NCT's Taeyong lays bare his story on his debut full-length album, WYLD.
Set for release on May 18, Taeyong's first full-length album, WYLD, contains 10 tracks that map his singular musical world — from the experimental, addictive hip-hop title track "WYLD" to the tender "Mermaid" and the solitary "404 Euphoria."
"Mermaid" is an alternative R&B track anchored by groovy drums, a deep bass line, and a hollow yet warm guitar riff that gives the song its textured sound. Taeyong's fragile, expressive vocals—shifting between love and longing—heighten the song's poignancy.
The lyrics cast the mermaid as a metaphor for a heartfelt confession to the fans who waited for him. Taeyong first performed the song during the TY TRACK – REMASTERED tour, using the moment to thank fans for their patience and visibly move the audience.
"404 Euphoria" opens with restrained narration and an EP-like palette before expanding into an experimental, brooding track layered with dynamic synths, gritty bass, and sweeping brass and strings. The lyrics chronicle the process of confronting inner confusion head-on, continuing the narrative established in the "404" series.
"404 Euphoria" was also previewed as a VCR video during the TY TRACK – REMASTERED tour. Its stylized depiction of deep loneliness, paired with an intense, immersive soundscape, resonated with attendees and has stoked anticipation ahead of the official release.
