Gamble with MONSTA X on Their New Album, One Of A Kind
MONSTA X has returned with their very appropriately titled ninth mini-album One Of A Kind. The new album is a perfect showcase of how much MONSTA X has grown over the years, as they recently celebrated their sixth anniversary, and is supported by the catchy new single “GAMBLER.” The album also includes an all-English track, “Secrets,” and the Korean version of their hit Japanese single “Livin’ It Up.”
Let’s Talk Music
Tracklist
GAMBLER
Heaven
Addicted
Secrets
BEBE
Rotate
Livin’ It Up - Korean Version
“GAMBLER”
MONSTA X has gradually evolved and incorporated more mature themes with every new release, and in 2020 they seamlessly switched up their style with their third studio album, Fatal Love. Now with “GAMBLER,” they keep their hard-hitting signature sound, but mix it with sensual R&B sounds and equally sensual lyrics. The track was produced by JOOHONEY and co-written by I.M. This also marks the first time that a member has produced the group’s title track.
The song packs a punch with catchy lyrics and shares how they are willing to bet everything to gain the affection of their lover with clever choice of words. The music video is inspired by the James Bond movies and takes place at a secret auction. With blaring sirens, MONSTA X executes a heist, which further amplifies the power of the song and the guitar riffs heard in its composition. The guys perform sleek choreography at a fancy casino, donning sexy black suits. Check out the music video for “GAMBLER” below!
B-Sides
The album’s B-sides open with “Heaven,” a complete 180° from the title track. The song is a fun summer track where the boys want to glide through the clouds and fly away on an aimless vacation with their loved ones. This is then followed by the gritty R&B track “Addicted,” produced by hitmakers Alawn and VENDORS. Lyrically, the song describes how love is a double-edged sword and compares it to an addiction.
The fourth song on the album is “Secrets,” an all-English track with lyrics by Hyungwon. An easy-going track, it is reminiscent of songs from their album ALL ABOUT LUV. MONSTA X continues to exude their suave style on this ‘90s R&B-pop track assisted by jazz instrumentation. The album once again switches it up with the fifth track “BEBE,” a tribute to their loving fans, Monbebes. Another track by Hyungwon, the lyrics contain the desire to be together with their fans from Monday to Sunday.
The album’s original songs close with “Rotate,” written by the group’s maknae and R&B crooner, I.M. With suggestive lyrics, the track builds on a percussive beat, making room for a beautiful display of the group’s vocal talents. Last but certainly not least, MONSTA X brings back fan-favorite track “Livin’ It Up” to close out the album on a high note.
One Of A Kind is another step forward for MONSTA X, who are slowly becoming veterans in the industry. They are stepping into a more mature sound and style appropriate for a group of their stature, and their songwriting, sound, style, and visuals are stronger than ever before. They are also filling in a space left empty: mature sexy concepts among boy groups in K-Pop.
The album will be promoted by only five members as leader Shownu is on a mandatory medical hiatus due to an eye injury. Watch the debut live performance of “GAMBLER” below!