GO LIVE

Stray Kids’ first full-length studio album shows their continued growth, taking their rapping, vocal and production strengths out for an extended spin. The first four songs kick like a mule—the restaurant-referencing “God’s Menu” with its lick-shot “du-du-du-du” effects, the path-seeking “Easy”, the purposeful “Pacemaker” and the title track all highlight SK production unit Bang Chan, Changbin and Han’s (together, known as 3RACHA) keen ear for proper hip-hop aesthetics. The balance tips towards EDM on “Haven” and “TA”, while the group’s cheekier side (previously heard on tracks like “Get Cool”) makes itself seen on “Airplane” and “Mixtape : Gone Days”. As any parent knows, mood contrasts are normal at Stray Kids’ age; their catalogue reveals a mix of bangers and chill tracks (I.N and Seungmin’s sweet croon pressing up against Felix’s distinct low-end bass remains one of the more unique blends in K-pop). Stray Kids' sweet spot lies in the midtempo range (“Blueprint”, “Phobia”), songs full of raps and singable melodies. <i>GO LIVE</i> reveals Stray Kids as the young adults they’re becoming, possessed with boundless energy, determined voices and an impregnable vision of togetherness.