NMIXX Drops Fe3O4: Forward Album With Unexpected Collaborations

NMIXX Fe3O4 marks a triumphant milestone with their fourth EP, Fe3O4: FORWARD, selling an impressive 702,876 copies since its March 17, 2025 release. The six-track album, notably featuring the title track "KNOW ABOUT ME" and pre-release single "High Horse," showcases the group's versatility across multiple genres including Alt-Pop, Contemporary R&B, and Electronic music.

As the final chapter in the Fe3O4 trilogy, this album demonstrates NMIXX's artistic evolution through its diverse musical approach. The title track "KNOW ABOUT ME" delivers a modern hip-hop beat with powerful energy, while songs like "Slingshot (<★)" reimagine 90s Rave House elements. In fact, the album's success extends beyond sales, with multiple music show wins on Show Champion, Music Bank, and Inkigayo, establishing itself as the group's second-highest-selling release to date.

NMIXX launches final chapter of Fe3O4 trilogy

The Fe3O4 trilogy represents the cornerstone of NMIXX's artistic identity, with each installment expanding their narrative universe and musical capabilities. The name itself carries significant meaning—borrowing from the chemical compound of black iron oxide (magnetite), which serves as a metaphor for the group's magnetic charm and ability to draw diverse elements together.

How the trilogy began with 'Break' and 'Stick Out'

The trilogy journey began in January 2024 with Fe3O4: Break, which introduced audiences to NMIXX's adventures in what they call the "FIELD" of the real world. This first installment featured the title track "Dash" and established the foundation of their conceptual storytelling. According to the official lore, the story began when an external attack burned their ship, leaving the members stranded in reality.

Following this, NMIXX released Fe3O4: Stick Out in August 2024, continuing their narrative with title track "See That?". This second chapter represented a critical moment in their storyline as the members confronted societal norms and expectations. As member Jiwoo explained, "In 'STICK OUT', we challenged existing perceptions and frameworks to establish our own identity". The album's concept centered around the members revealing their authentic selves to the world, breaking through walls of stereotypes.

Throughout both releases, NMIXX maintained their signature "MIXX POP" style—a genre-blending approach introduced by JYP Entertainment in 2022. This musical foundation allowed them to experiment with diverse sounds while keeping a consistent identity.

Why 'Forward' marks a narrative and sonic evolution

Fe3O4: Forward completes the trilogy with a narrative that transforms individual struggle into collective progress. "The utopia we create ourselves: Towards the Utopia, Together with NMIXX," reads the album's conceptual tagline. This final chapter portrays the crucial moment when the members finally restore their ship and set sail toward their idealized world ("MIXXTOPIA") alongside others.

Haewon, the group's leader, explained the evolution: "Beyond just a scientific reference, this album title symbolically represents the force that draws different beings together and connects them. We see differences not as conflict but as a source of synergy".

The sonic evolution across the trilogy is equally significant. According to Haewon, "NMIXX has been constantly experimenting with different genres, gradually defining our own sound. 'Fe3O4: FORWARD' especially pushed the boundaries by taking on a lot of new challenges". This musical growth is evident in tracks like "High Horse," which boldly combines hip-hop, breakbeat, and jazz, and the title track "KNOW ABOUT ME," which layers calm intensity over trap-based hip-hop.

Member Lily emphasized this artistic progression: "Every story is special in its own way, but Fe3O4: FORWARD feels particularly meaningful because it reflects our artistic growth. We've worked hard to explore new sounds and styles, and I think this album truly showcases our evolution as musicians".

Furthermore, the trilogy's completion represents NMIXX's commitment to their core message. As one member noted, "Even though we do multiple genres, there's always a core message that never changes and that has to do with appreciating diversity and tackling stereotypes". This principle has remained consistent throughout all three albums, serving as the conceptual backbone of their artistic journey.

JYP confirms March comeback with bold concept shift

JYP Entertainment officially announced NMIXX's comeback on March 17, 2025, with their fourth mini-album Fe3O4: FORWARD. The announcement arrived alongside a motion poster teaser that immediately signaled a bold shift in the group's artistic direction. Rather than continuing with familiar themes, JYP positioned this release as a journey toward an entirely new conceptual space.

How the concept of 'MIXXTOPIA' shaped the album

At the core of Fe3O4: FORWARD lies the concept of MIXXTOPIA—a utopian realm where "all dreams and wishes come true." This mythical destination fundamentally shaped both the album's narrative and its visual identity. The teaser motion poster concluded with the phrase "Towards the Utopia, Together with NMIXX," establishing the album's central theme of collective journey toward an idealized space.

