by desi | 데지 (intrbloo)

Fleeky Bang drops EP and holds first solo-concert

Gaining popularity on Show Me the Money Season 11 in 2022 through his iconic catchphrase, “Gang Gang Gang,” and solidifying his spot as a pivotal new-gen rapper through his impressive performance in Rap:Public’s Infinite Cypher challenge last year, Fleeky Bang wrapped up the month of February by holding his first solo-concert, “AKUMA ONLY” on Friday, the 28th. According to Bang himself, tickets sold out in only 10 seconds, prompting a second round of ticketing to satisfy demand and forecasting a full house at the SpaceBrick venue in Hongdae. In anticipation of the show, the rapper announced the release of a brand-new EP, scheduled to drop a day prior to the performance, stimulating fans’ enthusiasm even further. 

Sitting at 14 minutes 25 seconds, [3024] is an EP consisting of 7 tracks, and features various artists, including fellow Rap:Public contestant, Shyboiitobii, as well as labelmate, Uneducated Kid. 

Tracklist

01. 3024 (Intro) [prod. AKUMA]

02. FLEEEEEK (feat. Shyboiitobii, Lil Moshpit)

03. Ryoji

04. EDWARD LEE (feat. JMIN)

05. BLIXK (feat. Royal 44, Yung Blesh)

06. 죄인 (罪人) FREESTYLE (feat. UNEDUCATED KID) [prod. AKUMA]

07. 3025 [forever] (Outro) 

Two tracks are notably tabbed as “prod. by AKUMA,” prompting curiosity about the depth of this mysterious character – perhaps an alter ego? The continued theme of  “Akuma,” meaning “evil spirit” or “demon” in Japanese, is carried out through various media – including Fleeky Bang’s third album release, [AKUMA] (2024), an exclusive Instagram page and broadcast channel, titled @/akuma__private and AKUMA ONLY, respectively, as well as the foregrounding concert of the same name. These elements act as building blocks to the thematic cosmos that is “AKUMA.” Not to mention, Fleeky Bang concluded the [AKUMA] album with track “3024 (Outro),” and is following that up with a project featuring the same digits, opening with track “3024 (Intro).” What could these numbers mean? Do they reveal deeper lore within the Akuma universe? 

Despite being considered a front-runner in the Korean Drill scene, Bang has expanded his catalog beyond just the UK-established genre, experimenting with various sounds throughout his projects. [3024] is no different, showcasing the artist’s ability to tackle diverse beats and write captivating flows. In fact, the sonic features of this project are not the only way he establishes his creative identity. “Art by me,” reads his caption on Instagram upon the release of [3024], indicating his direct involvement with the project’s cover-art and visuals. The track titles also follow a similar pattern to those in AKUMA and prior projects, which feature ALL-CAPS and Hanja (Chinese characters), yielding a strong and impactful impression. Fleeky Bang makes many cultural references to both fictional characters and remarkable public figures, such as in titles “Ryoji” and “Edward Lee,” illustrating not only his social knowledge but also his desire to build a comparable legacy of his own which will be referenced eternally. Thus, the theme of [3024] is revealed, and especially encapsulated in the final track, “3025 [forever],” unveiling the message that Fleeky’s legacy will live on for centuries to come. Starting with his first solo-concert. 

With a running time of 150 minutes, the AKUMA ONLY concert was jam-packed with abundant excitement. Passionate superfans and curious hip-hop enjoyers alike gathered to witness the performance, filling the venue to max capacity with its double sold-out ticketing. The setlist certainly did not disappoint, including hits like his debut track, “My Ninjas,” as well as the iconic SMTM11, “We Higher,” and 2024 chart-topper, “MY NAME IS.” Fleeky Bang rode this wave by showcasing his synergy with eight special guests: Uneducated Kid, Royal44, Yung Blesh, Tray B, Sik-K, HAON, Coogie, and Polodared. The performance was roughly organized in sections highlighting each of his albums, performing songs like “귀신 (鬼神)” for the first time, as well as debuting the [3024] tracks on stage with explosive energy. The rapper expressed his excitement and gratitude repeatedly throughout the night, thanking his fans – and parents, who were present – for supporting him and joining him in this special milestone. After a group photo and encore performance of “MY NAME IS,” the night came to a close.

What did you think of [3024]? Which track is your favorite? And what do you think Fleeky Bang has in store for us in 2025 and beyond?