XG set the tone for debut album with ‘GALA’ and ‘4 SEASONS’
THE CORE – 核 is out January 23rd: Pre-order/Save
By now, it’s clear that XG knows how to make a song land. Over the last few years, the South Korea-based Japanese girl group have built a run of releases that feel immediate and replayable, stacking hits like “SHOOTING STAR” and “SOMETHING AIN’T RIGHT” while continuing to step up their formula. “GALA,” the first preview of their highly-anticipated debut album due in January, keeps that streak alive. It’s the kind of synth-laden house track that feels designed to move rooms and runways at the same time. Inspired by the MET Gala and high fashion, the ladies of XG ate this one all the way up and that confidence is translating in visible ways.
“GALA” has pushed into the U.S. Top 40 on the heels of its incredible music video and a recent impeccable performance on The Voice finale. None of it feels sudden for fans. It reads as mainstream momentum finally catching up to a group that’s been craftily sharpening its sound and presentation with each release.
The “GALA” music video only heightens the buzz around the album and XG. Fast, forward-thinking, and full of attention-demanding movement, it’s swimming in the bold visuals, tight choreography, and stunning maximalism quickly characterizing XG’s aesthetic and performances. It’ll be worth every watch– see it below.
What also makes this rollout exciting is that XG is showing off their range with the album’s first two previews. “4 SEASONS,” which dropped on December 23rd, is an acoustic guitar-led song that pulls the energy inward. Softer and more reflective, it’s giving melody and feeling breathing room in a way that feels intentional. It’s easy to imagine this song becoming a standout moment once XG’s new tour starts in February.
Taken together, “GALA” and “4 SEASONS” balance each other well. One hits hard, the other masterfully pulls back. It’s enough to suggest range without spelling it out, and it sets the tone for a debut album clearly not locked into a single gear.
That idea lines up with what XG has shared about THE CORE – 核. Framed around the concept of returning to their ‘nucleus,’ the album is positioned as a reflection of the group’s foundation rather than a stretch for more. After years of singles and mini projects, this full-length feels less like an introduction and more like a statement of intent, pulling together the energy, style, and control that have defined their rise so far. With THE CORE – 核 approaching, XG feels poised for a big next chapter.
Watch the “GALA” music video below, spend time with “4 SEASONS,” and keep an eye on XG as their debut album drops in January.
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