What a captivating evening it was on August 25 in the vibrant metropolis of Los Angeles, as NTFUL -- the official fandom of NTX -- illuminated the night with fervor, anticipating the creation of new memories. NTFUL proceeded along Avenue 56 to the second floor of the Lodge Room, where they eagerly awaited the dynamic performances scheduled for NTX's "NEW GROUND" inaugural U.S. Debut Concert!"
Upon their entrance into the iconic 1922 masonic themed venue in Los Angeles, NTFUL -- NTX's official fandom name -- proceeded to the second floor, where they were met with a stage bathed in the words "NEW GROUND," subtly illuminating the backdrop. VIP ticket holders were the first to arrive, securing a prime position for an exhilarating pre-concert sound check and the opportunity to capture a group photograph with the members before they exited the stage to prepare for the evening's performances. As the remaining attendees made their way in, the air was thick with anticipation for the forthcoming shows, with fans exchanging freebies and collecting their slogans proudly throughout the night.
As the venue lights gradually dimmed, and the eight charismatic members of NTX – comprising Hyeongjin, Eunho, Seungwon, Yunhyeok, Hojun, Changhun, Jaemin, and Rawhyun – took the stage, the crowd erupted loud cheers, as the opening beats of the group's latest title track, "Problematic," began to reverberate throughout the venue. The night unfolded with a captivating opening, setting the tone for the evening's performances. The atmosphere shifted as the group transitioned into light-hearted tracks, "Free Day" and "Just Friend," showcasing their versatility and charm. The energy of the venue continued to evolve, captivating the audience with each performance. Next, it was time to pick up the energy level once more with the opening track from their recently released 2nd mini album, “Kick It The Door.” The stage ignited excitement amongst NTFUL as the members showcased an exuberant stage presence, and set the tone for the solo and unit stages that were to come next.
The unit and solo stages commenced with Changhun and Seungwon, who were the first to take the stage, performing an unreleased track titled "Why." This segment was a harmonious fusion of Changhun's robust rap verses and Seungwon's velvety smooth vocals, complemented by a meticulously choreographed routine. Following their performance, the spotlight shifted to the group's primary producer and rapper, Rawhyun, who delivered a song that had been eagerly anticipated by the audience, "Believe Me." This segment highlighted a more subdued aspect of Rawhyun's persona, with a brief instrumental interlude preceding the performance, which was characterized by the smooth, fluidity that Rawhyun is renowned for. The event concluded with the final segment of the first show, featuring Eunho and Jaemin. This segment was a dynamic showcase of their high-energy freestyle dance skills -- set to the track, "Mosquito.".
As the group reconvened on stage, fans erupted in applause, celebrating the remarkable performances they had just experienced. The members seized the opportunity to converse with NTFUL while awaiting the arrival of Eunho and Jaemin. They were now set to deliver the most anticipated performance of the evening, “Holy Grail.” With its deep bass, driving electronic beats, and electrifying ambiance, the group was confident that NTFUL would join in singing the song. Following this, they prepared a very special performance for U.S. NTFUL, which had been arranged during their time in Korea. As the lights dimmed once again, the familiar introduction to One Direction’s “What Makes You Beautiful” filled the venue. NTX was certain that NTFUL could feel their passion with every lyric, and the audience connected deeply with the poignant words. Some fans eagerly joined the members in the open space, singing along enthusiastically. After the performance concluded, the members further enhanced the song's emotional impact by proclaiming,
“NTFUL! You know that you’re beautiful, right?!”
The stage was then adorned with stand-up microphones and bathed in cooler-toned lighting, as the group gracefully transitioned to serenade NTFUL with their rendition of “Just Once.” The atmosphere became charged with emotion, creating a more intimate ambiance as NTX connected deeply with the audience through a heartfelt performance that resonates with anyone who has faced moments of uncertainty in their lives. Ultimately, it was time for a group photo before concluding the first show with their vibrant and energetic song, “SCREAM.” As NTFUL and NTX leapt joyfully, the undeniable excitement, gratitude, and affection shared between the members and their fans was the perfect ending to a fun-filled show.
The Energy Sparks to New Heights
As the second show kicked off, the atmosphere in the venue surged with excitement, with fans erupting into chants of
“NTX! NTX! NTX!”
to which the members happily obliged, stepping onto the dimly lit stage as NTFUL waved their light sticks, courtesy of KPOP Bestie. The venue erupted in deafening cheers as the opening notes of “Circuit” filled the air, red lights illuminated the stage, and Jaemin took the lead with his vocals. For those who may not know, this track was a highlight during NTX's journey on JTBC’s survival show, “PEAK TIME,” which Yunhyeok described as "a pivotal moment" for the group, while Eunho expressed his excitement about performing this particular stage – during the fan sign the day prior.
