REVIEW: COOKING LIKE A CHEF IT’S A “5-STAR” ALBUM

위인전 (Hall of Fame)

This song serves as the perfect intro for an album that is all about ambition and leaving a permanent mark. It speaks of the wish to leave a legacy that will inspire others, the same way they have been inspired by those that came before them. They already see themselves in this “Hall of Fame”, but at the same time it is a work in progress, something they keep working on, a never-ending journey of self-improvement; in other words, their biography, as the title in Korean indicates (위인전). The sci-fi-like atmosphere created by the music and the beat of this song produces the image of a spaceship going at the speed of light on an interstellar journey, with the crew, Stray Kids, fighting through the obstacles, but with the confidence that they will reach their destination. 

특 (S-Class)
This comeback’s title track, “S-Class” is once again a perfect representation of the group. It is chaotic, messy, and has a mix of seemingly conflicting sounds and styles, which is reinforced by the collage of scenarios in the MV (music video). It has all the power to leave the audience stunned, but it is sewn together so masterfully that it works. This is their genre, the unique sound they have created, and their message, like themselves, shines through once again. They see themselves as the most special star in the sky, the odd one, shining from the inside and spreading their light. At the same time, they encourage their fans to do the same, to “be the one who shines, instead of chasing after what is shiny”, as HAN concisely declares during the second verse of the song. The title as well reinforces the group’s ethos, both in Korean, as 특 means ‘special’, and in English, where the ‘S’ stands for ‘special’ and is also reminiscent of the highest grade awarded in Japanese universities, a symbol of excellence achieved through perseverance and hard work.

ITEM

Next up is this song that brings nostalgia with sounds reminiscent of vintage arcade games. The group compare themselves to Pac-Man, stating metaphorically that they can deal with everything and eat the world. However, while Pac-Man may need special items to reach the top score, Stray Kids are their own item, self-reliant to bring themselves from humble beginnings to the very top where they shine. This is an energising song to raise self-esteem, sending the message that one can be good enough on their own without the need of boosters. It is highlighted in the chorus with the line “Item-dependent? I’m self-dependent”, and driven home by their powerful delivery through the use of plosive sounds, and the contrast with the beautiful tones and soft melody of the pre-chorus. 

Super Bowl

“Super Bowl” is a song that is full of flavour. Not only are Stray Kids reinforcing the notion that they are a group that does not conform to what is established, but they also establish themselves as masters in their innovative and assertive approach to music. They present their music as an exquisite culinary banquet, full of surprising flavours, textures, and freshness. This may be reminiscent of another very popular SKZ song, and for a good reason, because this song was supposed to be the original “God’s Menu”, that song being meant to serve as a follow-up. However, the group decided to keep “Super Bowl” simmering for a few years until the time was right to release it. That time has come and the result is this superb dish, full of complexity, mature undertones, and enhanced flavours; made extra special, considering this is the first original song in English in any of their albums.  The fierce delivery, the impact of the lyrics, and the playful effects of the verses sung in unison or in whispers make this a truly addictive and goose-bump-inducing song.