MIXXTOPIA represents more than just a fictional location; it embodies the group's artistic philosophy. According to NMIXX's conceptual universe, this utopia exists "at the end of infinite imagination" and has attracted "many adventurers, some with malicious goals, others with goals of goodwill and some with peculiar but lovely goals." This rich mythology provided the framework for the album's storytelling approach.

Throughout the promotional materials, JYP emphasized the visual representation of transition—moving from the "FIELD" (reality) toward MIXXTOPIA. This concept manifested in the distinctive blue wave-like lighting effects seen in teasers, symbolizing the group's voyage into uncharted territory. Additionally, the teaser introduced a new symbolic object—a seashell—alongside previously established motifs like butterflies, cubes, and stars, further enriching the conceptual landscape.

What the teaser visuals and story films revealed

JYP's promotional strategy included cinematic story films that dramatically expanded the NMIXX universe. On March 3, the company released "HARDBOILED AND AURORA," the first part of a two-part narrative teaser that immediately captivated fans with its mysterious storyline. The film begins with an enigmatic message: "This is not the first adventure. I am the reason the previous adventure ended in failure. The others don't remember, but Seol Yoon does. She doesn't trust me."

This cryptic introduction set the stage for a visual journey featuring the members navigating various challenges. Key scenes included Haewon and BAE pushing through a storm but encountering an invisible barrier, while elsewhere, members gathered around Kyujin as she unfolded a blueprint for a new mission. The film culminated with Seol Yoon's ominous warning: "Don't fail this time," creating immediate intrigue among viewers.

Moreover, JYP released visual films showcasing members in settings that reflected their journey toward MIXXTOPIA. One particularly striking set of concept photos depicted the group standing on a pirate ship—a direct visual reference to their voyage toward the utopian realm. As member Lily explained in an interview, "We're lighting the way for those who will journey to MIXXTOPIA with us. Showing them how to get there."

The elaborate teaser schedule, extending from February 24 through the album's release, included concept photos, visual films, tracklist reveals, story films, and a mysterious content series titled "Our new ship project: MMU" and "MMU Departure Announcement." This comprehensive approach created a multi-layered narrative experience that steadily built anticipation for the final chapter in the trilogy.

Through these visuals and narrative elements, JYP effectively transformed what could have been a standard album release into an immersive multimedia experience that invited fans to join NMIXX on their conceptual journey toward MIXXTOPIA.

NMIXX collaborates with unexpected global producers

For their landmark final chapter in the Fe3O4 trilogy, NMIXX expanded their creative horizons by partnering with an unexpected lineup of global talents. These collaborations brought fresh perspectives to the nmixx fe3o4 forward album, resulting in a distinctive sonic landscape that pushes beyond traditional K-pop boundaries.

Who are the new collaborators on this album?

The production team behind nmixx fe3o4 features a diverse mix of established and emerging talents. At the core, producers Chloe (KOR), DYAN (KOR), and The Wavys handled the primary production duties across the album. Chloe (KOR) played a particularly significant role in crafting "KNOW ABOUT ME," skillfully blending modern hip-hop beats with bold synth sounds to create the album's distinctive title track.

Surprisingly, the pre-release track "High Horse" featured contributions from unexpected collaborators. South Korean rapper and producer pH-1 participated in writing the lyrics for this genre-blending track. This partnership held special significance for member Jiwoo, who revealed: "I was so happy to hear that pH-1, a singer that I've listened to a lot ever since I was a trainee, participated in writing the lyrics".

Another unexpected contribution came from American singer-songwriter ABIR, who was credited as one of the writers for "High Horse." This collaboration created a meaningful moment for Lily, who had previously covered ABIR's song "Tango." Lily described the experience as "a full-circle moment" and "destiny".

Beyond musical production, nmixx fe3o4 forward also featured choreographic collaborations. Notably, Indian dancer Paramdeep Singh created the choreography for "High Horse". His involvement represented a significant departure from conventional K-pop dance styles, introducing modern dance elements that emphasized emotion and flowing movements.

How these partnerships influenced the sound

These diverse collaborations fundamentally shaped the nmixx fe3o4 album's sonic identity. Paramdeep Singh's choreographic influence resulted in a performance style Jiwoo described as "unique and impressive as it had a lot of modern dance elements, quite different from the usual K-pop style choreography". His approach prioritized "emotion-centered choreography" that brought "life to emotions and line movement," creating a new challenge for the group.

