HIGHLIGHT makes a grand return with their latest album, From Real to Surreal! With four tracks under its belt, the group’s remarkable musicality and unfading passion take center stage.
The group is back and stronger than ever! More than a year after SWITCH ON, HIGHLIGHT eagerly greeted their beloved fans with a new album that intersects reality and the unreal on April 28, 2025. From their debut to now, their passion for music has shone, and this album is solid proof of it. All aboard as they welcome a brand new chapter—now carrying a very familiar name.
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An Anniversary to Remember: BEAST’s Revival
HIGHLIGHT is a 4-member group composed of Yoon Doo-joon, Yang Yo-seob, Lee Gi-kwang, and Son Dong-woon. Formerly known as BEAST, they had a triumphant debut in 2009 and continued to release hits through the years. After parting ways with CUBE Entertainment last 2016, they were unable to maintain their group name. Thus, they established their independent label — Around Us Entertainment — and began their promotions as HIGHLIGHT.
However, in 2024, they officially reached an agreement with their old agency, successfully reclaiming their name. Along with their 16th anniversary, this album celebrates another special milestone as it marks their first album under BEAST in over nine years. For the members and their fans, it feels like a warm embrace from a dearly missed friend. It also highlights their unwavering bond, which perseveres through the most challenging times.
In an online press conference held before the album release, the members expressed their wish to create more memories as HIGHLIGHT and BEAST.
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From Real to Surreal: Tracklist Breakdown
HIGHLIGHT’s long-awaited comeback reflects their artistic souls and their eagerness to show new sides of themselves that we have yet to see. All four of the tracks are rooted in diverse genres, possessing their own unique charms. Whether you’re a casual listener or a devoted fan, From Real to Surreal will definitely be a great addition to your playlist!
Chains
I don’t care even if I’m getting addicted. If you want, just take my soul.
Fitting for a title track, “Chains” is a song about fatal love that immediately entices its listeners from the get-go. The lyrics reveal an overwhelming desire to be consumed, throwing caution and reason to the wind. It’s a delightful treat in every aspect, especially when paired with the sophisticated vibe of the music video. The track was also written and composed by Lee Gi-kwang, showcasing his undeniable skills as a singer-songwriter.
없는 엔딩 (Endless Ending)
“Endless Ending” is an emotional ballad that invokes feelings of bittersweet nostalgia, yearning for memories that have already passed. The quartet’s vocals speak for themselves, conveying the deep, lingering sorrow felt by a lost love. They released it on April 16, just before their comeback. What makes the track even more special is that it’s the first song credited to BEAST since leaving their former agency in 2016.
Good Day to You
The perfect track to listen to on a rainy day, “Good Day to You” expresses the difficulty of letting go. As they recall their regrets from a past relationship, the bridge repeats like a melancholic mantra — begging the other person not to leave them. While the lyrics are heavy and hard-hitting, we still get a wistful sense of comfort while listening to the song.
Follow Me
HIGHLIGHT ends the album on a high note with “Follow Me,” an upbeat track with a hopeful message. The infectious beat alone is enough to bring a smile to your face, an instant pick-me-up after a tiring day. With the members’ energetic vocals, the song serves to inspire anyone daring to dream big. It’s a well-needed reminder to take the chance, spread your wings, and run until the end.
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From Then to Now: HIGHLIGHT’s Unchanging Love
More than just a collection of songs, this album is HIGHLIGHT’s love letter — to their fans and themselves. Being an active group for 16 years is not an effortless feat, but here they are. Without exaggeration, they overcame all obstacles thanks to the unwavering support of their fans and the strong bond among the members.
Congratulations on your comeback and 16th anniversary, HIGHLIGHT/BEAST!
From Real to Surreal is now available on all major music platforms worldwide. Make sure to give it a listen!
Sources: Around Us Entertainment, HIGHLIGHT, Yonhap News