TAEMIN Begins a New Era with EP PHASE 1: Soft Violence
Photo: Galaxy Corporation
Before embarking on a world tour this September, TAEMIN released the first chapter of his journey to self-rediscovery with new EP PHASE 1: Soft Violence on August 31, 2026. The EP unpacks almost two decades of artistry in what TAEMIN describes as “cruelty within beauty.” As one of K-Pop’s most renowned artists, TAEMIN continues to evolve a style that he has spent years perfecting.
TRACKLIST:
“FLOAT” (title track)
“Gooey” (title track)
“Let Me Be The One”
“PERMISSION”
“Sober”
“1004”
“Easy Loving You”
“SKIN”
“PARASITE”
“Frankenstein”
“This is The End”
TAEMIN has dual title tracks for this EP with “FLOAT” and “Gooey.” “FLOAT” encapsulates part of the meaning behind the name of the EP. It is soft in all aspects, from TAEMIN’s velvety vocals to the dreamy visuals in the music video. “FLOAT” serves as the introduction on the EP, gently guiding the listener into TAEMIN’s world of etherealism. It is a delicate opener that describes how lighthearted love can be.
The EP immediately shifts into a more aggressive state with “Gooey,” a punchy synth track to establish the violence aspect. TAEMIN wastes no time in unveiling the opposing themes of the EP and the ways that they work together. “Gooey” is much more upbeat yet still lyrically heavy, telling a contrasting story to its predecessor.
PHASE 1: Soft Violence covers a range of genres, including old-school R&B and poignant ballads. TAEMIN’s falsettos and tender vocals are captivating when they are layered on strong, powerful beats. TAEMIN tells a bold story throughout the EP with messages of conformity in “Frankenstein” to the loss of control in “Parasite.” Even “This Is The End” feels like an incomplete closure with its abrupt ending, but it effectively tells the listener that TAEMIN’s story is far from being over.