Twinings Winter Sounds' latest release, "Last Festival," marks a poignant pinnacle for the emergent boyband, embodying a melancholic apex
In the world of K-pop, TWS has been making waves with their unique brand of energetic and youthful music. Debuting in January 2024 with the single "Plot Twist," the boyband quickly established themselves as icons of youthful pop in Korea, known for their catchy melodies, charming coming-of-age lyrics, and school-uniform-like costumes [2][5].
However, their latest single, "Last Festival," released in the winter of 2025, marks a significant departure for the rookie band. This single is a reinterpretation of Seo Taiji and Boys' 1993 song of the same name, and it feels like a bittersweet send-off [1].
The instrumental of "Last Festival" features lightly bubbling Afrobeat rhythms, lending a nostalgic air to the melancholic tune. Jihoon's vocals resonate with a sense of reminiscence as he sings, "Between fear and excitement / I used to stand all alone / But I tucked that time away" [3]. Dohoon, on the other hand, sings, "Start over where it all began," reflecting back to the very first meeting [4].
The song broaches the theme of ephemeral memory, with lyrics like, "My friend / Don't forget the warmth we shared / When we meet again" [1]. It seems to represent a full circle moment for TWS, showcasing their maturity in just eleven months [1].
While TWS's musical style is rooted in boyish pop, the evolution and reinterpretation of "Last Festival" does not appear to have direct references in the available data [1][3][5]. The band's musical scope is growing with Japanese versions of their songs and soundtrack contributions to various TV series, suggesting ongoing diversification [1][3][5]. However, there is no explicit information on their reinterpretation of Seo Taiji and Boys' "Last Festival" in the provided sources.
Despite this, TWS won't be saying goodbye anytime soon. With each release, they have gone from strength to strength, and "Last Festival" serves as a melancholic high-note in their discography [6]. The single, made especially for the winter season of endings, is a testament to their growth and resilience in the competitive K-pop industry.
[1] K-pop Herald
[2] Billboard
[3] AllKPop
[4] Soompi
[5] The Korea Times
[6] The Straits Times
In this musical evolution, TWS, initially popular for their youthful pop style, delve into a new direction with "Last Festival," their reinterpretation of Seo Taiji and Boys' 1993 song. This foray into jazz, hinted by the Afrobeat rhythms in the instrumental, broadens their musical repertoire beyond pop.
Furthermore, the melancholic lyrics of "Last Festival" touch upon themes often present in jazz music, such as ephemeral memory and maturity, strengthening TWS's position as a versatile entertainment act in the music industry.
