When it comes to boy groups, WayV’s return has been a long time coming. Nine months since their frosty winter album Eternal White graced our playlists, the six-member group finally made their return with Vision Wings: and it may have been well worth the wait.
Under the stewardship of K-pop industry leaders SM Entertainment, the Chinese boy band have long amassed love and recognition, whether as part of the vast NCT ensemble or as a five-piece. Kun, Ten, Xiaojun, Hendery and Yangyang have now bestowed upon eager listeners this seven-track mini-album, and it’s a treasure trove of good beats.
Dipping into the visuals for a brief moment, we couldn’t not talk about the concept photos for this album. In true East Asian pop-group fashion, a sprinkling of appetisers in the form of stylised photo shoots was released ahead of the album: and this time, fans noticed something different.
While WayV have been known for rocking some princely gothic visuals in the past, Vision Wings brings beautiful traditional Chinese aesthetics to the forefront. Whether it be the monochrome bamboo garden hiding a pavilion in the distance, with WayV exuding coolness in front, or the eagle and dragon silhouettes shining behind the boys in elegant V-formation, the visual creatives clearly put everything into the task.
Starting with the title track, “鸢 (Vision Wings)”, we are treated to a double helping of the song on the album, in both Chinese and English. The track draws inspiration from various Chinese words that share the same pronunciation but have distinct meanings: 鸢 (kite or hawk), 源 (origin), 圆 (wholeness), 元 (beginning), 愿 (wish) and 园 (paradise).
The rain falls, and then comes the guzheng. Next, a distinct drum-and-bass groove hits you. You might find yourself sitting up wherever you are: it’s only seconds in, and we’re already wanting more of this energy. The words “dynasty”, “dragon awakens”, “warrior” and “Shaolin” ring out, lingering in the ear long after a first listen.
Catchy lyrics match the drum-and-bass energy, and if you’re not already dancing inside, you soon will be. Starting the album with a bang, the title track delivers the uplifting sound of a rallying cry. You feel the call: Come together and unite!
“Blue Fever” is next, starting off with a 90s house party Swingbeat vibe. This is one for the drop-top: arms hanging outside, cool shades on, and the baseline streaming out of the speakers. You get the picture. The boys keep things interesting by weaving in and out of their English and Mandarin lyrics in a manner that is instantly attention-grabbing.
Track three is “Count It”, which cleverly samples several old television and radio adverts to reinforce its retro vibe. One thing is clear: WayV were having a blast in the studio while recording this one, and it’s a track to have on whenever you’re in the mood for something to pep up your day.
“Icon” is the rallying cry to bring unity and efficiency to a hard day’s work. The song allows the boys to humbly boast about being icons who’ve earnt their status: and it’s all done to an infectious RnB groove. Hear “Icon” being played on any tough day and you’ll find yourself amped up by its melodies.
Stripping down to a more restful acoustic feel, WayV then provide the breather from the non-stop energy with “Afterparty”. Rather warranted, the boys give off a pleasant and chill vibe on the track, something we’ve seen them do in many of their past B-sides. Once again, the English and Mandarin lyrics are sung in perfect harmony and with great gentleness, placing a stamp of confirmation on the record: in case you had forgotten, WayV are incredibly good singers.
The last of the new songs is “Heaven’s Here With Me”. This one has more of the romantic feel of an epic, soulful late-’80s ballad. We can easily picture a sea of fans swaying along to it in concert, and a reminder that for all of their confidence, there’s plenty of heart to go around between the members.
Last but not least, on track sever we’re bestowed the English version of “Vision Wings”, bringing us back to that epic energy we started off with.
It’s confirmed; Vision Wings is an album you simply can’t get bored with. Whether you came for the majestic vibes teased in the concept photos, wanted to hear some more of those gorgeous WayV vocals, or simply wanted a delicate listen, Vision Wings has it all: harmonic, yet vibrant.
WayV are on Instagram and all major streaming platforms. You can listen to Vision Wings here.