"It's a big goal, but I hope our title track becomes known as a 'forbidden song for exams.' Such songs are usually well-known, and I hope our song becomes widely recognized too." (MJ)
"MJ hyung seems a bit old-fashioned. These days, people say they want their songs to be used for challenges. (laughs) Just kidding. I want people to say, 'Wow, ASTRO has ZOONIZINI, they're really good.'" (JinJin)
Despite not being related by blood, MJ and JinJin share a brotherly bond. Known as ASTRO's 'eldest duo,' they have teamed up as the unit ZOONIZINI, reminiscent of iconic duos like Pat & Mat and Tom & Jerry. Recently, they sat down for an interview at Fantagio's office in Gangnam, Seoul, to discuss their debut album 'DICE.'
ZOONIZINI's first mini-album 'DICE' is an unpredictable journey, much like rolling a dice. The title track 'Some Things Never Change' is an emotional hip-hop track with a rhythmic piano loop and classic boom-bap beat. It's an easy-listening song with simple yet addictive rapping and melody.
The album features six tracks, including 'New World,' 'Utopia,' 'Favorite Memory,' 'Starlight Voyage,' and 'Restart,' all connected in a single storyline. JinJin participated in the production of five tracks, including the title song, to create ZOONIZINI's unique musical color. JinJin expressed satisfaction, saying, "Initially, it was a hip-hop song with just rap and hooks, but we rearranged it to showcase our chemistry better. It feels like a perfectly tailored suit."
Though ASTRO is in its 10th year, this marks the duo's first step as a unit. JinJin explained, "We prepared with the mindset of rookies. Fans have always called us 'eldest duo' or 'hyung duo' in ASTRO, and our chemistry led to the formation of this unit. I rely a lot on MJ hyung, who is the only older member I have in the team, and we talk a lot. The idea of forming a unit came from our conversations."
The unique name ZOONIZINI piques curiosity. Unlike other units like 'Moonbin & Sanha,' which are named after members, the 'eldest duo' chose a quirky name. MJ shared, "Originally, it was 'MJ & JinJin,' but it lacked impact. We wanted a name that would be memorable to the public, not just fans. After much thought, we came up with ZOONIZINI."
MJ would throw out ideas, and JinJin would organize and develop them. JinJin said, "During the album planning meetings, MJ hyung came up with many ideas. We wanted to highlight cartoon-like moments, and MJ hyung suggested the name ZOONIZINI. It was childish but catchy."
Throughout the interview, MJ and JinJin displayed their brotherly chemistry. JinJin said, "I usually organize everything. As the group leader, it's become a habit. I take ideas and refine them. MJ hyung is used to throwing out ideas and leaving them, while I work on them overnight. It's not so much a division of roles as it is me doing everything, and hyung adding the finishing touches. I tried to incorporate his ideas as much as possible because I could see he wanted to express things he couldn't before."
ASTRO has become like family over the years. ZOONIZINI recalled the moment when fellow member Cha Eun-woo entered the military training camp last month. MJ shared, "I knew Eun-woo would do well, so I wasn't worried until the day before. But seeing him walk into the camp, I got choked up. I held back tears. I miss him, but once he finishes training, we can visit him. I'm looking forward to that day."
JinJin added, "Seeing Eun-woo at the training ground felt strange. I hope he returns safely without getting hurt. It was different from when MJ hyung left. I thought, 'He's my hyung, he'll do well,' but I worried more for my younger brother. I understood why parents cry at these moments."
ASTRO held their first full concert in three years last June at Incheon Inspire Arena and Fukuoka PayPay Dome in Japan, with former member Rocky joining them. Celebrating their 10th anniversary, the members have been active in various fields, including dramas, musicals, and solo activities. Despite their busy schedules, they reunited for the concert.
Cha Eun-woo initiated the idea of a full concert before his enlistment. JinJin said, "Eun-woo wanted to have a concert if schedules allowed before he enlisted. He was very busy, but I'm grateful he brought it up. I'm also thankful to the members who came together despite their busy schedules. It wouldn't have been possible without our strong bond."
With various festivals happening, the members are eager to perform on festival stages. MJ expressed, "I want to go to 'Waterbomb.' Another goal is to be a guest on Psy's stage. It's one of my dreams."
JinJin proudly stated, "I'm already working on my physique." MJ joked, "I'm not working on mine. The leader is, so if both of us reveal, it would be distracting. We decided to focus on one." JinJin added humorously, "When Moonbin & Sanha went to 'Waterbomb,' Moonbin revealed, and Sanha was stripped. I'll tear off my unprepared hyung's clothes and create another issue."
They are also returning to music show stages after a long time. MJ said, "I'm curious to see how music shows have changed. I've forgotten how to look at the camera. I keep reminding myself, 'Check the red light, check the red light.'" JinJin admitted, "It's been about 3-4 years since our last music show. I'm nervous, but it's where we debuted and are very familiar with. Those experiences are definitely within us."
ZOONIZINI's debut album 'DICE' was released on various online music platforms on the 13th at 6 PM.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr