Jay B, a member of the K-pop boy group GOT7, is making a solo comeback with his first full-length album "Archive 1: [Road Runner]," following the completion of his mandatory civil service earlier this month.
"I've always been working on songs, so I was able to release them fairly quickly. I immediately worked on this album right after being discharged from mandatory service," the artist said during a media showcase for the album at YES 24 Live Hall in Gwangjin District, eastern Seoul, Wednesday.
"Since it's a full-length album, I feel more attached to it. So, like organizing books, I used the main title 'Archive One' and the subtitle 'Road Runner' to convey my heart to continue running hard, moving forward."
The new album, which hit stores, Wednesday, features a total of 13 tracks, including the double title tracks "Crash" and "Cloud Nine." The physical album also includes songs that Jay B contributed to, both in composing and writing lyrics, such as "Present" and "Winter Night."
The album captures the heartwarming feelings and excitement of waiting and reuniting, while reflecting on a matured self ready to embark on a new beginning.
The two title tracks showcase contrasting genres, with "Crash" highlighting a powerful performance and "Cloud Nine" reflecting Jay B's diverse musical style.
"'Crash' revolves around the passionate performance I've shown so far. It's a sexy song I've chosen to open up more possibilities for what I'll showcase in the future," he said.
"Whereas 'Cloud nine' is a song I prepared to showcase a calmer and sexy vibe, different from the funky and fun sides I've shown before. I've been wanting to present more of the R&B genre that I absolutely love and this is that turning point."
Debuting in 2012 as part of the unit group JJ Project with fellow GOT7 member Jinyoung, the artist is now releasing his first full-length solo album.
Jay B shared that he focused on putting on a powerful performance for this album to share his energy with his fans.
"This first full-length album was created with excitement and warmth, as it was my first time. I prepared songs primarily focusing on delivering enjoyable and energetic performances on stage, with the hope of creating a moment where I can connect as one with the fans," he said.
"As a solo artist, I'm working hard to establish my own distinctiveness. I believe my strength lies in creating engaging stages and I trust that the sight of me giving my all resonates with the fans," he said.