[Review] KATSEYE’s ‘SIS (SOFT IS STRONG)’ EP: A dreamy ode to womanhood
KATSEYE, the first-ever global girl group to be formed using K-pop artist development methodologies, has released their debut EP SIS (Soft is Strong).
KATSEYE Concept Image. Image: Cody Critcheloe.
Created in collaboration with HYBE x Geffen Records, the six-member girl group, KATSEYE, was formed through the survival show ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ — with voting taking place on Weverse, the South Korean mobile app and web platform created by Hybe Corporation. Unlike usual survival shows, that K-pop fans will know and love, ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ released content such as performances and vlogs to showcase the 20 participants’ idol-like qualities.
During the project, the girls partook in three missions entitled ‘SHOWCASE’, ‘TEAMS’, and ‘ARTISTRY’, with 14 girls eliminated in the first round and four eliminated in round three and again in round four.
The live finale, which was broadcast on November 17, 2023, revealed the final lineup and the group’s name.
The title of KATSEYE’s debut EP, SIS (Soft Is Strong), is a nod to the sisterhood the members have already forged in spite of their varying cultures. The girl group consists of members DANIELA (USA), LARA (USA), MANON (Switzerland), MEGAN (USA), SOPHIA (Philippines), and YOONCHAE (South Korea).
The KATSEYE members from left to right: DANIELA, LARA, MANON, MEGAN, SOPHIA, YOONCHAE. Images: Cody Critcheloe.
KATSEYE’s aptly named debut track “Debut” may be short, but it certainly packs a punch. This song’s catchy chorus and fun musicality will ‘keep you coming back’ for more. The group will perform this first single on “GMA3” on Thursday, 22 August.
“Touch” reveals the group’s softer side as they ponder the complexities of love, wounded feelings, and rediscovering one’s self-worth. This track truly transcends language barriers with its simple, catchy lyrics and addictive choreography — “Touch” is sure to propel KATSEYE to global stardom.
“My Way” is a gorgeous showcase of the members’ incredible vocals and was produced by HYBE founder “hitman” bang, Slow Rabbit, and Federico Vindver.
Lara’s silky-soft voice is a stand out in this track with the lyrics: “Like a firework showin' up over your town / Even if it all burns out / I did it my way.” This song represents how the KATSEYE members stay true to themselves and have confidently secured their place in the music industry.
“I’m Pretty” plays on the idea of being confident with its lyrics juxtaposing the title: “I’m pretty (pretty) / pretty (pretty) / pretty sure I’m not done healin’ / but I’m pretty (pretty) pretty (pretty) pretty sure that I’m still breathin’.” This track celebrates the transformative power of self-healing and showcases the members’ angelic harmonies.
“Tonight I Might” is the perfect outro to an EP that not only secures KATSEYE’s place in the music industry, but also represents the complexities of womanhood. This vibrant pop track explores a rebellious feeling. It closes out the EP in a way that leaves you wanting more.
KATSEYE "Touch" Concept Image. Image: Jane Kim.
With SIS (Soft Is Strong), KATSEYE is already making history.
In February 2021, HYBE and Universal Music Group’s Geffen Records joined forces in their strategic joint venture partnership — marking the first time a U.S. record label and a K-pop entertainment company would unite.
Combining HYBE’s global expertise to create world-renowned idols and groups and Geffen Records’ extensive industry network and partnerships, this joint venture is testing the waters and the bounds of what it means to be a ‘K-pop idol’.
KATSEYE will also appear in an upcoming Netflix docuseries Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE, which is set to premiere on August 21, 2024. Directed by Nadia Hallgren (Becoming) and produced by HYBE, Interscope Films, and Boardwalk Pictures, the series promises to portray the group’s journey to global stardom, with a unique insight into the training and development processes familiar to K-pop trainees.