Invitation to “Candyland” from UP10TION

It’s been quite a while since we’ve seen anything from the boys of UP10TION, and this time they have returned as a full group, with member Wooshin making his long-awaited return to the spotlight. And as an added bonus of sweetness, the boys came back with their first full-length album! 

Taking You to Candyland

“Candyland” brings a newer, more mature and fresh concept to the boys in comparison to their previous releases. UP10TION has explored many different concepts since debut in 2015, but this mature look is a first for the group and I must say, they did it well. The music video is full of bright neon colors that contrast the darker overtone of the environment and outfits, which is also noticeably in contrast to previous release “Going Crazy.” The track itself is more funk driven and is also a different sound from their usual EDM influences. I appreciate the group experimenting with different sounds, as “Runner” is still a top favorite release of mine. “Candyland” may be quite different from previous releases, but there is no doubt that it’s a bop.

In their third year of existence, UP10TION has finally released a full-length album with 11 new tracks. The album starts off with high-energy in “Candyland” and “Target On,” my personal favorite B-side of the album. “Target On” keeps the energy of “Candyland” going for another three minutes, providing a catchy and upbeat start to the album.

INVITATION also features softer melodies, with sweet “Finally” and smooth waltz “Habit” following the high-strung tracks. An UP10TION album wouldn’t be an UP10TION album without at least one traditional EDM focused track in “Mixed Signals,” and the diversity continues with the sentimental ballad “Still With You” toward the end of the album. It’s not often that this group shows their musical versatility, but they certainly have accomplished that in INVITATION.

Unfortunately, UP10TION has historically been one of those groups that is constantly overshadowed by others, and consequently has failed to remain in the spotlight despite their immense talent. If you haven’t familiarized yourself with this group, you’re definitely missing out on one of the best talents K-Pop has to offer, and it’s certainly proven through INVITATION, as well as the music video for “Candyland” and the sharp choreography that goes along with it. Seriously though, please support these awesome boys!