KATSEYE keeps raising its own standard. Arriving on August 14 through HYBE x Geffen Records, WILD is only five tracks long (plus the retailer-exclusive bonus track “Unloveu”), yet it feels like the clearest statement of the group’s artistic identity so far. Rather than settling into one lane, the project embraces experimentation without sacrificing the polished pop instincts that have fueled KATSEYE’s rapid global rise, from SIS to Beautiful Chaos.
Momentum for the EP had been building for months. The rollout began on April 9 with “PINKY UP,” released ahead of the group’s acclaimed Coachella debut. The single delivered an explosive introduction to this era, pairing hyperpop energy with club-ready production while showcasing the fearless confidence that has quickly become one of KATSEYE’s trademarks. Commercially, it also marked another breakthrough, becoming the group’s biggest YouTube music video debut at the time.
That excitement only intensified when “Animal” arrived on July 24. Co-written by Ed Sheeran and produced by Omer Fedi and Blake Slatkin, the sleek pop-R&B record debuted at No. 24 on the Billboard Hot 100, giving KATSEYE its highest-charting debut to date. The cinematic Cody Critcheloe-directed video, featuring a surprise appearance by Demi Moore, reinforced the group’s ambition to pair chart-ready music with equally memorable visuals.
Listening to WILD from start to finish, one thing becomes immediately clear: versatility is no longer something KATSEYE experiments with—it has become the foundation of its sound. The group moves effortlessly between dance-pop, R&B, Latin-inspired rhythms and nostalgic synth-pop without making those shifts feel abrupt. Each track serves a distinct purpose while remaining tied together by polished production, confident performances and the chemistry that has defined KATSEYE since its debut.
At the same time, WILD is impossible to separate from the circumstances surrounding its release. It is the group’s first project promoted without Manon, whose extended hiatus for health reasons has inevitably prompted questions about KATSEYE’s future as a six-member act. Sophia also stepped back shortly before the EP’s release, leaving Daniela, Lara, Megan and Yoonchae to carry the promotional campaign. Whether Manon participated in the recording sessions remains unconfirmed, although the era was first teased in February while she was still actively promoting with the group, suggesting she may have contributed during its early development. Those unanswered questions will likely remain part of the conversation surrounding WILD. What isn’t open to debate, however, is the quality of the music itself. Rather than feeling diminished, the EP confidently pushes KATSEYE forward and stands as the strongest release of the group’s career so far.
The biggest hit on WILD is undoubtedly “Animal.” It isn’t simply the EP’s strongest single; it’s the finest song KATSEYE has released to date. The restrained groove, layered harmonies and hypnotic chorus allow the members to explore a more mature, sophisticated sound while maintaining the group’s infectious pop appeal. Instead of relying on explosive production, the track succeeds through confidence and subtlety, proving that KATSEYE doesn’t need maximalism to command attention.
Close behind sits “That Way,” another standout that perfectly balances playful confidence with irresistible melodies. Built around funky basslines, crisp percussion and effortless vocal interplay, the song feels destined to become a fan favorite. Its flirtatious lyrics and undeniable chorus showcase a group becoming increasingly comfortable in its own identity.
“Hootie Frutti” injects a welcome burst of warmth into the project. Drawing inspiration from Latin pop while recalling the sleek atmosphere of The Weeknd and Anitta’s “São Paulo,” the track bursts with personality. The vibrant production, playful vocal delivery and addictive hook make it one of the EP’s most immediate highlights.
While the energy remains high throughout much of the record, “Bel Air” provides the emotional centerpiece. The shimmering synth-pop production gives Daniela, Sophia, Lara, Megan, and Yoonchae room to showcase their vocal colors, resulting in one of KATSEYE’s most melodic performances.
Opening track “PINKY UP” deserves recognition for setting this entire era in motion. Months after its release, the explosive club anthem still sounds fresh, introducing listeners to the bold attitude that defines WILD.
Across just five songs, KATSEYE successfully expands its musical palette without losing the immediacy that made audiences embrace them in the first place. The EP leaves one unavoidable question lingering after the final track: if this is what the group can accomplish on a compact project, what might a full-length studio album sound like? Whenever that day arrives, fans will undoubtedly hope all six members are there to write the next chapter together.
Meanwhile, see our ranking of all five tracks on KATSEYE’s new EP WILD below.
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