallow’, followed by the introspective rhythm of ‘Confidence’, symbolizing inner strength amid uncertainty.
From the humorous comfort of ‘오래 OKㅋ’ (an uplifting take on daily routine), to the sharp contrasts in ‘Far Away’ reflecting chaos and escape, ONEW takes listeners through a full emotional arc. Tracks like ‘MAD’, ‘PERCENT (%)’, ‘Epilogue’, and ‘Happy Birthday’ further enhance the album’s layered storytelling.
A Musical Memoir of Completion Through Connection
More than just a musical production, ‘PERCENT’ is described as ONEW’s personal journal—one that’s completed not in solitude but through experiences, relationships, and emotions that shape identity. “We can’t be perfect alone, but even imperfection itself is beautiful,” ONEW reflected.
Notably, ONEW directly participated in the creative process across the album, showcasing his growing identity not only as a vocalist but as a well-rounded artist.
Fan Events and Pop-Up Store to Celebrate the Release
To commemorate the launch, ONEW is also hosting a special event at the Open Stage, 1F of Shinsegae Gangnam Department Store, alongside the unveiling of the ‘PERCENT’ Pop-Up Store. The event promises fan-driven activities and immersive displays that reflect the album’s concept.
With a blend of musical evolution and emotional sincerity, ‘PERCENT’ solidifies ONEW’s position as a solo artist willing to explore and celebrate the unpredictable layers of human nature.
