Monsta X Unveil Sophomore LP, ‘TAKE.1: ARE YOU THERE?’ & Drop “Shoot Out” Video

Mike Nied | October 22, 2018 12:19 pm
Monsta X Interview
We speak to K-Pop Kings Monsta X about their global appeal and new music.

K-Pop supergroup Monsta X take the next step on the path to global domination today (October 22) with the release of their sophomore album. Called TAKE.1: ARE YOU THERE?, the 10-track LP arrives following their second world tour, which featured seven stops across the United States this summer. The collection is also one of the group’s most ambitious to date as they explore a variety of genres and flex their writing and composition skills. They also opened up about their desire to continue connecting to their fans via their music. “We want to deliver the message that we are always with our fans,” rapper I.M (who composed “MOHAE”) explained in a press release. “We hope this album delivers a good influence to our fans, as it includes different genres of songs. This album is a compilation of intensity and mellow sounds.”

Since debuting in 2015, the group has been known for constructing intricate, conceptual worlds with their music. And their latest release is no exception. Built around the unifying message that “all wounds that have been made between Light and Dark, Good and Evil, and Life and Death are cured by love,” the LP covers a lot of ground. Leader Shownu also opened up about the septet’s emotions around the release. “We have high expectation with our new album. Everyone is a bit nervous now, as this is a new start with our fans, and we worked so hard for this album,” he said. “Every album is so precious for each musician and this album is even more precious for us as it’s our 2nd studio album.”

That’s not all though. Monsta X celebrated the occasion with the release of a new video for “Shoot Out.” The track’s blend of trap, rock, and melodic future bass makes it a high point on the project, and it has been described as central to the group’s message of “seeking salvation between loss and wandering.” The dark and brooding visual takes it to the next level. Featuring intricately choreographed routines, chic looks and some seriously striking effects, it is already shaping up to be a viral success. In just a few hours the track has racked up nearly 700,000 views, and #ShootOut trended worldwide on Twitter. If things continue at this pace, it seems safe to assume that TAKE.1: ARE YOU THERE? will make a strong showing on charts across the globe. Also, I wouldn’t be surprised if “Shoot Out” makes an appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 moving forward.

Things are only getting more exciting for the superstars. Next month they will become the first K-Pop act to perform on the Jingle Ball main stage with several appearances scheduled across North America. Appearing alongside the likes of Cardi B, Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello, Dua Lipa and more, they will be traveling in good company. While we wait for the shows to kick off November 30, check out the “Shoot Out” video above and stream the group’s new LP below.

Which song is your favorite on the collection? Let us know below, or by hitting us up on Facebook and Twitter!

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