The past ten years of K-pop music have transformed the industry in unexpected ways. From chart-topping Billboard successes to headlining major music festivals globally, the K-pop scene now boasts some of the most impactful artists in contemporary music. Amidst this evolution, one group that has consistently stood out and deserves greater recognition is MONSTA X.
Making their debut in 2015, MONSTA X entered the K-pop arena during a crucial period. Although K-pop wasn't mainstream back then, the rise of new fans in 2015 gave the sextet an advantage as newcomers. Since then, Joohoney, I.M, Hyungwon, Shownu, Kihyun, and Minhyuk have experienced varied artistic lives, evolving from hip-hop and EDM innovators to seductive pop/R&B artists and energetic dance icons. Their latest offering, THE X, marks their first six-member mini album in four years, celebrating a blend of legacy and innovation while seamlessly integrating their signature style with new sounds.
Starting the album is the pre-release track, “Do What I Want,” an upbeat club anthem that fuses Brazilian funk with MONSTA X’s foundational hip-hop elements. The song, entirely written by the group’s rappers, Joohoney and I.M, maintains a high-energy vibe that encapsulates the members’ newfound independence and confidence earned over the decade. The catchy hook (“Them do what I, do what I want”) is memorable, but it's I.M's impactful line in the second verse that resonates with long-time fans: “But time has passed, and it’s already been over a decade / We never slack off, the six of us together are never afraid.”
Moving to the heart of the album, “N the Front” serves as an energetic rock/hip-hop declaration of MONSTA X’s stronghold in K-pop, boldly carving out their unique identity. This track is the only one that doesn’t feature any group members, crafted instead by Grammy-winning producer Dem Jointz, yet it still highlights MONSTA X’s strengths while introducing a new dynamic to their sound.
The opening phrase of the song, “Game change, switch it up,” underscores the group's commitment to refreshing their sound while staying true to their essence. Although there may be other tracks on THE X that could have qualified as title tracks, “N the Front” is still more than enough to keep fans engaged with its infectious energy.
Returning to their signature style, the next three tracks showcase I.M and Joohoney’s creative influence, with I.M also contributing to the writing and production of the third song, “Savior.” Featuring a strong keyboard motif, "Savior" stands out as one of the more sensual tracks on THE X, integrating bouncy future bass elements into its mix. This song allows vocalist Kihyun to shine with impressive vocal runs and is pivotal to the track's hook.
In a quest for emotional connection, MONSTA X expresses a longing for a past relationship, even one that may have been toxic. Joohoney raps, “Poison within poison, umm / I call it addiction” in his second verse, while reflecting on the bewitching nature of their ex-lover. The themes of obsession and desire are strong and unmistakably indicative of I.M’s artistry, recognized in both MONSTA X’s music and his solo projects. "Savior" perfectly sets the stage for the ensuing tracks.
The next highlight, “Tuscan Leather,” evokes a nostalgic ‘90s hip-hop vibe with a pop twist. If “Savior” was I.M.’s signature style, this track undoubtedly belongs to Joohoney. References to The Notorious B.I.G.’s 1994 classic “Big Poppa,” a playful record scratch, and the confident delivery of the memorable line, “One for the M, two for X,” all contribute to the song's charm, anchoring it in authenticity while paying homage to a pivotal musical era. “Tuscan Leather” masterfully blends nostalgia with a contemporary feel.
“Catch Me Now” marks MONSTA X’s comeback to a funk-driven sound they have previously excelled at, reminiscent of tracks like 2021’s “Gambler” and 2022’s “Love.” The groovy bass and the members’ harmonious vocals—especially from Minhyuk and Shownu—add a delightful nuance contrasting the album’s diverse style. Written by Seol Ree Moon, Joohoney, and I.M., “Catch Me Now” explores the theme of a dangerous love that is both desired and forbidden. I.M. introspectively raps, “How many times do I have to lose myself / If I’m your process, I’ll sacrifice everything,” describing the emotional conflict involved. “Catch Me Now” and “Savior” are two sides of the same coin, although the former feels slightly more polished.
The album reaches its finale with “Fire & Ice,” an exhilarating mix of
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The past ten years of K-pop music have been transformative in ways that were previously unimaginable. From chart-topping singles to headlining major events,