NMIXX / Fe3O4: STICK OUT
NMIXX Fe3O4: STICK OUT EP - Breaking Down the Tracks
NMIXX, the innovative K-pop girl group, has taken the music scene by storm with their latest EP, "Fe3O4: STICK OUT." This groundbreaking release showcases the group's unique blend of genres and their commitment to self-expression. The EP's title, Fe3O4, has a dual meaning that reflects both the group's magnetic appeal and their dedication to standing out in the crowded K-pop landscape.
"Fe3O4: STICK OUT" features a diverse range of musical styles, from old-school hip-hop to acoustic guitar-driven melodies. The EP highlights NMIXX's artistic growth and their ability to push boundaries in the industry. What's more, it introduces listeners to the concept of the "Outsider Club," emphasizing individuality and the power of embracing one's unique qualities. This release not only marks a significant step in NMIXX's journey but also offers fans a deeper look into the group's creative vision and musical evolution.
Fe3O4: Stick Out
Type
EP
Artist
NMIXX
Released
August 19, 2024
Format(s)
CD, platform, download, streaming
Recorded
2024
Genre
Mixxpop, old school hip-hop, dance, EDM, pop, pop rock
Length
17:33
Label(s)
JYP Entertainment
Distributor(s)
Dreamus
Track list
"See That? (별별별)" - 3:02
"Sickuhh" (feat. Kid Milli) - 2:39
"Red Light Sign, But We Go" - 2:17
"Beat Beat" - 2:48
"Moving On" - 3:30
"Love is Lonely" - 3:17
The Concept Behind Fe3O4: STICK OUT
The Meaning of Fe3O4
NMIXX's latest EP title, "Fe3O4: STICK OUT," carries a dual significance. The chemical symbol Fe3O4 represents magnetite, a highly magnetic mineral. This choice symbolizes the group's ability to attract attention and draw people in with their unique charm. The concept aligns with NMIXX's goal to showcase their magnetic appeal in the K-pop industry.
The 'STICK OUT' Philosophy
The "STICK OUT" philosophy embodies NMIXX's commitment to embracing individuality and breaking free from societal norms. As member Haewon explains, "This new EP is about respecting, supporting and standing with outcasts that 'stick out'". The group encourages their fans to be true to themselves, regardless of others' opinions. This message is evident in lyrics like "Who cares even if I stick out, who cares I'm just myself".
Connection to Previous EP 'BREAK'
"Fe3O4: STICK OUT" is part of a series that includes their previous EP, "Fe3O4: BREAK." Both releases focus on challenging stereotypes and expectations. While "BREAK" symbolized the determination to shatter barriers imposed by the world, "STICK OUT" takes this concept further by encouraging listeners to embrace their uniqueness without inhibitions. This progression showcases NMIXX's evolving artistic vision and their commitment to delivering empowering messages through their music.
Track-by-Track Analysis
See that? (별별별)
"See that?" blends old-school hip-hop with country elements, showcasing NMIXX's chic charms . The song features groovy basslines reminiscent of H.O.T's "Warrior's Descendent". Its lyrics convey the group's decision to love themselves as they are, comparing their uniqueness to stars in the sky. The track's production is dense and exciting, with guitar and synth battling for supremacy in the second verse.
SICKUHH (Feat. Kid Milli)
This powerful rap anthem opens with an intense intro, featuring strong basslines and hip-hop drum beats. Kid Milli's unique rap style complements NMIXX's bold delivery, creating an impactful collaboration. The song embodies a rebellious spirit, aiming to shock the world like black sheep.
Red light sign, but we go
NMIXX's first attempt at an electronic dance track carries a message of boldly moving forward despite obstacles. The lyrics emphasize their determination:"Can't stop me now, don't stop runnin', runnin' all night long".
BEAT BEAT
A bouncy track that showcases NMIXX's wide vocal range. Its energetic nature makes it a fan favorite, with members expressing their love for the song.
Moving On
While specific details about this track are limited in the provided information, it likely continues the EP's theme of self-expression and growth.
Love Is Lonely
This emotional ballad features romantic lyrics that resonate deeply with the members. Lines like "With you, My world is romantic" and "When everyone else looks for the sun, I'll be soaked in your rain" highlight the song's poignant nature.
NMIXX's Musical Evolution
Experimenting with New Genres
NMIXX has made a name for themselves by pushing musical boundaries. Their unique "MIXX POP" style combines multiple genres within a single song. This approach has led to diverse tracks, blending baile funk, pop-rock, bossa nova, and 808-beats. Their latest EP, "Fe3O4: STICK OUT," continues this trend with "See that?," a song that mixes old-school hip-hop with country elements.
