On May 12, South Korean boyband CIX took the stage at New York’s United Palace. This year, the band ushers in a new era with their latest single album 0 or 1, embarking on an eight-stop namesake North American tour. New Yorkers were first to experience CIX’s charm up close, witnessing their effortless work of vocally challenging songs and intricate choreography. This isn’t the group’s first rodeo, however, and as they hit the road, the band displayed why they’ve become so beloved within K-pop.

Moving Our Body with CIX

An opulent theater lined with breathtaking art displays greeted fans. It was quite fitting for the band, which is known for hypnotic performances. Much like the calm before a storm, fans shuffled into their seats with anticipation. From the moment CIX hit the stage, it was quite clear that the band would be delivering an electric night.

At 7:01 p.m., the lights dimmed as CIX calmly made their way to their starting formations. Waiting at baited breath for the show to start, one couldn’t help but wonder what song they would open with. Lights gleamed red as CIX were shrouded in darkness, only to reveal them wearing decadent white blazers embellished with rhinestones and pearls. The first song of the night was “Move My Body,” an anthemic trap song with EDM influences sprinkled through the pre-chorus. The night started off with a bang, and it was hard not to get engrossed in the group’s music as they executed flawless choreography.

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Soulful Solo Performances

After performing the mid-tempo ballad “What You Wanted,” the members made their way off stage to prepare for their solo performances. Hyunsuk performed first with a cover of “ILYSB” by the L.A.-based rock band LANY. Presenting fans with a loose-hanging white button-down and jeans, Hyunsuk lost himself in the music. His graceful yet soft singing as he crooned over the minimalistic beat was a welcomed contrast to the bombastic songs CIX performed thus far. 

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Next, rapper and leader of the group, BX, performed “Left To Right” by Marteen. The bouncy and upbeat song paired well with BX’s higher vocal register. He commanded the audience’s attention, as he made his way to both sides of the stage to greet fans who eagerly waved their lightsticks. 

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Following BX, Yonghee slowed the night down with his rendition of “Angel Baby” by Troye Sivan. His performance was romantic, leaving concert-goers yearning for more. A simple look of baggy denim jeans and a blue-and-white button-down added extra charm to Yonghee’s soulful performance.

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Up next was Bae Jinyoung who performed a fan favorite — “Seven” by Jung Kook of BTS. Jinyoung sported a white bomber jacket paired with black-and-white cargo pants. Although just a cover, his charisma was convincing, as if the record was his own. Switching from playful engagements with the crowd to laid back choreography, he had the venue enthusiastically singing every lyric of the infectious pop song. He was joined by fellow bandmate BX, who made easy work of Latto’s verse. 

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Seunghun was the last to perform a solo. He slowly walked out in an all-white suit. It was quite the princely look for him. Turning United Palace into a jazz club, Seunghun performed “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys. Bringing fans back to the 2000s, his performance was a treat for the ears. Hitting impressive high notes, he played around with the melody with a smile on his face. 

Turning United Palace into a Party

After a variety of eclectic solo performances, CIX returned to the stage as five to speak to fans and catch their breaths. Each member took the time to share the songs they chose with Seunghun revealing that he was originally going to perform “Love Never Felt So Good” by Michael Jackson. Despite his impressive delivery, he still wanted to find ways to heighten his performances but fans quickly reassured him, “Mic was on you good!” with others barking in support of the members. 

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Looking back on their time in the Big Apple, the band motioned to fans, “It’s been a year since we were in New York…and we promised that we were going to get better.” It’s safe to say that CIX certainly are reaching new heights with every year that passes. Playing a medley of songs like “Switch It Up” and “WAVE,” CIX brought the party to fans with a collection of bouncy and energetic songs.

Bringing the Cinema to Fans 

Image Courtesy of Ellie Forte

After a VCR, CIX returned to the stage in sleek, classic suits. Fans roared at the sight of the members as they entered their final act of the show. Saving the best for last, the group performed their debut single “Movie Star” and their most recent release, “Lovers or Enemies,” from 0 or 1. As their near two-hour set came to a close, CIX wrapped the show up with encore performances of “Cinema,” “The One,” and “Color.” CIX will continue their tour in Chicago and Los Angeles. 

Looking to dig into more news and content about CIX? Read our exclusive interview with the band here!

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