MONSTA X’s Jooheon is gearing up for a musical return, and the concept photos are already turning heads. On December 27th, Starship Entertainment unveiled a series of striking images teasing Jooheon’s second mini album, ‘LIGHT (INSANITY),’ set to drop January 5th, through the group’s official social media channels.
A Dual Portrait of Passion and Performance
The new album explores the intensity of artistic dedication, from quiet obsession to commanding the stage.
The released photos present a compelling duality. Some capture Jooheon as a deeply focused young man, lost in the creative process within the intimate setting of his room. A keyboard, headset, and bed surround him, emphasizing the raw, personal beginnings of his musical journey. His natural expressions convey a sense of pure, unadulterated passion.
Contrasting these intimate scenes, other images showcase Jooheon’s commanding stage presence. Holding a microphone, bathed in the glow of lights and speakers, he stares directly into the camera with an intense gaze. This juxtaposition symbolizes the album’s core narrative: the collision and eventual merging of a young man’s initial impulse for music with the weight and responsibility of being a performing artist.
Solo Return After Two Years
Jooheon’s ‘Light (INSANITY)’ marks his first solo release in approximately two years and eight months, following his debut mini album ‘LIGHTS’ in May 2023. The upcoming album is anticipated to further establish his unique musical identity, demonstrating his versatility as a rapper, singer, producer, and director.
The pre-release track ‘Push (Feat. Ray of IVE)’ dropped on December 22nd, signaling a broadening of Jooheon’s musical horizons. The tracklist reveal has further fueled anticipation for the comeback. Jooheon has been heavily involved in the album’s creation, having written, composed, and produced all seven tracks. The album boasts collaborations with a diverse range of artists, including Ray, Tiger JK, and, notably, the legendary Muhammad Ali. The title track, ‘STING (Feat. Muhammad Ali),’ promises to encapsulate the album’s narrative, piquing the curiosity of fans.
Jooheon’s 2nd mini album ‘Light (INSANITY)’ will be available through various online music platforms on January 5th at 6 p.m. (KST).
What is the significance of the featuring artist on Jooheon’s title track? The title song ‘STING (Feat. Muhammad Ali)’ includes a collaboration with the iconic boxer Muhammad Ali, adding a unique and unexpected element to the album’s narrative.
