Seoul: K-pop boy group Ateez announced its continuous pursuit of musical evolution, eager to surprise fans with fresh sounds and not remain confined to a single genre. Departing from its signature intense and energetic style, the eight-member group is now venturing into a more laid-back summer vibe.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ateez introduced the lead track “Lemon Drop” from its upcoming 12th EP “Golden Hour: Part. 3” as a “refreshing” summer-themed blend of R and B and hip-hop. “We prepared a song that’s more refreshing than what we’ve shown so far,” member San stated during a press conference held in Seoul. “We want to fill this hot summer with the exciting energy of Ateez’s unique style.”
Set for release on Friday at 1 p.m., “Golden Hour: Part. 3” is the third installment in the group’s “Golden Hour” album series, aiming to capture the radiant essence of youth. The new EP features five tracks, including “Lemon Drop,” “Masterpiece,” and “Castle.” This shift toward a lighter sound follows the musical direction of “Golden Hour: Part. 2,” where the group experimented with groovier, hip-hop-inspired melodies and string arrangements, diverging from its previous “fiery” style.
Leader Hongjoong addressed the stylistic change, explaining that Ateez has not abandoned its intense musical identity. “We chose this particular style because it best expresses the message we wanted to convey in this part of the ‘Golden Hour’ series,” he said. Member Yunho added, “With this album, we wanted to express a sense of mature beauty. Ateez is a group that constantly thirsts to reveal new sides of ourselves.”
The group’s musical evolution follows a successful year, with “Golden Hour: Part. 2” securing Ateez’s second No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and reaching No. 4 on the British Official Albums Chart Top 100 last November. When asked about whether these achievements now feel burdensome, Yeosang expressed, “Rather than feeling pressured by our Billboard success, we just hope to create more great memories with Atiny and continue working in a healthy way.” Atiny is the name of the group’s fandom.
Expressing gratitude, Hongjoong reaffirmed the group’s artistic mission: “Of course, it’s exciting to perform at larger venues or release hit songs. But through the ‘Golden Hour’ series, I think we’ve shown that Ateez is a group unafraid to try different musical approaches. We’re a team with the courage to do something new — and our goal going forward is to keep surprising the public and our fans with the unexpected.”