NCT 127 Race Towards Their Goals in ‘2Baddies’

NCT 127 is back and we don’t mean this in a linear sense where the group has returned with new music after 11 months. This statement has more to do with the nonet touching base to revive their core hip-hop identity with some levels of maturity; a sound the group had temporarily set aside to explore an intriguing experimental pop soundscape. Now, with their forthcoming LP 2Baddies, the group is ready to showcase their “witty side.”

Produced by Aron Wyme, “2Baddies” – the title track – is a powerful hip-hop dance number underlined by NCT 127’s signature futuristic synth and bass. Primarily a rap-centric track, the song conveys the group’s ideals and ambitions of chasing their dreams at the fastest speed – a message they hope will inspire fans, with lyrics like, “So I can face the image that’s made/ Zero to hundred on the highest speed/ Nothing can stand in the way/ My life is a highway made for myself, ayy.” 

The song is reminiscent of the attitude and energy the group brought during their Cherry Bomb era (NCT 127’s third EP). In fact, the hip-hop and R&B soundscape of the LP is a blast from the past, mirroring their 2017 EP. When juxtaposed with NCT 127’s polarizing 2021 release “Sticker,” “2Baddies” plays it very safe, grounding itself in sonic cohesion. While it’s not the cards the group has been playing for a while, this sonic route allows listeners to thoroughly appreciate the real jewel of the group – the members. From Mark’s sublime rap flows and Haechan’s delightful bridge to Jaehyun switching gears and opting to breeze through his parts as a rapper, the single is packed with signature (and new) NCT 127 hallmarks that fans have enjoyed for over half a decade. Sure, the single has a mix of delightful surprises and clear misses, however, the LP (which drops tomorrow) should hopefully give us a more nuanced understanding of what this new sonic era entails for NCT 127.

Staying true to its urban, speed-inspired concept, the music video sees the group swap between trendy ensembles that highlight their mature personas. Reflective of the track’s hook, the set design features racing cars in different frames with vibrant neon lights and CGI elements flashing across the screen. The group has also incorporated a steering-inspired move in their choreography.  

Packed with 12 tracks, 2Baddies – NCT 127’s fourth studio album – will be released across streaming platforms tomorrow at 1 PM KST (9: 30 AM IST)