Virtual idol group PLAVE made waves with the release of their third mini-album, 'Caligo Pt.1', on December 3, 2023. This album marks a significant evolution from their previous single, 'Pump Up The Volume!', which debuted five months prior. With all members involved in songwriting, composing, choreographing, and producing, 'Caligo Pt.1' showcases PLAVE's artistic growth and ambition.
PLAVE’s transformation is thoroughly encapsulated in the title track 'Dash', which features powerful rock-based soundscapes and intense emotional expressions. The song is not just about presenting a tough concept; as noted by their agency Blast, it’s about bringing forth PLAVE’s distinctive emotions through repeated refinement of the song and its choreography. The accompanying music video for 'Dash' pairs impactful visuals with strong storytelling, promising viewers a cinematic experience.
The album consists of five diverse tracks, including the smooth R&B piece 'Island', which contrasts sharply with 'Dash'. 'Island', celebrated for its gentle piano melodies, swiftly became the talk of fans after its special preview on YouTube, showcasing the softer side of PLAVE's sound. Lyrics reveal deep confessions of beauty and transformation, illustrating how someone can change the mundanity of life, tying listeners emotionally to the track.
Other noteworthy songs from 'Caligo Pt.1' include '12:32 (A to T)', a sweet fan song featuring guitarist Jeokjae, the retro city pop-inspired 'Chroma Drift', and the catchy hip-hop tune 'RIZZ'. Each track not only highlights the group’s versatility but also encapsulates their deep personal investment, making the album feel coherent and authentic.
This album is not just another release for PLAVE; it signifies their deepening narrative within their virtual world, beginning with the ASTERUM trilogy and now advancing to a more dramatic and action-oriented storyline. The music video for 'Dash' boasts blockbuster-level production, utilizing double the workforce and extended filming time compared to previous videos, transforming it from mere music accompaniment to full-fledged storytelling.
PLAVE's evolution is apparent not only through their musical shift but also through their achievements since their debut. They made history by topping local music charts, and their previous single hit over 1 billion streams, earning them entry to Melon's Billion Club with record speed. Such achievements have amplified fan anticipation for 'Caligo Pt.1' and the broader horizons it promises.
With this latest release, PLAVE invites listeners to join them on their engaging musical and narrative journeys, presenting powerful messages wrapped within catchy tunes and strong visuals. Each track stands as a testimony to the members' dedication and passion, making 'Caligo Pt.1' beyond just an album but rather an immersive experience for fans.
Given their track record, it will be intriguing to see how this album will perform and what new records PLAVE might set next. Their bold ventures and refreshing artistry surely place them on the forefront of the virtual idol scene, and fans remain excited about the continuous evolution of their narrative.