[Exclusive Interview] From Adolescence to Adulthood: EPEX Redefines the Soundtrack of Youth with Their Latest Album

Embark on a musical journey with EPEX as they capture the essence of youth in their latest masterpiece.

EPEX doesn’t just want to make music about the challenges faced by today’s youth; they want to change the way you think about them.

Since the release of their debut album “Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety” on June 8, 2021, EPEX has honed in on a style and craft that has positioned them as the voice of their generation. Their subsequent releases “Bipolar Pt.2: Prelude of Love”, “Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 1. ’21st Century Boys’”, “Prelude of Love Chapter 1. ‘Puppy Love’”, “Prelude of Love Chapter 2. ‘Growing Pains’”, and “Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2. ‘Can We Surrender?’” delve deeper into narratives that shed light on the contemporary struggles and stigmas encountered by today’s youth.

With the first installment of its “Youth” trilogy, EPEX ventures into a new realm. As WISH, KEUM, MU, A-MIN, BAEKSEUNG, AYDEN, YEWANG, and JEFF transition from teenagers to young adulthood, “Youth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS” marks a pivotal departure from their previous body of work. Here, they aim to explore fresh stories, reflecting on the challenges and aspirations of this transformative stage of life.

Comprising eight tracks that dive into the anxieties, aspirations, dreams, and love experienced by Gen Z, the album reveals that even though youth can seem bright and full of joy, they often have invisible scars. The title track, “Youth2Youth,” encapsulates this sentiment, delivering a message crafted by and for the youth that is both authentic and universally resonant. Meanwhile, b-side tracks like “KILLSHOT” and “Painkiller” delve into themes of oppression and resilience, offering poignant reflections on overcoming adversity.

Back for our third exclusive interview with EPEX, the excitement is palpable. This time, the spotlight falls on their groundbreaking first full album, Youth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS,” a testament to their artistic growth and narrative prowess. With each encounter, EPEX has left an indelible imprint on the K-pop industry, captivating audiences with their raw talent and unyielding passion. As we delve into the depths of their creative process behind “Youth,” anticipation swells, promising an insightful journey into the hearts and minds of these remarkable artists. Now, as they embark on this new chapter in their musical journey, we’re eager to dive deeper into the creative process behind Youth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS” and explore how this album marks a significant milestone in their careers. Join us as we embark on yet another enthralling conversation with EPEX below.

Hellokpop: Congratulations on your first full-length album, “Youth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS.”  If you had to describe this album in three words, what would they be, and why?

KEUM: I would choose ‘youth,’ ‘anxiety,’ and ‘growth.’ The connotation of the word ‘youth’ usually means a good time, but in my opinion, youth can be an anxious time that doesn’t always shine gloriously. However, the beauty of youth lies in the fact one can overcome those challenges and grow even further, so I’d use these three words.

YEWANG: I’d like to use ‘fresh start,’ ‘dream,’ and ‘future.’ I thought the expression ‘fresh start’ was appropriate because this album is EPEX’s first full album, and all the members have grown as adults, implying our group’s new vibe. Also, we’re still dreaming even though we have already achieved one dream. This album will be another starting point for our brilliant future.

MU: I would choose ‘freedom,’ ‘growth,’ and ‘memories.’ Youth, the theme of this album, is a period of freedom and purity. Even if it is not enough now, youth signifies the confidence that the future will be even brighter. Ultimately, I think everything will become a happy memory, so I want to express our new album in these three words, ‘freedom,’ ‘growth,’ and ‘memories.’

HKP: What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from this album?

A-MIN: For those who are in their youth now, I hope you can empathize with us and be comforted by us as we are also part of the youth. And for those who have passed their youth, I hope this album will provide an opportunity for you to reminisce on your youth.

JEFF: At the end of a dark tunnel, the light shines even more brightly. Just like that, I want to tell you that it’s okay to be clumsy on any journey. I also want to send a message of support that we are always next to you.

HKP: Your albums convey such meaningful plots. What part of the “Youth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS” storyline interests you the most?

WISH: We have been delivering messages to people around our age as we discussed teenagers’ anxiety and love in our debut album. We’re continuing to tell the story of youth even though all of us turned adults this year. We wanted to convey much of our messages from this album through the music video and story film. I can’t pinpoint everything for you, but I suggest focusing on our individual roles in those videos as they carry various messages.

AYDEN: As you can see in our story film and music videos, there are mysterious occurrences like the members confronting something and their eye colors changing. Fans might wonder, asking, “What’s going on there?” We plan to continue this intriguing storyline in our upcoming full-length album, so please stay tuned for our future story.

BAEKSEUNG: From this album’s storyline, I think the most interesting part to pay attention to would be the music video. There’s a part where all the members are scattered in their own lives, then gather as one again after encountering the presence of something transparent, which I believe is the core of the message that we want to convey.

HKP: The album title, “Youth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS,” suggests that youth is a central theme in your album. Could you share some insights into how you approached portraying the complexities of youth through your music?

KEUM: We put effort into blending the excitement and anxiety that the word ‘youth’ evokes, and also tried to understand the message we want to convey to you through the lyrics first so that we can deliver emotions more richly.

