MONSTA X's Infinite Expansion... Rewriting K-pop History on the Global Stage
MONSTA X, having made their mark by traveling the globe, is continuing to push forward with momentum. They have established themselves in the pop market through a world tour spanning 20 cities, appearances at the popular U.S. awards show '2019 Teen Choice Awards,' and performances at global festivals such as the 'iHeartRadio Music Festival' and 'Life is Beautiful Festival,' as well as collaborations with international artists like Steve Aoki and will.i.am, the release of English singles, and various TV program appearances. Having garnered attention beyond that of a typical noteworthy K-pop group, MONSTA X now announces a new beginning at the optimal moment.
In that sense, the new album <'FOLLOW' : FIND YOU> further carves out MONSTA X's identity. As they have delivered organically connected messages with every album, their philosophy and story of 'finding hope amidst loss and wandering' remain valid this time as well. Every song maintains a tight tension according to the flow, increasing the level of focus. In this process, the emotional stories told through music, videos, and performances—representing MONSTA X's universe—will gain more persuasiveness and serve as a catalyst to expand 'interest' into 'empathy.' <'FOLLOW' : FIND YOU> sings a story of not being alone through messages connected to previous works and the process of understanding one another.
Among them, the two title tracks of the same name, 'Find you' and 'Follow,' represent the two main pillars of the MONSTA X style. An efficient composition focusing on an excellent script enhances the immersion of the album. 'Find you,' a song that penetrates MONSTA X's universe, explores the theme of the members' bond connected as one across time and space, and the focus of the beginning allows for the album to be enjoyed as a single unit.
In particular, the title track 'Follow,' which boosts excitement with a fast rhythm, delivers a highlight by exploding emotions through a structured progression. Based on an EDM sound, it completes a unique and powerful atmosphere by harmonizing it with the sounds of traditional Korean folk instruments, while the shoulder-shaking moombahton beat and addictive chorus create a rushing sense of groove. It depicts the process of maturing by giving empathy to the team's narrative, and it can be called the most "MONSTA X-like" song, where music, video, performance, and universe are all connected. It was composed by hitmakers DANIEL KIM, WILLIE WEEKS, ANDREAS OBERG, and SKYLAR MONES, with contributions from popular lyricist Seo Ji-eum and producer/singer-songwriter Brother Su. Additionally, Jooheon and I.M participated in the rap-making, adding to the song's completeness.
The composition of the attractive sound is maintained without faltering. 'Monsta Truck,' which reflects MONSTA X's powerful image and composure, provides a thrilling pleasure, while the R&B tracks 'U R' and 'Mirror' form a sexy aura with groovy rhythms and choruses. It is also impressive how they have embedded rhythms that make one move their body throughout while creating a captivating atmosphere. The vibrant excitement continues in the hip-hop tracks 'Disaster' and 'Burn it up.' A harmony of clearly defined melodies and flexibility breathes power into the funky progression. Along with MONSTA X's signature sound that bursts cheerfully, the various compositions that leave a definite impact are sufficient to deliver peak charm. Overall, the album is structured to allow for multifaceted interpretations in line with the timeline of the universe built by MONSTA X.
The new album <'FOLLOW' : FIND YOU> continues to reveal their own style according to their own formula. And their distinct color is becoming the clearest at this very moment. By evoking empathy, they announce that the MONSTA X style has finally been completed—from the selection of themes and story development to the interpretation. Now is the time to pay attention to the new trends that MONSTA X, having become a powerful brand, will present.