Written by: Pragyanshree Mishra, Bhubaneswar, Odisha

Edited by: Jayati Bhardwaj, Delhi

“Music is the Strongest form of Magic”, Marilyn Manson.

As K-pop fans residing in India, we have indeed witnessed the magic that music holds– how it (Korean music) crossed borders and barriers to reach our hearts and become such an integral part of our lives. Keeping this in mind today, I bring to you some of the finest music released by this emerging K-pop Boy Band, NTX.

NTX (Neo Tracks No. X) is a South Korean boy band under Victory Company. Initially a 10-member group, now 9 members consist of Hyeongjin (Leader), Yunhyeok, Jaemin, Changhun, Hojun, Rawhyun, Eunho, Seongwon, and Jiseong. They debuted on 30th March 2021 with their song Kiss the World. NTX’s discography consists of two singles (Latecomer and X-Present), 2 EPs (Full of Lovescapes and Hold X) and a full-length album (Odd Hour). What sets them apart is their unique sound and powerful performances; here are five songs I’d recommend as an NTX fan to a first-time listener (with the intention of converting them into NTFul.)

Kiss the World

This song is their debut and the title track of their EP, Full of Lovescapes. In this song, they talk about seeing the world with their fans (NTFul), how everything feels out of place and alien to them if their fans are not with them, and how they want to Kiss the World with them. This song clearly shows how much they care for their fans and how much importance they have; though it was their debut song, they had already released three pre-debut songs and were constantly engaging with their fans.

Their first pre-chorus verse, with the following lines and lovely vocals, makes one feel glee and would make them want to explore NTX and ‘Kiss the World’.

“I’m so silly right now; I’m looking for the truth

I can’t find you, so I keep wandering; I’m Blind now

Will you hold me? (My heart is stopping)

I wanna go with you, wanna go with you.”

Black Hole

This song is a must-listen—it evokes a sense of being part of a fantasy world. It is a track from their EP, ‘Full of Lovescapes.’ With this song, NTX tries to send the message that we should do whatever our heart desires. This song describes the entirety of the Galaxy as an open area where one can stretch to their heart’s content and do whatever they want—be it exploring daydreams or the world of the AI. The song continues and adds that Black is a beautiful color, and we can escape the sorrows of this world by running towards that ‘Black’ hole, leaving behind everything to pursue our happiness. The use of metaphors is beautifully done. They also add that they will be with the listeners/ fans on this journey because we are their light. 4

It’s hard not to fall in love with the song.

“The irresistible providence; that’s called the Galaxy

In the ocean, our fantasy; Open that door

Right here, whatever you want (Oh, even if you lose happiness and are afraid)

That’s right, whatever your heart desires.”

Subway

This song is the fifth track of NTX’s first full-length album, Odd Hour. Although the album is filled with songs that make you want to follow their rhythm, this song stands out. In this song, they compare things that happen in life with the subway. The lyrics talk about how stars are not visible from the subway and how life gets easily entangled in the fast-paced culture of the big towns, further comparing it to the endless railway lines. And how reality always hits hard. The song reflects our daily struggles and was made to make the listeners feel understood and connected.

They continue by saying how it’s hard to make it in life, how even though everyone says not to let things bother you, it’s hard not to let things affect you, how everyone has the same expression getting on a subway, that’s how everyone repeats their life daily even though they are tired of it.

The lines below are written by their leading producer and rapper, Rawhyun:

“Like my transportation card’s balance

My energy keeps decreasing every day, it’s the same today

The city’s noise is a disharmony made of sighs

The end of a long day, and where does tomorrow lead?”

Problematic

Listening to this song is an absolute delight. As the title track of their recently released EP, ‘ Hold X,’ it upholds NTX’s brand. Through this song and the music created in this album, they showcased a glimpse of the unstoppable era of Neo Tracks—the fans cannot get enough of it.

This song inspires one to create one’s path to success and happiness, even if one must repaint society’s rules. The distinct rhythm adds to the meaning of the song. After listening to it, one feels powerful and simultaneously feels the urgency to create space for oneself and be in command of one’s life. The song talks about how anyone can do what they want– and that one should never doubt oneself and move forward without hesitation. Just believe in their capabilities and shine brighter than ever.

It’s a powerful message that leaves you feeling motivated and inspired. It pushes people to keep marching forward, making their meaning and creating their new world. Furthermore, no matter how good of a person or bad or ethical a person is, others will judge. So rather than focusing on them, we should keep improving our futures.

“My bravery is incomparable to anything (Hit it, hit it, hit)

My bravery is incomparable to anything, oh-yeah

Honestly, I was anxious about the uncertain tomorrow

The show must go on about to take control; I’m rising.”

Myful

Myful is the fifth and last track of their EP, Hold X, and it beautifully shows how much they care for their fans. This song is more like a conversation with their fans. They start by saying how they bond over mundane stuff, such as eating and contacting each other over trivial matters. As the song progresses, they add that they are unaware of the pain so many of their listeners are going through and cannot understand what’s happening, but they will strive to soothe them with their music.

They further add that their fans shine brightly, and their days are acceptable because of them. If they ever need them, they will always be there for them, listen to them, and comfort them- and whatever life throws at them, they can always lean on NTX. It’s a comforting reassurance that makes you feel cared for and understood.

“When you have a lot on your mind when you’re lonely

When you want to be together, I’ll be there for you

Always, I’m with you

I, too, need to be with you, bae, woah-ooh”

NTX has an incredible discography—so many songs can be added to this list. I guess a part two is necessary. The songs made and produced by NTX are filled with love and hope, and they simultaneously show their love for their fans through them. The quality of their music depicts their hard work as emerging K-pop stars. And we are here to see them grow. Our team at (Hallyuism) is excited to see NTX performing in India and hopes to get inspired by the songs in person and while listening to them at our homes.

Are you all excited to see NTX perform in India? Comment down below your favorite NTX song.