NMIXX embodies their catchphrase, “NMIXX CHANGE UP,” by continually redefining K-Pop with their unique sound and exceptional vocals. Their latest EP, Fe3O4: STICK OUT, helps viewers ‘See That’ and exemplifies their fearless approach to experimentation.
From the edgy and intense title track “별별별 (See that?)” to the high-energy rap anthem “SICKUHH (Feat. Kid Milli),” the group showcases their versatility and artistic growth. They explore new vocal techniques, ranging from a cappella to vocal fry, all while delivering NMIXX’s signature fresh and iconic choreography.
This dynamic six-member group—led by Haewon and featuring powerful vocalists Lily and Sullyoon, alongside the versatile trio of Bae, Jiwoo, and Kyujin—constantly captivates audiences with their stand-out releases and multifaceted set of skills from dance to rap.
To explore the essence of Fe3O4: STICK OUT, The Knockturnal’s Emma Salehi interviewed NMIXX, diving into their creative process, comeback goals, and behind-the-scenes insights. We were keen to understand how the group consistently innovates while staying true to their distinctive sound.
With this release, Lily, the group’s intellectual and book-loving Australian member, opened the conversation by diving into NMIXX’s vision for their summer horror concept. She discussed the challenges posed by the choreography and expressed their hopes of always creating a deeper connection with their fans, affectionately known as NSWERS.
The Knockturnal: Congratulations NMIXX on releasing your third EP, Fe3O4: STICK OUT! What new goals do you hope to achieve with this project? How is NMIXX changing it up? (Pun intended!)
LILY: We tried a lot of new things with this comeback! I think one of the most challenging things for me was the dance. The dance for our title song, “별별별 (See that?)” requires a lot of personality and fluidity so I worked hard at that. I hope people enjoy our performance this comeback. Also, it’s a summer horror concept, so I hope people will get the chills (in a good way) and also the song is very hip and channels a lot of confidence so I hope people will feel that too.
Sullyoon and Bae embraced NMIXX’s darker, edgier concept with enthusiasm. Both members shared they enjoyed exploring this new side of the group.
When asked about the experience, Sullyoon expressed excitement for the challenge, while Bae admitted initial nervousness but ultimately found the process rewarding – once again showcasing the group’s dedication to evolving their artistry!
The Knockturnal: This comeback showcases a darker, more mysterious side of NMIXX! How did you feel about exploring this new concept? Was it challenging or exciting?
SULLYOON: It was our first time working on this kind of concept, so it was fascinating and lots of fun not only when we heard the songs but also when we filmed various content.
BAE: I’m always afraid of new challenges but also excited at the same time. We tried really hard, hoping to pull the concept off well, and it was lots of fun. I hope many people will like it!
Building anticipation for the album, NMIXX released a series of concept films and trailers that teased the release. The “OUTSIDER CLUB” Story Film, in particular, sent fans into a frenzy with its eerie and campy atmosphere, as the members showcased their acting side while embracing this darker concept.
We were eager to learn about their experience bringing this storyline to life! Haewon and Jiwoo shared their insights on filming – both sharing different initial reactions to the acting process.
The Knockturnal: Speaking of a darker concept, NMIXX participated in a film concept that pulls the album together for this comeback. How was the experience of acting in the “OUTSIDER CLUB” storyline? Did you find the acting process challenging or enjoyable?
HAEWON: It was a huge challenge, but I loved the character I was playing, so it was a highly enjoyable experience. I even had a few short lines, and I was nervous about delivering them in front of many supporting actors. In the future, I want to grow and be able to act without feeling nervous.
JIWOO: We are usually playful and have fun together a lot, so the filming was also enjoyable!
The music video and film are packed with unforgettable moments, from gravity-defying scenes of the members flying through the air to Lily sharing the spotlight with a flock of sheep in the story film. The quirky and imaginative concept seemed to create a memorable experience for the group and us as viewers.
Sullyoon shared a behind-the-scenes about perfecting her “shovel-digging” scene, admitting to extensive preparation and on-set guidance. Bae added to the memorable moments, recalling the challenge of keeping a straight face during their bat-swinging scene together.
The Knockturnal: Can you share any memorable moments from filming the “OUTSIDER CLUB” concept? The visuals and aesthetics were so well put together and stunning!
