Lee Taemin signals musical evolution: "Time to show my vocals"

Singer Lee Taemin has signaled a new musical turning point, sharing the creative struggles and vision behind his latest work. The behind-the-scenes video for 'PHASE 1 : Soft Violence,' released on the 23rd, captures the production process from initial concept setting to vocal recording and choreography practice.

"A new beginning breaking existing frameworks"... Wit and narrative in the concept

In the video, Taemin revealed that he is taking a differentiated approach compared to his previous projects. Regarding the direction, Taemin noted that simply showing "I have changed drastically" right from the concept is a method he has used too many times. Instead, he discussed the process of neutralizing Deep elements with Wit to create a cohesive work.

Regarding the project's narrative, Taemin used the metaphor that "a new play is beginning." He expressed a desire to break away from his previous "puppet-like" image and embrace a narrative of receiving a new identity, explaining, "It is content that implies starting anew amidst the Ash." He added, "There was a need for the timing to show that I am not just someone who dances, but someone who can also sing like this."

Intense deliberation and vocal range challenges in the studio

During the recording process, Taemin faced technical challenges while striving for perfection. He spoke candidly about the difficulty of the song's vocal range, stating, "The song stays at that exact high point where it's difficult to use either falsetto or chest voice, to the point where my throat feels fatigued."

The video also illustrates the process of setting the song's atmosphere. Taemin suggested ideas for the composition, noting, "The chorus should be strong, and for the intro, I think a slightly Lazy feeling would be good." Furthermore, the footage captures him coordinating the tone and expression to achieve a "period-piece-like situational drama concept."

Choreography practice: An obsession with performance detail

Following the vocal sessions, the video captures Taemin's intense choreography practice as he works to perfect his movements. He is seen working with dancers to control the acceleration of his motions, contemplating the direction of each movement to implement a "truly Hyundai" feeling.

Taemin meticulously inspected every detail of the dance. The video shows him finely checking the range of his movements, adjusting the height of his motions and noting, "It shouldn't go this far. It needs to go down a little more."