Topp Dogg To Combine Traditional Korean Music With Hip-Hop In Special Edition 'ARARIO' Album

Rookie idols Topp Dogg are adding their sound to the mix of February releases with the upcoming special album ARARIO due out on the 24th.

The 13-member hip-hop boy group debuted last October and made a comeback last month with the mini-album ARARIO and its lead single "Open the Door." They followed up with the music video release of "Arario" on February 12 and kick off promotions for their latest album project from today.

ARARIO Special Edition is expected to attract fans with unique music and a brand new concept. The album seeks to create a bridge between traditional Korean music and modern pop in a never-before-seen way.

"In between this unique mix of different kinds of music (traditional instruments and rap rhythms), Topp Dogg are able to show their various skills and reveal their hidden talents," explained a statement from the group's agency Stardom Entertainment.

The mix of old and new is apparent in the music video for "Arario" which includes traditional musicians playing instruments such as the gayageum, a zither-like string instrument that is plucked to create its unique sound.

The video is full of other elements that portray the proud heritage of the group's members including masks, fans, and dancing and is a nice blending of Topp Dogg's hip-hop and traditional Korean aesthetics.

"Until now, no Korean idol group has ever tried this specific kind of mixture of music and performance," explained Stardom.

In addition to the new sound Topp Dogg brings to the table, ARARIO Special Edition will also contain another artistic element - the inclusion of artwork designed specifically for the fans.

Calling on webtoon artist Ha Il Kwon, the concept of Topp Dogg's special album will act as a sequel to the fantasy story begun through the release of "Open the Door" last month.

"This time the concept of the fantasy is based on the members' own natures which will also be a portrait of future activities and subunits which will bring a lot of fun to the fans," said Stardom.

The special edition ARARIO album contains eight tracks including the title track "Arario" and the group's previous single "Open the Door." It will also include remix and instrumental versions of "Arario" as well as a Japanese version of "I Know."

ARARIO Special Edition will be released on February 24 online through various music sites as well as in physical album form. Pre-orders begin February 17 and run until February 21.

Check out the music video for "Arario" below.

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Topp Dogg
Stardom Entertainment
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