Since their debut in April 2023, the emerging multicultural K-Pop girl group, X:IN, has captured the attention of fans worldwide. The five members, E.Sha, Nizz, Nova, Hannah, and Aria, hail from various countries, including South Korea, Russia, and India.
Less than a year after releasing their debut mini album, SYNCHRONICITY, X:IN has returned with their second one, THE REAL. In conjunction with its title, E.Sha, Nizz, Nova, Hannah, and Aria present raw, honest versions of themselves, revealing the positive moments and difficulties they faced during their time as trainees and their transition into fame.
Exuding high energy and confidence, X:IN brings the heat with their title track, “NO DOUBT.” This electrifying pop song infuses ear-catching trumpet with bass and heavy beats, creating an enticing instrumental to compliment X:IN’s vocals. As they establish themselves within K-Pop, the group is more assured than ever. Sending a clear message to those who criticize them, they are here to stay and will not listen to anyone who doubts their skills. “Once again, I’ll show you, X:IN is back, yeah (Shut it down) / You already know, the winner of this game,” X:IN sings.
The women are mafia bosses on a mission in the music video for “NO DOUBT.” They show their acting chops and astounding dance moves while going undercover to complete a top-secret task.
Before the mini album’s release, X:IN gave fans one of their new songs, “MY IDOL.” A bubbly, uptempo pop track, the members recount their dreams to become singers and pay homage to K-Pop groups that inspired them on their journey. They dropped names of numerous groups in the vibrant chorus, including BLACKPINK, BTS, Wonder Girls, SHINee, and more.
The performance video for “MY IDOL,” choreographed by leader E.Sha, ties more with the group’s individual backgrounds, leaning into many lyrics within the verses. The video shows old photos and video footage of the members when they were filled with dreams of becoming K-Pop idols. This coincides with the endearing lyrics describing their determination. Despite any fear or uncertainty about the future, the women diligently practiced and looked to other K-Pop artists for assurance that their dreams could become realities.
Arguably the most complex and vulnerable song on THE REAL, “WITHDRAW” has many intricate layers. The dynamic instrumentation gives it pop and electronic dance music elements, with enticing brass, drums, and record scratches. Connecting back to the sentiments in “MY IDOL,” there is evident inspiration from BLACKPINK on “WITHDRAW,” particularly with the vigorous percussion in the chorus. The members candidly expressed the mental struggles they faced during their start as artists. They experienced times of self-doubt and loneliness, questioning themselves and worrying if they would be received well. Although they will not forget these difficult times, the women want to withdraw from those feelings of uncertainty and forge a brighter future.
Moving in a different direction sonically, the tempo of the mini album subsides with “NEVER SORRY.” Since it has simplistic drum instrumentation, this stunning stripped-back pop song highlights X:IN’s vocals beautifully. X:IN reflects on the past once again, revealing they do not feel regret about leaving people who mislead them behind. They want to move forward, erasing any old wounds and keeping around those who believe in them and their dreams.
Unafraid to dive deep, address taboo topics, and delve into new sounds, THE REAL has a clear direction, showing a more introspective side of X:IN while having various sonic elements. Their honest lyrical direction and different takes on pop music provide a well-rounded mini album that allows listeners to learn more about the group and their expansive capabilities as artists.
This comeback of x:in is really dam good loved it worth to watch, I will definitely recommend it to the others.