NEXZ Opens Their "MY EYES OPEN VVIDE" with Explosive "O-RLY?" Comeback
JYP & Sony Music's Rising Stars Announce Their Arrival
[Seoul, South Korea] Rookie boy group NEXZ is setting the K-pop world ablaze with their highly anticipated comeback, dropping their first EP album, "MY EYES OPEN VVIDE." The pre-release single, "O-RLY?," which dropped on April 28th, is already dominating social media and music communities, solidifying NEXZ's position as a major player in the next generation of global idols.
Born from "Nizi Project Season 2," The Group Showcases Seven Distinct Personalities
NEXZ (pronounced "Nex-G") is a Korean-Japanese boy group formed through the survival show "Nizi Project Season 2," a collaboration between JYP Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment Japan. The group boasts seven talented members: Tomoya, Yu, Haru, So Geon, Seita, Hyui, and Yuki. Since their official debut in May 2024, NEXZ has cultivated a strong international fanbase, thanks to their unique blend of "next generation" energy and Gen Z sensibility.
"O-RLY?": Catchy Beats, Trendy Sounds, and Raw Youthful Energy
The new single, "O-RLY?," distinguishes itself with an undeniably catchy melody and a trendy soundscape, drawing inspiration from old-school hip-hop rhythms and showcasing a dazzling, high-energy performance style. The instrumental track is loose and funky, especially in the second verse where the percussion takes center stage, injecting a fresh groove into the song. While the song incorporates the chant-heavy, shout-rap style currently popular within the boy group scene, NEXZ manages to infuse the performance with their own signature charisma.
The chorus, structured around a playful call-and-response dynamic, may spark varied reactions among listeners. Some may appreciate the track's bold, almost bratty energy, while others might yearn for a more melodically focused centerpiece. Nevertheless, the members' distinct vocal tones and their dynamic delivery maintain a captivating quality throughout the song, and the overall production has garnered acclaim for its polish and impact. Member Seita expressed that "'O-RLY?' best exemplifies NEXZ's unique energy," while member Hyui confessed that the song's addictive hooks made him want to hit repeat endlessly.
Artistic Growth Fuels Global Ambitions
"O-RLY?" transcends the realm of just another catchy single; it stands as a bold statement of NEXZ's aspirations. To further emphasize the group's vision, the members actively participated in the choreography creation, imbuing this comeback with deeper meaning for both themselves and their dedicated fans. The EP comprises five tracks (with a bonus track available on the physical album), and the group's hands-on involvement in the creative process is palpably felt through the album's cohesive sound and performance-driven concept.
NEXZ has set an ambitious agenda for 2025, including a special concert in Korea, their first live tour across Japan, upcoming releases of new global and Japanese albums, and the launch of their official fan meeting and signature light stick. Their highly anticipated showcase tours have already sold out in numerous cities, and their rapidly growing fanbase, known as "Nex2Y," eagerly anticipates and wholeheartedly supports every step of their journey.
The Verdict: A Promising Start with Room to Evolve
While some critics have noted that the prevailing shout-chant formula can, at times, feel generic, "O-RLY?" stands as one of NEXZ's most impactful releases to date. The group's confidence, stage presence, and widespread international appeal firmly position them as one of the most promising rookies in the K-pop industry today. As they continue to hone their unique sound and identity, both devoted fans and industry experts alike eagerly await and anticipate NEXZ's next creative chapter.
Stay tuned for continued updates on NEXZ, and don't miss the electrifying "O-RLY?" performance - stream the song and browse the latest photos on the group's official Instagram account!
