Xdinary Heroes Release Ninth Mini Album IMPULSE
On 12 October, JYP Entertainment band Xdinary Heroes released their ninth mini album, IMPULSE, featuring seven new tracks spanning various genres. The title track is 'Obsessed with Youth'. The release was followed by an exclusive interview with Soompi, published on 14 October 2026, in which the members discussed the comeback and what the group means to them.
The band debuted in 2021 and consists of keyboardist Jungsu, guitarist Gaon, synth player O.de, guitarist Jun Han and bassist Jooyeon. Reaching a ninth mini album in roughly five years highlights a steady output that is unusual for many acts. More importantly, the interview reveals how the members see IMPULSE as a turning point: a chance to show another side of themselves while staying true to the energy that defines their live performances.
The Concept Behind IMPULSE and Obsessed with Youth
Gaon explained that the album captures seven desires out of tens of millions of desires. The title track, he said, tells a story of longing for youth, obsession and growth. That framing gives the record a conceptual spine, linking its seven songs under a single thematic arc rather than presenting them as unrelated tracks.
Jungsu added that Xdinary Heroes show a new side with every album, and he has high expectations that IMPULSE will do the same for many listeners. The title 'IMPULSE' itself suggests instinct and urgency, and the members' comments point to a deliberate balance between creative restlessness and a clear narrative. For listeners, the 'seven desires' idea offers a way into the album's emotional landscape.
Oliver Sykes Collaboration on Give Up The Ghost
Soompi reported that Bring Me the Horizon vocalist Oliver Sykes is credited on 'Give Up The Ghost'. Jooyeon, known to be a big fan, described listening to the song without knowing who was involved, loving the colour of the topline, and being surprised when he learned it was Sykes. He noted that this confirmed his taste is very consistent, and that the other members were happy and satisfied with how the song came together.
The collaboration is a notable crossover between Xdinary Heroes' rock-infused sound and a prominent figure from the UK metalcore scene. It could introduce the band to new audiences, and it demonstrates their willingness to bring outside voices into their work. Jooyeon's reaction also highlights how personal the collaboration was for him, given his existing admiration for Sykes.
Breathe in, Breathe out: An Acoustic Departure
'Breathe in, Breathe out' is described as acoustic-based, a rare approach for Xdinary Heroes. Gaon said he had always wanted to make acoustic-based music and had been thinking about how to make an acoustic sound feel like the band. During the arrangement process, they reworked it into an acoustic piece.
He wrote it imagining someone delivering a monologue under a single spotlight in silence, and felt it came out as intended. He added that the experience made him think they could use acoustic sounds more in the future. This track shows the band stepping outside their usual hard-hitting instrumentation, and Gaon's comments suggest it may not be the last time they explore that softer territory.
Balancing Intensity with Singable Melodies
Jun Han explained the band's approach to their sound. The instrument parts are intense, he said, because they believe they must put in hard work so that live shows are even more fun, so they record with energy and intensity. However, since melodies must be easy and singable to be enjoyed comfortably, they work to balance the two.
That intentional contrast is part of what allows Xdinary Heroes to reach a wider audience while keeping their concerts powerful. It is a strategy that prioritises both the visceral impact of rock instrumentation and the accessibility of a strong hook, a combination that has become a signature for the group.
Live Favourites and Member Dynamics
O.de named 'Rise High Rise' and 'Money On My Mind' as his favourite songs to perform, saying they get the energy to the max whenever they play them, and his answer would not change for festivals. He also praised Jun Han, describing him as calm and consistent, with a perspective the others do not have, and calling him a great guitarist.
Jun Han said that working together, he can really feel how carefully O.de looks after every member of the team, down to the smallest details, and that he is very thankful for that. These exchanges give a sense of the group's dynamic: mutual respect and attention to detail that extends beyond the music.
What Xdinary Heroes Means to Its Members
The members gave personal descriptions of what the band means to them. Jungsu called the group a presence that made his life beautiful. Gaon described it as his youth and the springtime of his life. O.de said it represents past, present and future: it changed his past self, gives him a reason to live in the present, makes his heart race, and will lead him forward into the future.
Jun Han likened the group to a gold nugget that rolled into his life and stayed, something precious he found by chance. Jooyeon said it is the youth that planted dreams and hopes in him, a precious memory that has walked with him from the start of his music and along the road to his dreams, laughing and crying by his side. These reflections show the emotional stakes for the band, which can deepen the connection listeners feel with their music.
Future Goals and a Message to Listeners
Jungsu said his biggest goal and dream is for many people around the world to listen to their music and feel refreshed or happy, even for a moment. Jooyeon wants the band to become even bigger, to put on greater performances on bigger stages, and for the world to be coloured with Xdinary Heroes.
The members also shared final words with Soompi readers. They expressed happiness at greeting readers through IMPULSE, promised to continue making fun and great music, asked readers to listen to the album, wished them a great day, and thanked those who seek out and wait for their music. Jooyeon added that they work hard in the hope that listeners will like their music and invited everyone to have an amazing time together on an amazing stage.
IMPULSE is not just another release for Xdinary Heroes. It is a statement of range, from a surprise collaboration to an acoustic experiment, all while maintaining the live energy that defines them. The interview reveals a band that is both ambitious and reflective, aware of what they want to achieve and grateful for the support they receive.
