XG - The First Howl

Not an empty seat remained in Sydney’s International Convention Centre in Sydney for the wildly entertaining return performance of the Korean-based XG (Xtraordinary Girls). K-pop fans as expected, flooded in, some travelling from Perth, Japan and Korea, embracing bold, futuristic, and streetwear-inspired fashion. Think oversized cargo pants, crop tops, holographic fabrics, and Y2K aesthetics. Neon colours, metallic accessories, and chunky sneakers were also popular, often paired with XG merch like graphic tees or hats. Statement makeup and edgy hairstyles completed the look.

XG (Xtraordinary Girls) is redefining the boundaries of K-pop with a futuristic sound that blends hip-hop, R&B, and pop in a way that feels effortlessly global. Though the all-Japanese group operates under the Korean-based label XGALX, their music transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, embracing a genre-fluid approach that resonates worldwide.

Tracks like ‘Shooting Star’ and ‘Left Right’ showcased their signature style—smooth vocal harmonies, slick rap flows, and cutting-edge production. Their ability to seamlessly switch between English and Korean lyrics enhances their global appeal, making them one of the few groups successfully bridging the Western and Eastern pop markets. Sydney audiences were nothing but wild though the whole performance regularly ‘wolf calling’ slamming the group’s fandom ‘ Alphaz’ wolf symbolisation.

What sets XG apart is their undeniable swagger. Their rap-heavy tracks rival some of the best in K-pop, with confident delivery and intricate flows. Meanwhile, their R&B-infused melodies bring a fresh, contemporary edge that feels reminiscent of early 2000s Western pop but with a modern twist.

Two years have passed since XG's last visit to Sydney, and once again, they left behind the memory of a solid, energetic, and at times explosively choreographed stage performance blended with outstanding video, CGI projections, and lighting design.

Visually, XG nails the futuristic, cyber-chic aesthetic, reinforcing their position as trendsetters. With each release, they prove they’re not just another girl group—they’re a movement. If they continue on this trajectory, XG could be one of the defining acts of global pop in the coming years.

Thank you to Frontier Touring for having us along

Review by Jasmine Blanch for Music Kingdom Australia