XLOV Unveils New Unit Pairings in Tracklist for Upcoming EP "i=!"

XLOV, billed as "K-pop's first gender-free group," is making a comeback with two title tracks.

XLOV (Wumuti, Rui, Hyun and Haru) unveiled the tracklist for its third EP, "i=!," on its official social media accounts on Sept. 30. The release comes about five months after the group's second EP, "I,God," which dropped in May.

The two title tracks are "Hush" and "Tooth Gem Chihuahua." The eight-track EP also includes "Cat Move," "All Tied Up," "Silence," a sped-up version of "Tooth Gem Chihuahua" and instrumental versions of both title tracks.

Wumuti, who has consistently contributed to XLOV's music and helped shape the group's musical identity, brings his songwriting skills to the new EP as well. He co-composed "Hush" and contributed to both the lyrics and composition of "Tooth Gem Chihuahua." He also worked on the lyrics for "All Tied Up" and the composition of "Silence," while Hyun contributed lyrics to "Silence."

The EP also features unit tracks that pair the members in different combinations. Rui and Haru perform "All Tied Up," while Wumuti and Hyun sing "Silence." The new pairings follow Wumuti and Rui's "Extancy" and Hyun and Haru's "HIPS" on the previous EP, "I,God."

XLOV continues the story of its previous release on the new EP. "I,God" drew on the concept of pawn promotion in chess, conveying the message that even the weakest piece can become what it wants to be once it reaches the final rank. "i=!" also explores themes connected to pawn promotion.

XLOV places "gender-free" at the heart of its identity. Guided by the idea that gender should neither define nor restrict forms of expression, the group has moved beyond fixed boundaries of masculinity and femininity through its music and performances, as well as visual elements such as clothing and makeup. The new release will continue to build on that identity and the group's distinctive style.

XLOV's third EP, "i=!," will be released on music streaming platforms on Oct. 28 at 6 p.m.