Stray Kids Returns with Vibrant Hip-Hop Energy in New Album

Stray Kids is set to make a splash with their upcoming album '合 (HOP)', showcasing their unique hip-hop energy through a series of teaser images. The group will release their innovative album SKZHOP HIPTAPE (스키즈합 힙테이프) on December 13, featuring the title track 'Walkin On Water' (워킨 온 워터). On November 20, JYP Entertainment unveiled striking unit and group teaser photos that highlight the members' charismatic hip-hop vibes.

The visuals draw inspiration from the traditional Korean performance group 남사당패, adding a contemporary twist that captivates the audience. In the images, members Bang Chan (방찬), Lee Know (리노), Changbin (창빈), Hyunjin (현진), Han (한), Felix (필릭스), Seungmin (승민), and I.N (아이엔) exude confidence with their powerful gazes and bold attitudes. Their chic and trendy styling, featuring bold accessories, lip piercings, and black-and-white accents, beautifully complements the traditional Hanok aesthetic, creating a unique atmosphere.

The name SKZHOP HIPTAPE combines the group's initials 'SKZ' with hip-hop, representing a new genre that Stray Kids has crafted for themselves. The album '合 (HOP)' symbolizes the collaboration of all eight members, merging the concept of 'harmony' with the hip-hop genre's abbreviation 'HOP'. Fans are eager to see how Stray Kids will continue to innovate and expand their musical identity with this new release.

The album will include the title track 'Walkin On Water', along with songs like 'Bounce Back' (바운스 백), 'U (Feat. TABLO)' (유 (피처링 타블로)), and 'Walkin On Water (HIP Ver.)' (힙 버전). Additionally, it will feature solo tracks performed during their world tour, including 'Railway' (방찬), 'Unfair' (필릭스), 'HALLUCINATION' (아이엔), 'Youth' (리노), 'So Good' (현진), 'ULTRA' (창빈), 'Hold my hand' (한), and '그렇게, 천천히, 우리' (승민) as bonus tracks. The production team 3RACHA, consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, has contributed to the album, ensuring that all members are credited.

Stray Kids has made a significant impact this year, winning trophies at the People’s Choice Awards in February and the iHeartRadio Music Awards in April. They continue to be nominated at major global music award ceremonies, solidifying their influence in the industry. Notably, their song 'SLASH' is featured in the soundtrack for the film 'Deadpool & Wolverine', which has been nominated for 'Best Compilation Soundtrack For Visual Media' at the 67th Grammy Awards, set to take place on February 2, 2025.

Fans can look forward to the release of Stray Kids' SKZHOP HIPTAPE '合 (HOP)' and the title track 'Walkin On Water' on December 13 at 2 PM (EST).