JENO and JAEMIN of NCT DREAM have come together, fusing their undeniable charisma and unbeatable charm to form NCT JNJM. The duo have debuted with their first EP BOTH SIDES, demonstrating how these powerhouse performers can create something truly special when they blend their strengths and talents.
The mini album spans six tracks, including the energetic hip-hop title track 'BOTH SIDES'. The suave confidence and cheekiness of the track reflects the dynamic that the pair has. The lyrics capture the playful cockiness that the track aims to put across as they say, “She asked me, ‘Which one is your best side?’ I told her, ‘Both sides!’”. Beyond just being a standout song on the tracklist, 'BOTH SIDES' is a testament to the remarkable creative synergy that JENO and JAEMIN have had since their trainee days, staying strong some 10 years later.
The accompanying MV for the track captures the bold energy that the track exudes as JENO and JAEMIN, ever the performers, peacock around a luxury hotel as they indulge in expensive food and room service. Flaunting their flamboyant fur coats, they are hit by waves of adoration by the hotel staff as they chant “too hot when i'm looking in the mirror”. Both of them fight for the attention of a mystery woman in the hotel, taking turns to impress her with their gentlemanly behaviour, killer dance moves, and striking good looks.
After that electrifying opening with 'BOTH SIDES', the rest of the tracks follow suit. 'I.D.O.L.' presents as an energetic rap track that features JENO and JAEMIN’s versatility in not only their vocals but also rapping. They spit catchy verses on an addictive beat, with carefully curated heavy 808 kicks inspired by Miami bass. The track flows beautifully into the following track, 'What It Is'. Having been written by JAEMIN, the rich and beautiful R&B track is definitely the highlight of the EP. It captures the subtleties of affection packed in gentle, momentary touches and stolen lingering glances. The interplay of JENO and JAEMIN’s differing vocal tones, paired with their easygoing charm, enhances the track’s overall vibe.
Next on the album comes 'HASHTAG' with its unique late-2000s Southern hip-hop undertones, proving that there is really no genre too big or too small for NCT JNJM to tackle. The empowering lyrics drive home the importance of resilience even while the duo stay prominent figures in the public eye in such a vastly and digitally documented reality. The high-octane track 'WIND UP' incorporates baseball metaphors to align with the bouncy and encouraging nature of the track as a whole. The album closes with a bang as 'sexier' bursts with hyperpop energy, catchy synths, and a dance-ready beat. The track’s lyrics flirt with the excitement of budding attraction that comes with the anticipation of a new relationship.
In just six tracks, NCT JNJM flaunts their range, blending sharp performances with playful charm and individuality. Each song highlights a different facet of their artistry, from high-energy rap and dynamic choreography to tender R&B and hyperpop-infused hooks, demonstrating that the duo isn’t just riding on past success, but actively carving out a distinct identity within NCT’s universe. BOTH SIDES is more than a debut EP; it’s a confident statement of what JENO and JAEMIN can achieve together, leaving fans eager for the next chapter of NCT JNJM’s musical journey.
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