ENHYPEN

K-pop boy band ENHYPEN bridges the uneasy gaps that exist between the borders of fame. Like the ubiquitous symbol the septet’s name reflects, Heeseung, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, Jungwon, and Ni-ki use their strong connections to face doubt with a strong grip armored in slick, dark electronic pop (“Given-Taken”), chaotic, grimy pop-rock (“Drunk-Dazed”), and authoritative, sharp drill (“Future Perfect (Pass the MIC)”). Formed in September 2020 on the K-pop idol survival show I-Land in Seoul, ENHYPEN had already built a massive global fanbase before the group’s official debut in November of that year. Through their sonically diverse BORDER, DIMENSION, and MANIFESTO album series, the members tackled their sudden newfound popularity with an optimism grounded in their unyielding friendship, which continues to manifest itself through a soothing blend of vocals and synchronized, precise choreography. But ENHYPEN takes the time to explore other areas of youthful emotions too, capturing the fiery rush of first love through smooth R&B (“FEVER”) and bright, dreamy pop (“Sweet Venom”).