BTS Jin makes his solo return with his first solo album Happy and the title song Running Wild.
I am a day late with this review but I wanted to really give it my full attention and a proper review so Saturday post it is! I’ve been so, so excited for this album because Jin’s solo music is absolutely unmatched, in my personal opinion. His solo releases have always been my favourites, even during the group activities because how can you not respect a man who gave us Moon, Awake, and Epiphany? His pre-enlistment release The Astronaut has been on heavy replay ever since its release and I really think Jin’s solo music has something special in it – maybe it’s the britpop influence that appears in his latest releases, but it could also be his unique charm and vocal tone. Let’s dive into Running Wild and review the new album!
Running Wild seems like a direct continuation of The Astronaut when it comes to the melody and the genre. I was thinking how Running Wild immediately brought a massive wave of nostalgia with it, which then led me to dive deeper into who was behind this song – no surprise, Take That’s Gary Barlow and London-based songwriter Jacob Attwooll (who gave us some great Olly Murs bangers) are credited as the producers and I can absolutely feel the influence here. When Jin first started releasing solo music as part of BTS group projects, I thought that he might lean into the ballad sound more (which is a genre that suits him without a doubt) but he seemed keen on proving me wrong because I feel like this specific britpop influence he has going on might just be the perfect thing for him. His vocals, his energy, his charm work so well in songs of this genre and truly showcase him in the best light. Running Wild is nostalgic, wistful, full of melody, and late-summer energy, and as such puts you in such a special mood that I’m struggling to describe it properly. I thought nothing could top The Astronaut when it comes to that hazy, dreamy, evocative feeling and melody, but Running Wild might just be a new contender for the crown. From the verses to the chorus, paired with that stunning instrumental and an even prettier music video, Running Wild manages to really capture my emotions during its 3 minutes long run. Jin has found the secret recipe because I am going to obsess over this track for a while.
When it comes to the album, the song I was looking forward to the most was Jin’s collaboration with Red Velvet’s Wendy because I knew we would be in for a vocal treat. However, Heart on the Window somehow managed to exceed my expectations. Not only are both Jin and Wendy great vocalists, but they also manage to continue the nostalgic sound of the title so perfectly in this b-side. They harmonize so well with each other and I feel like they really know how to portray this type of sound perfectly. That harmonization after the second chorus? Might be my favourite thing of the month because it’s so dreamy. Heart on the Window is definitely a song that shouldn’t stay a hidden gem on the album because it’s fantastic. Another great track on the album has to be Another Level which brings a mysterious, dramatic atmosphere, switching the style up a bit. It took me by surprise and I recommend checking it out as well.
Jin continues to impress with his solo music and I hope it stays that way.
Header Image Source: Bighit Music