MONSTA X Dreams Big On New English Album, THE DREAMING
MONSTA X has quite a busy schedule as they wrap up 2021. Fresh off of their Korean comeback with No Limit, the group has released their second English language album, THE DREAMING, featuring 10 new songs including their R&B-pop hit “One Day” and the new single “You Problem.” With credits from a wide variety of producers and their signature lyrics, the group sings about their aspirations and dreams through beautifully crafted pop gems.
Tracklist
One Day
You Problem
Tied to Your Body
Whispers in the Dark
Blame Me
Secrets
About Last Night
Better
Blow Your Mind
The Dreaming
“You Problem”
Derived from the popular internet phrase, “You Problem” is a funky pop song about being available for wherever life takes you. The song starts off heavy with a pulsating bass, instantly making the track an earworm. The falsetto in the second half of the chorus is no surprise for seasoned fans. Different parts of the song showcase the group’s well-rounded vocal ranges. The song is a dance floor-ready banger as portrayed in its accompanying music video, with the potential to become a TikTok trend.
Set in a retro bowling alley, the music video is filled with vibrant colors. From the neon in the set, the members’ outfits, the glitter in the backdrop, and the group’s groovy dance moves, the music video matches the song’s witty yet sweet energy. Watch MONSTA X as arcade workers turned into sleek performers in the music video for “You Problem” below!
B-Sides
The album opens with the previously released single “One Day,” a mid-tempo track with R&B influences. A track about looking back at moments that have passed and gaining a newfound appreciation in retrospect, “One Day” does a wonderful job of setting the tone for the rest of the album. After “You Problem,” the album flows into “Tied to Your Body,” a Spanish guitar-assisted track. The groovy anthem is all about being a little too attached to someone because of not being able to see them regularly, a classic scenario that many listeners can relate to, especially in the recent time of self-isolation and social distancing.
“Whispers in the Dark” is a magnificent city-pop song that slows down the album without losing momentum. Starting off quietly, the song incorporates the lyrical themes into its sound by creating an eerie atmosphere. The track was produced by British producer KIN, who has written songs for the likes of The Chainsmokers, Lewis Capaldi, and Calum Scott. “Blame Me” is MONSTA X’s take on the pop-rock genre. The members’ smooth vocals paired with the electric guitars and drums amplify the anthemic sound of the song. Interestingly, the drummer and lead guitarist on the track has worked with several country singers like Dan + Shay and Carrie Underwood. Featuring sensual lyrics, the song is about longing for someone who has moved on.
The sixth track on the album is "Secrets," their third song titled “Secrets.” MONSTA X really do not want to share their secrets, nor do they want to hear about yours. On the latest “Secrets,” the group is singing about their attempt to reignite an old flame. They admit that their previous attempts were complete failures, but since the attraction exists, it’s worth another shot. “About Last Night” is a funky pop song that has the potential to be their next single from the album. In the same realm as “You Problem,” the song is about a hazy night out around the city. “About Last Night” tells the tale of bar hopping, staying out late, and enjoying time with friends, but being unable to recall anything the next day.
The only song with an explicit tag on it, “Better” is a snappy pop song. The track highlights the members’ vocals as they sing about aiming to get better thanks to those who support them through their journey. The f-bomb is justifiable as the song also shares their frustrations with themselves. “Blow Your Mind” is reminiscent of an early 2000s boy band pop tune. The disco beat in the chorus and punchy bass creates an instant throwback to the era of NSYNC and Backstreet Boys.
The album closer is one of MONSTA X’s most beautiful tracks to date. “The Dreaming” is a slow ballad accompanied by glimmering piano chords. It closes the album in a calmer and hopeful mood. The group opts for a softer tone that builds up to a powerful outro. The song features some of the most beautiful lyrics of the album, such as, “Is finding the gold worth losing the rainbow? / The colors are there / Are they the same though?” leaving a message that reminds listeners to cherish the beautiful things we have.
Landing several pop radio hits from their English discography, MONSTA X is one of the most successful crossover acts on U.S. radio. With simple pop production on All About Luv, their songs garnered a unique ubiquity on American radio. With THE DREAMING, the group can continue to build up on the success of All About Luv. Their latest album is a perfect follow-up to their previous English record as the group grows in their lyrical and sonic style. Check out the album on streaming services as well as catch The Dreaming movie in a theater near you.