NMIXX is preparing to return with new music after proving that their once unfamiliar “mix pop” style can become a mainstream sound.
The group, made up of Kyujin, Haewon, Lily, Sullyoon, Bae, and Jiwoo, will release their 5th mini album “Heavy Serenade” on May 11 at 6 PM KST. This marks their first comeback in about 7 months since “Blue Valentine,” which was released last October.
The new album is gaining attention because it is NMIXX’s first Korean release since “Blue Valentine” helped the group reach a new level of popularity.
When NMIXX debuted in February 2022, their signature genre “mix pop” received mixed reactions. The style, which combines different genres in one song, was seen by some listeners as unique but also difficult to understand. However, the group continued to build its identity around the sound instead of moving away from it.
Over time, NMIXX made their music more approachable by focusing more on strong melodies and smoother genre changes. This helped lower the barrier for listeners while still keeping the group’s original color.
The group’s effort paid off with “Blue Valentine”. The track, known for its addictive melody, boom bap rhythm, melancholic synth sound, and guitar riff, became a major turning point for NMIXX.
It gave the group their first No. 1 spots on several music charts, ranked No. 59 on Billboard’s “Global 200,” and helped them earn their first triple crown on music shows.
Because of that success, “Heavy Serenade” now carries big expectations. Many are watching to see if NMIXX can continue the momentum and show another upgrade in their music.
The album also includes more participation from the members. The title track “Heavy Serenade” was written by singer songwriter Hanroro. Lily took part in writing lyrics for “Crescendo” and “LOUD,” while Bae helped write “Different Girl,” adding more of NMIXX’s own style to the album.
NMIXX has also shown their vocal strength through a cappella teaser content, reminding listeners of one of the group’s biggest strengths. Their pre release track “Crescendo” also gave fans a preview of the high level “mix pop” sound that NMIXX is known for.
A representative from JYP Entertainment explained, “In this new album, NMIXX aims for a more advanced mix pop,” adding that the group goes beyond simple genre mixing and BPM changes by “mixing an emotional story through sound.”
The representative also said the album will express “growing feelings toward someone through different musical comparisons,” and added that listeners will be able to see how NMIXX’s music spectrum has “upgraded once again.”
With “Heavy Serenade”, NMIXX is now facing an important moment in their career. After turning “mix pop” from a difficult sound into one of their biggest strengths, the group is expected to show whether they can keep rising after the success of “Blue Valentine.”
Source: [1]
