The K-pop scene is set to be invigorated as two boy groups, known for their refreshing concepts, make their comebacks. TWS and NCT WISH are vying for the title of 'Refreshing Representative' with their latest releases.
TWS released their third mini-album 'TRY WITH US' on the 21st at 6 PM. The title track, 'Isn't It Cool to Follow Your Heart?', encourages embracing moments of excitement and running towards one's desires. Lyrics like 'Breathless / Heart keeps racing / It's shouting to follow what you want' evoke the spirit of youth. The song is a refreshing pop track with powerful drums, sophisticated synth sounds, an addictive hook, and energetic guitar sounds that unfold unpredictably.
Previously, TWS swept music charts with their debut song 'First Meetings Don't Go as Planned' and the title track of their second mini-album 'If I'm S, Be My N'. However, their recent song 'Last Festival' received a lukewarm response compared to their earlier works. With their return to a refreshing concept, all eyes are on whether TWS will solidify their identity with this album.
NCT WISH made their comeback on the 14th with their second mini-album 'poppop'. Following their debut track 'WISH' and their previous work 'Steady', they have returned with another refreshing song. The title track 'poppop' is a dance-pop song featuring a bouncy melody, bell and lead synths, a heavy bassline, and dynamic percussion sounds. It captures the excitement of falling in love, with lyrics like 'You and I are the protagonists in an animation' and 'The world pops like poppop', creating a scene reminiscent of an animated film.
In a comeback interview, NCT WISH expressed confidence in their unique strengths among groups with refreshing concepts, stating, 'Our songs have refreshing and cute elements, but our performances are sophisticated and intense.' NCT WISH is proving their success with their second mini-album 'poppop', achieving their first million-seller status since debut. As of 9 AM, during rush hour, they ranked 66th on Melon's 'Top 100' and 20th on the 'Hot 100'. The members are increasing their public presence by appearing on shows like KBS2's 'Gag Concert' and KBS Cool FM's 'Lee Eun-ji's Music Plaza'.
Both NCT WISH and TWS are classified as 5th generation boy groups, prominently featuring refreshing concepts in their activities. With their comebacks around the same time, a showdown on music shows is inevitable. The focus is on how these two groups, each with their unique charms, will vie for the title of 'Refreshing Representative'.
By Ji-won Kim, Ten Asia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr