Seoul: Key of K-pop boy group SHINee is returning as a soloist with a bold, concept-driven project. For his third full-length solo album, “Hunter,” the singer embraces an “urban legend” theme in which the protagonist confronts his “other self.” It marks his first studio album since “Gasoline” in August 2022.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Key expressed his inspiration for the new album during a press conference at a Seoul hotel. He stated that he gained energy from the light, bright concepts popular among other artists, but sought to create something different for the summer. The title track, “Hunter,” features a dance number with grand bass, heavy kick sounds, and rhythmic guitar riffs. The lyrics delve into themes of obsession and complex relationships.
Key also experimented with brighter songs after “Gasoline,” feeling that his previous music had been too combative. However, he desired to pursue the conceptual music he has always envisioned. The music video for “Hunter” follows a storyline where Key confronts his alter ego, styled like a thriller, as he fights to protect his identity.
During the press conference, Key dismissed any connection between his album and the Netflix animation “KPop Demon Hunters.” He noted that the music video was filmed before the movie’s release and found it amusing that SHINee was used as a reference for the film’s boy group.
Key took pride in SHINee’s influence and joked about the differences between the group’s real-life experiences and the animated portrayal.