NMIXX is once again stunning audiences everywhere with their talented vocals, range, and stability. Released on May 11, their 5th EP ‘Heavy Serenade’ carries the same powerful vocals and melodies that epitomize the uniquely NMIXX sound established in their first full album, ‘Blue Valentine.’ With this 6-track release that speaks to the heart and encourages us all to love freely, here are all the parts that pulled at our heartstrings.
“Crescendo”
The whole thing. But seriously, from the pre-chorus to the bridge, from the strong vocals to the pivotal instrumental, everything about “Crescendo” draws listeners in for an emotional journey throughout the musical staff. However, a specific part that stands out for us would have to be the chorus:
“Oh, my God, out of control
Love that wandered on its own
Took away my metronome
I’m deep in shallow, deep in shallow”
The intricate and complex production of the instrumental, paired with the strength of each members’ voice, helps to emphasize the impact of the chorus. Through well-timed pauses and illustrative metaphors, the group conveys the feeling of being thoroughly enraptured with someone, painting a picture throughout the song in which this person is controlling the melody within their heart. The post-chorus also establishes this metaphorical interplay between love and music.
“(You’re here for me)
(I’m here for ya)
Yeah, you’re my conductor, be my drummer, allegro or I can
Lento for ya, you’re always living in my heart”
Combined with the whimsical and imaginative visuals of the music video, the song evokes a sense of artistry and experimentation, playing to the members’ strengths in both vocals and creative expression.
“Heavy Serenade”
“Hear the sound of the heart growing louder
This moment will be remembered forever
Look at us, turned into lyrics
A melody you’ve already sung”
Continuing the comparison to music, the chorus of the title track, “Heavy Serenade,” also utilizes volume and strength to drive home the point of its first line. In both their wording and expression, the members are calling on the audience to pay attention and listen. The concept of the heart getting louder (beating faster) in a moment that will be remembered forever signals the moment of falling in love and having a relationship that can be encapsulated within the permanence and beauty of music. Paired with the blue color scheme and film gradient of the music video, “Heavy Serenade” is the perfect expansion of the themes built up within ‘Blue Valentine’.
“IDESERVEIT”
“Only looking ahead, step, a past without regrets
If it’s a hundred, then a hundred, I can prove it
Just follow where your heart goes
Chase what you want, I’m so greedy”
“IDESERVEIT” is a fun, self-assured song about knowing your worth and feeling capable of achieving whatever you set your mind to. This section of the pre-chorus encapsulates this message, specifically emphasizing the importance of looking towards the future and holding onto the conviction that you can overcome any obstacles while following the path that speaks to your heart.
“Different Girl”
“So many questions I keep throwing them out
Your own pattern, it’s so special
Your old habits, even your playlist
I wanna know your world”
Cowritten by Bae, the catchy instrumental and lyrics of “Different Girl” speak to the desire of wanting to know someone completely. This section of the pre-chorus, specifically, captures the intimacy of wanting to know what makes someone uniquely them and shows listeners what it feels like to meet someone determined to see you as you are. The catchy instrumentalization and vocalization behind the phrases “Who can deny her? You’re a different girl” and “So I fell in love, different girl” are also worthy of an honorable mention, with a musicality that satisfies both the ears and the heart.
“Superior”
“Stitching up my scars to make two wings
Toward the fast track above the horizon, off the road
The breath I let out is cold, the engine is a growl
Shake off the dust sitting on your wings”
Along with the echoed repetition of “Here we are,” the energetic marching band sounds establish “Superior” as another self-confidence anthem. Differing slightly from “IDESERVEIT”‘s messaging, this verse focuses more on the action of rising up from past setbacks, reminding listeners of their ability to get back up and accomplish the things they set out to do. Empowering and energizing, “Superior” gives us the strength to keep moving forward despite any obstacles we may have encountered in our past.
“LOUD”
“Why do we have to hide it? Can’t act like I don’t like it
You know I’m a bad liar, our love should be
The brightest thing in the room, ooh
We’re the centerpiece in this room, oh”
In the final track, written by Lily, we’re left with the bittersweet emotion of what it feels like to be so wondrously in love with someone, yet unable to express this joy to the rest of the world. The pre-chorus tugs on the heartstrings and calls out to all those who have experienced a silenced form of love, unable to freely express an aspect of themselves, whether due to societal pressures or contractual obligations. Despite this adversity, they continue to hold onto the love that lights up their life.
Once again, in a nice blend of vocal artistry and intricate production, NMIXX has reached the hearts of all their listeners, reminding everyone to believe in their own strengths and to continue to love loudly.
What’s your favorite part from NMIXX’s newest EP? Let us know in the comments below or on our Instagram and Twitter/X!
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Featured Image: JYP Entertainment Official Website
*All English lyric translations from NMIXX Official YouTube and Genius.
