EXO’s Kai makes a bold comeback—and got loads of fellow K-pop idols to join his dance challenge—with his third mini-album Rover
Has it really been almost three years since EXO’s center and main dancer Kai debuted as a soloist with his self-titled mini-album? It feels as if he has just released Mmmh and Peaches last month (probably because all the songs in his albums have never left my playlists). But, on March 13, 2023 Kai made a spectacular comeback with his third mini-album Rover.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlTIextYnyQ
The lead single, also called Rover, is a lively reggaeton-inspired dance track that I believe has a completely different vibe from his previous titles. The song genre is a new addition to the idol’s repertoire, but the song itself isn’t. It’s actually a remake of Bulgarian singer Dara’s Mr. Rover, but in true Kai fashion, he put in his signature intensity, charming honey-like vocals, and deep, rich raps to truly make the song his own. Plus, that high note in the bridge adds that much-needed extra punch—aside from showcasing his vocal growth. Some might not be too keen on the repetition in the chorus, but I personally love it—it’s so darn catchy! And hey, lots of idols love the song, too!
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp7iq9qJ31F/
In interviews during his promotion period, Kai explained that the album explores the concept of freedom. Rover is about being free to live life without being weighed down by others’ expectations—and this release delivers the concept brilliantly.
Similar to the title track, Bomba is an upbeat, reggaeton-inspired song that surely won’t be out of place in summer playlists. This song continues the theme of living freely and being in the moment. It’s just as catchy as Rover, so it’s not surprising that it was once in the running to be a lead single!
The mood shifts dramatically with Black Mirror, a pointed critique on society’s over-reliance on social media; with people losing themselves while mindlessly scrolling on the screen. The song’s heavy hip hop beats give off an eerie, almost unearthly vibe. It’s my favorite song from this mini-album (possibly influenced by Film : KAI #Rover performance reel).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZBI9wFGNDU
Slidin’ and Say You Love Me are both R&B tracks—but each song serves completely different vibes. Slidin’ is smooth and sultry, while Say You Love Me is intense and borderline hypnotic. Sinner, an emotional song with minimal accompaniment, closes out the mini-album.
I love all of Kai’s solo work, but Rover is my favorite so far (this whole album now has a permanent spot in my playlist). I believe this mini-album showcases his growth as an artist. In this album, he proves that he is not afraid to go outside his comfort zone, even with 11 years in the Korean entertainment industry under his belt. Kai clearly knows what he wants and what direction he wants to go, music and performance-wise. So go on, press play, and let Mr. Rover take you on a ride.