One day, YooA opened her eyes to a little strange place. Now she’s setting out on her second solo journey, filled with upbeat, dreamy music. Back with her second mini album, SELFISH—sometimes mysterious, sometimes monumental, but always adorable and always utterly unique—we asked the idol about her new single and all the songs she keeps close to her heart.

“Selfish” (YooA)

YooA: The title track off SELFISH has this incredible, really catchy hook. We tried to make something with a different vibe from my last album and I think people will be able to tell I’m even more hip now. I love how the lyrics compare having an undefined relationship with someone who’s indecisive to a fish in a draining bathtub and I think many people will be able to relate to that part. I really like the bridge especially, where I repeat the words “zom zom zom.” It’s very unique. I think it sounds particularly original because I never tried something like that with my vocals before. You might even start singing along to the hook eventually—it’s that catchy!

“Melody” (YooA)

YooA: I’d like to recommend this song because it really shows off my dreamy vocals, which I think are my strength, and the way I hide a story within the lyrics to get people’s imaginations going. It’s like the sirens’ song tempting sailors: The low, repeating words and melody lull you into a deep sleep. I think this song will do the same. (laughs) I worked really hard on my vocals to bring out the mystery in the song and I think it worked, so I’m really happy with it! I think the charm of my voice really comes across in the few bars where I sing-rap in a deep voice.

“pov” (Ariana Grande)

YooA: I like this song because it’s like a lullaby that relaxes me and mellows me out. The lyrics are amazing, too. You can tell she’s honest and strong on the inside even though they’re sweet and comforting. I think that’s why I keep thinking about it. I can really relate to it.

“Anti-Hero” (Taylor Swift)

YooA: This song’s about not being able to fall asleep, the reason being being untrue to yourself, and that really hits home. I really sympathize with how honest and patient the lyrics are, and I felt like they were telling me I’m important and I’m loved, and that really brought me comfort.

“Life’s Too Short” (aespa)

YooA: I really love how this pairs soft singing with upbeat music. I think the lyrics are all really direct and show someone who stays true to themselves and isn’t swayed by emotion. I really like this song because it supports everyone as they walk down their own paths.

“The Seed” (AURORA)

YooA: I love this artist and I honestly love every single one of her songs. The reason I’m recommending this song out of all of them is because it’s her most raw and natural song. It reaches deep into your soul and isn’t missing a single thing.

“The Secret Garden” (AURORA)

YooA: I like listening to this song because it makes me feel like I’m having the most wonderful dream. It’s dreamy, sweet and comforting, but there’s something about it that’s mysterious, too—like it’s overflowing with emotion somehow—so it’s always stuck in my head.

“Blue” (YOASOBI)

YooA: It’s so fun and refreshing how this song’s actually based on a real story. I think the story within the song gives it a whole different kind of charm and power. I like listening to this one because it warms my heart but at the same time makes me feel melancholy.

“Mixed Nuts” (Official HIGE DANdism)

YooA: I really like how good the vocals are here. They cut right through all my negative emotions. I like to watch anime and I really enjoyed SPY x FAMILY, and this song’s the theme song to that show, so I liked watching it even more since I got to hear it every time! (laughs) The lyrics are really fun, too.