ASTRO’s Yoon San-ha is embarking on his solo career after eight years since debuting with the group. 

On August 6th, he held a showcase at Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul for his first solo album, DUSK. During the event, Yoon expressed his excitement, saying, "I wanted to show that I could tackle this genre as well. I will continue to grow."

DUSK is an album that symbolizes the transition from Yoon San-ha as ASTRO's youngest member to a mature solo artist. The album reflects the metaphor of "twilight" or "the time between dog and wolf," portraying the confusing yet fascinating period where his dual charms are in focus. The tracks are arranged to evoke the atmosphere of twilight transitioning into complete night, allowing listeners to experience this "twilight" period alongside him.

Yoon San-ha expressed his anticipation for his solo debut, noting, "I've always wanted to go solo at some point, but I didn't expect it to happen today. I’m nervous yet happy. Since this album is filled with my voice, I’ll probably listen to it a lot."

Reflecting on his time preparing for the solo album, Yoon shared, "As the youngest in the group, I was used to relying on my older members and showing my playful side. But preparing alone, I felt their absence. However, I also realized how much I’ve grown. I’m determined to show my true self."

The title track "Dive" features a blend of strong kicks, heavy bass sounds, grand pads, and Yoon San-ha's distinctive vocals, creating a mysterious and cinematic vibe. Yoon highlighted the effort that went into recording the song, revealing that it took two days to capture the right feeling for the title track, despite usually being the quickest to finish recordings during group activities.

Yoon also expressed a desire to challenge himself, saying, "I want to 'dive' into myself and explore my limits through various challenges."

In introducing the album, Yoon repeatedly mentioned themes of "longing" and "difficulty," indirectly referencing the absence of his close friend and groupmate, Moon Bin, who had passed away. He said, "There were tough times, but performing for fans made me feel alive and reminded me why I became a singer."

The first track, "Fox Star," was inspired by a moment of looking up at the sky and taking a deep breath during a difficult time. Yoon explained, "I wanted to create warm music that could bring comfort to others, just as it did for me. I hope this song provides warmth to those who might be going through similar experiences."

Another track, "Losing My Mind," explores themes of regret and longing for someone who has gone. Yoon shared an emotional moment, "While driving and listening to the guide version of this song, I cried at the part where it says 'losing my mind'. I wanted to convey that emotion through my singing."

Looking forward, Yoon San-ha stated that his goal for the year is to stay busy and catch up to fellow ASTRO member Cha Eun-woo, humorously adding, "I’m working hard with that goal in mind. Although it seems far off, I plan to steadily follow in his footsteps. He’s aware of this too and encourages me to keep up."

Yoon expressed his admiration for Cha Eun-woo, noting, "He’s always been a cool hyung. His maturity and foresight are qualities I really admire and want to emulate. To be honest, I want to catch up to him in terms of recognition too."

In closing, Yoon reaffirmed his commitment to showing a different side of himself through this solo album, promising to work hard to demonstrate his versatility and growth as an artist. He also wished for everyone’s health and happiness, stating, "That’s all I could ask for."

DUSK will be released at 6 PM KST Aug 6th.

SEE ALSO: After Two years of hiatus, Former Momoland member JooE opens a nail shop and new YouTube channel