"Practiced Until I Bled": ILLIT Showcases Enhanced Magic (Showcase)

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"To show our growth, we practiced until our throats bled." (ILLIT)

ILLIT's group name, a combination of 'I WILL' and the pronoun 'IT' (signifying something special), suggests infinite possibilities and the ability to become anything.

With their 3rd mini-album, 'Bomb,' they unleash that potential, transforming into magical girls. They deliver a positive message to ordinary girls, encouraging them to awaken to their own possibilities.

Moka expressed confidence, stating, "We were very eager to show this album quickly. We prepared diligently, and it's an album filled with songs we are confident in."

ILLIT held a media showcase for their 3rd mini-album, 'Bomb,' on June 16th at Yes24 Live Hall in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, introducing their new release.
'Bomb': ILLIT's Identity

'Bomb' solidifies ILLIT's identity. It's a vibrant album featuring addictive hooks, quirky lyrics, and dazzling yet catchy point choreography, continuing to highlight ILLIT's unique strengths.

The message remains consistent. Wonhee hinted, "I believe our music always carries honesty. This time, too, we're not hiding our feelings of affection and are tackling them head-on."

They haven't overlooked public appeal either. Yunah stated, "Many people seem to enjoy our music because they empathize with it. This time, too, we will draw empathy from situations anyone can experience."

The narrative has also expanded. While previous albums focused on stories centered on "me," this album moves towards a wider world through interaction with "you."

The concept is that of a magical girl. Iroha clarified, "ILLIT's magic is about believing in one's own potential. It means that when you overcome negative inner emotions, you can move forward."

Producer Bang Si-hyuk lent his support. Minju expressed gratitude, saying, "PD Bang wrote our title track, 'Do the Dance' (빌려온 고양이), and even complimented our choreography, saying it was pretty."
A Cat in Love: The Title Track

The new album contains a total of five tracks: "Little Monster," "Do the Dance" (빌려온 고양이), "Jellyous," "Oops!," and "Bomb Picnic."

The title track, "Do the Dance" (빌려온 고양이), is a French house genre song with a romantic and dreamy atmosphere. It's a bold and fresh confession song from girls aiming to make up for mistakes on a first date.

The title incorporates a popular modern expression. Wonhee explained, "We quoted the proverb 'like a borrowed cat,' which refers to being in an embarrassing state."

The lovely and unique lyrics are a key highlight. French phrases are whispered, and addictive onomatopoeic sounds like "Tutu-du-du-du-du-da-da" are repeated.

Wonhee said, "My part includes French. I received special training to express it fluently. The pronunciation felt awkward at first, but when I heard it, it sounded like a magic spell."

Yunah actively suggested lyrical ideas. "I suggested the phrase 'Doomchit-Nyaong.' I was amazed and happy that it was adopted as part of the lyrics," she said with a bright smile.
Skills: Super Growth

ILLIT also unveiled the title track performance for the first time on this day. Befitting magical girls, it began with movements as if wielding a magic wand, followed by a fresh and fluttering performance.

Moka pointed out, "There are more elaborate choreographies with turning motions." Iroha recalled, "The choreography was difficult, but we encouraged each other and worked hard because we wanted to do better."

The point choreography is ILLIT's signature hand dance. Minju explained, "It's a motion like a cat stretching. We named it the 'Cat Stretch Dance' or 'Nyaong-Nyaong Dance.'"

Their stable live vocal skills also stood out. The members' pitch remained unwavering despite the non-stop choreography. They unreservedly showcased their unique vocal tones, each distinct.

This was the result of immense effort. Minju confessed, "To show our growth in skill, we practiced until our throats bled. We particularly focused on basic competency exercises."

Wonhee revealed, "As we performed at university festivals and other stages, my desire to show great performances grew. I practiced my best in every moment."
Goal: No. 1!

ILLIT's goals are also ambitious. Minju particularly longed for a No. 1 win on 'Music Bank,' where she serves as an MC. "I want to personally hand flower bouquets to the members," she said.

They aim to be recognized for both their music and performance. Iroha stated, "With this album, we want to hear people say, 'ILLIT's songs are always good, and their stages are always highly anticipated.'"

The members collectively emphasized paying attention to their emotional expression. Minju urged, "We tried to vary our vocal expression to match the song's atmosphere. Please listen carefully."

Wonhee, whose personal aesthetic often aligns with cats, expressed confidence in portraying the title track's concept. "We will show our cute and lively side by incorporating the theme of 'cat,'" she said.

Finally, Minju exclaimed, "I hope our group name becomes a pronoun that says it all. Our goal is to hear reactions like 'That's so ILLIT.' We will continue to walk ILLIT's unique path."

Meanwhile, ILLIT released their new album on various music streaming sites today at 6 PM KST.