KLAP ENTERTAINMENT
The journey of K-pop sensation Vanner has been a testament to resilience, determination, and the enduring pursuit of dreams. After a four-year struggle, the boy band has finally claimed the spotlight it deserves and is set to scale even greater heights in the world of K-pop.
"Hard work doesn't always yield immediate results, but for Vanner, it has been a journey well worth the effort," revealed leader Taehwan during a recent showcase at the Yes24 Live Hall in eastern Seoul. The event marked the release of the band's inaugural EP, aptly titled "Veni, Vidi, Vici."
Just a few months ago, the band members balanced part-time jobs while ardently pursuing their musical aspirations. Taehwan shared, "The fact that we are here, in this moment, still feels surreal. Our golden opportunity has arrived, and we are poised to chase our dreams wholeheartedly with this album."
The six-track EP, which includes the fresh lead single "Performer" and a 2023 version of the band's 2020 hit "Form," signifies a triumphant culmination of their journey. The release follows a year and a half after their third single "Take Off" (2022) and heralds their first music since their victory on the cable channel JTBC's K-pop competition program "Peak Time" in April of the prior year.
Vanner's poignant journey echoes in the words of Taehwan: "I feel more nervous today than the day I first debuted." Since their win on "Peak Time," media attention has been a constant companion, underscoring the transformation they have undergone.
"Performer," the EP's lead track, exudes a "refreshing sexy" aura tailored for summer audiences. The electro-punk dance pop encapsulates the exhilaration the members experience before stepping onto the stage, radiating their fervent desire to perform for their cherished listeners and fans.
Member Hyesung expressed their ambitions, stating, "We rose to prominence through 'Peak Time,' so we intend to relish our peak time, mirroring the show's essence. A world tour is our aspiration, a way to revel in the stage and connect with fans for as long as we can."
Vanner's saga traces back to their February 2019 debut, marked by over 200 live performances in Japan as they prepared for their first album "V." Their name is a fusion of "victory" and "banner," embodying their unwavering spirit.
Despite their ambitious entrance, the band navigated four years of tepid responses, compounded by the pandemic's impact on the K-pop landscape. By 2023, the band's agency was reduced to the chief and five members, necessitating them to juggle part-time jobs and managerial responsibilities.
Their fortunes changed this year when they seized a second chance on JTBC's revival show "Peak Time." The series, airing from February to April, spotlighted underappreciated boy bands, with Vanner emerging triumphant. The victory granted them a cash prize of 300 million won ($223,201), a new album release, and the chance to hold a showcase.
"We can now focus solely on our music, unburdened by peripheral concerns," Taehwan expressed, reflecting on their arduous journey of multitasking. Their newfound trajectory is underscored by a sense of wonder, as their long-held wishes materialize. When asked about their desired nickname, the leader playfully suggested, "Genie-dol," combining "Genie" from "Aladdin" and "dol," a Korean term for idols.
With their debut EP, Vanner aspires to introduce their music to a broader audience, building on their journey of perseverance and artistic growth. The stage is set for them to establish a lasting legacy within the dynamic tapestry of K-pop.
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