The members took a moment to introduce themselves, showcasing their playful personalities. Hyeongjin kicked things off with a cheerful, “Hi! My name is...,” leaning his mic toward NTFUL, who cheered him on enthusiastically. He humorously replied, “My name is, ‘AHHHHHHH.’ Yeah, Hyeongjin.” Yunhyeok also displayed his playful side, rallying the fans with a chant, “When I say, ‘Oh Yeah,’ you say SKRRRT,” which NTFUL eagerly echoed. He then asked the fans how they felt about “Circuit,” prompting a wave of cheers, to which Yunhyeok playfully responded, “No screaming. How was it? Screaming means, ‘so awesome, right?’” Hyeongjin chimed in, “It’s like a cheerleading reaction!” Next NTFUL was given a small insight to what NTX has done with their time in LA, noting going to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Grove, shopping, and even going to the Wax Museum.
While showcasing their playful side, NTFUL and NTX had been given enough time to recharge before diving into the high-energy performance that awaited them. The track “DROP THAT,” crafted by Rawhyun, Changhun, and Seungwon, highlighted the group’s versatility with its cool hip-hop vibe, allowing each member's unique talents to shine. The atmosphere shifted as they transitioned from the powerful opening hits to the sultry sounds of “Vintage Girl.” The members shared anecdotes from their time in LA, including a fun tidbit about their new friend, before Yunhyeok introduced the next song, emphasizing that NTX writes their own music and choreographs their performances. As the fan favorite “Kick It The Door” kicked in, Rawhyun and Changhun electrified the stage with their iconic rap verses, causing the crowd’s energy to spark once more!
It was now the moment for NTFUL to dive into the meticulously designed solo stages of Jaemin, Yunhyeok, and Rawhyun. The group's own creative choreographer, Jaemin, kicked off the solo stages. His smooth vocals enveloped the space, perfectly complementing the sensual beats in the background as he performed his Soundcloud track, “Alright.” As he wrapped up his solo, Jaemin was joined by fellow members for a memorable self-choreographed dance break. The second solo stage featured Yunhyeok. His celebrated Soundcloud track, “BABY,” showcased his incredible versatility, ranging from intense rap verses to powerful dance moves and soothing vocals. Yunhyeok's captivating performance, accompanied by Jaemin and Eunho, kept NTFUL engaged throughout. Rawhyun began his stage with a stunning transition, highlighting his smooth vocals and rap skills as he fused “작업실” with the powerful Soundcloud track, “TRACE UP.” Jaemin and Yunheok's dynamic and precise dance moves enhanced Rawhyun's stage presence, making the audience feel his excitement for the performance.
As the atmosphere in the venue soared to new heights, it was time for NTFUL to remind their fans of their beauty and talent as they performed a heartfelt cover of One Direction’s, “What Makes You Beautiful.” The crowd erupted in cheers, showing their admiration as the members expressed their love for their fans. The night continued at a steady pace, with the stage bathed in green lights and a captivating nature scene. Eunho's lighthearted and entertaining nature added a perfect touch to the start of “Ivy Booth,” as he interacted with NTFUL with a serene smile and playful choreography. The following stage was an opportunity for NTX to connect with their fans through gestures of affection, such as hand hearts and waving to NTFUL as they performed the highly-anticipated, “MYFUL,” a song specially made for their fans. As the night drew to a close, Yunhyeok assured the fans that NTX would always remember them and LA, and that they were not to be forgotten. As the group aimed to deliver the final song to the fans, they took their positions on stage and delivered an electrifying and enjoyable performance of “SCREAM.” The venue reached its peak energy of the night as the audience screamed in unison, singing and jumping along with NTX all the way through the performance.
NTX's energy throughout the night was "incomparable to anything," experienced in the past -- a sentiment echoed by fans who have witnessed their evolution over the years. On August 28, 2020, NTX made their entrance into the music industry with their first pre-debut track, "Black Hole." August 25, 2024, ... after nearly four years of continuously captivating their audience worldwide, NTX was and were now able to meet U.S. NTFUL.
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K Fuse would like to take a moment to thank the remarkable team at Union Pictures, KPOP Bestie, The Lodge Room, and the members of NTX for making this one of the most memorable coverages, and entrusting us with the opportunity to share coverage of this electrifying and thrilling event with #NTFUL and our #SoundLovers!
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