MCND Goes “nanana” from ICE AGE to EARTH AGE
The youngest group of Top Media, MCND is back with their first ever mini-album EARTH AGE. The group made their official debut six months ago and already have a strong and distinctive style. Following the success of their senior groups Teen Top and UP10TION, the group managed to live up to expectations and secure a place for themselves in the industry. With the release of their new EP and the single "nanana," the members show another version of themselves.
The Single
MCND doesn't wait to declare themselves as the next successors of heavy EDM tracks, as the group once again delivers a powerful anthem. "nanana" is a pompous track with hard-hitting electronic instrumentals. The song catches fire within a few seconds and never once lets the listener go. The song opens up with the lines, “All the people get ready. Baby 1, 2, 3 let's go!” wanting the audience to stay put with the members' crazy tempo. As the song blasts from beginning to the end, the track takes its own pace to persuade its listeners to fall for the group’s charms.
As rookies, the members bubble with enthusiasm and confidence. The ignited fighting spirit of the members can be felt through their lively vocals and compassionate lyrics as they sing, “Can‘t give it up. The night before the storm, starts now. It will shine, when it burns deeper.” The energy felt through the song is majorly contributed to by the rap line while the vocal line takes care in connecting the raspy verses with their high-hitting vocals. The second half of the song goes into the hands of the rappers as Castle J and BIC shine. BIC in specific steals the show with his rapidity and exuberance. As the song continues with jarring beats, the vocal duo of Huijun and Minjae deliver the melody while youngest member Win has his charm with his deep voice clasping the hearts of many.
With “nanana," the quintet establishes roots focusing on fast-paced EDM tracks, which is quite a trend among current artists. It is too soon to question if the group is going to stay and master this particular genre for the long run.
The Music Video
Matching the electrifying tempo of the song, the music video is set with contrasting and intriguing colors and captures the shift from "Ice Age" to EARTH AGE, as the previous video featured more icy colors while the “nanana” video includes fiery colors.
The music video opens up with the motif of speed as a huge speedometer is seen in the background as Castle J initiates the countdown. The members suited in matching fiery orange outfits walk in with swag and a whole new mature look, snatching the attention of viewers. The song instantly starts with a bang and the members assemble together for a power-packed choreography.
Rather than following a narrative style, the video focuses on highlighting the members’ energy and efficiency of performing the heavy moves in synchronization. The element of fire is portrayed in most of the scenes as the key choreography is performed surrounded with fire. BIC is also spotted rapping near an erupting volcano, signifying the burning desire of the members. The members change into other outfits that work well with the contrasting backdrops and bring out a bad boy charm. Though the viewers don’t get much to explore in the music video, the members’ posh looks during solo shots and fierce choreography can energize viewers.
The Album
"Intro ; Earth Age" is a perfect fit to start the album with a cinematic introduction. "Music Creates New Dream," begins the track as the members start their journey while boasting about their past and giving a glimpse on what to expect from the EP and the group in the future.
With “Breathe,” the blazing energy slows down and lets the listeners catch their breath. With soft guitar riffs, the members sweetly harmonise, "nanana," as they start describing their love. The song is indeed a heartfelt message from the members, promising to be together through their journey. "Beautiful" is another love track on the album with the lyrics conveying the happiness of being in a relationship with a loved one. With lyrics penned by Castle J, Huijun, and Win, “Beautiful” is a mellow track that can put a smile on the listeners.
After penting up all the energy inside, the members once again roar in "Galaxy." The members confess they’re now bolder as they are confident in who they are. With heavy guitar riffs, the song paves the way for the rappers to shine while the vocalists lay low with only snippets of vocal lines.
"Bumpin" is a track that any listener would fall in love with instantly. The song is a mix of mellow verses and stomping chorus, which makes it more exciting. The lyrics brim with confidence and pride as the members warn the haters not to mess with them. The song is a true gem, playing with an addictive chorus and entertaining instrumentals.
The album comes to an end with "Outro ; Kepler1649c." The song is named after the exoplanet Kepler-1649c, which is described to be a similar planet to Earth. The members skyrocket to the lonely star and invite their fans as well as Minjae sings, "No matter how similar this star is, it's not perfect without you." The outro can also be a hidden message from the members about the upcoming album of the trilogy series.
Final Thoughts
MCND's new album exceptionally outperforms their debut single album. The album is a package of unique tracks featuring all the elements that the fans would love to see in the group. Though the EP may not be a breakpoint in the group's career, it is a great leap forward.
Did you enjoy listening to MCND's latest EP? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! If you haven't checked it out, make sure you do!