K-pop boy group NOWZ lights up the scene with a new name, new sound, and a fearless message of youth and rebirth.

🔥 Rebranded and Ready to Roar

NOWZ (formerly known as NOWADAYS) officially kicked off their new era with a bang! The group held a media showcase on July 9 at YES24 Live Hall in Seoul to unveil their first mini album IGNITION. The name change combines "NOW" (the present) with "Z" (symbolizing a new beginning), signaling the group's transformation and fresh ambition in the K-pop scene.

🎶 'IGNITION'—Fueled by Youth and Passion

The album reflects the highs and lows of youth, blending chaos, passion, and healing. "It's our first album that really captures our identity and story," member Jinhyuk explained. "We wanted to comfort and connect with young people going through tough times."

IGNITION features 5 tracks:

• EVERGLOW (Title Track)
• 자유롭게 날아 (Fly Freely)
• 문제아 (Problem Child)
• 라우더 (Louder)
• 일기 (DAY_AND)

🎸 Title Track 'EVERGLOW'—Burning with Rock Spirit

'EVERGLOW' dives into the alternative rock genre, fusing electric guitar riffs with bold metal energy. Written by members Jinhyuk and Siyoon, the lyrics shout out the group's fiery determination: "Like flames that keep burning in the ashes—we'll never be extinguished."

Choreography mirrors the theme with powerful formations and "reaching-for-the-light" movements. Their fierce all-black styling sealed the bold, rebranded concept.

🎤 Personal Stories, Global Reach

The track Fly Freely is a cinematic soul-pop piece layered with vulnerability and youth's emotional turbulence. The members all contributed lyrics, with Yeonwoo noting, "We wanted to tell our own story—and truly connect with listeners."

They also collaborated with I-DLE's Yuqi and PENTAGON's Wooseok, who gave detailed direction on flow and rap delivery. The pre-release track ranked #1 on China's QQ Music and gained popularity on Douyin (TikTok China) through a trending hand-dance challenge.

🌏 From Debut to International Recognition

Since debuting, NOWZ has performed across Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Despite being rookies, their stage presence has already stood out at both domestic and international award shows.

"We want to leave our footprint in K-pop," Hyunbin declared. "This album is our ignition point—a true beginning." The group closed the showcase by promising fans they'd become "a team you'll want to keep coming back to."

NOWZ's IGNITION is now available on all major streaming platforms.