IZ*NA Aims to Become 'Performance Monsters' with Bold New Album 'Not Just Pretty'

"The performance of our title track 'Mamma Mia' is intense. We want to be known as 'performance monsters,'" says Mai.

IZ*NA returns with a transformed image, aiming to surpass their reputation as 'performance masters' to become 'performance monsters.' The group held a media showcase for their second mini-album 'Not Just Pretty' at the Yes24 Live Hall in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, on the 30th.

This album marks a bold departure from IZ*NA's previous style. Bang Ji-min introduced it as "a new chapter for IZ*NA," while Choi Jung-eun described it as "bold and intense." Yoo Sa-rang explained the reason for the concept change, saying, "We wanted to show something different that we hadn't done before. We aim to challenge various genres and showcase our limitless potential."

Renowned producers like Teddy, 24, Kush, and VVN contributed to IZ*NA's new album. Yoo Sa-rang expressed, "It was an honor to work with them. Thanks to them, not only the title track but all the songs have diverse charms." She added, "The title track has a lot of rap. I studied my tone diligently during recording, and Teddy praised it, which was gratifying."

Choi Jung-eun shared, "Producer 24 gave feedback that while our previous work had a dreamy feel, this time we should sing more confidently and boldly, as the album title suggests." She added, "What Teddy said about being happy and enjoying music is what I remember the most."

Bang Ji-min mentioned, "Teddy's songs are doing well, and we enjoy listening to them. We often talked about becoming cooler artists by doing justice to the songs Teddy gave us. It's a good kind of pressure and motivation to become proud artists."

When asked about the difference between IZ*NA and other groups produced by Teddy, such as Miyao and All Day Project, they replied, "We create high-quality performances based on each member's diverse vocals and energetic performances, all within strong teamwork." They added, "Just as other groups working with Teddy have been loved for their distinct charms and colors, we aim to showcase our unique strengths."

Before this comeback, main vocalist Yoon Ji-yoon left the group last month due to health reasons, leading to IZ*NA's reformation as a six-member group. Yoo Sa-rang expressed, "It's a shame we can't perform with Ji-yoon, but we support each other's paths. We've prepared each song with love, so we hope for your interest and support in this activity."

IZ*NA is determined to make a strong impression with 'Mamma Mia.' Bang Ji-min stated, "We prepared with all our energy so that people will say, 'IZ*NA really sharpened their skills this time.'" Jung Se-bi added, "The album captures everything from intensity to lyrical emotions. Our goal is to make people think of IZ*NA as a genre. We want to hear that we've pioneered the IZ*NA genre." Yoo Sa-rang confidently said, "We debuted and are active thanks to the choice of global fans. We'll show how much we've grown as impressive artists during that time."

The new album includes five tracks: the title track 'Mamma Mia,' 'Supercrush,' 'Racecar,' 'In the Rain,' and 'SIGN (Remix).' The title track 'Mamma Mia' tells the story of a girl confidently moving forward despite the world's interference, characterized by its addictive sound with a minimal beat. Hitmaker Teddy participated in producing the title track.

IZ*NA's second mini-album 'Not Just Pretty' will be released at 6 PM today.

Reporter Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia one@tenasia.co.kr