A couple of weeks back, NMIXX teased their comeback with the release of the music video for Crescendo. This week, they finally dropped the single alongside their 5th mini-album, Heavy Serenade. However, the official lead single from the mini-album shares its name with the mini-album. The new mini-album also serves as NMIXX’s first release since their strong Blue Valentine comeback.

I really enjoy the pretty and aesthetic sound NMIXX has been going for in Blue Valentine, Crescendo, and now Heavy Serenade. This style just reinvigorates the pop sound and gives it an impact that instantly leaves a good impression. However, Heavy Serenade is without its flaws. A recurring thought I had consistently had was that Heavy Serenade‘s overall sound could have been sharper. From the loudness of the instrumental in the chorus and some of the muffled delivery, I just think Heavy Serenade could have benefited from a cleaner sound. A really good example is the “We’re blooming” refrain at the end of the choruses – I thought it was really catchy, but it was undecipherable without lyrics. I also thought the rapping was awkward. However, there are some super-strong aspects of the song that should not be overlooked. There was great vocal delivery overall (SULYOON and LILY’s literal launch into the final chorus was epic) – you can feel the dreaminess side of the song through the vocals. I also really enjoyed how much oomph and power were behind the chorus and other parts of Heavy Serenade, which, again, adds impact and bolsters the song’s memorability. The contrast between hefty and pretty in the instrumental was another wonderfully interesting aspect of Heavy Serenade to reflect upon.

Based on the lyrics, which are about deep, definite love (lyrics meaning taken from SOOMPI), I assume the music video captures the members seeking various signs of love. From the power of music to signals, the members combine their efforts to find love in a grey and plain world. This is just my interpretation of the video, however, so I could be wrong. As for the ending, I do wonder if the snow outside hints at a future music video release for another side track or a comeback later in the year.

While I think the rapping is slightly awkward in Heavy Serenade, the choreography that accompanies JIWOO’s rapping was one of the boldest sequences in the routine. And I really enjoyed that part. I also enjoyed the prettiness of the routine that accompanies the “We’re blooming”, which definitely brings out that vibe from the song, as well. A great performance, overall.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8.5/10
Overall Rating – 8.6/10