Hrtz.wav Explores Youth in Debut Album 'The First Wave' — Album Review

Genevieve Torkornoo Contributing Writer at TINYGMUSIC | April 9, 2026

On April 8, 2026, five members of hrtz.wav officially debuted with their first mini album, The First Wave, released under Kakao Entertainment.

Formed through Mnet’s band-making survival show “Steal Heart Club”, with CNBLUE’s lead vocalist and guitarist Jung Yonghwa as a judge, the group features a multinational lineup: Keiten (guitar), Hagiwa (drums), Dane (bass), Riaan (vocals), and Young-jun (keyboard).

Hrtz.wav draws inspiration from pop-rock, alternative, and modern rock, with each track recorded with live instrumentation, emphasizing their musical authenticity.

The First Wave explores themes of growing up, including heartbreak, love, and nostalgia.

The title track, “NINETEEN,” features warm synth layers and refreshing guitar riffs, expressing enduring love for a past partner reminiscing both joyful and bitter feelings. It captures the nostalgia of being nineteen, a pivotal age between youth and adulthood. Co-written by all five members, the lyrics highlight love that persists through separation and change. Notably, the song includes Japanese lines, reflecting the group's diverse cultural background.

“Dream” follows with energetic warmth and a melody driven by the high of affection. Its tender lyrics convey the excitement of unrequited love and dreams of potential futures.

“Highlight” adopts a harder modern rock sound, examining the emotional aftermath of a breakup not from despair, but from a measured move toward resolution.

“I AM SO FINE” stands out with stylish, upbeat guitar work, dynamic drums, and groovy bass lines, contrasting with lyrics of denial and numbness following heartbreak. It explores the tendency to insist on being fine after losing a loved one, despite the pain and void left behind.

“Outta My Mind,” a collaboration between Riaan and Dane, portrays the vulnerability of a first love through dreamy, heartfelt lyrics. It reflects the excitement, anxiety, and endearing awkwardness of new love.

The closing track, “Close To Me,” combines alternative guitar textures with modern elements, describing the rush of falling hard too fast while trusting in mutual affection.

Throughout The First Wave EP, hrtz.wav showcases their musical skill from instrumentation to vocals and their cohesive artistic identity. Their relatable lyrics and shared youth draw many fans, establishing a strong foundation for future growth.

Stream hrtz.wav’s title track “NINETEEN” on all streaming platforms.