Stray Kids' 'THIS & THAT' Album: A Personal Commentary on the Group's Evolution
Stray Kids, the K-pop sensation known for their maximalist style, has released their latest album, 'THIS & THAT', marking a significant shift in their musical direction. This album is a testament to the group's growth and their ability to adapt while staying true to their roots. Here's a deep dive into the album's tracks, with a focus on the group's evolution and the personal commentary that makes this album a must-listen.
'After You'
The album opener, 'After You', is a crossover attempt, sung mostly in English with some Korean raps. The track is produced by 3RACHA, The Monsters & Strangerz, and German, known for their clean pop stylings. While the euphoric EDM breakdown is designed to light up a live crowd, it feels too safe for a group that has built a career on sonic surprises. I think this song is a strategic move to appeal to a wider audience, but it lacks the unexpected twists that have become a hallmark of Stray Kids' music.
'I Do'
'I Do' is a reassurance song, a mid-tempo, rock-pop cut aimed at comforting listeners. The track showcases Bang Chan's Australian accent and Changbin's powerful vocals, especially in the line, 'You thought you had to hold it on your own/ But I feel it too'. Changbin's songwriting skills are on full display, as he crafts a song with a mix of English and Korean lyrics, a challenging feat for a non-native speaker. This song is a testament to the group's ability to create intimate and relatable moments.
'RUN IT'
As the album's anthemic opener, 'RUN IT' is a sweeping track with a brass arrangement and marching drums. It's a grand proclamation of the group's ambition, telling their story of taking on the world stage. The song's energy and message resonate with the group's work ethic and their desire to keep pushing forward. It's a perfect example of how Stray Kids can create anthemic tracks that speak to their fans and inspire them to keep running towards their dreams.
'Back Then'
'Back Then' is a late-summer song with a warm, unhurried, and slightly melancholy vibe. It has a distinct '80s tilt, which is a refreshing change in Stray Kids' discography. The track's length and nostalgic feel, written entirely by HAN, showcase his affinity for rock. This song is a perfect fit for the album's release date, capturing the essence of a late-summer day.
'FARMING'
'FARMING' is a unique and experimental track, borrowing gaming and internet slang to comment on hustle culture. The song's beat, assisted by Bang Chan, has a lurching, off-kilter bounce that recalls the creative eras of Missy Elliott and Timbaland. Felix's husky baritone delivers powerful lines, making the song even more impactful. This track is a testament to the group's willingness to take risks and explore new sounds.
'Way Out'
'Way Out' is an undeniable standout, blending electro-R&B production with trap beats and organic guitar strumming. The track showcases the group's musicianship, with Hyunjin and Bang Chan harmonizing on a quad-lingual line, later recreated by Felix and I.N. The bridge features a tender falsetto spotlight, creating a powerful musical statement. This song is a breath of fresh air in today's boy band landscape, emphasizing the group's obvious talent.
'This & That'
The title track, 'This & That', is a laid-back hip-hop song with a mumble rap vibe. Its repetitive hook, 'this or that, this or that', has the potential to become a viral sensation. The music video further showcases the group's creativity, with puppeteering and full-force choreography. This song is a testament to the group's ability to embrace restraint while still creating a catchy and relatable track.
In conclusion, 'THIS & THAT' is a remarkable album that showcases Stray Kids' evolution and their ability to adapt while staying true to their maximalist roots. Each track offers a unique perspective on the group's journey, and the personal commentary throughout the album makes it a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike. This album is a testament to the group's talent and their commitment to pushing boundaries.
