EXO’s Xiumin is back with his first mini-album ‘Brand New‘. This is his first solo release in a while, he had previously released a couple of singles and worked in a few OSTs. By the teasers and concept we are sure we are in for a surprise.
Let’s get right into it and listen to this mini-album.
Brand New
Opening up this release is the title track under the same name of this release. This song is all about bringing the 90s style and the old-school vibe. This single is catchy and a fun listen. The hip-hop style mix it is a total vibe, and as expected Xiumin delivers with his unique style and amazing singing.
The music video as the song shows a fun and very cool concept, Xiumin goes through several seasons, and even becomes a truck driver. The camera work and effects are super dope and make the feel of this song even cooler. Watch it below.
With a very surprising composition and style, ‘Feedback‘ plays. With this song we get a more EDM/synth driven track. The build up for the hook is amazing, and with each beat drop this single just get better and better. The synth throughout the track is a vibe and the singing just flawless.
Featuring NCT’s Mark, ‘How We Do‘ comes up next, as the title song, this single also shows heavy 90s vibes with a touch of modern beats. From start to end this song is a total vibe, Xiumin’s and Mark’s rapping is smooth, and the autotune addition was surprising and very refreshing to listen to.
On a more acoustic note ‘Love Letter‘ follows. This song is all about soft vocals and breathtaking instrumentation. The ballad is an absolute stunning and dreamy listen, the piano and violin orchestration is incredible and I loved how it is rather modest in its composition but absolutely heartwarming to listen to.
Closing this mini-album we get the single ‘Serenity‘, a soft pop song with a lovely melody. Xiumin’s singing for this track is soothing and effortlessly good. A perfect ending for a well-rounded release.
‘Brand New’ is a solid mini-album with wonderful music and an immaculate sound by Xiumin. Make sure to listen this non-skip release here.
