The band Daybreak (Lee Won-seok, Kim Sun-il, Kim Jang-won, Jung Yu-jong) released their mini-album [SEMICOLON] containing 17 years of periods and commas at 6 PM on the 10th.

The first title song of the same name as the new album, ‘SEMICOLON’, is a pop rock genre song that is the only title song in a minor key since their debut album. The restrained vocals that continue calmly, the sorrowful strings, the rhythmic and dense keyboard and bass lines depict emotional ups and downs. Through the lyrics ‘Not finished, not resting, not anything’, the period and comma are compared to a relationship, and the confused appearance of not being able to choose any symbol in a breakup situation is sensually expressed.

Actor Kim Kang-min appears in the music video released along with the sound source, acting out Daybreak‘s signature breakup sentiment, adding to the immersion of the song. Unable to control his surging emotions, Kim Kang-min struggles and tears his clothes as he cannot suppress his intense emotions, and then hugs a white knit with a blank look in his eyes. The melody and lyrics, ‘Looking for the last chapter’, are added over Kim Kang-min’s tears as if he is hugging the clothes as if he is reminiscing about someone, maximizing the sorrowful atmosphere.

In addition, the second title song ‘Old & Wise’ is the sequel to ‘Bumper Car’, a song included in Daybreak‘s first album released in 2007. The album contains a total of 4 songs, including ‘Rhythm, This Night’ in a sensual city-pop style, and ‘Forever’ which shows Daybreak’s brilliant narrative while singing about memories made with fans so far and the tomorrow they will create in the future. Not only did all the members participate in the writing of the songs in this new album, but Lee Won-seok also took charge of writing the lyrics for all the songs, boasting a high level of musical perfection.

Following the release of the album today (the 10th), Daybreak will be holding the 2024 Daybreak Concert ‘SEMICOLON’ at Yes24 Live Hall for two days from the 28th to the 29th. This concert will be their first performance in approximately 1 year and 4 months since ‘SUMMER MADNESS 2023 : X’ in August of last year.

Jeon Hyo-jin, Donga.com Reporter jhj@donga.com