YEWANG: If you look at the order of the tracks on the album from “KILLSHOT” to “Graduation Day,” we’ve encapsulated complex emotions like overcoming difficulties, loving someone, or facing a breakup in each track. Each song expresses the intricate emotions of youth without overlapping themes. The title track, “Youth2Youth,” seems to carry a significant message. Could you elaborate on the inspiration behind this song and what it represents within the album?

JEFF: It’s okay for young people to still be inexperienced, so trust yourself and move forward. Even though you want to quit because you’re tired, if you look around, you will see that you’re never alone.

MU: It contains the words of the youth: Even if many things are still clumsy and slow, don’t be afraid and have confidence because we will eventually shine brilliantly.

HKP: What sets “Youth2Youth” apart from the other songs on the album, and why did you choose it as the title track?

BAEKSEUNG: I believe the title track was chosen because of the lingering impact and emotion we felt when we first heard the song, to the point where its grandness and sentiment continued to resonate. Also, unlike the other songs EPEX has presented so far, this song feels a bit more mature and weighty.

AYDEN: Of course, the other tracks on this album are great as well, but I think the title track, “Youth2Youth,” stands out both musically and thematically with a clear and rich message. From the moment I heard it, I immediately thought it should be the title track, and I felt confident that EPEX would be able to pull it off well.

HKP: Can you share any TMI or spoilers from the music video filming or creation of this album?

A-MIN: It was my first time exposing some skin after my debut. To prepare to show off my back, I diligently did pull-ups at my dormitory the day before the filming.

WISH: There’s a particularly intentional scene in my individual part in the music video. If anyone was surprised at all after watching the teaser, I hope they’ll definitely check out the music video, too. Look out for that part!

HKP: The concept of chapters suggests a continuation. Do you envision future chapters in the “Youth” saga, and if so, how do you plan to develop the narrative in your upcoming works?

KEUM: I think there will be a more detailed story about youth. In the next album, I would like to talk about a different meaning of youth and another growth story that we couldn’t capture through this album!

A-MIN: Since there are many different emotions in youth, we will deal with other emotions that were not covered in this album in more detail through the ‘Youth’ album series.

HKP: If you had to pick one song from“Youth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS”  besides the title track as your favorite, which one would it be and why?

JEFF: “Breathe in Love.” I like this song because the drum beats and bass lines are addictive, and there’s a part in the lyrics that expresses the overwhelming feelings of love which is impressive.

BAEKSEUNG: I like all the songs, so my favorite changes every time, but I think for today it’s “Graduation Day.” There’s a reason why it was pre-released, and I think it’s the best song for EPEX at this point in life.

MU: For me, it’s “Painkiller.” I believe many listeners will find solace and gain a lot of support through the melody line and heartfelt lyrics, including the chorus lyrics that ‘compare you to my painkiller.’

HKP: Each member of EPEX brings something unique to the group. How did you incorporate individual styles and talents into the creation of this album?

YEWANG: Personally, I made an effort to express youthfulness through my voice and worked hard to ensure that my voice was delivered well in the chorus of the title track, as it matched perfectly with the youthful vibe.

JEFF: In terms of vocals, I tried to maintain a slightly more dreamy feeling compared to my usual self while recording in a bright atmosphere. I aimed to evoke a sense of youthfulness by singing with a thinner, higher voice, and I’m pleased that it worked out well.

A-MIN: Each member of EPEX has his own charming characteristics, but for this album, we made an effort to showcase our combined charms. We did a lot of vocal recordings as well as group choreography rehearsals. In this full-length album, we included songs respectively from a vocal unit and rap unit for the first time, which allowed us to showcase individual abilities more effectively.

HKP: How do you feel your music has evolved since your earlier releases?

WISH: I think the development point lies in the fact that as each individual’s capabilities increase, the atmosphere of the songs we express becomes richer and more diverse. Overall, I feel the vibe of the songs is becoming more mature.

AYDEN: In our previous tracks, our voices may have been a bit immature, and the message we wanted to convey through lyrics may have been indirect. However, in this album, you will be able to hear not only our evolving sound but also sincere messages directly delivered to you.

HKP: Can you give us a spoiler about your next activities?

BAEKSEUNG: After listening to the songs for the next album, if I could share a little spoiler… I’d say it’s a bit ‘eye-catching.’

KEUM: I think for our next album, we’ll be able to share a more detailed version of the story and messages that were carried in our first full album. As EPEX always shows various sides, we’ll present even more diverse aspects.

HKP: Lastly, please leave a message for fans around the world.

WISH: To all the ZENITH around the world who support us!! We’ll always strive to be EPEX, who can repay your love! We hope our music has a positive influence on all of you. Love you!!

AYDEN: To all the ZENITH who always support and cheer for us! Let’s create a new youth together with us! Please show lots of love for this album, too!

MU: Thank you for always supporting and loving us regardless of borders and languages, whether from afar or nearby. With your support, we’ll work even harder. Please show a lot of interest in this title track, too.

YEWANG: To all the ZENITH eagerly awaiting EPEX, we’ve prepared a song that fits the spring full of youth. Please listen to it a lot!

Connect with EPEX on Instagram, X, Members X, TikTok, Facebook, Weibo, and YouTube.

Listen to their discography on Spotify or Apple Music.

*Special thanks the the members of EPEX, C9 Entertainment, and Helix Publicity for this exclusive interview.

Image and Video Credits: C9 Entertainment