Stray Kids Release New EP Mixtape: dominATE
Stray Kids have returned with their newest EP, Mixtape: dominATE, which dropped on March 21.
The fierce and multifaceted EP showcases five diverse tracks that demonstrate the group’s incredible range, including:
- “GIANT” (Korean Ver.)
- “Burnin’ Tires”
- “Truman”
- “ESCAPE”
- “CINEMA”
Each track features two of the group’s eight members, adding a personal touch to each song’s narrative.
“Burnin’ Tires” – Changbin and I.N
The “Burnin’ Tires” music video, featuring Changbin and I.N, was released on March 22.
The video offers an intense, fast-paced visual experience, filled with high-speed car chases, neon-lit urban landscapes, and rapid cuts that match the song’s rock-infused sound.
Bold color schemes and dynamic camera angles elevate the song’s sense of urgency, underscoring the track’s blend of rap, rock, and hip-hop.
The lyrics speak to themes of rebellion and freedom, with lines like “Every day is a big race, it’s D-day, let’s go / Just go for it, full speed ahead right now.”
“Truman” – HAN and Felix
The music video for “Truman,” performed by HAN and Felix, was released the following day on March 23. It offers a stark contrast to “Burnin’ Tires.”
Dimly lit industrial aesthetics match the song’s brooding energy, while HAN’s emotional rap delivery and Felix’s deep, resonant vocals create a contrast that builds in intensity.
The track explores self-identity and perseverance, with lyrics like “Head high, I keep on moving living real, like Truman / I’m the true man,” offering a sense of personal determination and growth.
“ESCAPE” – Bang Chan and Hyunjin
On March 24, “ESCAPE,” featuring Bang Chan and Hyunjin, was released, delivering a raw, emotionally charged exploration of longing and inner turmoil.
The video’s gritty, junkyard-like setting mirrors the feelings of being trapped and isolated, while dramatic blue, green, and red hues represent the turbulence of emotions.
The lyrics reflect a desire for freedom, like “Them shackles and them chains, yeah, you’re free to take ‘em off / Escape now.”
Gentle yet powerful vocals add to the track’s emotional depth, capturing the essence of yearning for escape from internal and external forces.
“CINEMA” – Lee Know and Seungmin
The music video for “CINEMA,” released on March 25, features Lee Know and Seungmin.
The track takes on a more reflective, sentimental tone than the others on the EP.
Set against the backdrop of a shabby house, an old car, and nature’s varying landscapes, the video’s nostalgic feel is complemented by the soft, mellow instrumental of the song.
“CINEMA” revolves around themes of perseverance, following dreams, and cherishing memories and time with loved ones, seen in heartfelt lyrics like “You came and sat down next to me, and at that moment / In the blackout, a door opened.”
The tender vocals of Lee Know and Seungmin add an emotional layer to the track, further cementing the EP’s diverse emotional range.
Mixtape: dominATE in Its Entirety
With Mixtape: dominATE, Stray Kids continue to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to exploring new musical territories.
Each track on the EP brings something unique to the table, from the high-octane energy of “Burnin’ Tires” to the introspective depth of “CINEMA.”
As they continue to redefine their sound and storytelling, Stray Kids have reaffirmed their place at the forefront of the K-pop scene, proving that their creativity knows no bounds.
Listen to Stray Kids’ newest EP, Mixtape: dominATE, now.
