The K-pop group NMIXX has found a place in the mainstream, yet seems to be losing the charm of its musical identity known as 'MixPop'.

On July 11th of this month, NMIXX, consisting of membersLily, Haewon, Sullyoon, Bae, Jiwoo, and Kyujin, held a showcase for their third single album 'A Midsummer NMIXX's Dream' at Blue Square in Yongsan-gu, Seoul.

As the newest girl group from JYP Entertainment, following the footsteps of TWICE and ITZY, NMIXX has been gradually growing since their debut in February last year. They have defined their style as 'MixPop', combining more than one genre, and solidified their unique color through releases like 'O.O' and 'Dice'.

Despite successfully establishing 'MixPop' as their musical identity, it has been challenging for them to break free from criticisms regarding their lack of mainstream appeal with each new release. It's indicative that even the members conceded that it might be difficult to accept 'Dice' right away, saying, "You'll be addicted if you listen to it five times".

However, NMIXX stepped out in front of the public with a different, more addictive sound with their first mini-album title track 'Love Me Like This' in March, departing from the perplexing elements of their previous 'MixPop'. The result was successful.

Not only was the song a hit, but the members' stable live performances were also highlighted, earning them the prestigious title of 'Best 4th Generation Girl Group'. Above all, the addictive nature of 'Love Me Like This' caused a stir among global fans, solidifying NMIXX's place in the mainstream.

Four months later, NMIXX's new single 'Party O'Clock', a song about a mysterious story unfolding at NMIXX's forest party on a midsummer night when the boundary between dream and reality blurs, returns. The addictive melody and the wide vocal spectrum of the six members create a fantastic synergy.

This track also features a catchy chorus. The repetitive lyrics that are easy to follow, coupled with fun point choreography, set a completely different atmosphere from a year ago when there was controversy over the group's music being difficult and causing a 'lack of mainstream appeal'.

So, does NMIXX's 'MixPop', which they have consistently pushed, yet lacking in popularity, still exist? This question about NMIXX and 'MixPop' was repeatedly asked at the scene that day.

In response to the reactions that the color of the original MixPop seems faded in the title song 'Party O'Clock', Haewon firmly stated, "NMIXX has been trying to continue MixPop since our debut. We are still trying to do MixPop, it's just that the difference between mixed genres like 'O.O' or 'Dice' isn't as noticeable. We would appreciate it if people recognize that we are trying."

Lilly also proudly mentioned that fans recognized 'MixPop' as soon as the teaser for this song came out. She explained, "I think the color of NMIXX and our musical individuality of MixPop is seen in the variations and changes within one song."

Adding to this, Ba Yi said, "We are working hard to show you always new and diverse appearances. We will strive to show you various colors without losing the identity of NMIXX."

Yet another question arose about the identity of NMIXX. If the genre changes that could be easily felt in the previous 'O.O' or 'Dice' are not noticeable, can it still be defined as 'MixPop'?

To this, Haewon explained, "The genre changes in 'Party O'Clock' are not significant. However, we made changes through beat changes, and I believe we made efforts for MixPop. All these things are the color of MixPop."

She further emphasized that NMIXX will continue to take on new musical challenges within the boundary of MixPop in the future. Kyu Jin added, "We will continue to try musically that only NMIXX can do. We do not feel burdened about this."

Indeed, it has been true that questions about MixPop have continued every time NMIXX has a comeback showcase. Each time, NMIXX has hinted at a belief that even if there is no reaction now, 'MixPop' will eventually seep into the public.

However, at the scene that day, the members of NMIXX struggled to answer whenever a question related to 'MixPop' came up. When the question was asked, Haewon naturally grabbed the microphone, but no one easily started speaking about 'MixPop'.

For NMIXX, who seem to be drifting somewhere between 'MixPop' and popularity, it appears that there's a need to instill a more definite identity.

Meanwhile, NMIXX's new single 'A Midsummer NMIXX's Dream', including the comeback title track 'Party O'Clock', has been listened to on various online music sites from 6 p.m. on July 11th (KST).

Copyright © 2023 Kpop Reporter. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.