With each new digital single from NCT’s Mark, we get closer to the release of his long-rumored solo album. That album seems to be slated for next year, but he’s capping off 2024 with a collaboration with popular rapper Lee Youngji. Fraktsiya (프락치) means “fraction” in Russian and sees him experimenting with production for a showcase of his flow and charisma.

Mark’s singles have been pretty varied so far, but this is the most rap-focused track we’ve heard from him in awhile. Fraktsiya forgoes pop/rock hooks for a much more prickly sound and structure. There’s really no time to catch your breath as both rappers speed through the intense instrumental. The track opens nearly a cappella before the first dynamic stab of synth ushers us into a maelstrom of sounds. Fraktsiya grows more thumping and powerful before segueing into an ear-piercing interlude. Despite these changes, Mark never loses a beat.

Unsurprisingly, Lee Youngji makes for a great sparring partner. She’s immensely talented, bringing a complimentary energy to verse two. The duo come together for Fraktsiya‘s finale, though I’m not a huge fan of the song’s last few moments. The shout-chanting just feels like they weren’t sure how to end the track. That’s understandable, as Fraktsiya almost becomes too unwieldy to handle. Rather than a simple song, it feels like a force of nature.

Grade: B-