Bolder and Brighter: IVE Returns to Los Angeles With Power and Poise
Photos: Andy Keilen
From standout solo stages to fan-favorite title tracks and a hit-filled encore, IVE's SHOW WHAT I AM stop in Los Angeles showcased the confidence and artistry of a group continuing to expand its global reach.
Following the release of their second full-length album REVIVE+, IVE demonstrated striking artistic growth with their return to Kia Forum for their sophomore world tour, SHOW WHAT I AM. Evolving into a formidable live act, the six-member powerhouse delivered a 27-song set spanning genres, tones, and concepts, presenting Los Angeles DIVE with a truly unforgettable night.
Deafening cheers erupted from the crowd as an endless sea of I-Ha Bongs lit up the arena. With chants echoing throughout the space, the audience instantly stood up in excitement as the opening introduction video signaled the final countdown to welcome the stars of the night on stage. Wasting no time to set the charismatic tone with a surprisingly darker concept, IVE dove straight into "Gotcha (Baddest Eros)," immediately setting a high-powered tone. "XOXZ," "Baddie," "Ice Queen," and "Black Hole" followed in rapid succession, leaving the audience in excitement and awe as the group’s hit-filled set perfectly projected their effortless charisma.
Following the explosive opening stretch, a brief introduction segment allowed the members to connect with fans as they expressed heartfelt appreciation for the audiences’ energetic attitude. Soon enough, the show breezed through “TKO,” “Holy Moly,” and “My Satisfaction" as the six members staged these crowd-pleasing tracks with renewed energy.
Elated cheers erupted once again as the high-energy atmosphere gave way to something lighter and more celebratory in preparation for the members’ solo stages. While the group performances emphasized IVE’s signature poise, the solo stages highlighted each member's individual color and artistry. Jang Wonyoung wooed the crowd with her glamorous confidence anthem “8,” while Rei’s solo track “In Your Heart” perfectly encompassed her effortlessly lovable charm. Liz’s “Unreal” put her breathtaking vocals at the center of the performance, blowing fans away with the soaring chorus. Complementing her cool performance style, Gaeul built "Odd" around her striking stage presence driven by attitude, rhythm, and visual storytelling. Leeseo’s “Super Icy” radiated fun, charisma, and youthful confidence, while An Yujin’s bold, cinematic performance track “Force” served as the grand finale with an explosive high note. From sleek performance pieces to vocally driven tracks, the solo song segment expanded the scope of the show, giving each member a chance to command the stage and crowd on her own terms.
The dancer interlude served as a seamless bridge into one of the concert's most dynamic stretches. Songs like "♡Beats," "Wow," the city pop remix of "Off the Record," and "Flu" transformed the venue into what could be summarized into a feel-good dance party.
One of the loudest cheers of the evening arrived with IVE performing its biggest hits back to back. “Attitude,” “Love Dive,” “Rebel Heart,” “I AM,” and “Bang Bang” were instant sing-alongs, with thousands of fans joining in from the opening notes and uniting into a massive chorus.
But the night was not yet over. The arena shook in electrifying excitement as the show transitioned into its final encore segment. Rather than a winding down moment, the encore felt like an extension of the group’s celebration. "Wild Bird," "Supernova Love," "Kitsch," and "After Like" kept the energy soaring as both the members and fans appeared reluctant for the night to end. The final bows were met with the loudest cheers of the night, bringing a night of polished performances and heartfelt fan interaction to a close.
If this tour was intended to reaffirm the group's place from a global standpoint, it succeeded with ease. From the moment the opening VCR faded into the thunderous introduction of "Gotcha (Baddest Eros)," it was clear Los Angeles wasn't simply another stop on the tour. Having already established a dedicated following across the country, the group approached this tour with newfound confidence. IVE's second show in Los Angeles represented more than a return after two years; it marked another step in their increasingly global career. And judging by the synchronized fan chants, it is unlikely to be its last.
Note: The Kraze extends its thanks to Live Nation for the opportunity to attend and cover IVE's Los Angeles stop on the SHOW WHAT I AM tour.