It’s been a year since BTS member Park Jimin’s first hit solo debut, FACE. Jimin has been known for his soft falsetto voice and captivating dance skills, which have greatly contributed to the popularity that surrounds the global sensation BTS.
If you haven't heard of BTS, they are a five-time Grammy-nominated South Korean boy group known for their diverse discography, which includes hit songs such as “Dynamite,” “Butter," “DNA,” and “Boy With Luv ft. Halsey." Most of their songs are in Korean, but recently they have been releasing songs in English, expanding their target audience. Currently, most members are enrolled in their mandatory two-year military service, so fans have been clinging to and seeking comfort from their previously released reality TV shows and albums.
FACE was an album that unveiled a different side of Jimin that his fans weren’t used to seeing. The album took its listeners through his journey of self-discovery, dealing with lingering emotions from the pandemic, and the different relationship stages. In one of the songs titled “Face-off,” Jimin also experimented with rapping, which he normally doesn’t dabble with. His fans and the group's fan base, ARMY, were eagerly waiting to see what he would release next.
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Apply NowWhat is MUSE?
MUSE is a 7-track, 19-minute-long album that is soothing and upbeat to listen to. MUSE takes its listeners on a beautiful journey of falling in love with someone. While FACE showcased Jimin’s darker side, MUSE displays his cheerful, upbeat personality.
“Following his first solo album, FACE, where he sought to explore his true identity, MUSE documents his journey in search of the source of his inspiration.'"
A statement from Jimin's label about his new release.
Image credit: VT Cosmetics from Wikimedia Commons
Rebirth (Intro)
"Rebirth (Intro)" sets a cheery and almost magical mood for the rest of the album. The intro opens with Jimin's sweet vocals and a pulse-like sound in the background, making the song even more pleasant to listen to. "Rebirth (Intro)" explores the feeling of having a new crush and wanting to be with them, capturing the deep longing, giddiness, and anticipation that come with deciding if you should confess your feelings. This song is one of my favorites on the album for its feel-good vibe.
Interlude: Showtime
“Interlude: Showtime” has a different feel compared to the previous song on the album. It opens with clown-like music and Jimin's soft vocals lightly humming in the background. Halfway through the interlude, a marching band becomes more audible, providing a nice transition into the next song, “ 'Smeraldo Garden Marching Band Ft.
Loco.” I was surprised at how much I loved this interlude. Most of the time, I skip over interludes, but this one was different.
'Smeraldo Garden Marching Band Ft. Loco
“ 'Smeraldo Garden Marching Band Ft. Loco” opens with the continuation of the marching band and the light humming sound from the interlude. This song is catchy and exciting to listen to.
The rap from Loco was a nice touch, as his deeper vocal tone complements Jimin's soft voice. I liked how heartwarming the lyrics are, and they can be interpreted in many different ways. One interpretation is a love song dedicated to Jimin’s fans, and another is about feelings for a crush deepening into love. The lyrics, “It all began on June 12, we gift happiness every day,” connect to my first interpretation because BTS had its debut showcase on that date. The end of the song is fun to listen to, closing with a dance break with the band playing in the background. This is also one of my favorite songs on the album because of it's feel-good energy.
Slow Dance Ft. Sofia Carson
“Slow Dance (feat. Sofia Carson)” differs from the previous songs on the album due to its R&B feel. The song explores the various emotions surrounding love, with a soft and gentle tone that makes it very soothing to listen to.
I loved how Sofia Carson's voice complements and matches Jimin's tone. Initially, I was perplexed by the idea of them collaborating on a song, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well their voices blended together.
BE MINE
“BE MINE” is another standout track on this album. It explores a different genre with its catchy Afro-beats in the background. Jimin's vocals make the song even more entrancing.
The contrast between his soft voice and the Afro-beats creates a compelling listening experience. In “BE MINE,” he sings about falling in love and the strength of his feelings.
WHO
“WHO” is the title track of the album and the only song entirely in English. It has to be my favorite song on MUSE because it was so unexpected from him. With its hip-hop and R&B influences, the song is upbeat and catchy.
It discusses the feeling of missing someone you've never met and longing for your other half wherever they might be. The message is easy to relate to, as many people have wondered who their future significant other will be. This song will make you want to get up and dance.
Closer Than This
“Closer Than This” is a previously released song that appears on this album. In this track, Jimin promises his fans that he will return to them after his mandatory military service ends. The song is dear to his fans because its lyrics express how much Jimin appreciates them and cherishes their journey together.
I loved how personal and well-thought-out the lyrics were. The lyrics in this song show how much he cherishes his fans and how important they are to him. Although it is more slow-paced, it remains a feel-good song overall.
Review
I loved this album, though I admit I am quite biased as a huge BTS fan. I enjoyed listening to the album and following the emotional journey of each song. I appreciated how Jimin experimented with different music genres while maintaining the magical feel and upbeat mood that started the album.
I would rate this album a 10/10 and recommend everyone give it a listen. Even if K-pop isn't typically your genre, I strongly encourage you to listen to this album because I guarantee you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
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