After a nearly four-year-long hiatus, adored K-pop group BTS released their latest album “Arirang” on March 20. The seven members, who completed military service during the hiatus, surprised fans with newer hip-hop sounds and a more rap-focused album. “Arirang” represents BTS emerging from their cocoon as stronger artists with more versatility.
“Arirang” brings a heavier hip-hop sound reminiscent of BTS’ style when the group debuted over a decade ago. With 14 tracks covering many sub-genres, and homages to their Korean culture, BTS gave their fans a look into the artistic direction they’re gearing towards in the future.
The album opens with “Body to Body,” a song that samples the traditional Korean folk song “Gyeonggi Arirang.” With a mix of modern production and traditional Korean lyrics, “Body to Body” conveys the feeling of longing for deep intimacy. Contrary to the superficial lyrics asking for skin-to-skin connection, the song represents connection without barriers.
The second track, “Hooligan,” showcases the talent of BTS’ rap line with an alternative hip-hop sound. “Hooligan” represents the recklessness and freedom of BTS with more chaotic energy. BTS lets fans know that they’re ready to come back as a group more powerful than ever, not caring about criticism from those who don’t understand. While the newer hip-hop sound that BTS has taken on signifies their return to K-pop, it’s a reminder of the constant misuse of African American Vernacular English and Black slang to convey themes of recklessness and chaos in the K-pop industry.
With AAVE misuse is a long-standing trend in BTS’ songs, fans on social media have expressed disappointment seeing the group remain stagnant in an area riddled with microaggressions.
The third track, “Aliens,” speaks to misunderstanding, xenophobia and racism toward the group as Korean artists.
As global stars with a large fan base in the U.S., BTS sings about still feeling like outsiders despite the success. However, instead of being saddened by those feelings of isolation, BTS leans into them and celebrates their Korean culture. With lyrics like “Show some respect, we aliens” and “Out of the East, the sun’s risin,’” it’s clear BTS is proud of where they come from.
Subsequent tracks “FYA” and “2.0” are upbeat and high tempo. “FYA” is more of a club remix with intense passion, while “2.0” sticks to the main genre of hip-hop with elements of trap. “FYA” represents BTS’ explosive comeback energy and “2.0” similarly talks about how BTS has returned as a new and improved version of themselves.
“No. 29,” the sixth track on the album, featured solely the fading sound of the Sacred Bell of King Seongdeok. RM, the group leader, explained that the song is meant to be a meditation break. However, it also demonstrates BTS’ focus on highlighting their Korean culture within their album.
“Merry Go Round,” “Normal” and “Like Animals” follow a similar theme as “Aliens,” where BTS opens up about the impact being global icons has on their mental health in a melodic, neo-soul subgenre. They sing about mental exhaustion, repetitive cycles, being overwhelmed and the dark side of fame.
“They Don’t Know ‘bout Us,” “One More Night,” “Please” and their title track “Swim” all feature lyrics more on the romantic side.
BTS sings about longing, desire, intimacy and devotion within a romantic relationship through R&B ballads and neo-soul.
“Arirang” closes out with “Into the Sun,” an alternative pop song that features an upbeat rhythm with unique vocal effects. The song is said to be a love song to their fan base, signifying resilience and hope through tough times.
Like the album’s overall theme of growth, “Into the Sun” closes the album with a reminder that BTS is still evolving and will continue to thrive.