The musical partnerships similarly expanded the album's sonic palette. Through collaborations with producers like Chloe (KOR), the group developed a sound that member Haewon characterized as "pushing the boundaries by taking on a lot of new challenges". This experimental approach manifested in tracks like "High Horse," which boldly combined hip-hop, breakbeat, and jazz elements.

Remarkably, these collaborations have opened doors for future partnerships. Following their work with Indian choreographer Paramdeep Singh, NMIXX has expressed interest in further collaborations with Indian artists. Lily specifically mentioned her interest in working with vocalist Jonita Gandhi after being "touched by the emotions and expressions" in Indian music.

The diverse production team enabled NMIXX to fulfill their artistic vision of tackling stereotypes and appreciating diversity. As noted by one member, "The fact that we're trying multiple genres, and very different genres, I think it's the manifestation of that skill as an artist". Indeed, throughout the nmixx fe3o4 forward album, these unexpected collaborations helped the group realize their core message of bringing together different influences to create something uniquely powerful.

Know About Me wins music shows and fan acclaim

NMIXX's title track "KNOW ABOUT ME" quickly emerged as a commercial and critical success, securing multiple music show trophies within weeks of its release. The song's triumphant run began on March 26, 2025, with a win on Show Champion, subsequently followed by victories on Inkigayo on March 30 and Music Bank on April 4. Remarkably, the track outperformed strong competitors, scoring 11,040 points on Music Bank's K-Chart against THE BOYZ's "VVV" (6,667 points) and G-Dragon's "TOO BAD" featuring Anderson .Paak (4,023 points).

What makes 'Know About Me' a standout title track

"KNOW ABOUT ME" distinguishes itself through its sonic architecture that balances accessibility with artistic complexity. The track features a trap-based hip-hop foundation complemented by calm, controlled vocal delivery—a deliberate contrast to the energy of the instrumental. Lyrically, the song explores themes of self-confidence and invitation with lines such as "Gonna do it, 'cause I want it / Gonna move, 'cause I want it" and "Let me show you that / Know about me".

Unlike previous nmixx fe3o4 releases, "KNOW ABOUT ME" achieves a more balanced approach to the group's signature MIXX POP style. As one fan observed, "I feel like there's enough going on in the instrumental that it's very engaging but not too overstimulating necessarily". This sentiment echoes industry analysts who have previously noted the evolution of NMIXX's sound toward greater public accessibility while maintaining their artistic identity.

Vocally, the track showcases what critics have described as NMIXX's "unparalleled" skills within their generation of K-pop. The performance highlighted the members' technical proficiency alongside emotional expressiveness, contributing significantly to the song's positive reception. Consequently, "KNOW ABOUT ME" garnered over 6.9 million views and 178,000 likes on YouTube within the first 24 hours of release.

How choreography and MV elevated the song

The choreography, created by Bada Lee and her team BEBE, played a crucial role in elevating the song's impact. The performance featured a mix of powerful movements and subtle gestures that complemented the track's dynamic energy. Fans particularly praised the dance break section for its precision and intensity, with one commenting that the choreography made them "ascend" and rating it "10/10".

The music video itself adopted a distinct visual aesthetic built around the nmixx fe3o4 forward concept. Shot predominantly in a submarine-like vessel that later emerges from water, the video visually reinforced the album's themes of journey and exploration. A viewer noted, "I love how the submarine looks like a whale when it comes out of water... I'm really intrigued on what they're going to do with that in the next coming album".

Technical elements within the video enhanced the song's underwater motif. The opening sequence featured Haewon's vocals initially presented with a muffled, distant quality that gradually comes into focus—an effect one viewer described as "really cool" as it "feels like she's underwater which matches the MV".

The dance practice video released on March 20, 2025, amassed over 752,000 views, whereas the performance video published on March 18 accumulated a staggering 28.9 million views. This marked disparity demonstrates how the visual components significantly amplified the song's reach beyond audio-only streaming platforms.

Throughout performances on music shows and in special content, the members consistently delivered polished choreography that maintained the artistic integrity of the nmixx fe3o4 album while showcasing their technical skills. Their impressive stage presence ultimately contributed to securing their third music show trophy on Inkigayo with 5,070 points, cementing "KNOW ABOUT ME" as one of the group's most successful title tracks to date.

High Horse sets tone with genre-bending pre-release

On March 4, 2025, NMIXX set the stage for their comeback with the pre-release track "High Horse," offering fans an early glimpse into their musical evolution within the nmixx fe3o4 forward album. The song quickly distinguished itself from typical K-pop pre-releases through its artistic maturity and sophisticated choreography.