Vocal Versatility
The group's vocal prowess has been a standout feature of their evolution. NMIXX is known for their minimal reliance on vocal backing tracks during live performances, showcasing their raw talent. Each member brings a unique vocal color to the group, with Lily's powerful high notes, Haewon's pretty tone, and Sullyoon's distinctive style. Their latest EP challenged the members to explore diverse vocal qualities, pushing their boundaries even further.
Lyrical Themes
NMIXX's lyrics have evolved to focus on self-love and empowerment. "See that?" encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness, comparing individuality to stars in the sky. The group's music often carries messages of breaking stereotypes and moving forward boldly, as seen in tracks like "Red light sign, but we go". This lyrical evolution reflects NMIXX's growing confidence and desire to inspire their audience through their music.
The 'Outsider Club' Concept
Embracing Individuality
NMIXX's "Fe3O4: STICK OUT" EP introduces the concept of the "Outsider Club," encouraging listeners to embrace their uniqueness. The group promotes the idea that it's acceptable to stand out and be part of a community of individuals who feel different. This philosophy is evident in their title track "See that?," which conveys the message of self-love and acceptance.
Breaking Stereotypes
The EP builds upon NMIXX's previous release, "BREAK," which focused on challenging stereotypes. "STICK OUT" takes this concept further by promoting self-confidence and individuality. The group's styling for the album reflects this theme, with each member's outfit featuring distinct touches that showcase their personalities while maintaining a cohesive group image.
NMIXX's Personal Experiences
Members of NMIXX have shared their own experiences with feeling like outsiders. Lily, who was born and raised in Australia, mentioned that she sometimes feels out of place due to cultural or language differences. The group's participation in the "OUTSIDER CLUB" storyline for their comeback allowed them to explore these themes through acting, with members like Haewon and Sullyoon describing the challenges and enjoyment they found in portraying their characters.
Visual Aesthetics and Styling
Album Versions: Nephelomancy and Pyromancy
NMIXX's "Fe3O4: STICK OUT" EP features two distinct album versions: Nephelomancy and Pyromancy. Nephelomancy refers to divination by clouds, while Pyromancy means divination by fire. These themes were showcased in the group's concept photos and visual films. The Nephelomancy concept photos were released first, followed by the visual film "RUBBER BALL SWAG." Subsequently, the Pyromancy concept photos were unveiled, accompanied by the visual film "Exploring fundamental fear".
Fashion Choices
NMIXX's fashion choices reflect their growing interest in personal style. One member expressed her passion for fashion, stating that she has improved at finding appealing clothes through frequent searching. She also mentioned studying photos of stylish individuals who excel at coordinating outfits to enhance her own fashion sense.
Music Video Concepts
The music video for "See that? (별별별)" was teased through two teasers released on August 17 and 18, 2024. The full music video premiered on August 19, 2024, at 6 PM KST. While specific details about the music video concept are not provided, it likely incorporates elements from the Nephelomancy and Pyromancy themes established in the album's visual aesthetics.
Collaborations and Features
NMIXX's "Fe3O4: STICK OUT" EP showcases the group's willingness to collaborate and explore new musical territories. The standout collaboration on the album is "SICKUHH," featuring renowned rapper Kid Milli. His unique rap style complements NMIXX's bold delivery, creating an impactful track with powerful basslines and hip-hop drum beats. Kid Milli's participation as both a songwriter and featured artist adds depth to the song's fierce verses and restrained choruses.
The EP's production team includes notable names like Ryan Jhun, Dem Jointz, and J.Y. Park, who contributed to crafting NMIXX's diverse sound. Members have expressed interest in future collaborations, with Lily mentioning Amaarae and Charli XCX as potential partners, while Haewon dreams of working with Beyoncé or Ed Sheeran.
NMIXX has also participated in other collaborative projects, such as releasing the Korean version of "Hey Gabby!" for DreamWorks Animation's Gabby's Dollhouse and covering Rainbow's "Kiss" for Project Ribbon's Summer Vacation Project.
Fan Engagement and Promotions
Teasers and Pre-release Content
NMIXX's promotional strategy for "Fe3O4: STICK OUT" involved a series of teasers and pre-release content. On July 21, 2024, a motion poster revealed the EP's title and release date. The group then released various visual elements, including story films, concept photos, and visual films. A visualizer for "SICKUHH" featuring Kid Milli was released on August 12, followed by sound teasers and highlight medleys. The music video teasers for "See that? (별별별)" were published on August 17 and 18, with the full video released on August 19.
Fan Concert Plans
NMIXX announced their second fan concert, "NMIXX Change Up : MIXX Lab," scheduled for October 4, 2024, at Jangchung Arena in Seoul. The group expressed excitement about connecting with fans, stating, "We have NMIXX's fan concert scheduled for October, and we're working hard to prepare for it".
International Outreach
NMIXX aims to engage with global fans throughout 2024. The group promised to "connect with fans around the world in various ways". They encouraged international support for their new EP, highlighting its diverse musical styles and expanded boundaries.
