'Our new song is about our past, present and future,' says MAMAMOO

K-pop girl group MAMAMOO / Courtesy of RBW

By Dong Sun-hwa

Marking the seventh anniversary of its debut, K-pop girl group MAMAMOO on Tuesday dropped the special mini album, “WAW (Where Are We),” which consists entirely of ballads. According to the quartet, its lead single of almost the same name, “Where Are We Now,” highlights the array of emotions they have experienced during the past seven years.

“In the song, we unfold the story about our past, present and future,” MAMAMOO said in an email Q&A session on Tuesday. “We ask ourselves what we were like in the past, how we are right now, and what our future will look like. But this is not just our personal narrative. We believe it is a relatable story for everyone.”

The group added, “At the moment, we are on a journey with our members and fans. Thanks to this trip, we have done a lot of things that we could not have done if we were not together.”

Upon its release, “WAW” has topped multiple music charts ― in iTunes' top album chart, “WAW” grabbed the No. 1 spot in 21 countries.

The mini album also offers four additional ballads: “Another Day,” “A Memory for Life,” “Destiny Part 2” and “Happier than Ever,” which all have subtly different balladic charms.

For the members, "WAW" is their first album showcasing all ballads. Asked about the rationale behind their new effort, the singers said they wanted to display their musical maturity.

“We think we can better show off our chemistry and harmony now,” they said. “All of us paid extra attention to our vocals while recording the tracks so that we can create our best harmony.”

The release of “WAW” also signals the beginning of the band's new project, “2021 Where Are We,” in which the members will bring to light their genuine thoughts and emotions through a range of content, including a documentary.

“(As part of the project,) we filmed a documentary and also prepared for a concert while gearing up for the album,” MAMAMOO said. “The documentary will be released in the coming days and the concert is scheduled to take place this summer.”

MAMAMOO, comprising Solar, Moon Byul, Wheein and Hwasa, made its debut in 2014 with the single, “Mr. Ambiguous,” and put out a string of hits, including “Decalcomanie” (2016) and “Starry Night” (2018).