Stray Kids Pique Curiosity Again With “Rock-Star” EP

The popular K-pop group Stray Kids recently made their return with a new extended play (EP) titled “Rock-Star,” following up on the success of their previous three Billboard 200 number-one albums: “Oddinary,” “Maxident,” and “5-Star.”

“Rock-Star” is the first release since their third full-length studio album “5-Star” that came out in June. According to the group’s leader Bang Chan, they imprinted their unique colors with “5-Star” and want to show a new side of themselves as free souls through the tracks on “Rock-Star.” He invited listeners to discover an unconventional aspect of Stray Kids through the album.

Member Seungmin recommended experiencing both albums together as they revolve around the same motif of people who know how to enjoy life.

Mirroring the wordplays used in the titles of past hit releases “Oddinary” and “Maxident,” the Korean title for “Rock-Star” also combines a Chinese character for pleasure with the English word “star.” Notably, the character shares the same pronunciation as the genre of music and meaning of enjoyment.

When asked about their penchant for clever album monikers, member Changbin explained they aim to pique listeners’ curiosity. In his view, unconventional portmanteaus and homophones enhance the fun of music consumption.

The group derives such title ideas from everyday scenarios, sometimes sparking unexpectedly like during verbal games or after showers. Members then discuss and document proposed options. As Bang Chan noted, there are limitless ways to describe similar topics.

Comprising eight tracks including “Lalalala,” “Megaverse,” “Comflex,” and “Leave,” the in-house producer unit 3Racha consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin and Han authored the lead song “Lalalala” with its infectious refrain and rock-influenced sound.

Since debuting in March 2018, the eight-piece act has steadily expanded their influence in the K-pop sphere backed by a self-managed approach and impressive performances. In addition to attaining three chart-toppers, Stray Kids made history as the inaugural K-pop group to headline the Lollapalooza Paris music festival in July. Furthermore, they grabbed the Best K-pop honor at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards in September for title track “S-Class” off album “5-Star.” Stray Kids later embarked on a sold-out dome tour across five cities in Korea and Japan.

When asked about their appeal, Changbin credited fans for embracing their albums documenting unique stories and charms, pledging to continuously stick to their musical identity going forward.