Review

Buried Treasure: NMIXX – Break The Wall

NMIXX - Break The WallA K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve.


I seemed to be less enthralled by NMIXX’s Dash than most, but the song has already started to grow on me a bit. The album is quite solid as well. I’ve seen many people praising Passionfruit, and I agree that it’s a strong example of its style — even if that style isn’t usually something I go crazy over. For me, the strongest b-side comes right at the end. Break The Wall is completely different than I expected from its title.

I assumed the song would be serving the kind of brash, shouty empowerment favored my many current groups. Instead, we have a pulsing synthpop highlight, chugging along exciting electronic elements and bolstered by a memorable chorus that’s powerful but melodic. It’s giving classic SM Entertainment vibes, like something SNSD or Red Velvet might have churned out in the mid-10’s. Like those groups, NMIXX is home to some standout vocalists and Break The Wall does a nice job harnessing that talent while still adhering to the group’s bombastic sound.

 Hooks 9
 Production 9
 Longevity 8
 Bias 8
 RATING 8.5

Grade: B

14 thoughts on “Buried Treasure: NMIXX – Break The Wall

  1. OMG yes! When I listened to “Break The Wall” for the first time I was really hoping that you would feature it as a buried treasure because it’s right up your alley. Glad to see that I called it haha. It’s my favorite song of the EP although the entire mini is strong.

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  2. NMIXX really shines in this on, it is so camp and cheerful!

    (However, jinni isn’t in the group anymore so the cover photo choice is a bit wonky)

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  3. Lol, the moment I saw that title I had to check that no one from Edenary was involved.

    Anyway. I only wish it didn’t let up *that* much during the prechorus.

    But I’m nitpicking. Once the chorus hits, all is forgiven.

    Great song, and being that I also quite like Passionfruit (though I also do prefer this one) maybe I’m gonna check out the rest of the album. NMIXX’s past efforts admittedly turned me off the group, but I’ll start paying attention if they keep putting out stuff this good.

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  4. This song is truly an unexpected development. For me, it will definitely be in the top 3 best B-side this year. Without being gimmicky or tricky, its bright and promising melody really took root in my mind.

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