New York, NY (Top40 Charts) Balming Tiger, the genre-bending South Korean collective, has released a new track from their highly anticipated first studio album. Titled "SOS," the single is a captivating love song that blends elements of psychedelic funk with a heartfelt message. The lyrics explore themes of mutual salvation and the willingness to go anywhere and be anything for love.
The group has released an accompanying music video today directed by collective member Jan' Qui. The video was filmed in Hong Kong and Qui was inspired by film noir and iconic filmmaker Wong Kar-Wai which can be seen in scenes that mirror Fallen Angels, Chungking Express and more. Watch/ Listen to "SOS" here:
"SOS" is the third release from the group's forthcoming album, following "SEXY NUKIM (feat. RM of BTS)" which hit #1 on Billboard's "World Digital Song Sales" chart and their most recent single, "Trust Yourself."
This is the first time that all 11 members of the collective - performers Omega Sapien, sogumm, bj wnjn, and Mudd the student, producers San Yawn and Unsinkable, video directors Jan' Qui and Leesuho, visual artist Chanhee Hong, DJ Abyss, and writer Henson Hwang - collaborated on a new track together, with bj wnjn and Unsinkable producing the single. The song's artwork was created by Jun Inagawa, a prominent Japanese illustrator known for his collaboration with various fashion brands and counting the likes of Takashi Murakami, as well as, Lil Uzi Vert, Playboi Carti, Chief Keef and A$AP Rocky, as fans of his work.
The group returned to Korea after completing their US tour in late March which included a sold-out run at Baby's All Right in Brooklyn, and a show at Echoplex in Los Angeles. They're currently working on their first studio album which will be released this summer.
Balming Tiger made a major splash at SXSW this year with their electrifying energy, innovative sound, and powerful stage presence. The group's blend of genres and memorable stage presence earned them the prestigious Grulke Prize, which recognizes the most exciting and promising up-and-coming acts at the festival. Previous recipients include Leon Bridges, Haim, Chvrches, Anderson . Paak and more.
Additionally, the group was spotlighted at the festival by Grammy.com who included them in their "9 Must-See Acts At SXSW 2023" round-up and Rolling Stone who included them in their "Best Things We Saw…" round-up. The group was also recently profiled by Rolling Stone, and has been spotlighted by the likes of i-D, Billboard, Stereogum and Vogue, who proclaimed that "Balming Tiger Is Turning K-pop Upside Down," establishing them as one of the most exciting and promising new acts in music today.
