[Dispatch=Reporter Kim So-jung] "We will break the set framework and destroy the stage with only NEXZ's vibe."
JYP's next generation 'NEXZ' has returned. The song title itself is unique. 'Mmchk'. An onomatopoeia? An mimetic word? This peculiar word is a neologism created for NEXZ.
"Mmchk is a sign of presence. Every time we call out Mmchk, it means see our overflowing charm and energy."(Sogon)
NEXZ held a showcase on the 27th at Blue Square in Yongsan-gu, Seoul to commemorate the release of their second single album 'Mmchk'. NEXZ performed the title track 'Mmchk' and the B-side 'HYPEMAN'.
This comeback was more determined than ever. It was the first showcase in two years since announcing their global debut in May 2024. It was a test to prove the depth they had built beyond the freshness of newcomers.
The members on stage showed greater composure. Visual changes were also noticeable. Hui changed to blonde hair, and Seita transformed with black hair for the first time since debut.
Two years of activities became solid nourishment. Tomoya said, "NEXZ's color has become more certain than at debut. The vibe of enjoying the stage—we prepared hard over two years."
Award ceremonies and year-end performances became catalysts for growth. Sogon recalled, "By standing on stage with various senior and junior artists, I was able to gain inspiration and grow."
He added, "In particular, we put a lot of effort into the year-end performances. We showed a lot of NEXZ's own performances. Because of those experiences, we were able to make a comeback with a great song this time."
The title track this time is 'Mmchk'. A dance track based on bass house. Characterized by cheerful rap and an addictive beat. True to their nickname of "all-members dancers," they put strength into the performance.
It contains NEXZ's freedom. Rather than set standards, the seven members' cool charm of choosing what they like and are drawn to at each moment and enjoying it without regret was expressed.
What makes this album especially special lies in the members' 'participation'. Tomoya, Hui, and Yuki received songwriting credits for 'Mmchk'. 'HYPEMAN' was written by Yuki and Tomoya.
Their songwriting method is also free. Yuki explained, "We brought good things, things that fit well together, and revised and revised. This time we received inspiration from fans and the stage."
The best lyric Yuki picked out is "Because you shine brightly, I can shine too" from 'HYPEMAN'. It came to mind while watching the sparkling appearance of fans visible on stage.
Of course, the creative process was not easy. NEXZ is composed of six Japanese members and one Korean member. Hui laughed, "I really looked it up in a dictionary to see if it was the right word."
They also shared the advantages and disadvantages of being a multinational group. Tomoya confidently stated, "There are no disadvantages." He added, "The best advantage is that because we're multinational, we can meet many fans in many cities."
There was more gratitude than burden toward the descriptor JYP's 'new generation'. Hui emphasized, "It's something we wanted to hear. We will work hard so we can become a group that fits it going forward."
As Stray Kids' junior group, they feel a sense of responsibility. Seita said with confidence, "While continuing the path our senior members created, we will show our own music and image."
NEXZ's gaze now turns to a wider world. Starting from this activity, they will hold showcases in Taipei, Hong Kong, and Bangkok. They also plan to launch their first arena tour in Japan. A Brazil performance is scheduled for September.
They also expressed their aspirations. Seita promised, "I want to wash away the regret of only being nominated for first place in past activities. Our goal is number one on the music charts."
NEXZ's new single 'Mmchk' will be released on various music platforms at 6 p.m. on the 27th. A total of three songs are included: 'Mmchk,' 'HYPEMAN,' and 'Mmchk (English Version)'.
▲ Haru
▲ Seita
▲ Tomoya
▲ Yu
▲ Sogon
▲ Hui
▲ Yuki
<Photos by Reporter Song Hyo-jin>
