Do What I Want: Monsta X’s 'The X' Is a Celebration of Music, Growth, and Fan Love

Monsta X’s 'The X' is a celebration of ten years of music, growth, and connection with fans. After a four-year break caused by military service, the group comes back as a full team, showing their energy, skill, and maturity. The album has six tracks: “N the Front,” “Fire & Ice,” “Do What I Want,” “Savior,” “Tuscan Leather,” and “Catch Me Now.” Each track has a unique personality and showcases the group’s range, from hard-hitting rhythms to emotional lyrics that fans can feel in every moment.

Since their debut in 2015 with Trespass, Monsta X has carved a space in K-pop as a group unafraid of experimentation. Known for combining aggressive hip-hop elements with melodic pop sensibilities, they quickly gained attention for their stage presence and tight group dynamics. Their discography reflects this evolution: from the dark, powerful energy of The Code to the reflective tones of Shape of Love, and even the daring move into English-language tracks with All About Luv in 2020, which positioned them on a global stage. Over ten years, Monsta X has maintained a careful balance between appealing to international audiences and staying true to their core identity, a balance fully realized in The X. This album is both a return to roots and a declaration of their artistic maturity.

The album opens with the title track, “N the Front,” immediately asserting Monsta X’s presence with a powerful drumline and pulsating bass that underscore the vocals and rap. The song blends high-octane energy with sensual undertones, creating a dynamic tension that pulls the listener in from the first beat. Each member has moments to shine: the raps deliver sharp, precise bursts of intensity, while the vocal sections soar, layered with harmonies that add emotional weight. The rhythmic arrangement is aggressive yet controlled, giving the track an edge that fans will likely recognize as classic Monsta X, while also hinting at a more mature sound. Lyrically, the song is confident and assertive, capturing a sense of empowerment that resonates with both the members’ experiences and their fans’ devotion.

“Fire & Ice” provides a stark contrast, taking listeners into a moody and introspective space. Atmospheric synths and syncopated beats create an almost cinematic tension, reflecting the duality suggested by the title. Vocals and rap weave together seamlessly, highlighting the group’s ability to convey emotion through rhythm and melody. Lyrically, the song explores vulnerability and the tension between desire and restraint, giving fans a glimpse of the more reflective side of Monsta X. The production is rich, with layers of percussion, melodic accents, and electronic textures that make the track feel both modern and timeless.

With “Do What I Want,” Monsta X turns up the confidence and playfulness. The track opens with an infectious hook, supported by driving beats that emphasize rhythm over melody, making it instantly danceable. The members’ rap verses are cheeky and assertive, and the vocals are layered in ways that highlight their chemistry. Lyrically, it’s a declaration of autonomy and self-expression, resonating particularly with fans who admire the group’s boldness and honesty. The combination of catchy phrasing, rhythmic syncopation, and playful energy creates a track that’s as empowering as it is fun, a reminder of Monsta X’s ability to deliver tracks that are both musically complex and widely appealing.

“Savior” shifts the tone once again, leaning into introspection and emotional resonance. Its slower tempo and spacious arrangement allow each vocal line to breathe, with subtle percussion and piano elements enhancing the mood. Rap sections punctuate the melody without overwhelming it, and the overall structure feels like a conversation between the members and the listener. The lyrics speak of support, perseverance, and loyalty—core themes in Monsta X’s career that resonate deeply with Monbebe. Fans will find themselves drawn into the song’s sincerity, feeling both comforted and inspired by its message.

“Tuscan Leather” is a standout track that combines introspection with layered, cinematic instrumentation. Gentle synth pads, delicate guitar plucks, and understated percussion create a reflective atmosphere. Vocally, the track is nuanced: moments of softness contrast with bursts of emotion, showcasing the members’ versatility. The lyrics explore themes of growth, transformation, and self-reflection, tying closely to Monsta X’s journey over the past decade. This track exemplifies their ability to balance high-energy tracks with pieces that are emotionally and musically sophisticated, offering fans a more intimate connection to the group’s personal experiences.

The album closes with “Catch Me Now,” a high-energy finale that encapsulates Monsta X’s signature style. Rapid-fire rap sections, soaring choruses, and driving percussion create a sense of urgency and momentum. The track’s lyrical content emphasizes pursuit, determination, and unwavering dedication—values mirrored by both the group and Monbebe. Musically, it combines rhythmic complexity with memorable melodic hooks, ensuring that the album ends on a triumphant note. Fans are likely to connect immediately with the energy and emotion, making it a track that will resonate during live performances and fan interactions.

Throughout The X, Monsta X demonstrates an unwavering connection to their fanbase. Each track carries a dual narrative: one of the group’s personal journey and one of shared experience with Monbebe. From themes of empowerment, resilience, and self-expression to moments of vulnerability and reflection, the album captures the multifaceted nature of both Monsta X as artists and the community they’ve built over ten years. The intricate rhythms, layered vocals, and thoughtful lyricism ensure that each listening experience reveals new details, rewarding fans who engage deeply with the music.

Ultimately, The X is a celebration of Monsta X’s decade-long journey, musical evolution, and enduring fan relationships. The album balances powerful, high-energy tracks with introspective, emotionally nuanced songs, providing a listening experience that is both exhilarating and heartfelt. Through their musical mastery, lyrical depth, and unwavering connection with Monbebe, Monsta X affirms their place as one of K-pop’s most versatile and beloved groups.