aespa’s ‘Whiplash’ is a burst of disco

aespa’s latest release offers a dance party soundtrack for releasing pent-up emotions. With its irresistible beats and addictive disco feel, “Whiplash” delivers a strong, rocket punch of powerful, musical hits keeping listeners hooked from start to finish. 

The South Korean girl group — composed of four singers Karina, Winter, Ningning and Giselle — released its fifth mini-album Oct. 21. 

The new record presents an energetic collection of six tracks, maintaining the group’s signature techno-inspired music. The album delivers a series of high-energy, groove-filled tracks, each contributing to the group’s sonic identity of vivid, futuristic imagery.

Opening the album is the title track, “Whiplash” which builds on aespa’s futuristic, runway-ready sound. The track is driven by a constant throbbing bassline, creating an intense, unrelenting rhythm. Interspersed spoken-word hooks add personality to the song. 

“One look, give ‘em whiplash / Beat drop with a big flash / Focus more think fast,” Karina and Ningning sing. 

The addictive beats and chorus lines of “Whiplash” set an electrifying tone for the rest of the album. 

“Kill It” follows with a similar intensity, featuring sharp electronic beats and rapid transitions between verses. The song’s fast-paced delivery enhances its dance club appeal while emphasizing quick, rap lyrics on beat with heavy drum sounds. The overture to the chorus builds up nicely and the repetitive chorus breeds a catchy tune.

“No panic spreads like a shadow / Break the wall, ruin all the boundaries that trap me / I’ll show you a bigger world / My area will grow (Kill it),” Karina and Winter sing. 

“Flights Not Feelings” introduces a melodic element to the album. Well-crafted vocal refrains from lead singer Ningning allow her to shine while maintaining electronic undertones. 

“Catching flights, not feelings / I’m not tryna hurt myself,” Ningning sings.  

In “Pink Hoodie,” aespa adds a playful, lighthearted contrast to the album’s more intense tracks. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus change the album’s pace while still conforming to the overarching techno sound. The track’s strong foundation of constant drum sounds and spoken-word lines produces a playful rhythm. 

“Pink Hoodie” shows an unusually cute side of aespa. Despite the upbeat, disco-ready feel, soft vocals contrast with the group’s typical robotic sound. The bright imagery of “Pink Hoodie” constructs a pink-filled song, unlike aespa’s usual metallic image. 

“Flowers” maintains the album’s high-energy tempo through the use of vocal layering and harmonies, adding depth to straightforward instrumental backing. Colorful lyrics compare someone’s heart full of love with a garden filled with different types of flowers and scents. The song incorporates floral lyrics with a disco-inspired, dance-ready vibe, offering a simple but effective track that complements the collection. 

“One, two, three, a secret awakening (Ah) / A blooming light, a blowing joy (Oh) / Just like a fantasy in my garden / Show me your flowers (Yeah)” Giselle and Winter sing.  

“Just Another Girl” closes with a focus on melodic hooks and a driving beat. The track’s chorus stands out for its addictive, instrumental arrangement. The song’s cute vocals rely on more lyrical delivery rather than punchy verses. The group utilizes higher octaves than their usual deep vocals to convey a cute image alongside whistles playing in the background. 

“Make me crazy, just another girl? Stop / I’m warning you,” the members sing in unison. 

Throughout “Whiplash,” aespa makes it clear they’ll be sticking with their techno-sound and disco-inspired themes. The album is quick and catchy, presenting a fresh take for established fans and a new obsession for first-time listeners.

Listen to “Whiplash” on all major streaming platforms.