Girl group aespa (Karina, Winter, Giselle, Ningning) is set to make a powerful comeback with their fifth mini-album Whiplash, featuring an intensified “electronic metal” sound that promises to get fans moving in seconds.
The mini-album, which drops on October 21 at 6 PM, will be available on major music platforms, with the music video for the title track “Whiplash” premiering on YouTube’s SMTOWN channel. This album marks aespa’s first foray into the EDM-based techno genre, with the title track “Whiplash” showcasing a gripping mix of beats. Alongside it, the album features six tracks, including “Kill It,” a hip-hop dance track with strong rap and vocals, the mysterious R&B track “Flights, Not Feelings,” and the pop-rock warning anthem “Just Another Girl.”
After achieving a mega-hit with their previous title track “Supernova” just five months ago, fans are eager to see what aespa has in store. “Whiplash” teases a more restrained yet powerful performance, contrasting with their previous visual overload, and is expected to highlight aespa’s continuous musical growth.
aespa will also host a Whiplash countdown live broadcast across YouTube, TikTok, and Weverse, engaging fans before their official release. A pop-up store event titled aespa WEEK – #Whiplash_mood and a pre-launch party will follow, allowing fans to dive deep into the album’s immersive experience.
aespa ‘Whiplash’ Q&A:
Q: What was the main focus while preparing for this album?
- Karina: We focused on how to best express the beat of “Whiplash” through the music video and choreography.
- Winter: We worked hard on both the performance and the visuals to match the album’s concept.
- Giselle: I focused a lot on the recording, putting extra effort into making it sound perfect.
- Ningning: Since the choreography has a new style, we focused on poses and angles.
Q: What’s the listening point for “Whiplash,” and does it continue the ‘metal’ charm?
- Karina: The song’s addictive beat and the way it sticks in your head are key. It’s more “electronic” than “metal” this time.
- Winter: The repetitive chorus is super catchy. I’d describe this album’s charm as “digital metal.”
- Giselle: The beat stands out, especially the repeated “Whip-Whiplash” part. It has a “metal” feel, but in a cooler way than “Supernova.”
- Ningning: This song makes everyone want to dance within five seconds!
Q: aespa is known for its performances. What can we expect from the ‘Whiplash’ performance?
- Karina: We focused on linear movements with hand and arm gestures to express the beat.
- Winter: The choreography has strong, physical moves that make a big impression.
- Giselle: It’s more refined this time, with shoulder isolations as a key point.
- Ningning: Expect a performance that blends aespa’s unique style with the song’s dynamic energy.
Q: Any memorable moments during the ‘Whiplash’ MV shoot?
- Karina: We used new angle shots, and I remember the transitions from group dancing to acting made it intense.
- Winter: We shot some scenes in the U.S., and I kept my hairpins in because they matched the outfit so well. We laughed about it later!
- Giselle: The techno concept with fashionable visuals was exciting, and using the actual camera gear was challenging but fun.
- Ningning: It’s a departure from our usual CG sets, and I loved the simple, cool look of shooting against a white background in LA.
Q: What’s your favorite track besides the title song?
- Karina: “Flights, Not Feelings” has a vacation vibe, perfect for a drive.
- Winter: I love the melody and lyrics of “Flights, Not Feelings.” It grows on you the more you listen.
- Giselle: “Flights, Not Feelings” stood out to me right from the demo stage. “Just Another Girl” is also my personal favorite.
- Ningning: “Flights, Not Feelings” is healing and matches my music taste.
Q: You had great success with “Supernova.” What do you hope to achieve with this album?
- Karina: I hope more people discover and love “Whiplash.”
- Winter: I hope this album can provide strength and support to people’s daily lives.
- Giselle: I hope this album receives even more love than “Supernova.”
- Ningning: I hope everyone enjoys both the music and performances.
Q: After completing your Asia tour, how do you feel about expanding to the Americas and Europe next year?
- Karina: Our first show in Seoul is unforgettable because it’s the start of everything. I’m excited to meet more fans around the world.
- Winter: I remember all the fans during our Asia tour, and I can’t wait to bring even better performances to our upcoming tours.
- Giselle: The fan events during encore stages always leave a strong impression, and I’m excited to show a new side of us in future concerts.
- Ningning: Every concert is special, but the first one always stands out. There’s always a mix of excitement and nerves.
Q: Any final message for fans?
- Karina: Thank you for loving our music. We’ve brought songs that will make you dance, so I hope you enjoy and relieve some stress with “Whiplash.”
- Winter: We’ve prepared songs that show off aespa’s unique colors, so please listen and enjoy!
- Giselle: We’re back quickly with a great album, and I can’t wait for you to hear it.
- Ningning: We worked hard on this album, and I hope MYs can finish 2024 on a good note with it. We’ll keep bringing great music!
Source: starnewskorea.com
