Image credit: Evermore Entertainment
Since their debut, Catch The Young have carved out a space of their own with what they call “Youth Pop-Rock” — a sound rooted in honesty, emotion, and the ever-changing present. Now, with their first full-length album EVOLVE, the band steps into a new chapter; one defined not just by musical growth, but by clarity, confidence, and conviction.
In this exclusive interview, the members open up about their evolution, their festival experiences, and the message they hope fans carry with them.
“EVOLVE Is the Result of Our Questions, Struggles, and Confidence”
Your first full-length album is titled EVOLVE. Why did you choose this title, and what kind of growth does it represent?
Sani explains that the title reflects how the band has taken everything they’ve felt and experienced so far and moved it “one step further.”
Namhyun shares that while each release has shown growth, this album intentionally focuses on that growth itself. By bringing together songs they’ve built over time along with new tracks, the band wanted to honestly showcase how much they’ve matured through the full-album format. “Every song was made with sincerity,” he says. “We hope that sincerity reaches listeners.”
For Jungmo, EVOLVE goes beyond a shift in sound. It captures the team’s journey; from their debut to performing on countless stages and navigating trial and error. “It’s the result of all our worries, questions, and inner struggles,” he reflects. “And the confidence we gained along the way.”
Defining “Youth” – Beyond Age
Catch The Young describe their genre as “Youth Pop-Rock.” But what does youth mean to them now?
For Namhyun, youth is the present moment. “We try to put moments anyone might experience at least once into our music,” he says. “Youth is always now and music helps us record those feelings so they don’t slip away.”
Jungmo adds that youth isn’t about age. Instead, it’s about feeling uncertain and unfinished, yet continuing to move forward. “It’s not about having all the answers,” he explains. “It’s about facing worries and still proving ourselves through music.”
Growing Musically and Personally
Each member has seen their role deepen since debut.
Sani, primarily the bassist, says his musical role hasn’t drastically changed, but his mindset has. He now sees himself as someone capable of handling multiple instruments, even vocals with greater flexibility.
Kihoon continues to be deeply involved in songwriting, composition, and arrangement, experimenting across pop, R&B, and hip-hop.
Namhyun reveals a noticeable shift in his vocal style. “Before, I relied on pushing my voice with force,” he says. “Now it’s more flexible and expressive.” He points to the album’s range from sweet tracks to hard-hitting songs, as proof of how much he’s explored and practiced.
Junyong notes that since the album includes heavier songs than their debut, he focused on delivering vocals with more intensity. Each member records their own instruments, further strengthening their identity as a live band.
From Festival Stages to Unshakable Confidence
Performing at major festivals like the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival and Jeonju Ultimate Music Festival, twice in a row, has been transformative.
Sani says sharing energy with massive crowds became a powerful source of motivation. Kihoon adds that instead of feeling overwhelmed by large audiences, the band learned to amplify that energy and create synergy.
Namhyun views every stage as experience gained, from intimate venues to large festival grounds. Jungmo calls those festival appearances deeply meaningful, especially since many in the audience were discovering the band for the first time. “It showed us that we’re a band that resonates in any situation,” he says.
Repeated large-stage experiences also strengthened their trust in one another. “We became a team that can truly rely on each other,” Jungmo shares. “Those stages became the foundation of our confidence.”
Junyong agrees: “The bigger the stage, the more there is to learn.”
The Song They Can’t Wait to Perform
When asked which track from EVOLVE they’re most excited to perform live, one title comes up again and again: “Hurricane.”
Sani is also eager to perform “Addicted” and “Reperio,” noting that they’re styles the band hasn’t performed live before.
But “Hurricane” clearly holds a special place. Kihoon highlights its heavy, rock-driven guitar riff and hopes fans will “let loose with a rebellious mindset.” Namhyun imagines slam dancing at festivals. Jungmo simply says it’s a genre he loves. Junyong adds that it’s fast, exciting, and perfect for high-energy audience interaction.
Expect chaos, in the best way possible.
From Fragments of Youth to EVOLVE
Compared to their debut mini album, Fragments of Youth, this full-length project feels bolder and more expansive.
Sani points out the wider range of genres and more distinctive use of guitar and bass.
Namhyun reflects on mindset: at debut, there was excitement, but also vague fear. Now, with experience behind them, EVOLVE is filled with determination and eagerness to share their message with the world.
Jungmo describes it beautifully: “If Fragments of Youth recorded moments of youth, EVOLVE tells the story of where we are now, having grown from those experiences.” The sound is clearer, the message more honest, and their identity more defined.
Junyong agrees; while their debut introduced them, this album reveals who they’ve become.
Where to Start If You’re New
For first-time listeners, the members each have their own recommendations.
Sani suggests “Dream It” and “Ideal Type” as accessible representations of their sound.
Kihoon recommends “Better Days,” hoping listeners gain strength from its message of brighter tomorrows.
Namhyun points to “Alive,” which captures the pain and effort they endured even before debut.
Jungmo and Junyong both recommend their debut track “YOUTH!!!”; the song that marked their beginning and solidified their identity.
A Message to Fans; Old and New
The members’ gratitude is unmistakable.
Sani believes that even if backgrounds and cultures differ, they’re building the same future together with fans.
Kihoon says, “I believe this is the moment,” hoping their music creates memories where everyone can laugh and cry together.
Namhyun shares a heartfelt message: “When you feel lonely, tired, happy, or simply miss us, we’d be grateful if you listened to our songs. I always wish you happiness.”
Jungmo thanks longtime supporters for believing in them and hopes new fans will naturally keep Catch The Young in their memories.
And Junyong puts it simply: “Thank you. We’ll repay your love.” To new fans, he promises, “We will never disappoint you.”
With EVOLVE, Catch The Young aren’t just changing, they’re stepping fully into who they are. And if this album proves anything, it’s that their journey is only just beginning.
Editor’s Note: Some responses have been lightly edited and shortened for brevity and clarity. Special thanks to Evermore Entertainment and Helix Publicity.