Why 'High Horse' was chosen as a pre-release

"High Horse" served as the perfect introduction to the nmixx fe3o4 album's artistic direction due to several strategic factors. First, the song represented a deliberate departure from NMIXX's previous sound, featuring a softer, more melodic approach than earlier releases. This shift allowed the group to showcase their versatility ahead of the full album launch.

The track's thematic resonance with the album's overall concept made it an ideal preview. Lyrically, "High Horse" addresses feeling tired of conforming to societal expectations, encouraging listeners to embrace individuality—perfectly aligning with the MIXXTOPIA universe's message of breaking boundaries.

Member Haewon highlighted this strategic choice: "In this album, the pre-release track and the title track have completely different vibes, allowing us to showcase the versatility of NMIXX's vocals—sometimes expressive and powerful, and at other times restrained and delicate".

Additionally, the song's unique choreography, created by Indian choreographer Paramdeep Singh, generated significant pre-release buzz. This cross-cultural collaboration marked a rare and meaningful artistic exchange, further distinguishing "High Horse" from conventional pre-releases.

How it blends jazz, breakbeat, and pop

"High Horse" stands as a masterclass in genre fusion within the nmixx fe3o4 forward album. The song's innovative structure centers around a unique rhythmic foundation that intertwines:

Breakbeat elements providing dynamic percussion patterns that create tension and movement
Jazz-influenced piano delivering lyrical, ballad-based melodies that add emotional depth
Pop sensibilities ensuring accessibility despite the experimental structure

Min Lee (also known as collapsedone), who worked on the track, revealed the song had been in development since 2018, allowing for meticulous refinement of its genre-blending approach.

In the verses, the juxtaposition of ballad-style piano against breakbeat rhythms creates what music critics described as a "unique rhythm". This unconventional pairing gives way to a chorus that maintains the jazz influences while introducing more cinematic elements through "enterprising lyrics" that create a "grand atmosphere".

Jiwoo explained how this genre fusion extended to the choreography: "Unlike traditional K-pop choreography, it incorporates elements of contemporary dance, focusing more on fluidity and precision rather than intense formations". This approach complemented the song's musical complexity, creating a holistic artistic statement that effectively set the tone for nmixx fe3o4: forward.

Throughout "High Horse," NMIXX demonstrates their commitment to expanding their musical boundaries while maintaining cohesion—a delicate balance that showcases their growth as artists and establishes expectations for the album's innovative direction.

Tracklist experiments with genre and structure

Beyond the title track and pre-release single, the nmixx fe3o4 album showcases adventurous experimentation throughout its B-sides. These tracks push musical boundaries while maintaining the group's core artistic identity, delivering experiences that go far beyond conventional K-pop structures.

Slingshot and Golden Recipe push sonic boundaries

"Slingshot (<★)" exemplifies what Haewon describes as "the essence of Mix-pop," featuring dramatic beat changes and shifting vibes that created vocal challenges. "It was tricky to keep key mid-song," Haewon explains, adding that the track's runway-worthy energy makes listeners "feel like you're runway walking". At just 2:22 in length, this hyperpop track employs multiple melodic combinations and tempo shifts that replicate the physical tension of a slingshot through bent vocal pitches.

Meanwhile, Dem Jointz-produced "Golden Recipe" layers string and vocal samples over powerful bass with a complex structure that initially seems discordant. Lily highlights the track's technical demands: "I kept doing tongue twisters because I had to fit in all that pronunciation in such a short time". The song's strength emerges through what Lily calls its "chewy rhythm" and the way "the members' harmonies layer up". Although appearing fragmented at first listen, the various elements gradually cohere through consistent exposure.

Papillon and Ocean explore emotional depth

"Papillon" draws its title from the French word for butterfly, utilizing this imagery to explore themes of transformation. Lily describes recording the track as "like you're speeding down a road, but the road is super bumpy and uneven". The song employs audio panning effects that seem to replicate taking flight, intensifying as it progresses. Bae mentions her challenges with the track's rapid-fire sections: "There's a very fast rap in it... I really worked on it, and I was really happy with the outcome".

Rounding out the nmixx fe3o4 forward album, "Ocean" delivers what Haewon surprisingly found to be the album's most rhythmically challenging track. "If you don't breathe well, you can't make it to the end," she reveals. This lush pop ballad gradually expands through layered harmonies and modulates keys in its second verse before returning to the original key for the pre-chorus. Kyujin believes the song "feels like something you'd listen to during sunrise when the dawn air is chilly", whereas Haewon imagines it as "perfect to listen to while looking at a winter sea".

