EXO-SC Returns with 1 Billion Views - The 1st Album
Almost a year after their debut, EXO-SC has returned with their full length album, 1 Billion Views - The 1st Album. Perfectly fit for the summer season, EXO’s darling duo of Chanyeol and Sehun brings eight brand new songs to their lineup for fans to enjoy for a long time to come.
Tracklist:
Title: 1 Billion Views feat. MOON
Say It feat. penomeco
Rodeo Station
Telephone feat. 10cm
Jet Lag
Fly Away feat. Gaeko
Nothin’ (Chanyeol solo)
On Me (Sehun Solo)
1 Billion Views (Instrumental)
“Telephone”
In the lead up to the release of the album, EXO-SC came out with the fun pop/hip-hop track “Telephone” featuring 10cm. “Telephone” is laid back in chill, vibe, and sound, but has this bouncy and addictive quality that is an instant mood booster. However, despite its smooth vibe, “Telephone” is a song that speaks of the love-hate relationship that many have with their telephones. In the day and age of technology and media, more now than ever, so many people are constantly glued to their phones to the point that it almost becomes another limb attached to their bodies. Oftentimes many are so absorbed in their phones that relationships sometimes get caught in the crossfire. Sehun and Chanyeol can’t help but hate how the person who they are interested in is so attached to their phones, it feels like they come second to the mobile device. The duo feels like they are so hung up (no pun intended) on staring and waiting for a response, whether it be through the phone or in person. The music video for “Telephone” does an excellent job of bringing the meaning of the song to life, often showcasing how both Sehun and Chanyeol are frustratedly waiting around for something to happen. Yet despite all the frustrations, the duo can’t help but jump up at the opportunity as soon as a notification comes in—something that many can relate to.
“1 Billion Views”
Taking on a funky and groovy beat, “1 Billion Views” is a colorful mesh of R&B and disco pop. As their title track from the album, “1 Billion Views” is another laid back summer song that is chill and easy-going. “1 Billion Views” is the type of song that many should be playing while going on those summer drives or hanging by the pool on a cool summer night. The song is focused on how both Sehun and Chanyeol simply cannot get their person of interest out of their minds. Just like a favorite song or music video that is constantly put on repeat, Sehun and Chanyeol surely cannot get enough of their person whether it be in the flesh or just having them on their thoughts. The music video is a hodgepodge of colors, neon lights, futuristic augmented reality special effects, and 90s fashion all in one. There is so much going on with the music video that it’s hard to keep up; however, Sehun and Chanyeol still remain the focal point and it’s undeniable how great they look in the different sets. There are also glimpses of the choreography for “1 Billion Views” throughout the video, which also sparked the #1BillionViewsChallenge on social media. Not only featuring on the title track itself, solo artist MOON also makes an appearance in the music video, giving “1 Billion Views” that extra cherry on top.
The rest of the album keeps to the chill and smooth vibes that “Telephone” and “1 Billion Views” have. While it isn’t the fast-paced, high energy summer releases that fans are used to hearing around this season, EXO-SC throws a refreshing perspective into the mix. 1 Billion Views - The 1st Album is unique and upbeat in its own way—fans will truly appreciate the blend of tropical, R&B, and pop sounds that this album offers. To add, EXO-Ls are treated to solo songs from the duo, with their own mini music videos that were released as teasers for the album release. All in all, EXO-SC brings a solid album for this summer’s lineup of releases. For those who haven’t given it a listen, it’s not an album to be passed up on.