Words by Ananya Swaroop | Feature Image: Instagram
Soon after Hybe Corporation and Geffen Records founded KATSEYE in 2023, the girl group became a topic of discussion. They made their debut in June 2024 with the aptly named single “Debut” and instantly became a vibe. With their latest single, “Gnarly,” KATSEYE is set to start a new chapter in their journey.
The girls made a TikTok before dropping the song, lip-syncing to a Nicki Minaj audio. “You’re not gonna get the song the first time you hear it. After the second and third time, you’re like, ‘Woah, what is this?'” A cheeky way for the group to prepare the fans for what was coming.
“Gnarly” is the lead single for the band’s upcoming EP Beautiful Chaos. The song is high energy and vibrant while simultaneously epitomizing the evolution and artistic growth of the group since their debut. Unlike anything that KATSEYE has done before, it truly showcases why KATSEYE is one of the most exciting up-and-coming acts in pop music.
The group is known for its strong harmonies, but with “Gnarly,” fans get to see a new side of KATSEYE due to the song’s mix of hip-hop, electronic, and pop beats and catchy hook. The rap verses are dynamic and playful, with lyrics that are sure to get stuck in your head after listening.
The music video, which Cody Critcheloe directed, is a visual spectacle. Yesol Kim, who led the production design, crafted a futuristic, almost surreal environment that perfectly matches the edgy vibe of the song, full of vivid colors that give the video a dreamlike quality. The stunning performances by the girl group—Sophia Laforteza, Lara Rajagopalan, Yoonchae Jeung, Megan Skiendiel, Daniela Avanzini, and Manon Bannerman—add more drama to the visuals. Grant Gilmore and Sohey Sugihara directed the group, and Sienna Lalau contributed choreography. Every move is effortless, synchronized, and smooth. The choreography brings out a different kind of charisma that makes each KATSEYE member shine. The signature moves in the video are designed such that they are primed for viral moments on social media. Echoing the energy of the song, the costumes in the video have bold colors and experimental silhouettes, reinforcing the gnarly concept.
“Gnarly” is a creative single that will surely put KATSEYE on the charts once again. With this song, the girl group is pushing the boundaries and proving that they are not afraid to experiment with their craft.
