dearALICE Releases Debut EP 'bitterSWEETsummer'

SM Entertainment (SM) and Kakao Entertainment have launched their first British boy group, dearALICE, with the release of their debut EP titled 'bitterSWEETsummer' on June 27 at midnight local time across various global music platforms. This EP captures the diverse emotions of youth, blending feelings of anxiety and excitement, and has garnered significant attention from fans worldwide.

The EP serves as a 'sound diary' reflecting the journey of dearALICE as they navigate between Korea and the UK, showcasing their unique musical identity as a British boy band. It features a total of seven tracks, including the title song 'Save Us', the debut track 'Ariana' in both mix and remix versions, and the second single 'Sweet', which was released in May.

The title track 'Save Us' is a ballad that delicately expresses a dark and introspective emotional line, having been pre-released on June 25 to positive feedback. Grammy-winning songwriter Jon Shave produced the track, infusing it with a cinematic quality that reveals the group's honest inner stories.

Another track, 'Drums', captures the essence of summer nights with its rhythmic and dynamic sound, aided by hitmaker Shift K3Y, known for his work on aespa's 'Whiplash'. 'Roses' evokes the lingering memories of a love that quietly fades at summer's end, mixed by renowned producer Oli Jacobs, who has collaborated with artists like Taylor Swift and Post Malone, enhancing the musical quality of the EP.

Additionally, the EP includes the mid-tempo track 'Butterflies', crafted by producer and singer-songwriter Chaz Mishan, known for his projects with Jennifer Lopez and the Backstreet Boys, which conveys warmth and nostalgia. The upbeat pop track 'Sweet' also fits perfectly with the summer vibe.

Moreover, the EP features reinterpreted versions of 'Ariana'—the 'Ariana (Leslie Brathwaite Mix)' and 'Ariana (RISC Remix)'—by Grammy-winning mixing engineer Leslie Brathwaite and UK producer RISC, respectively. These versions maintain the charm of the original while boldly reflecting contemporary pop sound trends.

Following their performances at 'SMTOWN LIVE 2025' in Seoul, Mexico City, and LA earlier this year, dearALICE is set to captivate local audiences with their diverse stage presence at a concert in London on June 28.