At 25 years old, MARK Lee has established a ten-year career characterized by relentless dedication. The Canadian rapper has been trained under the rigorous expectations of the South Korean music scene and has not experienced a year without at least two album releases, frequently balancing his roles in two active groups, NCT 127 and NCT DREAM.
Although he has released a few solo tracks previously, they only served as teasers and never fully quenched fans' insatiable desire for MARK’s introspective lyrics and poetic artistry. These initial songs heightened the anticipation for a complete project from one of the industry's most versatile artists. Having guided his fellow band members in the studio and adapted to every musical challenge since his teenage years, MARK's first full-length solo album is undoubtedly one of the most eagerly awaited releases in Korean music in recent times.
Now, with ‘The Firstfruit – The 1st Album’, he reveals a multifaceted and deeply personal collection that resembles opening a diary. The album follows the cities that have influenced him, starting from Toronto, where he was born; moving through his experiences in New York City; returning to Vancouver, which he considers home; and concluding in Seoul, where he shaped his career and artistic identity. Each of the 13 tracks connects to these locations, featuring smooth transitions and interludes that guide the listener through the journey.
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**First chapter: Toronto**
The Toronto segment begins with ‘Toronto’s Window’, produced by Code Kunst. This track is minimal and conversational, almost as if he is addressing the listener directly. The guitar melody is straightforward yet consistent, allowing his memories to take the forefront. He honestly reflects on the earlier stages of his life, viewing them not merely as a foundation but as experiences worthy of remembrance.
The lead single ‘1999’ builds upon this foundation, merging orchestral elements, falsetto singing, and an engaging beat. Co-produced with dress, the song references his birth year while delving into themes of faith and identity. There’s a confidence present that doesn’t seek to overpower but instead asserts itself gently and occupies its rightful place. The rhythm conveys a sense of simultaneous progression and introspection.
**Second chapter: New York City**
‘Flight to NYC’ signifies a transition, both in a literal and sonic sense. It’s brief, composed of string elements and ambient airplane sounds, yet it represents a significant shift in MARK's musical style.
In ‘Righteous’, MARK returns to his rap roots. The beat is powerful, and the flows shift rapidly, mirroring the song's themes. He raps about his involvement in two groups and navigating these worlds effortlessly. Fans may notice a pleasing resemblance to NCT 127’s ‘2 Baddies’ in the intro.
‘Fraktsiya’, featuring Lee Young Ji, is another rap-focused track, but it emphasizes chemistry over bravado. They exchange verses effortlessly, not vying for dominance but rather complementing one another's energies, which allows the song to succeed.
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**Third chapter: Vancouver**
Next comes ‘Raincouver’, marking the beginning of the Vancouver segment and one of the album’s standout tracks. The atmosphere noticeably shifts: the production becomes warmer and the vocal delivery softer. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, giving the impression of someone revisiting familiar places in the city.
‘Loser’ transitions from past experiences to personal reflection. Centered around an acoustic guitar, it embraces a sense of romantic disillusionment. The vocals are measured, the tone subdued, yet the lyrics pierce through with emotional clarity, capturing the struggle of wanting to exit a relationship while feeling uncertain about how to do so. The track possesses a paradoxical quality—raw yet simplistic, complex yet filled with pain.
‘Watching TV’, featuring K-R&B icon Crush, emerges as a high point on the album. The arrangement is minimal—consisting of piano and gentle vocals over a steady beat—but the intricacies within the song carry significant weight. MARK and Crush harmonize seamlessly, and the lyrics portray a relationship that is both cinematic and chaotic, referencing Thelma & Louise and Bonnie & Clyde. While the production is sonically impressive, it’s the lyrics that truly elevate this song.
**Fourth chapter: Seoul**
The Seoul chapter begins with ‘+82 Pressin’’ featuring HAECHAN, someone who trained alongside MARK before their professional careers and also a member of the same two bands. This strong partnership heightened fans' excitement for a collaboration, and they deliver on that expectation. HAECHAN's vocals are deeper and more raw than usual, with MARK also adjusting his delivery. Their dynamic is not overly polished; it feels natural, as if two artists familiar with each other’s styles effortlessly blend their sounds.
‘200’ revives the energy. Already known to fans as it was released prior to the album, it remains impactful. The track combines rock guitars with rapid, melodic vocals, alongside a swift, bedroom pop-inspired beat. The lyrics are clever
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At the age of 25, MARK Lee has established a career lasting ten years, characterized by unwavering dedication. The Canadian rapper honed his skills under the rigorous expectations of the South.