Looking back at K-pop and boy groups a few years ago, BTS was the undisputed global phenomenon, and they remain so. While we’re not delving into the first or second generation of K-pop, which continues to wield power whether those groups are performing or not, it’s clear that the 4th generation is rapidly rising again. Groups like Stray Kids and ATEEZ have stepped up during BTS’s hiatus for military and individual activities. Yet, another group proving to be a powerful presence is P1Harmony. Having seen them twice before, it was obvious they were on the path to becoming the next big thing – and how right I was.

The show at Troxy was proof of their growing capabilities. Despite the intensive touring schedule, P1Harmony performed well during P1ustage H: UTOP1A in London. The show started at 8:30 PM with Street Star. Dressed in black outfits, the group’s incredible aura was inviting when they stepped onto the stage. As the beat dropped, the crowd sang along to Street Star, a 2024 hit from P1Harmony’s debut studio album, Killin’ It, released in 2024.

Read More: P1Harmony in the US

They kept the energy rolling with Emergency from the same album, making sure no one in the crowd had a chance to catch their breath. After an amusing MENT where Keeho wished everyone a “Happy New Year”, they moved smoothly into Heartbeat Drum and then to a lighter moment with a song such as I Am You. This slow ballad from their sixth mini-album Harmony: All In was performed with such richness. Keeho’s gentle vibrato and high-register vocals truly impressed me, particularly in the beautifully executed transitions between Jiung, Intak, and Theo.

One of the absolute best moments for me was when they performed Butterfly from their debut EP Disharmony: Stand Out. Keeho’s live vocals were impeccable, as were the rest of the group’s. Jongseob, Intak, and Soul also delivered their rap parts well. It was a nostalgic moment, with Keeho mentioning how the fans’ requests brought the song back to life. Following this, they picked up the pace again with Killin’ It and the title track from their seventh EP, Sad Song.

The group took a creative detour with a short film, offering a heartfelt peek into their close-knit bond. The unique concept was a refreshing break from typical K-pop visuals and deserves applause.

The solos were another exciting part of the evening. Theo’s acoustic cover of Oasis’ Don’t Look Back in Anger was soulful, while Intak’s cover of On My Mama by Victoria Monét and Jongseob’s take on A$AP Rocky’s Praise the Lord (Da Shine) added even more energy to the already packed setlist. Keeho’s cover of Billie Eilish’s Wildflower and Jiung’s performance of Justin Bieber’s Baby showed the guys’ talent once again. 

Read More: P1Harmony in London

The night continued with songs such as Pyramid from their 2020 release Disharmony: Break Out, and Look at Me Now from Harmony: Set In. The acapella performances of Secret Sauce and That’s Money proved that, with or without music, their vocals are on point. The show concluded with a powerful encore, featuring I See U, Late Night Calls, AYAYA, and Last Call.

From start to finish, P1Harmony was truly killin’ it. Their impressive display of talent, from vocals to dance, firmly secured their spot as a rising force in K-pop. Despite the lack of detailed stage design, the group’s ability to engage the audience was superb. However, as they climb higher on the success ladder, investing in more exciting staging could further enhance their performances. With their sights set on the international stage, P1Harmony are here for the long haul and ready to excel.

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Written by Maggie Gogler

Featured image courtesy of FNC Entertainment (X)

_{View of the Arts is an online publication dedicated to films, music, and arts, with a strong focus on the Asian entertainment industry. With rich content already available to our readers, we aim to expand our reach and grow alongside our audience by delving deeper into emerging platforms such as K-pop and Asian music more broadly. At the same time, we remain committed to exploring the vibrant and ever-evolving global landscape of film, music, and the arts, celebrating the immense talent and creativity that define these industries worldwide.}