How xikers Leader Minjae Produced Title Track 'DIENAMITE'

 xikers Embraces Rock Energy for New Album Showcase

"No matter what others say, rock stars live with the confidence that 'I am the best.' I thought that attitude closely resembled xikers."

Boy group xikers has officially taken on the challenge of rock music. Embodying a confident rock attitude unshakeable by outside opinions, the group discovered their own reflection within the genre. They channeled the explosive energy of all ten members into a raw and heavy sound.

The album creation process was distinctly different from their previous releases. Leader Minjae took on the primary production of the title track for the very first time. He focused on drawing out the hidden charms of his fellow members while infusing the group's unique color into the music.

"I believed right now is the exact timing for xikers to turn the world upside down," Minjae stated.

Their determination remains exceptional as they embody their core philosophy, "Do or Die." The group melted the conviction they have maintained since their debut into the new track. It serves as both a confident promise to take the stage with a do-or-die attitude and a bold declaration to turn the world on its head.

On November 2, xikers hosted a press showcase at Myeonghwa Live Hall in Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, to commemorate the release of their eighth mini-album, ROUTE ZERO : The CALLING. This marks their official comeback after a five-month hiatus.

Title Track 'DIENAMITE' and Album Composition

The album's main track is titled "DIENAMITE," a rock-genre song highlighting a rough and addictive guitar riff. It captures the bold ambition of xikers as they break away from established order to forge a new path forward.

The spelling of the song title itself stands out. Instead of the standard spelling "DYNAMITE," it is stylized as "DIENAMITE." The group incorporated the English word "DIE" to directly represent their founding motto of "Do or Die."

Minjae explained, "I thought right now is the timing for xikers to turn the world upside down. Our team motto is 'DO OR DIE,' so I wanted to capture that exact meaning inside the title as well."

The track "GO" is similarly packed with full energy. Member Junghoon noted, "It is a song about advancing toward high places without being shaken by the gazes of others." Hunter added, "'ONE' reflects our confidence to break through everything and stand at the absolute peak."

Jinsik shared, "'MASK OFF' describes the moment we throw off our masks without hesitation, completely flipping the entire game. It is a confident statement thrown toward the world without hesitation." Meanwhile, "DUMB" is a track designed to freely enjoy the present moment.

The song "SANCTUARY" offers a noticeably different mood. Hyunwoo explained, "It expresses our haven that we complete by leaning on one another even on unfamiliar roads. It connects directly with the entire album in that the existence of each member becomes a source of strength for the others."

Leader Minjae's First Title Track Production

The most notable change in this album is the increased participation of the group members. Leader Minjae took full charge of writing lyrics, composing, and arranging the title track. It is the first time since their debut that a song he personally produced was selected as the main title track.

Minjae expressed, "This was a goal I had set for myself since before our debut. I am glad to participate more deeply in production. It carries great meaning to present a style of music I wanted to try out as a xikers song."

He focused heavily on highlighting each individual member's distinct appeal. He added, "I felt there were charms of the members that haven't been fully shown to the public yet. I paid close attention to the melodies and details so those qualities could stand out in their respective parts."

He also shared the reason behind choosing the rock genre. Minjae explained that rockers live with the confidence of believing they are the best regardless of what others say, noting that such an attitude aligns with xikers.

Members Sumin and Yechan also participated in writing the lyrics for the title track. Sumin confessed, "Because it was a genre I had never tried before, it was difficult to get a grasp on it at first. There were also detailed requests from Minjae, so I pondered deeply to present a great verse."

Ultimately, the team completed a track that satisfied everyone. Yechan added, "I thought hard about what kind of rap would best showcase our individual characters. It is a verse completed after preparing multiple versions, so I feel even more attached to it."

Intense Stage Performance and Team Growth

On stage during the showcase, xikers performed without holding back. They constantly shifted formations in alignment with the intense beats. Alternating between dynamic choreography and restrained movements, they radiated explosive energy throughout the presentation.

One specific moment that caught attention was a scene where a member held a microphone for another member. The gesture evoked the imagery of a rock vocalist standing before a straight microphone stand. Despite the intense choreography, the group did not miss delivering live vocals.

Junmin emphasized, "Every part of the choreography is a key point. Please pay attention to the control of strength and softness in the dance, which matches the intense beat and lyrics." The members showcased seamless teamwork while constantly shifting their line of movement without breaking focus.

Minjae also felt the tangible growth of his teammates. "At first, my mind was focused on creating a good result. But as we prepared, I could see the members growing. I felt how important the power of music and the mindset of the people containing it really are."

Seeeun emphasized the fundamental principles of performing on stage. "Since before our debut, we considered the stage to be the most important thing. Singing and performance are things a singer should naturally do well," he said, adding, "The time we spent strengthening our resolve with one another seems to have made our stage performances even better."

Yechan stated with confidence, "xikers has clear expertise in each position, including vocals, rap, and performance. We have the confidence to show any stage with our own unique color."

Future Goals and Senior Support

Through this new release, xikers has captured both their growth and willingness to tackle new challenges. Minjae confidently noted, "We tried to capture the fundamental essence of xikers' music. We will show you our own raw and daring energy."

Hyunwoo expressed deep trust in his fellow members. "Every time we practice together, it reminds me of our trainee days. I feel that everyone has grown," he shared, adding, "I have gained conviction that the ten of us can go all the way together to the end."

Their primary goal for this promotional cycle is securing their first number-one trophy on a television music program. Hyunwoo stated, "This time, the members and I set a goal to reach first place. We were able to come this far thanks to our fan club, Roady. We will do our absolute best."

The group also received supportive encouragement from their senior agency labelmate, ATEEZ. Yujun revealed, "Wooyoung usually buys us food often. This time as well, he cheered us on by saying, 'It's great to see you working hard every time. Stay strong and fighting.'"

Concluding the showcase, Minjae asked listeners to look forward to their activities. He added, "We worked hard to clearly capture xikers' own distinct color. Please look forward to the new journey that the ten of us will unfold."

Meanwhile, xikers officially released their new album across major digital music streaming platforms on the same day at 6:00 PM, followed by an official fan showcase at 8:00 PM.

https://www.dispatch.co.kr/2350125