K-Album Review: KAI- The First Mini Album by KAI

Vidhi Gosain, New Delhi

Kim Jong-in, better known as KAI, is the dancing machine of the Chinese-Korean boy band, EXO and a member of SM’s super-group SuperM. Although, he is better known for his dancing skills and amazing fashion sense, his solo debut took the industry by storm. His debut mini album, self-titled KAI, released last year, on November 30, 2020; exceeded the already high expectations of EXO fans. Each song in the mini album fits well with KAI’s sensual persona and clear-cut dance moves. He proved with this EP that he is truly an all-rounder. The EP consists of 6 tracks and falls under R&B genre.

Mmmh

The album starts with a certified banger Mmmh. Mmmh proved to be exactly what fans had expected of Kai. It has to be one of the most addictive songs of this decade without fail. The simple, yet charming tune of the song compels one to groove and sing along. Be it the addictive dance steps or the repetitive hum of Mmmh, this love song stands apart from the rest. Not only is the song addictive, the dance steps have got everyone on their feet trying to do the same!

Nothing on Me

This R&B track makes you want to scream, “I want nothing on me but you.” Kai, who is otherwise known for his rapping skills in the group, serves his amazing vocals on a golden platter. The song is backed up by heavy bass and matches perfectly with Kai’s simple vocals. Under 3 minutes, this song serves the listener with various vibes and emotions. The song talks about one getting intoxicated by the scent of the other person, and in all honesty, we can’t help but get captivated by this song.

Amnesia

This is an R&B and trap song that makes one fall in love. The song talks about our protagonist falling in love and, as the name suggests, forgetting everything of their past. The song often repeats the lyrics “can’t remember anything before you”, and honestly, I can’t remember any other love song before this one. The song is filled with beautiful and pure emotions and without any doubt revives the feeling of love inside the listener’s heart. Amnesia is filled with such heart-touching lyrics that one cannot help but fall for Kai’s vocals.

Reason

Reason is a personal favorite of mine. The song has a club vibe to it while sticking to the R&B theme of the album. The song is filled with groovy tunes, that once mixed with Kai’s moves, are just the best. It is the perfect song to listen to after you’ve had a heavy and tiring day. The song carries happy and fun feels throughout. The lyrics talk about the lovers searching for each other and at the end, becoming fascinated with one another. This song is proof that one can make you groove in 3 minutes.

 Ride or Die

The groovy and fun Reason is followed by the soft and emotional Ride or Die. The song has more of a dreamy feel to it. The song is comforting and would make the perfect song to dedicate to one’s significant other. The song would also sit perfectly on one’s night drive playlist, for it hits all the right points. The song is a compilation of some of the most beautiful lyrics, such as, “always be there”, and “we ride or die, until the end.” Ride or Die hit too close to the emotional hearts of people and when you listen to it once, it will be stuck in your head for a long while. The song is emotional in a very unconventional way, and its calming tune make it stand out among the rest of the songs in the album.

 Hello Stranger

Hello Stranger filled with its lyrical guitar tune and the sense of sympathy towards a stranger, makes for a perfect song to end the album. The song, as the name suggests, is about talking to a stranger and having the feeling of sympathy towards their lonely self, while at the same noticing how similar you are. The lyrics of the song are what makes this song hit too close to home, in particular-

“If there’s anything you want to say, feel free to talk to me, I’ll listen to you, this night is quite long

You can relax I’m like you

I pretend not to for a reason, Everybody’s similar

The noise of the city is that loneliness

Another melody created.”

The whole song oozes out the sense of being heard and the fact that although we are a bunch of strangers, there is something common in all of us. We all want someone who would listen to us, with whom we can share all our burdens, and that is exactly what this song is about. Throughout the song, Kai tells the stranger to tell him their story and leave their burdens with him, leaving the listener with a sense of companionship.

The whole album, without a doubt, is an absolute gem to listen to. Kai’s vocals compliment the R&B vibe of the album perfectly. With the excitement that people had for Kai’s solo, this album hit the bull’s eye. The album, in just mere 18 minutes, takes its listeners on a euphoric ride. Every second and every song in this album is worth listening to. It is safe to say that the dancing king didn’t let his fans down, but only added to the already high expectations. You can check out the tracks of the album on Spotify:

Tell me about your favorite KAI track in the comments below!