Rating: 8/10
SM Entertainment’s girl group aespa’s newest comeback encourages fans to bring out their confidence with their fifth mini-album, “Whiplash,” released on Oct. 21.
“Whiplash” shifts musical directions for aespa following their first full-length studio album released in May, “Armageddon.”
The new mini-album mixes influences of techno, EDM and house while exploring aespa’s experimental yet refreshing sounds. The four-member girl group reintroduced themselves to the new era with flashy, edgy runway looks.
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Every song on the album is a standout. The B-sides sound unique, each following a different music genre.
The title track, “Whiplash,” opens the mini-album with a bang. The song immediately transports listeners to a hyper-digital fashion show runway. It’s reminiscent of other K-pop group’s recent releases, such as LE SSERAFIM’s “Crazy” and JENNIE’s “Mantra.”
“The song’s repetitive chorus is its charm,” SM Entertainment said on the release day. “It’s designed to make everyone want to dance within just five seconds of listening.”
The hyper-techno beats carry over to “Kill It.” The song showcases aespa members Karina and Giselle’s rapping skills while highlighting Ningning and Winter’s soothing vocals.
Songs like “Flights, Not Feelings” and “Pink Hoodie” are filled with confidence as aespa sings and raps on electronic beats. The production is flawless on these tracks, similar to previous tracks in aespa’s discography.
“Flowers” is the most experimental song on the mini-album as aespa tries out a new alternative R&B beat — a genre they have never attempted. With sultry lyrics and production, the song compares a romance to flowers.
“You’re my dahlia, tulips and daisies,” Giselle sings in the second verse.
“Just Another Girl” is the album closer and has a pop-rock sound with playful guitar and quirky lyrics. The song is very fun and playful, nearly sounding like the ending credits song of a 2000s teenage rom-com.
Unfortunately though, the album lacks cohesiveness and a musical concept. The use of multiple genres makes the mini-album feel a bit lackluster in the sonic direction.
aespa’s visuals for the album are outstandingly stunning. With the differentiation of the songs, aespa transitioned from their classic hyper electro-pop style to a groovy, house and alternative sound.
The North American leg of aespa’s “SYNK: Parallel Line Tour” could see a set list change with the new songs. The group will play a series of North American shows in January and February of 2025, including a performance at the United Center in Chicago on Feb. 15.
“Whiplash” redefines aespa and displays their versatility within the tracklist. aespa has consistently pushed for fresh sounds and new directions in their music. As they continue to make music outside of the traditional K-pop norms, “Whiplash” proves that Aespa are the game changers of the industry.
