On February 7, 2025, the alternative Korean R&B duo t024, comprising singer-songwriter Senji and producer Nap!er, released their highly anticipated debut EP, TRACE. Known for their work with prominent K-pop acts like NCT DREAM, OnlyOneOf, and LUCY, the duo is now unveiling their own sound through a project that is deeply personal, sonically rich, and emotionally resonant. TRACE is an album that offers a sensory experience, exploring the lingering “after-scent” of memories, relationships, and self-discovery. At the heart of TRACE lies the theme of “scent,” specifically the intangible “after-scent” that lingers long after an experience has passed. Through this unique concept expressed across eight tracks, t024 invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences and forge a deep emotional connection with the music.
To bring their vision to life, t024 teamed up with globally renowned music professionals. The album’s mixing was handled by Ryan Giligan, known for his work with Coldplay and The 1975, and Matt Huber, who has collaborated with Tove Lo and Maren Morris. The rhythmic backbone of the EP was strengthened by Grammy-winning drummer Sean Hutchinson (Taylor Swift, Lana Del Rey) and session bassist Sean Hurley (Gwen Stefani, Jason Mraz). Additionally, the mastering was done by Chris Gehringer of Sterling Sound, whose credits include Rosalía, Lady Gaga, and Dua Lipa.
“Got my attention”
This dance-pop track, infused with deep house elements, kicks off the EP on a high note and is sure to grab your attention, just as the title suggests. It perfectly captures the excitement of a new connection, bringing to life a slightly tipsy night buzzing with hope and anticipation.
“Make the vibe”
This track mixes analog instruments with synths in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh, giving it a really uplifting energy. It totally captures that feeling of wanting to escape the daily grind and just enjoy a moment of pure freedom.
“Why”
Built around a catchy guitar riff, Why has an upbeat, indie sound that contrasts with its self-deprecating lyrics. The R&B-style melodies add a smooth groove, making it both thoughtful and fun at the same time. This song is easy to jam to and instantly puts you in a relaxed mood, which is why it instantly became a favorite.
“It's because”
Going back to their R&B roots, this track has a smooth, laid-back vibe with dreamy chord progressions that pull you in. It dives into complicated emotions, balancing a mellow sound with something deeper. The song’s ending actually leads straight into the next track, Cedarwood & Tangerine, which makes for a really interesting transition.
“Cedarwood & Tangerine”
This track really stands out with its raw, textured sound, mixing a classic band setup with different musical layers. It’s upbeat but still hits with intensity, making it a song that pulls you in and takes you through a wide range of different emotions.
“Reflection of you”
This acoustic pop track is both melodic and deeply emotional, built around a beautiful, heartfelt melody. It really showcases the artist’s journey in blending their unique style with acoustic sounds, giving it a personal touch.
“Complete me”
This Alt R&B track has a bold, moody vibe, with edgy string effects that add a lot of depth and atmosphere. The verse melody doesn’t follow the usual repetitive structure, which makes it feel more unpredictable and real. You can really hear the emotion in the vocals, pulling you deeper into the song’s energy.
“Bridging time zones”
This track has a nostalgic feel that sets the perfect mood for the album’s final song. It starts off simple but slowly builds into something big, bringing the whole album’s story together. You can really feel the artist’s desire to connect with fans, no matter how far apart they are.
With TRACE, t024 has firmly established themselves as a duo to watch in the alternative R&B scene. Their ability to blend emotional depth with innovative soundscapes ensures that their music will leave a lasting “after-scent” in the hearts of listeners.