[ARTICLE] Monsta X are ready to sink their teeth into 2019 [Q&A]
Imagine an alligator — its sleek, scaly body, glistening in the sun as water calmly skims over its back. It waits patiently, tempting anyone who dares to take a dip. The water is so enticing, so warm, why not test it? And in a flash, the alligator catches its prey in a swift bite, its target unable to free itself from its clutches. South Korean group Monsta X heralded their 2019 return with this concept in mind — perhaps an intense image for those unfamiliar with dynamic group. But for those who know them best, like their dedicated Monbebe fandom, it’s a fitting metaphor for the fierce septet.
In February, Monsta X, composed of rappers Joohoney (formerly Jooheon) and I.M., and vocalists Wonho, Shownu, Minhyuk, Hyungwon, and Kihyun, made their comeback with Take.2 We Are Here, a high-energy follow-up to October’s Take.1 Are You There? Within the K-pop scene, Monsta X are known for their unfailing duality — sleek and sensual one minute, and then explosive the next. Their signature sound is characterized by high-octane dance tracks, mixed with EDM, hip-hop, and trap. In short, Monsta X are a hypnotic, welcome assault on the senses that have made them stand out since their 2015 debut.
And as Korean music has only continued its spread in the West, Monsta X have only continued to sink their teeth in deeper. In 2018, the band embarked on their second world tour, released a mini-documentary with Gallant, and were the first Korean act to perform at iHeartRadio’s annual Jingle Ball. This year, they’ve released Take 2., which features “Play It Cool,” a collaboration with notable DJ Steve Aoki, are gearing up for a third world tour and will be the first K-pop group to ever perform at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas this September.
This may seem like a whirlwind of pressure, but to the group’s maknae (youngest member) and rapper I.M., it’s why he believes that this will be a defining year for Monsta X. I.M., who is the only member who speaks fluent English, spoke with EARMILK about Take 2., the nuances in Monsta X’s performances, the definition of K-pop, and the group's exciting year ahead.
Read full article at earmilk.com