Jin, the BTS superstar, has finally released his first solo project Happy, an EP that blends his love for rock music with heartfelt gratitude for his fans. This six-song project reflects his journey of personal growth, joy, and love, allowing listeners to experience Jin’s versatility as an artist.
The album's opening track, "Running Wild," co-produced by Gary Barlow of Take That, is an electrifying blend of new wave and British rock, showcasing Jin's vocal range as he moves between soothing lows and soaring falsettos. The song captures the theme of chasing joy amidst chaos, with its upbeat energy and universal message, especially in the context of its cinematic music video. "Running Wild" stands as a powerful introduction to the album, and with its English lyrics, it has the potential to chart on mainstream radio.
The pre-release single "I’ll Be There," co-written with BTS's collaborator MAX, features an upbeat rockabilly vibe. Its comforting message, “I’ll be there for you,” speaks to both Jin’s ARMY fans and anyone who might feel isolated, making it an uplifting track about loyalty and love. The accompanying music video brings Jin’s warm and playful personality to life, highlighting his ability to connect with fans through genuine energy.
"Heart on the Window," a duet with Wendy of Red Velvet, is another standout. This new wave-inspired track features delicate harmonies and reflective lyrics about enduring love. The imagery of seasons changing behind a window adds a cinematic touch, underscoring the passage of time and the intimacy between the two vocalists.
One of the album's more intense tracks, "Another Level," dives into a harder rock sound. It uses gritty guitars and anthemic builds to explore personal growth, drawing inspiration from leveling up in a game. Despite its raw energy, the song carries an inspirational message, urging listeners to not be afraid to face challenges and keep moving forward.
"Falling," a collaboration with Taka and Toru of the Japanese band ONE OK ROCK, combines J-pop, modern rock, and pop elements. The song is rich in texture, with a catchy whistle motif and Jin’s powerful vocals at the forefront. The chorus captures the intensity of deepening love, while the intricate guitar work adds layers to the song, making it one of the most dynamic on the album.
The final track, "I Will Come to You," is a heartfelt ballad written by Jin for his fans, expressing gratitude and a promise of reunion. Its minimalist piano arrangement allows Jin’s vocals to shine, making it a poignant conclusion to the album.
In Happy, Jin has successfully blended various rock influences with his personal story, creating an EP that is both sonically diverse and emotionally resonant. His collaborations with artists from around the world, including ONE OK ROCK, Wendy, and MAX, highlight his ability to experiment with different styles while staying true to his authentic voice. This album is not just a musical release but a testament to Jin’s growth as an artist, ready to share his joy and gratitude with his fans.
