CHEEZE Returns with First Full-Length Album in 10 Years: A Sincere Journey of Growth, Collaboration, and Rediscovery

After a decade-long wait, singer-songwriter Cheeze (Dalchong) has returned with her long-awaited second full-length album, It Just Happened, released on April 24.

Featuring collaborations with DAY6’s Young K and Stella Jang, the album reflects a rich tapestry of emotion, growth, and musical maturity.

At her first showcase in 14 years—held at Yes24 Wonderlock Hall—Dalchong shared her nerves and excitement: “It feels new and strange to be here with all the cameras flashing,” she admitted. Though she’s usually calm during album drops, the long preparation for this project has stirred deeper emotions: “I’m excited but also trying not to expect too much.”

The title track, “That’s How It Is,” is an acoustic pop piece infused with bossa nova rhythm, warm strings, and woodwind flourishes—showcasing Cheeze’s signature sound. Young K’s emotional vocal tones complement Dalchong’s sensibility, marking a standout feature in the album. “We’ve met often through radio and live shoots. I’m shy, but he’s so cheerful,” Dalchong shared about their collaboration, adding, “I’m grateful he accepted despite his schedule.”

Another highlight is “Home Date,” a pre-release track that blends Cheese’s signature warmth with a touch of dance-pop. “It’s a kind of ‘tasting menu’—familiar, but also a playful step outside my usual genre,” Dalchong said.

Cheese also opens up about the transformation from a group to a solo act. “After becoming a one-person group, I needed time to define Cheese’s identity again,” she explained. The shift brought greater creative freedom but also heavier responsibilities, both emotionally and financially. “There were times I felt hurt by comparisons to the past, but I stayed focused on building my own path.”

The album also includes the sentimental track “Our Beloved Summer,” inspired by the SBS drama of the same name. Dalchong reflected on youth and vulnerability: “Everyone has a time when they were clumsy. The lyrics came from looking back at those memories.”

Working alongside fellow singer-songwriter Stella Jang was also a meaningful moment: “She agreed right away, and we wrapped it up in just two hours. I knew no one else could do that song but her.”

On striking a balance as a female singer-songwriter, Dalchong emphasized storytelling that feels inclusive: “I try to keep lyrics emotionally open and relatable, with arrangements that don’t overpower the message.”

As for chart expectations, Dalchong is hopeful but realistic: “Of course, I want good results—but I tell myself to calm down. I’d rather stay on the charts steadily than peak and drop quickly.”

Closing on a lighter note, Dalchong likened her music to “fruit cheese or rosemary cheese—familiar, but with distinctive scents and flavors.” She also hinted at her growing desire for recognition: “People know the songs but not me. I used to be okay with that, but not anymore.”

Cheeze’s second album, It Just Happened, is now available on all major streaming platforms. She will hold a solo concert on May 17 and 18 at the Shinhan Card SOL Pay Square Live Hall, with tickets on sale via Interpark.