ZEROBASEONE's Matthew and Gunwook Take the Controls With "EMP"

ZEROBASEONE is launching its first unit, with Seok Matthew and Park Gunwook taking production into their own hands as EMP.

ZEROBASEONE EMP will release its first mixtape, "EMP Mixtape Vol.1: We the Extra," across digital platforms on September 21 at 6 p.m. KST.

EMP is a hip-hop unit produced by Matthew and Gunwook themselves. Its name comes from "electromagnetic pulse," reflecting the idea of creating a space where, like the moment an EMP cuts off surrounding sound, only the duo’s music remains.

The mixtape contains four tracks: double title tracks "EMP" and "Pina C," alongside "Woofer" and "In your rain."

Matthew and Gunwook participated in writing, composing and producing all four tracks, giving the project a musical identity shaped directly by the two members.

"EMP," which shares its name with the unit, combines hip-hop and pop with a restrained structure and forceful rhythm. The track draws on the pair’s own experiences, addressing the drive to continually prove themselves and push beyond their limits through rap and an explosive sound.

"Pina C," meanwhile, shifts into a more relaxed direction with a moombahton-driven rhythm and atmosphere reminiscent of time spent by the beach. Its lyrics center on the idea that even within the rush of the "concrete jungle," being with the right person can make anywhere feel like a vacation.

The mixtape marks the beginning rather than the end of EMP’s unit activities. Matthew and Gunwook have already confirmed plans to release a digital single in November.

Alongside the mixtape’s release on September 21, ZEROBASEONE EMP will unveil a sketch film for "Pina C" through ZEROBASEONE’s official YouTube channel at 6 p.m. KST.