Onew has officially made his emotional return to the music scene with the release of his second full-length album, ‘PERCENT’, and its evocative title track “ANIMALS”, which dropped on July 15 at 6 PM KST across major streaming platforms.
Following up on his January mini-album ‘CONNECTION’, this new release dives deeper into Onew’s artistic identity, showcasing not just his vocal range but also his growth as a songwriter and storyteller.
A Personal and Philosophical Exploration
Onew played a hands-on role in shaping the album, including participating in writing lyrics, to ensure that the album conveyed a message rooted in personal truth and emotional depth.
‘PERCENT’ explores the profound theme of “emptying, filling, and becoming whole,” emphasizing the idea that no one reaches 100% on their own—but together, we complete one another.
Through his music, Onew invites listeners into a contemplative space where imperfection is embraced, and connection becomes the true measure of completeness.
“ANIMALS”: A Sensory and Instinctual Soundscape
The album’s title track “ANIMALS” stands out as a vivid moment of liberation and instinct, driven by an atmospheric mix of refined basslines, acoustic guitar riffs, and sound FX that mimic animal calls.
These sonic layers create a feeling of being in the wild—free, emotional, and uninhibited.
Onew’s soft yet emotionally potent vocals guide the song through its ever-shifting musical progression, enhancing the track’s depth and cinematic quality.
It’s a sonic metaphor for embracing our instincts, raw feelings, and the animalistic side of human emotion.
A Deeply Authentic Comeback
Critics and fans alike have praised Onew’s return, not just for his continued vocal excellence, but for the authentic vulnerability he brings to ‘PERCENT’.
It’s a project that feels both polished and profoundly human—an introspective journey where every song reflects a piece of Onew’s evolving identity.
Whether you’ve followed Onew since his SHINee days or are discovering his solo work for the first time, ‘PERCENT’ offers a moving, relatable, and beautifully crafted listening experience.
