Monsta X are a group to be reckoned with. Every album they release only seems to get better and better at showcasing their talents. Last year alone, they dropped one of the first all-English albums, All About Luv, had an insane Korean comeback with Fantasia X, and just when I thought that was my favorite Monsta X album, they dropped Fatal Love in November (which earned a top 3 spot on my favorite albums of the year list). Each of these albums were vastly different in concepts and sounds. They really showcased their versatility and willingness to experiment. One Of A Kind is their recent venture and it, once again proves that Monsta X is willing to do anything and still pull it off.
With 6 original tracks and 1 Korean Version of a previously released Japanese song, One Of A Kind follows the path of their last album, Fatal Love. It's rather sensual and sexy. The songs (aside from the title track, Gambler) are more low-key and explore their softer, sexier side. This was something they started to do on Fatal Love but One Of A Kind really hones it in. It almost feels like a continuation from that record.
Heaven and BEBE are borderline acoustic love songs that have some nice vocals over some sweet instrumentals. The former features nice raps, delivered by none other than Joohoney and I.M. They feel perfect in this song despite it being a more low-key track and are certainly a stand-out in this record. BEBE is a love song dedicated to their fans, Monbebe, that is full of sweet lyrics to make any fan swoon.
On the more... Sexy side of this album we have Addicted, Secrets, and Rotate. Addicted features some insane harmonies over a dark instrumental. But while the rap parts in Addicted are the stand out for me, the vocal line really shines on Secrets and Rotate. Secrets is an all-English song that features a groovy 80's beat and very sensual lyrics. This song really captivates you with the vocal lines catchy choruses and beautiful verses. Rotate is in the same vein as Secrets in that it's down to make you blush. It's got a groovy bassline and the chorus has some intense vocals from their powerhouse vocalist, Kihyun.
The title track, Gambler, is where it's really at though. This song opens the record and not only is it a great introduction to the record with some sensual raps and vocals, but it's the pinnacle of what these guys are capable of. This song has rocker vibes with some heavy guitars and a heavy beat. This is a concept they haven't really experimented with before, but they feel at home here I think. Their vocals really shine here, especially Kihyun who has some great melodies in the chorus, and Joohoney who actually delivers a crazy high note at the end. The raps also are on another level here too with the rap line delivering some of their smoothest verses yet. This is one of their top title tracks. Period.
One Of A Kind is certainly full of sex appeal but it also shows Monsta X's versatility. There's nothing these guys can't do and this album proved it. One Of A Kind is not only a stand-out in their insane discography but it's definitely a stand-out release from this year. Monsta X is truly a powerhouse of K-Pop and are to be reckoned with.
Watch the music video for Gambler below and check out One Of A Kind on your preferred streaming service!
Comments