MUSIC
ILLIT Unveils Mini Album 'MAMIHLAPINATAPAI' with Addictive Techno Track 'It's Me'
The title track 'It's Me' promises an addictive techno genre. The members aim to become 'everyone's favorite' with their bold and daring charm.
ILLIT's new release ranked 6th on Spotify's 'Countdown Chart Global' as of April 29. This chart measures the 'Top 10' pre-save counts, indicating global Spotify users' anticipation for album and single releases. ILLIT shared their thoughts through a Q&A via their agency, Belif Lab.
Minju: I'm already excited thinking about showing GLLIT (our fandom) a new side of us. We've prepared hard to present a fresh stage that you've never seen before. Please look forward to ILLIT's unpredictable charm.
Q. What's the meaning behind the unique album name?
Wonhee: The album name 'MAMIHLAPINATAPAI' is from the language of the South American Yaghan people. It describes a moment of mutual desire where neither party acts first. In our fourth mini-album, it represents the excitement and tension after a first date, capturing those subtle emotions.
Q. First impressions of the title track 'It's Me'
Yoona: From the intro, we were all headbanging and riding the rhythm. The more we listened, the more addictive it became. I think it's a song everyone can easily sing along to.
Moka: 'It's Me' was a refreshing techno genre we didn't expect. The straightforward lyrics declaring "I'm your favorite!" during moments of defining a relationship felt liberating.
Wonhee: It's different from our previous songs and so intense that it surprised me. It feels like our spectrum has expanded, and I'm thrilled.
Q. Key points to enjoy in 'It's Me'
Yoona: The addictive hook and witty lyrics are highlights. Unique lyrics are a hallmark of ILLIT's music, so please pay attention this time too.
Moka: I think it's like a hot pot dish you can't stop eating once you start. I recommend watching the vocals and performance that capture the tangy vibe.
Iroha: It's a song that makes you move your body as soon as you hear it. Enjoy it with us.
Q. Highlights of the performance to watch for
Minju: The killing part is our signature 'magical girl' hand movements combined with rhythmic steps. Watching our playful expressions and performance on stage will release dopamine.
Iroha: The performance is the most challenging yet. We've condensed our energy into it. We have to perform powerfully from start to finish, with many jumping moves to the beat. We practiced a lot to get every angle right.
Q. Thoughts on the bold visual transformation
Yoona: Those who saw the concept photos might be surprised, thinking, 'ILLIT can do this too.' We tried various styles, and they all suited us well. I feel like all the members have improved in concept execution.
Moka: I tried a short cut, and since I usually like bold styles, it was fun. I realized I'm quite handsome. (laughs)
Wonhee: Personally, I think Yoona unnie looks great with short hair. There are many new styles in the concept photos and music video that fans will love.
Q. Introducing tracks with high member participation
Iroha: I participated in writing lyrics for the first time with 'paw, paw!' It's a song about the affection for a beloved pet. I wrote the lyrics thinking of the cat my family has had since before I was born. I couldn't forget the cute paws, so I included that in the song.
Minju: All members are credited in 'Love, older you.' It's like a kind letter from the current, stronger ILLIT to our younger selves who faced tough times. We wrote letters to our past selves while listening to the demo, and those contents are reflected in the lyrics.
Q. What was the focus while preparing for the fourth mini-album?
Yoona: Everything from dance to vocals and concept was challenging, so we thought a lot about how to express it well. We all worked hard to perfectly synchronize to leave a strong impression on those watching our stage.
Minju: We focused on vocals. We sang with different attitudes in each section to maximize the song's diversity. Watch us transform from bold to chic and then to alluring.
Q. What do you hope to achieve or hear during this promotion?
Wonhee: I want to win first place on music shows. It would be proof that many people love our music, and it would make me very happy. If we win, I want to eat flounder while doing an encore stage.
Moka: I want to hear that we're a team that absorbs and suits any color.
Iroha: The title track 'It's Me' declares, "I'm your favorite!" We want to become everyone's 'favorite' through this promotion.
Q. A message to GLLIT who waited for your comeback
Yoona: Through our previous work 'NOT CUTE ANYMORE,' which marked the beginning of change, we felt the great love from many people. This time, with 'It's Me,' we can show another side of us. I hope you look forward to it and enjoy the dopamine-filled stage.
Minju: Thank you for waiting for us without change. We'll repay GLLIT, who always supports us and sends us love, with a great stage. We'll work hard in this promotion, so let's do it together.
Moka: I'm really happy to finally present our fourth mini-album. Please love the new color of ILLIT.
Wonhee: I'm already looking forward to what fun memories we'll create with GLLIT during this promotion. I hope it becomes a time where I give GLLIT great energy and joy. We'll work hard to meet your support and expectations.
Iroha: We prepared with the desire to surprise GLLIT, so I hope you enjoy it.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr
