When news first started surfacing about Red Velvet’s Irene and Seulgi coming together for a subunit, fans could hardly contain their excitement. After initially getting their debut pushed back a month, the highly anticipated duo has finally released their first mini-album titled Monster - The 1st Mini Album.

As the first subunit of Red Velvet to make their debut, it comes as no surprise that these ladies were going to bring the heat this summer. For those who are more keen on Red Velvet’s “velvet” R&B-influenced style and sound⁠—this album is just for you. Irene and Seulgi come together to bring a much more sensual and mature sound that we don’t usually get to see for Red Velvet’s title tracks. 

Tracklist: 

1. Monster 

2. Diamond 

3. Feel Good 

4. Jelly 

5. Uncover (Seulgi Solo) 

”I’m a Little Monster

Prior to the release of “Monster” fans were treated to stunning teaser photos and videos which only upped the anticipation for the release. Despite their debut getting pushed back a month and the music video being released a day after it was supposed to, fans finally rejoiced at the launch of “Monster.” Irene and Seulgi did not come to play as they bring a sensual and sexy dance track that leaves a lasting impression thanks to it’s R&B and slight jazz-influenced sound. There is an alluring quality to the song that pulls in fans the more it’s listened to. Irene and Seulgi know the power they hold and the lyrics are a huge statement about how they are in control and know that fans and listeners won’t be able to escape. “Monster” is haunting and dark but there is an addictive quality to the song that it’ll be hard to resist for quite some time. 

It comes as no surprise that Irene and Seulgi would bring a glam-yet-spooky music video. For those who are avid fans of their previous videos like “Bad Boy,” “Psycho,” and “Peek-A-Boo” this falls right into the haunting and chilling style they have come to make a signature concept for themselves. Both members are also dressed to the nines, often donning dark and sleek outfits but also throw in a bit of sweetness with more innocent white dresses. But despite the sweet look, the monsters within themselves lurk deep in the shadows, waiting for their turn to come out when you least expect it. Fans get glimpses of the choreography for “Monster” which is elegant yet raw at the same time. As “Monster” has dark underlying tones, the choreography does not fail to show a much more rough choreography that we don’t often get to see the girls do. At one point in the music video, if you’re paying close enough attention, the monster version of Irene makes an appearance, which further emphasizes the sinister and dark song. 

The Album

Irene and Seulgi do not disappoint with the rest of their debit mini- album. The mini is primarily R&B-focused as the songs keep to the sensual and dark vibe that “Monster” gives off. “Diamond” is considerably their best B-side off the album thanks to its smooth and velvety sound and is very reminiscent of their previous tracks “Be Natural” and “Automatic. But for those who need a light and airy vibe, “Jelly” is the perfect summer track, instantly making it the mood booster of the album. That’s not all! As a bonus track for the album, fans are also treated to Seulgi’s solo song titled “Uncover” which is an R&B ballad that concludes the album like a lullaby thanks to its sweet and relaxing sounds. Although there is no solo track from Irene on the mini-album, in the hopes that the Irene and Seulgi subunit returns, there is hope that Irene will also get her moment to shine in the future. 

In all, Seulgi and Irene offer a satisfying album from beginning to end. It’s curious to see what these ladies have in store as a duo unit in the future, but there is hope that the next album will be longer and even better. As a unit debut, Irene and Seulgi are a force to be reckoned with and leave a lasting impression. For those who haven’t given Monster - The 1st Mini Album a go yet, it is highly recommended and well worth it from beginning to end.