After a seven-year hiatus, the eagerly anticipated classic band NELL will return to perform in Taiwan once again. The highly awaited event, NELL TAIWAN CONCERT 2024 ‘Our Eutopia’, will take place on November 9th at Legacy Taipei.
Established in 1999, NELL emerged in the South Korean music scene with their unique modern rock style. Despite the independent music scene not being as thriving at the time, they quietly gained fame through their creative strength and consistent performances in small live clubs around Hongdae. Two years after their debut, they were signed by the nationally beloved singer ‘Seo Taiji’ and subsequently gained popularity in South Korea with songs like ‘Stay’ and ‘Thank you’.
The modern rock band NELL, originating from South Korea, is composed of the creative leader Kim Jong-wan, bassist Lee Jeong-hoon, and guitarist Lee Jae-kyung, with the addition of guest drummer Yang Hee-seung in 2023. As one of the pioneers of the South Korean independent music scene, they celebrate their 25th anniversary this year and are known for popular tracks such as ‘Four Times Around the Sun’ and ‘Stay’, with their signature song ‘Time Walking on Memories’ being instantly recognizable by fans who can sing along from the first note.
NELL is renowned for their lyrical and psychedelic rock, excelling in creating dreamy sound effects and intricate guitar arrangements. They blend electronic elements into their music, adding layers through synthesizers and electronic beats.Guitarist Lee Jae-kyung is particularly adept at crafting ethereal and psychedelic guitar sounds, which perfectly enhance the emotional atmosphere of NELL’s works. This is key to their creation of the distinctive ‘NELL-style rock’. Beyond their musical expression, lead vocalist Kim Jong-wan’s unique lyrics have garnered many loyal fans. His writing style is profound and emotional, with some songs stemming from genuine inner emotions and others encompassing philosophical contemplation. For instance, ‘Growing Distant’ explores the fading of relationships over time and distance, while ‘Four Times Around the Sun’ revolves around the theme of life’s cycles and changes. His simple yet profound use of language easily resonates with listeners.
As one of the senior figures in South Korean rock music, NELL is famously known as ‘idols’ idols’. Many artists, including RM, Hwang Min-hyun, and Kim Sung-kyu, have openly expressed their admiration. Numerous musicians such as Taeyeon, NewJeans, and BLACKPINK member ROSÉ have covered their hit ‘Time Walking on Memories’. In albums by G-DRAGON and EPIK HIGH, one can find songs produced by lead vocalist Kim Jong-wan, demonstrating NELL’s status and far-reaching influence in the South Korean music industry.
NELL, who has held concerts on venues with tens of thousands of people several times in South Korea, rarely holds special performances overseas. This concert is specially held in Japan and Taiwan where many fans are waiting. It is also the first special performance in Taiwan after seven years since 2017.
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NELL promises to uphold its tradition of delivering high-standard performances by reproducing classic masterpieces and showcasing the latest works. The opening is scheduled for November 9th. Please note that the performance time and duration are variable and will be determined by the specific venue.
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