After a hiatus of over two years, South Korean boy band SHINee, widely recognized as the “Princes of K-pop,” has made a triumphant comeback.
Fans can rejoice and declare, “SHINee’s back,” reminiscent of the iconic phrase from their 2012 hit “Sherlock (Clue + Note),” as the four-member group released their eighth full album titled “Hard“ along with the music video for the lead single of the same name.
The single “Hard“ is described as a “hybrid hip-hop track,” showcasing SHINee’s versatility and evolving musical style. Accompanying the single, the album features a total of 10 songs, including the anthemic pre-release track “The Feeling” unveiled on June 9.
Prior to the album release, SHINee held a series of concerts titled “SHINee World VI: Perfect Illumination” in Seoul over the weekend. However, due to health issues, leader Onew was unable to perform, with Key, Minho, and Taemin taking the stage.
#SHINee_WORLD_VI Day3
샤이니월드 진짜 많이 사랑해요🩵
콘서트 찾아줘서 고맙고 이번 활동도 최선을 다할게요🩵#SHINee #샤이니 #SHINee_WORLD #샤이니월드#SHINee_WORLD_VI#PERFECT_ILLUMINATION #퍼펙트_일루미네이션 pic.twitter.com/lnBFPHsSlf— SHINee (@SHINee) June 25, 2023
This comeback marks SHINee’s first new music in over two years, following their April 2021 repackage album “Atlantis,” which was an extension of their seventh full album, “Don’t Call Me.”
During the hiatus, Taemin fulfilled his mandatory military service, making him the final member to complete his enlistment while his fellow bandmates pursued solo endeavors.
Managed by SM Entertainment, the boyband made their debut in May 2008 with the extended play “Replay.” Although originally a five-member group, the untimely passing of vocalist Jonghyun in December 2017 deeply impacted the group and their dedicated fan base.
Renowned for their experimental electro-pop sound and captivating stage performances, they once again demonstrate their musical prowess and solidify their status as one of the most respected groups in the genre.
Stream the new track here:
SHINee is BACK! Check out 'SHINee Essentials' playlist on @AppleMusic and stream our new song 'HARD' 💎
🎧 https://t.co/JLWOChelW7
#SHINee #샤이니#HARD #SHINee_HARD pic.twitter.com/xK1MiNUzjV— SHINee (@SHINee) June 27, 2023
Featured photo from NME