As EXO members cycle through their mandatory military service, we’re getting more and more solo projects from the remaining members on the scene. As the eldest member of the group, XIUMIN took care of his service years ago, and fans have been eagerly awaiting his solo debut since then. Having followed EXO for over seven years now, it often felt like XIUMIN was one of the members that tended to not get much of the spotlight in general, especially in a group full of so much vocal talent. With “Brand New,” we get to see XIUMIN shining at his best.

Some fans were expecting a ballad from the singer, but we definitely got the opposite. “Brand New” is an upbeat pop track through and through, opening with a surprising hype rap line that sounds like a sample from a different song, but appears not to be so and just a generic opener. The song itself is more subdued in comparison, with a classic pop beat supported by XIUMIN’s vocals. If there was ever a question about his talent as a singer, this track shuts all that down, as his vocals shine brightly against the simple beat. The song does an amazing job of highlighting his vocal talents, and his voice is definitely the golden portion of this track rather than a complement to the complex beat. 

The video is shot as brightly as one may expect after experiencing the track. Lots of vivid colors and pastels make up the color palette of each set, with bright yellows and greens being the most frequent colors used. XIUMIN also showcases his dance abilities in the choreography alongside his backup dancers. Summer may be over, but this music video definitely elicits the feeling of that season.

Watch the video for “Brand New” below!

Edited by Rashelle B.