NCT’s TEN has announced a new single album, OUTWEST, set to be released on September 4, 2026.

The announcement was shared on TEN’s social media accounts alongside a short teaser video that sees TEN in a collection of film cuts. Several contain a green colouring, while others have been placed under inverted filters, blurs, or overlaid by black lines – all of which are framed by old film-inspired borders. This unique collation and the use of filters gives the video a mysterious, cinematic tone, heightening anticipation.

The single album will contain an eponymous title track as well as the B-side “IRL,” and will mark a new chapter in TEN’s career regarding production and creative control. TEN was involved in the production process for both songs under his new company ILLIMNT, which he co-founded in July following the termination of his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment in April.

ILLIMNT defines itself as a creative hub that “bridges music, culture, visual arts, fashion, original content, and brand partnerships.” Initial press releases state that the company intends to take an artist-centric approach, built on “true identity and unique ‘colors’ prioritizing authenticity and boundary-pushing creativity.” At present TEN is the primary artist under ILLIMNT, placing his personal intentions at the forefront. For this reason, the initial teaser is especially meaningful; its cinematic nature reinforces ILLIMNT’s prioritisation of creativity and suggests that TEN intends to harness his creative control to create “boundary-pushing” visuals beyond what is typically seen in the industry.

TEN released the special single “If You Don’t Mean It” in celebration of his 10 year anniversary of debuting as an idol within NCT U in late July. OUTWEST marks TEN's first non-commemorative release since leaving SM Entertainment and establishing ILLIMNT – and the first project where he has led the creative process from the ground up. What it sounds and looks like will set the tone for everything that follows.