The Kraze

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Out of the ODDINARY with Stray Kids

J. Ventinilla

Kicking their 2022 into high gear, Stray Kids has returned with their newest album, ODDINARY. With their dark and rough-around-the-edges style, Stray Kids do not disappoint by bringing in the hype and noise with this latest comeback. Packed with seven brand new tracks as well as an upcoming world tour on the horizon, Stray Kids outdo themselves once again. 

Tracklist: 

  1. *VENOM

  2. Title: MANIAC 

  3. Charmer

  4. FREEZE 

  5. Lonely St. 

  6. Waiting For Us (Bang Chan, Lee Know, Seungmin, I.N) 

  7. *Muddy Water (Changbin, Hyunjin, HAN, Felix) 

*Author’s favorite picks

Embracing the Odd 

In the lead up to the release of the album, Stray Kids embraced their misfit selves in teaser videos and are proud that they don’t fit into a specific mold. In the case of ODDINARY (a play on the word "ordinary"), Stray Kids definitely drive in the point that they are not going to fit into the norm. From spiders and misfits to undercover secret agents, each teaser gave a peek into what is in store. 

Taking the helm as the title track, “MANIAC” is all about letting loose and not fitting into what society tells them to be. When out in society, we often put on a persona and hide our true selves and interests, especially when they are looked down upon. 

The music video does well to showcase a more “normal” side to the members, doing everyday tasks like going on a train or working/hanging out at a cafe. On the flip side, the real versions of them come out in a topsy-turvy, chaotic, and fun world. Sure, to others, they may come off as maniacs with a few screws loose in their heads, but at least they’re themselves and not aligning to society’s “status quo.” 

The rest of the album rides the signature noisy, loud, yet addictive sound that Stray Kids is known for, but there is a moment to breathe as well, to calm down the high energy album. Once again, Stray Kids outdo themselves and prove to be a force to be reckoned with. ODDINARY is well worth the repeat and it will be exciting to see how these songs come to life on tour coming soon! 

Edited by Aleena Faisal