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| BTOB 4U, a sub-unit of K-pop boy band BTOB, released its first mini-album "INSIDE," Monday. Courtesy of Cube Entertainment |
By Dong Sun-hwa
After completing their obligatory military duty earlier this year, the members of BTOB 4U ― a four-piece sub-unit of K-pop boy band BTOB ― had a tough time returning to "normalcy."
They had to gear up for the group's first mini-album "INSIDE," but initially it was challenging to sing and dance like they did before.
"All my muscles needed for dancing were almost dead," member Changsub said Monday, during an album showcase at the YES24 Live Hall in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. The album was released later Monday.
"I could not even sing properly because I was often out of breath. But life is all about overcoming challenges. Thanks to endless practice and help from other members, I got over this."
Front man Eunkwang added, "It is not easy to perform a gig live and make dynamic dance movements at the same time. But we have made it in the end."
Rapper Minhyuk said, "It was physically strenuous sometimes, but I was still so happy to prepare for an album along with other members following a long interval."
BTOB 4U's other rapper Peniel, who has U.S. citizenship, does not have to undertake military service.
During the showcase, BTOB 4U performed the moombahton-tinged lead track "Show Your Love." The gig was flawless ― the quartet's singing was big and clear and the dance movements were powerful yet organized.
"We prefer live performances because we do not excel in lip-synching," Changsub said. "Singing live is very thrilling as well and it can be more touching for the audience."
Eunkwang elaborated, "My heart beats fast and adrenaline is released when I am doing live performances."
Also included in the album are four B-sides ― the R&B "Tension," the funk-rock "Bull's Eye," the rock ballad "Alone" and the dramatic "Mirage."
"'INSIDE' is full of diversity," Eunkwang said. "BTOB's musical style can be found in the album, but we added more wittiness to it so as to display BTOB 4U's own style."
The quartet revealed they wanted to deliver love and hope to people amid hard times through the lead track. It is composed by BTOB member Hyunsik, who is doing military service.
"We didn't pick this number as our lead track just because it was written by our member," Minhyuk said. "We were attracted by its quality and message."
The four wrapped up the session by disclosing their hopes.
"I miss the other members so much," Minhyuk said, referring to three BTOB members ― Hyunsik, Sungjae and Ilhoon ― who are still doing military duty. "I hope we can meet up soon."
