Review
Alright, friends, let's chat about EXO's absolutely magnetic "OBSESSION," which burst onto the scene back on November 27, 2019. This sixth studio album arrived at a truly intriguing moment for the group, showcasing a super distinct six-member lineup while some of their stellar members were off on military service or conquering other corners of the globe. The title track, "Obsession," is a pure, unadulterated shot of hypnotic beats, thanks to Dem Jointz, and it slinks through your ears with a theme so deliciously focused on the very idea of obsession itself. This record was a pivotal chapter in their magnificent story, even being the last to feature a Chinese version of that intense title track.
Musically speaking, "OBSESSION" is an absolute sonic playground, a brilliant tapestry woven with threads of hip-hop, R&B, and pop, just *screaming* versatility from every single track. Songs like "Trouble" throw down wild, space-age basslines mixed with strings, exploring duality in a way that just begs for a dramatic slow-motion walk. And "Groove"? Oh, honey, it’s got this delightful South American flair that makes you wanna sway, perfectly complementing Baekhyun's unbelievably smooth vocals. Coupled with the R&B prowess of "Ya Ya Ya" and "Jekyll," plus the shimmering pop elements found in "Butterfly Effect" and "Baby You Are," the whole package feels fantastically cohesive and polished. This record is an intense, compelling journey, keeping EXO's crown firmly in place as K-pop's fearless innovators. - Starla