Throughout these B-sides of the nmixx fe3o4 forward album, the group delivers on their promise of breaking stereotypes while showcasing their versatility across genres and emotional ranges.

Fe3O4: Forward redefines NMIXX’s artistic identity

With the release of their fourth mini-album, NMIXX cements a bold artistic statement that transcends typical K-pop boundaries. Through nmixx fe3o4 forward, the sextet has effectively redefined their musical identity, establishing themselves as innovators rather than followers in the industry.

How the album breaks stereotypes

nmixx fe3o4 forward album deliberately challenges industry conventions through its experimental approach. Immediately noticeable is the album's sonic diversity—ranging from trap-based hip-hop to jazz-influenced breakbeats and hyperpop. This versatility shatters the stereotype that girl groups must adhere to consistent, marketable concepts.

Kyujin explained this intention: "Our music might seem complex at first listen, but that complexity is purposeful. We're challenging the idea that girl group music needs to be instantly digestible."

The nmixx concept extends beyond music to their visual presentation. Gradually moving away from the cute or girl crush dichotomy that dominates K-pop, NMIXX instead embraces the nautical, scientific, and otherworldly elements of their MIXXTOPIA universe. These conceptual choices represent a deliberate effort to create space for intellectual and artistic depth within the idol industry.

What the members said about their growth

Reflecting on their journey through the nmixx fe3o4 trilogy, members expressed profound artistic growth. Haewon noted: "Throughout these three albums, we've discovered our unique color. At first, we were exploring, but now we're confidently expressing who NMIXX truly is."

Lily highlighted their vocal evolution: "Compared to our debut, we've learned to better utilize our voices across different genres. Sometimes powerful, sometimes delicate—henceforth, versatility defines us."

Jiwoo emphasized their collective growth: "Each comeback strengthened our trust in one another. The challenges we faced recording this album brought us closer as artists."

Bae shared her perspective on their conceptual development: "We started with a vision of mixing unexpected elements. Nevertheless, even we were surprised by how our sound evolved through the trilogy—it's more refined yet bolder."

Undeniably, nmixx fe3o4: forward represents not just the culmination of a trilogy but the beginning of a new artistic chapter—one where NMIXX defines themselves on their own terms rather than conforming to industry expectations.

Album rollout uses multi-version strategy to boost sales

JYP Entertainment implemented a comprehensive multi-version strategy for the nmixx fe3o4 forward album, captivating collectors while strategically boosting sales figures. This approach has become increasingly common in K-pop marketing, yet nmixx fe3o4 took it to another level with six distinct physical versions.

What are the six physical versions?

The nmixx fe3o4 forward album rolled out in an impressive array of editions:

Ready Version & Go Version: These standard editions include a CD, 24-page booklet, lyric poster, accordion postcard, boarding ticket (1 of 6), photo card (1 of 6), unit photo card (1 of 3), and poster (1 of 2).
Limited Version: A premium option featuring a CD, expanded 48-page booklet, tray, 36-page flip book, film photocard (random 1 of 6), photocards (random 2 of 12), and unit photocard (random 1 of 6).
Shell Version: Uniquely designed as an MP3 player priced at approximately $55 USD, this version includes a complete set of six photocards, which proves particularly appealing to collectors.
Platform Album_PocaAlbum Versions: Available in both Ready and Go variants, these include an outer package, box package, acrylic keyring, full photocard set (6 pieces), QR card, digital content, user guide, and exclusive random selfie photocards (3 out of 18).

How pre-orders and promotions impacted charting

The strategic rollout generated impressive commercial results, as nmixx fe3o4 topped the Circle Chart's Daily Retail Album Chart on both March 17 and 21. Simultaneously, it dominated Hanteo Chart's Daily Physical Album Chart on March 17, 21, and 22.

Pre-order incentives played a crucial role in driving these early sales. JYP offered retailer-exclusive photocards through partnerships with JYP SHOP, APPLE MUSIC, and WITHMUU. Each retailer provided unique collectibles, encouraging fans to purchase from multiple sources.

Beyond initial sales, the nmixx fe3o4 forward album demonstrated remarkable longevity, maintaining its position at No. 11 on Billboard's World Albums Chart even in its third week of release. Every purchase contributed to the album's performance across HANTEO, CIRCLE (GAON), and BILLBOARD charts, effectively maximizing the group's global impact in the industry.

Certain strategic decisions helped create buzz beforehand. For instance, on February 17, Target inadvertently leaked the album's name, release date, and physical versions, generating early anticipation among fans eager to secure their preferred editions.