Reemerging after their first full-length album, KARINA, WINTER, GISELLE, and NINGNING – a quartet better known as aespa – are back with their fifth mini album, Whiplash. With a group name that is a combination of the English words “avatar,” “experience,” and “aspect,” they symbolize the idea of meeting another self and experiencing a different world. This release is an exploration of some new genres while remaining true to their signature bold, futuristic style.
The title track, “Whiplash,” exudes supreme levels of confidence and affords both singers and rappers ample room to shine. aespa has been ahead of the game in playing with metaverse and AI concepts before the technologies became what they are now, and the sound and visual landscapes of this first song instantly transport to a complementing digital, metallic space. The hyper-techno beats carry over, this time incorporating a bit of hip-hop in “Kill It.” Its repetitive lyrical refrains are reminiscent of their 2021 hit “Savage,” and the unconventional harmonies create a slight dissonance that isn’t unpleasant. Rather, it makes for a more interesting listening experience.
The Official Music Video for 'Whiplash' by aespa
In an industry that is constantly working to produce something brand new with every comeback, sometimes artists are pushed to leave a good thing early. It’s refreshing to see how the girls and their team have instead found their niche in hyperpop and are choosing to thrive in it. However, that does not mean they’re stagnant. This mini album is proof they are capable of reanimating and moving within their strengths. “Flights, Not Feelings” presents a change of pace that offers a glittery R&B experience. “I’m not tryna hurt myself / Tryna burn myself,” they say together in the light melody of the chorus.
Similar sentiments are held in “Pink Hoodie,” which is home to a glitchy bass that is playful yet sleek. Here, fashion can be interpreted as a metaphor for the challenges of fame as they take off a “suffocating dress” in exchange for “baggy jeans.” Despite the burdens that come with such a career, Karina speaks for the group when she sings about lightly untying the “tie that binds me”; Winter also says she is “Breaking free from the stereotype.” Bringing back the message of self-assuredness from the opener, they are practicing what they hope listeners will also do – be unapologetically themselves.
“Flowers” wanders through the bittersweet daze of love, and it’s where sopranos NingNing and Winter soar. An enchantingly smooth guitar paired with sultry lyrics that liken romance to a secret garden, it stands out as a fresh sound for aespa. It’s a bit out of place, but provides a solid introduction to what they might try more of in the future. The album comes to a close with “Just Another Girl,” a pop-rock anthem that details their reaction to an unfaithful partner. They are steadfast in their personal worth with statements like “I was too good for you” and “in the end, you’re the loser.” It’s a quirky, enjoyable ending that once again delivers encouragement to be authentic and unmoved by negativity.
While the six-track EP is not their most cohesive work, nor anything transformative for their discography, it is a stepping stone on a strong foundation for wherever aespa is headed next. With very few acts that can match their iconic concept, they have the privilege of having an incredible amount of room to grow however they’d like, from here.
