Plus Magazine

| Written by Kim Tae Hoon (Editor for the music webzine IZM)

aespa's new grand narrative has begun. Anticipation among K-pop fans and the MY fandom has heightened with the release of the single "Supernova" and three track videos titled "Universe," ahead of their first full-length album [Armageddon], set for release on May 27th. With the new storyline of Season 2, which began "Spicy," the released music and performances shine brilliantly, like a supernova.

After racing through KWANGYA, aespa invited fans into their new musical world, MY WORLD, a reality-tinged universe. Subsequently, [Drama] showcased their attitude of confidence and autonomy as they faced and fought through challenges. With [Armageddon], they reinforce their established bold stance and message of solidarity, further strengthening their identity.

"Supernova" heralds the beginning of a new narrative and stands as a pinnacle track where aespa truly shines. It features a powerful hip-hop track characterized by heavy kicks and basslines, complemented by explosive rapping and ethereal vocals. This distinctive musical characteristic is often referred to as the "metallic taste," which is a signature element of aespa’s style.

The composition flows seamlessly without any weak points. The lyrics signal the start of the story with lines such as “Event’s imminent Blowin’ up crazy” and they hint at overcoming new challenges with unity through lines like “All the possible possibilities Meeting you inside infinity.”

The music video, depicting the awakening of their unique powers to herald change, exudes a sense of solemnity yet feels liberating. Notably, the scene where Giselle, appearing most vulnerable, awakens her latent abilities inspired by Ningning's fire effectively encapsulates the message of "Supernova."

The narrative of unity unfolds fully in “Licorice.” The performance video, inspired by 1990s Japanese tokusatsu shows, conveys its theme with kitschy charm. Initially, the four warriors battle the polarizing “mint chocolate” monster, but eventually, they come to relish its unique flavor. The story transitions from conflict and exclusion to a sweet dessert party, concluding with everyone smiling in happiness.

The track title, licorice, also mirrors this theme. Despite its rugged appearance and distinct taste that may initially repel, licorice is a beloved herb in candies and jellies. Similarly, “Licorice” symbolizes an unfamiliar yet attractive counterpart, aligning with aespa's bold genre and concept experimentation.

“Long Chat (#♥),” which shines with cute imagination, approaches with a classic sci-fi vibe, beautifully expanding aespa's real world. Popcorn kernels that land in their world transform into splendid corn under warm care and return to their star with newfound help. The shy corn at the end, doubting its status as a star, brings a smile yet hints that anyone can shine with belief.

"Live My Life" is a synergy of aespa's bright, joyful side within the real-world narrative and the intense pop-punk genre, filled with happiness. Reflecting aespa's values of carving one’s own path in a life without definite answers, the melody is straightforward. It also stands out on this album as an attempt with a band sound, expanding their musical spectrum beyond their established image.

[Armageddon] doesn't focus on a complex epic of war and apocalypse. Instead, it emphasizes the precious things often overlooked when fixated on such grandiose themes, presenting them brightly. The real world they settle in after leaving KWANGYA symbolizes the very world we live in, envisioning an ideal reality where one believes in oneself and moves forward with an open heart.

The confident attitude, evident since "Black Mamba," encapsulates aespa's energy. This album represents that energy exploding into a universe filled with various planets and stars. The members’ voices, harmoniously navigating through diverse genres, convey authenticity, successfully creating a narrative that resonates both the MY fandom and aespa’s impressive world.

※ Manuscripts from outside writers may not reflect the editorial direction of this magazine.