Lee Eunsang gained recognition for being one of the members of former boy group X1. Following the unfortunate disbandment of the group, Eunsang returned to his company and started rebuilding his career from scratch. As one of the notable trainees from Brand New Music, Lee Eunsang released covers for renowned songs, released his first photobook, and had a solo fanmeeting which kept the fans in check with their idol.

After months, Eunsang is back to re-debut as an idol with his first single album Beautiful Scar along with a single of the same name.

The Single

“Beautiful Scar” is a contemporary ballad layered with darker synths and guitar riffs, which can instantly attract listeners with the first listen. The instrumental piece heard in the intro is set in a loop and continues to ring in our ears throughout. The alternating synths and instrumentals complement the artist’s coarse vocals and keep the song interesting to follow. As the title of the song hints, the lyrics talk about the beautiful scar left behind by a lover. The protagonist willingly submits himself to the lover despite the relationship being toxic. 

Collaborating with AB6IX’s Park Woojin for the single is indeed a thoughtful decision, as the artist’s rap verses complement Eunsang’s verses and prevent the song from sounding monotonous. The duo’s vocals also complement each other and add an additional flavor to the song. And by featuring an artist who is quite popular in the industry, it shines a broader light on Eunsang's debut by pulling in a bigger crowd.

The end result of the single shows the months of hard work and dedication from the artist and is greatly appreciated. With no second thoughts, “Beautiful Scar” is the song to emphasize Eunsang’s efficiency as a singer and solidify his debut.

Music Video

The music video blends well with the single and brings out an artistic representation of the theme. The video is serene with pleasing visuals but also sharp with on-point, sleek choreography. Eunsang as the protagonist appears ethereal with his flawless looks and bright blue hair. The video brings in the symbolism of butterflies as they symbolize resurrection, endurance, and hope. In various shots, the butterflies are set in specimen collection boxes and Eunsang is found amidst the butterflies. The singer is probably the one among the butterflies to be displayed. 

Woojin’s appearance in the music video is sure to delight fans as the duo share a beautiful senior and junior chemistry on screen. Woojin is also amongst the collection of butterflies and later guides Eunsang by pulling him out of the specimen box. 

Eunsang, known greatly as a performer, gets to show off his elegance as a dancer and steals the show with his intense acting. Though the video does not show much of the choreography, the sneak peeks give the fans something to look forward to with his choreography video and promo stages. With piercing glances, the singer knows exactly how to draw the audience’s attention and holds his fans in place with his unavoidable charms.

The Album

The second track of the album, “Mirage,” continues to deliver the melancholic tone of the album. The song showcases more of the singer’s elegance as a balladeer and his refined vocals. The R&B song talks about the uncertainty of loving a person as the lyrics compare the lover to a mirage. The vocals and husky whispers of the singer tingle in the eardrums and give a blissful experience while listening. 

“I Just Wanna Sing” can be read like a heartfelt message from Eunsang to his fans as he confesses, “I just wanna sing,” and does not need anything else. The lyrics instantly remind us of the hardships the artist faced during his post-X1 days. “I just wanna do it, I just wanna sing,” continues the singer, emphasizing on his deepest desire. The entire song and its lyrics are sure to be a tear-jerker to fans who have been following his work since his pre-debut days and they can open up new listeners who aren’t familiar with his work. 

Final Thoughts

The album is indeed a beautiful work and has served more than what was expected. Eunsang has grown incredibly as an artist, and his will to fight against the odds is sure to inspire many. Hopefully the single album reaches the right audience and gets the limelight it deserves.

The single “Beautiful Scar”: 9/10

The Music Video: 9/10

Have you listened to Lee Eunsang’s latest album? If you haven’t, make sure to check it out!