This & That

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K-pop phenoms Stray Kids push back against easy categorization on <i>THIS & THAT</i>. The group’s eight-track mini album is built around the themes of broad competence and eclectic tastes, most overtly on the laidback title track. <b>“This & That”</b> is more easygoing than most of Stray Kids’ prior, high-intensity lead singles, such as “MANIAC” or “Chk Chk Boom.” Stray Kids stay smooth on electropop breakup track <b>“After You,”</b> R&B goodbye <b>“Way Out,”</b> and nostalgic ballad <b>“Back Then,”</b> but get rougher on songs like <b>“I Do”</b> and <b>“FARMING,”</b> an exploration of modern hustle culture that harnesses both Felix’s husky baritone and Gen Alpha internet slang. The writing of <i>THIS & THAT</i> was led by 3RACHA—aka members Bang Chan, Changbin, and HAN—grounding the tracks in Stray Kids’ own experiences. This is most keenly felt on anthem <b>“RUN IT.”</b> The brass-driven album-opener tells the story of the K-pop squad’s journey from pre-debut practice room to massive stages around the globe eight years later.

via Apple Music