It’s not every day that a debut album manages to feel like both a fresh start and a triumphant arrival. But ODYSSEY, the first full-length album from rising K-pop group RIIZE, does exactly that.
A ten-track journey of sonic exploration and emotional storytelling, ODYSSEY captures the spirit of a group not just following the path ahead, but building it themselves. Formed by SM Entertainment and consisting of Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton, RIIZE made their official debut in 2023 with the single album “Get a Guitar.” Since then, they’ve cultivated a unique identity through a self-defined genre called “emotional pop”—a sound rooted in sincerity, melodic richness, and youthful introspection.
Now, nearly two years into their journey, ODYSSEY marks a defining moment. Released through SM Entertainment and RCA Records, the album is more than a milestone—it’s a manifesto. “Our first full-length album ODYSSEY captures the identity of RIIZE as a team that embodies the message of ‘Rise & Realize,’” the group says. “It showcases our signature genre of ‘emotional pop’ and expresses who we are right now.” The album opens with “Odyssey,” a dreamy, UK garage-influenced track that sets the tone for the album’s central themes of movement, discovery, and ambition. “Odyssey perfectly captures the feeling of a beginning,” RIIZE explains. “It brings to mind the nerves you feel at the starting line and the excitement before setting off on a journey.”
The next track, “Bag Bad Back”, amplifies the group’s confidence and swagger. Co-produced by British musician Jacob Aaron, the track is notable for incorporating a line from Anton’s past award speech— RIIZE will continue to rise. “That lyric means so much to us,” the members say. “Bag Bad Back showcases our charisma across music, vocals, and performance.”
“Ember to Solar” continues this upward trajectory, combining brass and layered harmonies to illustrate transformation and intensity. “This track is full of bold expressions we haven’t used in our previous songs,” the group says. “If you listen to it while doing cardio, you’re bound to feel a serious dopamine rush.”
At the center of ODYSSEY is the title track, “Fly Up,” a genre-blending anthem that combines 1950s rock ‘n roll vibes with soaring, gospel-inspired choruses. Its vibrant instrumentation and musical-theater sensibility make it an instant standout. “Fly Up is an upbeat and high-energy track that makes it hard to stay still while listening,” they explain. “The performance is staged with a musical-like structure, so it’s just as fun to watch as it is to hear.” The music video, filmed in Los Angeles—a symbolic return to the group’s visual roots—evokes a coming-of-age movie with libraries, rooftops, and open skies. It’s a fitting metaphor for RIIZE’s ethos: thoughtful, boundless, and unafraid of change. “Though different nations separate you and me / In this moment, our excited cheers become one music,” they sing—an anthem of global unity through shared experience. With over 8.7 million views in its first 24 hours, “Fly Up” isn’t just a hit. It’s a declaration of arrival.
While the album starts strong, it’s the middle and closing tracks that showcase RIIZE’s emotional range and storytelling depth. “Show Me Love” is a crowd-ready anthem designed to connect with fans. “We imagined singing this at a concert, passing the mic to fans,” the members say. “We hope it becomes a powerful source of stress relief for anyone going through a tough time.”
“Passage” is a sonic shift—a restrained interlude that reflects the group’s inner evolution. “It symbolizes the widening range of growth we’re experiencing ourselves,” RIIZE says.
The dreamy “Midnight Mirage” slows the tempo, offering a poetic exploration of solitude and introspection. “If we had to describe this song in one word, it would be ‘like a watercolor painting,’” they share. “We hope BRIIZE find this song a perfect fit for quiet, early morning inspiration.”
The final three tracks—“The End of the Day,” “Inside My Love,” and “Another Life”—pull back the curtain on RIIZE’s heart. Vulnerable and understated, they provide a sense of emotional closure.
“‘The End of the Day’ feels like we’re sharing a page from our diary with BRIIZE,” they reveal. “It’s a ballad in our own style—one we all love and sing often.”
“Inside My Love” is more than a love song—it’s a direct tribute to fans. “Love comes with many emotions, but if we had to say just one thing, it’s this: in the end, it’s always BRIIZE for RIIZE.”
“Another Life” closes the album on a philosophical note, pondering alternate paths and unrealized selves. “Not every moment may be perfect,” they sing, “but I’ll make sure there’s no regret.”
With ODYSSEY, RIIZE isn’t just presenting an album—they’re offering an invitation: to feel, to reflect, and to rise alongside them. It’s a rare debut that manages to be cinematic without losing intimacy, bold without losing heart. Their next chapter is already in motion with the 2025 RIIZE CONCERT TOUR [RIIZING LOUD], which kicks off in Asia and culminates in a landmark performance as the first K-pop idol group to appear at Austin City Limits Music Festival this October. “We’re incredibly excited to finally share our first studio album,” the group says. “Please continue to show lots of love and support for RIIZE!”
RIIZE has made it clear—they’re not here to follow trends. They’re here to define them. ODYSSEY is more than just a strong first step; it’s a confident leap into the future of K-pop.