NMIXX(엔믹스) “별별별 (See that?)” M/V
NMIXX - 별별별 (See that?) (Romanized) Lyrics
[Intro: Haewon, Jiwoo, BAE]
Ooh, ah
Don't mind, just do it, yeah, yeah
Don't mind, just do it
Can you feel the tension? Yeah
[Verse 1: Kyujin, BAE]
No, I don't mind
Kkaejin sontop wie geomeun maenikyueo chil (Doesn't matter)
Nan heongkeureojin meori
Kareul puldeut ieopon jureul pulji
I'm a boss, turn the radio on
Twieoolla nan glow in the dark
Who cares? Not your stereotype
Buswo, nega aldeon nal
[Pre-Chorus: Haewon, Jiwoo, BAE]
Achim haega tteugo urin sumeotji
Naerijjoeneun sunshine, shine, shine
Modu uril bogo hyeoreul chagetji
Hyeoreul chane (Mm)
[Chorus: Sullyoon, Kyujin, BAE, Lily]
Woah, yojeumeneun byeolbyeolbyeol (See that?)
Ireonjeoreon byeolbyeolbyeol (jjeutjjeut)
Hayeoteungan byeolbyeol (Twinkle little, little star)
Geurae, nan byeolbyeolbyeol, woah
Urin we, we, we, we, wiro wiro deo
Urin we, we, we, we, wiro wiro deo
I'ma be, be, be, be, be the, be the one
Yeogi yeogi buteora, woah
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[Interlude: Haewon]
NMIXX, we get it on now
[Verse 2: BAE, Haewon, Jiwoo]
No, jueojin geon sileo (No, thank you)
Nemo bakseureul jiwo (No, thank you)
Nal jayeonseure dullae? cheonggaeguri, dudeoji (Oh, yeah)
Come follow me, this is the day, ayy
Who cares? jom twieodo
Who cares? nan nail ppun (Mm)
Neomeojyeodo nan mureupeul teolgo
Go for the goal, jeonbu bikyeojwo, yo
[Pre-Chorus: Sullyoon]
Mm, hayeoteungan
[Chorus: Kyujin, Lily, BAE, Jiwoo]
Woah, yojeumeneun byeolbyeolbyeol (See that?)
Ireonjeoreon byeolbyeolbyeol (jjeutjjeut)
Hayeoteungan byeolbyeol (Twinkle little, little star)
Geurae, nan byeolbyeolbyeol, woah
Urin we, we, we, we, wiro wiro deo
Urin we, we, we, we, wiro wiro deo
I'ma be, be, be, be, be the, be the one
Yeogi yeogi buteora, woah
[Bridge: Sullyoon, BAE, Lily, Haewon, *Jiwoo*]
Woah, ooh-woah, ooh-woah, ooh-woah (Don't mind, just do it)
Stay awake, you cannot hold us down (Don't mind, just do it)
Woah, ooh-woah, ooh-woah, ooh-woah (Don't mind, just do it)
Fly away, jeo haneullo nara (I'ma tell 'em)
*dagachi stomp the ground
Maeum anui mal teoreonae voice up* (Voice up, yeah)
We're never ever going back
Deep and deeper, jogeumssik
Uh, hayeoteungan
[Chorus: Haewon, Jiwoo, Lily, BAE]
Woah, yojeumeneun byeolbyeolbyeol (See that?)
Ireonjeoreon byeolbyeolbyeol (jjeutjjeut)
Hayeoteungan byeolbyeol (Twinkle little, little star)
Geurae, nan byeolbyeolbyeol, woah
Urin we, we, we, we, wiro wiro deo
Urin we, we, we, we, wiro wiro deo
I'ma be, be, be, be, be the, be the one
Yeogi yeogi buteora, woah
[Outro: Sullyoon]
Mm, mm-mm
FAQS
What is the concept behind NMIXX's "Fe3O4: STICK OUT" EP?
The EP represents NMIXX's self-made utopia, revealing themselves to the world as they are. It encourages embracing individuality and defying stereotypes.
How does NMIXX describe their musical style in "See that?"?
"See that?" is a "MIXX POP" song blending old-school hip-hop with country elements, showcasing NMIXX's chic charms.
What message does NMIXX convey through their lyrics?
Their lyrics emphasize breaking free from stereotypes, not worrying about others' opinions, and staying true to oneself.
How has NMIXX's creative process evolved for this EP?
NMIXX was more proactive in sharing and developing their own ideas, reflecting the group's growing collective vision.
What unique challenges do NMIXX members face?
Some members, like Lily, occasionally feel out of place due to cultural or language differences.
How does NMIXX describe their "STICK OUT" moments?
They mention their a cappella highlight medleys and face dresses with Loewe as standout moments.
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