ENHYPEN Explores Another Dimension in New Full-Length Album ‘DIMENSION: DILEMMA’

HYBE’s monster rookie boy group ENHYPEN is back with their first full-length album DIMENSION: DILEMMA that explores the borders of reality and tests the limits of K-pop’s vast mixing pot of genres. Consisting of eight total tracks, DIMENSION: DILEMMA dives head-first into a blend of different styles from rock to EDM-inspired songs. Their tracklist is outlined as such: “Intro: Whiteout,” “Tamed-Dashed,” “Upper Side Dreamin’,” “Just A Little Bit,” “Go Big or Go Home,” “Blockbuster,” “Attention, please!” and “Interlude: Question.” As the boys have begun their promotional period, the growth in their performance experience is evident, leaving a lasting impression on fans and non-fans alike. Although their fanbase is large, with fans willing to support whatever they release, this album exceeded all expectations with music that will be remembered and cherished in K-pop history.

DIMENSION: DILEMMA’s title track, “Tamed-Dashed,” is riddled with pockets of nostalgia within a catchy bassline. It has a blasting chorus drop that catches the listeners’ attention immediately. It shares many similarities with their past tracks but has a preppier sound. This track amplifies the talents, in all rap, vocal, and dance categories, of every member. They shine collectively on stage, giving off a much different, more complex aura than their stage debut—just slightly more than a year ago today. “Tamed-Dashed” draws their inspiration from the feeling of a fleeting summer, odd timing nearly a month into autumn. However, theories surrounding this decision have appeared all across social media platforms, mainly Twitter where all the K-pop fans interact. In regards to the theme of “experiencing another dimension” ENHYPEN does exactly that and infers that the boys are stuck in a never-ending summer. From the group’s perspective, on the other hand, this album addresses their struggles in a post-debut life.

From an interview with Consequence Sound, Park Sunghoon said, “This album addresses the dilemmas we face and our exploration of self-identity.” Many of the members are still teenagers themselves, struggling not only with how to face being an artist, but how to get through this rough patch in life. The boys have the expectations of millions of fans on their backs which comes with an unimaginable amount of pressure. However, no matter how difficult this task proves to be, they pull the stunt off flawlessly sending their listeners on a roller-coaster of emotions as they move from track to track.

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K-media Photo of ENHYPEN with their 5th music show win trophy from ‘Show Champion’ (2nd win for ‘Tamed-Dashed’)!@ENHYPEN_members @ENHYPEN #ENHYPEN #엔하이픈 pic.twitter.com/yZXKNzKLDV

— ENHYPEN UPDATES (@enhypenupdates) October 20, 2021

Nearly all of their songs on this album are based around a powerful bassline, and “Upper Side Dreamin’” is so different. Although the verses are seemingly plain, the chorus provides a groovy, bright atmosphere that solidifies its presence as the one easy listening song every album must-have. Fans have deemed this song as one of their favorites for its cheerful vocals and modern-pop sound. “Upper Side Dreamin’” blends into the next track, “Just A Little Bit,” almost effortlessly.

Similar to “10 Months” and “Not For Sale,” “Just A Little Bit” is the one calmer song that stands out in their discography. These songs are there to show off the group’s vocal abilities. This song does not quite fit into the ballad category but is more mature than the group’s past songs. It reflects their growth, not only as artists but as individuals approaching young adulthood.

“Go Big or Go Home” is the EDM-pop-themed song that quickly garnered the attention of fans for its addictive verses. This song could be categorized within the realms of 80s club music and electronic pop, leaning into the feeling of dancing whenever the chorus plays. So far, the group has been promoting this track with “Tamed-Dashed” simultaneously. With an energetic and entrancing choreography, it is nearly impossible to keep your eyes away from the boys as the stage explodes with this energetic track.

As the tracklist comes to an end, “Blockbuster” is there to remind fans of ENHYPEN’s vast range. TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s very own Choi Yeonjun, the group’s all-rounder, participated in writing and recording multiple rap verses that kickstarted the song. Fellow rapper Park Jay’s own rap sections blend perfectly well with Yeonjun’s, creating a cohesive sound. The verses begin fast-paced but slow down as the pre-chorus emerges. “Blockbuster” uses speed and volume to draw emphasis to certain memorable parts of the song, and most importantly, the chorus. Of all the tracks on DIMENSION: DILEMMA, “Blockbuster” holds the record for one the most satisfying drops. As the song moves into the chorus, it gives listeners a little preview for the following song, most importantly “Attention, please!” that is inspired by the 2000s punk genre.

#ENHYPEN #JUNGWON #쇼챔1등 !!

엔진~!!
벌써 이번 활동중 두번째로 받는 상이네요😢
요즘 정말 엔진 덕분에 행복하고 즐겁게 무대하는 것 같애요ㅎㅎ
열심히 활동하겠습니다😃
고마워요 엔진♥️ pic.twitter.com/DWfRFlQP6E

— ENHYPEN (@ENHYPEN_members) October 20, 2021

Just from the start of “Attention, please!” listeners know they are in for a treat rarely tested in the K-pop industry. For many, this sound is nostalgic of the major pop-rock bands of the early 2000s, especially Paramore and some of The Killers’ songs. It is driven by a prominent guitar riff throughout, which blends with the members’ smooth and natural vocals. Lee Heeseung, the group’s oldest member, pulls off the vocal technique for the song’s chorus perfectly, with the right amount of rasp in his voice. It is reflective of past pop-rock singing styles, adding extra points to that nostalgia factor that keeps the song stuck in the listener’s head.

At last, the album is wrapped up with their “Interlude: Question,” a tradition for the boys in past comebacks. DIMENSION: DILEMMA will forever be a marking point in ENHYPEN’s discography, and will set a precedent for the boys’ future music. As of now, fans can expect great things from this group for years to come. Follow the group on Twitter and Instagram and listen to their new album on all streaming services now.