SULLYOON: I remember the scene where I had to dig the ground with a shovel. To get that scene right, I watched videos of people shoveling, practiced with an umbrella, and even got a lot of tips from people on set on the day of filming.
BAE: I had a scene on the rooftop where I was swinging a bat! That scene involved filming with SULLYOON, and we struggled to hold back our laughter every time we made eye contact.
NMIXX described their new EP, Fe3O4: STICK OUT, as a fresh and diverse project. The group showcased their versatility with innovative sounds, from the hip-hop-infused “SICKUHH (Feat. Kid Milli)” to the fresh acapella elements in “BEAT BEAT.”
Lily emphasized the EP’s diversity, stating, “The EP is filled with a lot of diverse sounds.” She also highlighted NMIXX’s signature sound, saying, “Throughout our discography, we always try to NMIXXify every genre we do and I think this EP shows that well.”
And NMIXXify they did! You can check out NMIXX’s version of their acapella medley below!
Kyujin echoed this sentiment, adding, “Each song has a different genre and color!” She also described the experimentation process of the EP, mentioning their first attempt at electronic dance elements in the track “Red light sign, but we go.”
Listen to the EP here to hear what all the hype is about!
Speaking of the tracks—each one is so diverse, with its distinct color, and so different from the one before. With such variety, we couldn’t help but wonder if the six members have a favorite, even if it’s a tough choice! So, we asked them: Is there a song you’re particularly fond of, and why? Any specific lyrics that stand out to you?
Sullyoon and Jiwoo both gravitated toward the romantic track on the EP, “Love Is Lonely,” but highlighted different lyrics – proving that the listening experience is different for everyone!
SULLYOON: I really like the lyrics “With you, My world is romantic” and “Yeah I’m happy with you” from the song “Love Is Lonely.” They’re so romantic, and that’s why I love them the most!
JIWOO: In the song “Love Is Lonely,” the lyrics, “When everyone else looks for the sun,” “I’ll be soaked in your rain,” and “Welcoming you without an umbrella, right” feel so warm, like saying, “When everyone else turns away from you, I’ll come to you.”
NMIXX’s recent hip-hop collaboration “SICKUHH (Feat. Kid Milli)” generated significant buzz among fans over social media, eager to see the group’s take on the genre and Kid Milli’s sound. When asked about their ideal collaborators, members Lily and Haewon expressed a desire to work with all kinds of artists from Amaarae, Charli XCX, Beyoncé, and Ed Sheeran.
LILY: I really love Amaarae’s sound and I really think she would gel well with K-pop. I’d also really love to collaborate with Charli XCX because she is always on top of her game.
HAEWON: You should dream big, right? So, I’ll go with Beyoncé! Or I’d love to get an acoustic solo song from Ed Sheeran.
NMIXX has had an exciting first half of 2024, marked by multiple successful releases, global fan interactions at concerts like KCON, and five music show wins for their last release with “DASH.” When asked about their proudest achievements, members Haewon and Kyujin expressed their excitement.
“We’re proud of consistently ranking number one on music shows, expanding our global fanbase by meeting NSWERs in different regions, and seeing NMIXX’s music gain wider recognition,” Haewon shared.
Kyujin added, “Winning first place on music shows has been incredible and has given us amazing opportunities to connect with international NSWERs!”
Looking ahead, NMIXX is gearing up for their fan concerts this October, promising an exhilarating experience for their dedicated fans. Member Bae expressed her enthusiasm about the upcoming tracks, hinting at a fresh sound for the group.
“The songs I’m most excited about are the title track, “See That?” and “SICKUHH,'” Bae shared. “Both songs have a different feel from what we’ve shown before, so I’m looking forward to performing them.”
As NMIXX continues to push musical boundaries and connect with their fans, they concluded the interview with a look forward to their latest release:
“Our album Fe3O4: STICK OUT is finally out! We experimented with different genres and pushed our musical boundaries for this project. From the unique blend of old-school hip-hop and country in our MIXX POP tracks to energetic dance-pop, we packed this album with diverse and fun songs. We hope everyone enjoys it!”
Fe3O4: STICK OUT is now available for streaming! Dive into NMIXX’s ever-evolving sound here! Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the group, there’s something for everyone.
Photo Credit: JYP Entertainment
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