Released on March 17, 2025, “Fe304: Forward” may no longer be fresh off the press, but its relevance still resonates. This mini album does more than simply conclude a musical chapter, it crystallizes NMIXX’s trajectory of bold experimentation and artistic refinement. It is the final act in the Fe304 trilogy and the clearest signal yet of where the group is heading.
From Break to Stick Out, Now Forward
The trilogy began with “Break”, continued with “Stick Out”, and now culminates in “Forward”. At the core of all three: resilience. The title Fe304 itself references the chemical composition of stainless steel, known for its strength, durability, and resistance to pressure. A fitting metaphor for NMIXX, who from their debut chose a path less traveled.
Each phase of the trilogy has reflected their evolution as a group that challenges norms. From the polarizing debut “O.O” to lineup changes, and finally to a more stabilized presence in Expérgo era, NMIXX has withstood scrutiny, skepticism, and shifting tides. Now, Forward serves as a statement piece. A closing chapter that also doubles as a launchpad, toward their next conceptual universe: MIXXTOPIA.
Track-by-Track Review
High Horse: 8.6 / 10
As a pre-release track, “High Horse” functions as an accessible gateway for general listeners. Groovy and laid-back, the song steps back from the group’s usual chaotic genre-splicing, but still maintains strong vocal execution. While longtime fans may find it subdued, it cleverly introduces NMIXX’s versatility to a broader audience.
Know About Me: 9.2 / 10
A powerful title track with immediate impact. The hook lands fast, the production is sharp, and the concept aligns seamlessly with the music video’s visuals, a rocket launch from the ocean depths. It reads like a declaration: NMIXX knows who they are, and now it’s time for the world to take notice.
Slingshot: 9.0 / 10
Arguably the most classic MIXXPOP track in this lineup. “Slingshot” features an evident genre-switch, dreamy in its opening, then shifting to something more aggressive. It recalls the group’s early identity but shows far greater compositional maturity and sonic control.
Golden Recipe: 8.3 / 10
Uplifting and groove-driven, this track allows vocal clarity to take center stage without overpowering theatrics. It may not be the album’s standout, but its placement is vital, it provides breathing room between the more intense tracks.
Papillon: 8.7 / 10
“Papillon” (French for ‘butterfly’) delivers soft introspection, layering light instrumentation with lyrical symbolism. It evokes a sense of transformation and growth. The harmonies are warm and delicate, offering a reflective pause before the album’s emotional peak.
Ocean: 9.0 / 10
A cinematic finale. Combining piano, strings, and ambient textures, “Ocean” feels like a soundtrack to a coming-of-age film. Its reverb-heavy production and emotional depth provide a reflective, almost meditative closure to the album. Quiet, yet profound.
Final Score: 8.8 / 10
Strengths:
- Conceptual Cohesion: A clearly defined arc from start to finish.
- Production: Refined and bold without over-polishing.
- Vocal Mastery: Among the strongest vocal deliveries in 4th-gen K-pop.
- Experimental Edge: Still chaotic, but more controlled and purposeful.
- Replay Value: Each track offers a distinct flavor, ensuring high re-listen potential.
Weak Points:
- A few tracks are notably short.
- Certain songs play it safe in terms of arrangement and genre play.
Toward MIXXTOPIA
Fe304: Forward isn’t just the end of a trilogy, it’s a pivot point. The album signals that NMIXX has found their rhythm. They no longer need to prove their uniqueness, they simply embody it.
As K-pop continues to move toward predictability and polish, NMIXX remains a defiant outlier. Their artistry thrives on contradiction: chaotic yet structured, wild yet grounded. And now, rather than reacting to the industry, they are setting their own path.
NMIXX is no longer a curious experiment. They are a fully realized musical statement. And with Fe304 behind them, they are poised to soar—into MIXXTOPIA and beyond.
