2024 has been a busy year for THE BOYZ, who have been practically hopping across the world on their ZENERATION II tour. With stops in South Korea, America, Thailand, the Philippines, and Japan, the time had finally come for them to perform for their fans in London. It had only been a short while since they last performed in London back in 2022. However, that didn’t stop The B (THE BOYZ’s fandom) from waiting excitedly, lightsticks in hand.

After an impressive laser-focused VCR introduction, they jumped straight into the first song Diamond Life looking like regal princes in beautifully white outfits. They then launched into Out of Control, and without sounding cliche, made the crowd lose it and well, go out of control. The tempo and intense pace that burst on stage were impressive, but it was Kevin’s voice on the final bridge that stood out. 

Diving into MAVERICK, there was no time for the audience or the group to catch their breath. Without a doubt, it’s a song that is packed full of confidence which they fully embraced, especially during the repetitive chorus.

To describe them as cool may sound old-school, but that’s exactly what they are: they don’t try to be like anyone else onstage. Given the aforementioned comment on their uniqueness, it makes sense that the title is called MAVERICK, which means an independent-minded person. This is what has clearly contributed to their success and their diverse catalogue.  

The second VCR of the evening played a stylish, chic, catwalk-esque visual video of the boys walking against a white backdrop looking like models. It was a great way to introduce the members while generating screams for each of them. Although it went on for longer than perhaps necessary, it was still enjoyable to watch. However, it was worth the wait, as the next outfit change matched the VCR, with the members arriving in black mesh ensembles. They finally slowed things down a bit with TATTOO, and while the vocalists in the pre-chorus – Kevin, Juyeon, Younghoon, and Hyunjae – were outstanding, it was Sunwoo’s fast-paced rapping that, for me, captured the essence of this particular performance. 

THE BOYZ are made up of 11 members: Sangyeon, Jacob, Younghoon, Hyunjae, Juyeon, Kevin, New, Q, Haknyeon, Sunwoo, and Eric. With so many members in one group, it could be difficult to keep up with everything happening. But during LEVITATING, one couldn’t help but be amazed by what these boys conjured up on stage, ensuring each step was perfectly executed.

After LEVITATING, we finally got our first greetings of the evening! Fresh from their Paris show just two nights ago, THE BOYZ challenged the crowd to go even harder and outdo that energy. With Sunday marking the final stop on their European tour, one message was loud and clear: have fun, enjoy every moment, and make plenty of new memories together. They also shared stories from their time in London, including nighttime walks along Primrose Hill, where they soaked in the stunning skyline. They even hit up some restaurants in Soho – and let’s just say, they were a bit shocked by the prices!

Dressed in elegant monochrome clothing, their performance of Back All Black was a perfect match for the aesthetic brought onstage. The laser effects once again played an important role in keeping the number dark and dramatic as bright red lights took over the staging. Together, these elements created a sultry routine that conveyed a more mature energy, possibly to show their growth beyond boyhood – which makes sense, given the lyrics reflected what we saw: ‘Whatever it looks like boy / There’s another me inside me that I’ve been hiding.”

It was at this moment that the group made their way to the extended runway stage. This gave people the opportunity to see that very tight choreography up close. With the addition of lasers and a hyped-up crowd, it was clear that these 11 passionate boys were on a mission. They had set out to give a memorable performance for everyone watching. 

Following the hot and heated energy, the next VCR did a complete 180, creating a tranquil, yoga-like mood. Spa-like music filled out into the arena, completed by the soothing sounds of panpipes and bells. This offered a chance for everyone to relax and reset as the noises of nature echoed through the audience. Scenes of them running across open green fields began to appear on screen. Dressed in white shirts, the dreamlike visuals of the members slowly walking transitioned nicely into their new wardrobe change, which suddenly exploded into a contrasting display of rainbow colours for the next performance.

SUMMER TIME took over as they appeared in loose, casual outfits, holding swimming pool inflatables. The shift from the earlier part of the show to this moment was total whiplash, but that’s exactly what made it fantastic – varied and unexpected. The next set of songs focused on interacting with the fans and giving attention to their lovingly hand-made paper signs. If they weren’t close enough, a few members stepped into the crowd, giving out high-fives, waving, and spraying water. 

Despite it being a Sunday night, the atmosphere quickly transformed into a party that could match the energy of any weekend kickoff, all thanks to Complete Me. Its intense, funk-laden pop beat energised the crowd, turning the venue into a full-blown celebration. 

The playfulness and energy reached new heights as the fans were transformed into stars, featured on an interactive screen that captured them dancing and re-creating choreography alongside the group. While the first half of the show emphasised the group’s sharp footwork and displayed a more refined, mature side, the second half shifted gears, embracing a lighter, more playful tone that invited the audience to engage and participate as much as possible.

In the lead-up to the tour, promises were made of a setlist overflowing with their biggest hits and fans’ favourites. The group surpassed these expectations, ensuring not only that their goals were met but also that fans left with unforgettable memories. 

Performing 23 songs demonstrated THE BOYZ’s versatility, from classics like REVEAL and The Stealer to 2023’s NECTAR and WATCH IT. The concert concluded with a spectacular performance of FIRE EYES, which provided the perfect finale. As fans departed the OVO Wembley Arena, it was clear that this was an experience they would remember for a long time.

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Written by Kirsty Bright

Featured image courtesy of THE BOYZ (source: X) & 1ST Entertainment

_{View of the Arts is an online publication that chiefly deals with films, music, and art, with an emphasis on the Asian entertainment industry. We are hoping our audience will grow with us as we begin to explore new platforms such as K-pop / K-music, and Asian music in general, and continue to dive into the talented and ever-growing scene of film, music, and arts, worldwide.}