Why ALL(H)OURS embraced their manlier side in 3rd mini-album ‘Smoke Point’

ALL(H)OURS in a concept photo for their third mini-album “Smoke Point.” Image: EDEN Entertainment

For ALL(H)OURS, taking on a more masculine concept in their third mini-album, “Smoke Point,” is a continuous portrayal of the group’s dedication toward endless growth, which has always been their goal since their debut.

The K-pop septet—consisting of Kunho, Youmin, Xayden, Minje, Masami, Hyunbin, and ON:N—released “Smoke Point” in February of this year, which combines their influences in hip-hop, trap, EDM, pop, and new jack swing genres. The third mini-album is a departure from the group’s “drift phonk” sound, and it contains five tracks: “Smoke Point,” “Graffiti,” “Gimme Gimme,” “Kings & Queens,” and “Freaky Fresh.”

“I’ve always had a lot of cute little habits and gestures in my daily life, but when I look back at myself now, I feel like I’ve become a bit more calm and serious. It’s almost like I’m graduating from my cute and playful side,” Kunho told INQUIRER.net in an email interview while sharing how growing up was a departure from his wholesome image when he was younger.

The 22-year-old said being “more mature” is an interesting shift, but he’s in the process of discovering the balance between staying true to himself and acting more grown-up.

“I think I’m starting to show a more mature side of myself, and it’s been an interesting shift. While I still love showing affection, I’m finding a balance and embracing this new chapter of growth,” he said.

Taking on a manlier route in their third mini-album was not a matter of appearing more mature for ALL(H)OURS. For them, it is a dedication to “evolve and push boundaries” in their own way.

“[We are] still on an endless journey of challenge and growth. This year, I really wanted us to infuse the album with a completely new color that’s unique to ALL(H)OURS,” Youmin said. “We’re always striving to explore new sides of ourselves… it’s all about continuing to evolve and push boundaries in our own way.”

ALL(H)OURS has always been dedicated to showing multiple facets of growth since their debut, as reflected in their self-confidence in every comeback. “We know that in order to deliver an amazing performance, we need to be strong and united as a group. That’s why we’re always encouraging each other to have confidence in our music and what we create together,” Youmin said of how they manage to maintain their trust within themselves.

“But it’s not just us — the love and support from our Min(ut)es also boosts our confidence,” he continued. “When our fans embrace our concepts and music with so much passion, it only makes us feel even more sure of ourselves and our abilities. Their love gives us the strength to keep pushing forward and striving to give our best on stage.”

Connecting through music

While social media is crucial in maintaining a presence in K-pop, Masami pointed out that connecting with fans through live performances is something that deserves attention. “The compliments about our live performances and hearing that my presence makes people happy make me really happy, and it means the world to me,” he said, adding that being praised for his stage presence is an encouragement for him to keep going.

On the other hand, Hyunbin said offline events also help in strengthening the bond between the group and their dedicated fans (or Min(ut)es). “One of the most unforgettable moments for me is our debut showcase. I’ll always remember how our Min(ut)es were there from the very beginning, supporting us every step of the way. I’m so thankful to them, and that’s a memory I’ll carry with me forever,” he said.

ALL(H)OURS in a concept photo for their third mini-album “Smoke Point.” Image: EDEN Entertainment

Many fans underestimate the significance of a first debut anniversary since it’s a common feat that every group or solo artist reaches at some point. Yet ALL(H)OURS is one of the many acts who considers their first year as a blessing.

According to ON:N, one of the group’s unforgettable moments is how their overall skills shone onstage despite debuting in January of last year. He considers it a testament to their dedication to overall improvement and putting teamwork at the forefront of what they do.

“During that time, we received so many compliments about how great our overall skills were as a group, and it made me feel incredibly proud of ALL(H)OURS. It’s moments like that that remind me of how far we’ve come,” he said.

The septet is aware that being a K-pop idol has its highs, lows, and uncertainties. Despite this, Masami hopes that they will be noted not only for their perfection but also their efforts to set themselves apart from other groups.

“I want to be remembered as a perfect idol, but more importantly, as a member of a group that has its own unique and captivating image. Each of us in ALL(H)OURS has our own distinct personality, and I hope that stands out in the way people remember us,” Masami said when asked how they want to be remembered as a group.

ALL(H)OURS while promoting their third mini-album “Smoke Point” in M Countdown. Image: EDEN Entertainment

Perfection is a tall order, but it is a trait that every K-pop idol needs to have. For Masami, having a flawless image is a matter of being “complete,” or in other words, being talented, charming, charismatic, and distinct altogether.

“I want not only our fans but also the general public to look at us and think, that’s an idol group with everything — talent, charm, and individuality,” he said. “We strive to leave an impression of being well-rounded and truly ‘complete’ idols, and that’s the image we aim to create.”