RIIZE expand their Emotional-Pop Universe on ‘II’

RIIZE is back and they are officially refusing to play it safe. The group’s highly anticipated EP, II – The 2nd Mini Album, was released on 15 June 2026 and opens an exciting new evolution chapter for the six-member act. Managed under SM Entertainment and RCA Records, members Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton have moved away from the chilled and nostalgic hooks of their debut era to a bolder and performance-driven soundscape. Their core identity still remains rooted in their self-described “emotional pop” genre, however II with a carefree confidence leans into more raw hip-hop grooves and heavy 808s, which are perfect for the summer season.

Possible Summer Anthem?

Although their full-length album ODYSSEY was a grand journey exploring the relatable vulnerabilities of youth, II is inspired by this active philosophy: “Rise to Realise”. The entire energy of this six-track mini album is centred on confidence, action, and unapologetic instincts. It demonstrates the mindset of a twenty-something year old who is tired of overthinking and is ready to just jump into action and let the world revolve around them.

The project feels like an experimental, however cohesive music playground. Instead of repeating the smooth and retro-funk structure of hits like “Get A Guitar,” RIIZE captures brilliant contrast with this album. They play around with distorted basslines and aggressive hip-hop textures blending them with uplifting and bright pop melodies. This is a huge risky jump that successfully stops their signature style from feeling stagnant and demonstrates that they can deliver heavy hip-hop choreography without losing their core emotional warmth.

The Tracks That Define ‘II’

“Do your dance” (Title Track)

The main character of the EP is no doubt the title track, which completely discards traditional pop foundations for a heavy and distorted 808 bassline with a rhythmically addicted chorus. Developed around a clever take on the classic nursery rhyme “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes,” the track takes a gritty and upbeat route.

• Standout Lyric: “굵어도 기스 안 나 my youth or 뜨거워 피닉스 fireproof” (Scratch it, but no scars on my youth or Burning like a phoenix, fireproof).
• Overall Vibe: It is a track that commands you to dance. The vocal delivery from Shotaro and Wonbin during the verses added a sharp and charismatic energy that elevated the track’s carefree energy.

“SOAR”

As the project’s opening track, “SOAR” is a complete curveball encapsulated in heavy alternative rock influences. The transition from driving guitar riffs to their classic vocal harmonies demonstrated a stunning level of musical maturity from the group. It almost feels like the musical version of a sunrise – soaring, hopeful, and powerful.

“D-D-Done” & “Like a Bomb”

For fans of RIIZE’s dance-heavy tracks, “D-D-Done” is just the track. It brings an infectious and chilled bass house energy that will definitely dominate summer club sets. On the other hand, “Like a Bomb” is a masterclass in funk-driven rhythm with its slap-bass work giving Sohee’s powerhouse vocals the perfect foundation to truly flourish. This track is phenomenal.

Summer Album or Nah? Final Verdict

II – The 2nd Mini Album is a stunning addition to RIIZE’s rapidly growing discography. It has a rare and difficult balance: where it honours the youthful and emotional essence that fans fell in love with while also pushing the boundaries of what their performance can be like. The project never once feels forced or overly trying too hard, rather it is overflowing with genuine fun and joy that the members felt while making this album.

If you are looking for some new tracks to add to your summer k-pop playlist, do not look too far and check out RIIZE’s new mini album. It is high-energy, incredible vocal delivery, and top-tier production, making it a MUST-LISTEN. The group is not riding the wave of their success but they are actively paving new lanes for themselves.

Final Opinion: Absolutely add this entire EP to your rotation, put on your headphones to listen to those heavy 808 basslines, and just let yourself dance.

Favourite Tracks: “SOAR”, “Do your dance”, and “Overdrive”