MONSTA X is back with their 9th mini-album "One of a Kind" which was released on Jun. 1, following their 6th debut anniversary as a group on May 14. The title track for this album is called 'GAMBLER,' and one thing is for certain - we're willing to take a gamble on this comeback.

Members ShowNu, MinHyuk, KiHyun, HyungWon, JooHoney, and I.M worked overtime to bring MONBEBE their new favorite album, and it does not go unappreciated. Unfortunately, leader ShowNu won't be participating in the "One of a Kind" promotions because he is still recovering from emergency eye surgery and Starship Entertainment has decided to prioritize his health. Read their statement on the matter here.

To show MONSTA X how excited they were about the upcoming comeback, MONBEBE did the unthinkable. They streamed six of the group's older songs and had them charting on the "Billboard's World Digital Song Sales" chart, taking up 25% of it, about 2 weeks ago. If MONBEBE can manage that with old songs, we're looking forward to seeing how well this comeback will do.

Concept

The concept for "One of a Kind" was about showing a more relaxed charisma to their various styles than the previous comeback. It's all about getting their way by executing missions and taking control without breaking a sweat. The members also alluded that after working together for 6 years, they still try their best to show their unique sides to every project. This one was no different and they wanted to make sure that fans knew that.

Fashion & Appearance

This comeback has two distinct vibes; clean-cut and refined, and rogue bad boy. These looks are even mixed to create new polarity. Pinstripes and tailored suits meet leather, gold accents, mesh tops, berets, harnesses, chains, and links. MONSTA X proves two things in this comeback - that they can never go wrong in detailed and well-tailored suits, and that their visuals in uniform are not to be messed with. They definitely put MONBEBE's hearts under arrest.

MONSTA X's Twitter

MONSTA X's Twitter

As always, this comeback is all about the boys outdoing themselves, and they've even managed to do that fashion-wise. For example, JooHoney doesn't usually show off more skin than a deep plunging neckline, but in the 'GAMBLER' music video he teases MONBEBE in an opaque mesh tank top, that if you look quickly enough appears like nothing is there.

'GAMBLER' MV Screenshot

Dance

JooHoney explained how one of the 'GAMBLER' key dances is the part where HyungWon is at the center and they approach their target carefully (pay attention to their formation) to build up and complete the mission. We can only imagine what their uninterrupted choreography is going to look like when they do their live stages. Their performance on "KBS Music Bank" is scheduled for Jun. 4, and "SBS Inkigayo" is scheduled for Jun. 6.

Songs

MONSTA X's Twitter

The album consists of 7 tracks, each with a unique sound that comes together to make an even more special whole. "One of a Kind" was JooHoney's first time participating in the production of the title track since his debut. KiHyun mentioned that JooHoney worked extra hard on it and that the harmonies, especially, were his favorite aspect of the song. The members were hands-on in the production of most of the tracks. HyungWon showed a lot of musical growth by producing 'Secrets' and writing lyrics for the fan song 'BEBE,' whilst I.M co-wrote lyrics for the other tracks with JooHoney.

The members focused a lot on the visual elements for the title track and music video. MinHyuk explained how the storytelling is movie-like so that it can stand out more. We have to agree, this music video is just as addictive as the betting that the members do in it.

JooHoney's high note is one of the most memorable moments of the song, in fact, it completes it. What was your favorite part?

JooHoney mentioned that besides 'GAMBLER' he wanted to introduce another track. He described 'Heaven' as the perfect summer song to go for a drive to, with bossa nova melodies and feel-good rhythms.

Meanwhile, HyungWon made a point of the pride he felt in the track 'Secrets,' because it contained the relatability of secrets that everyone keeps. He emphasized his participation in the fan song for 'BEBE' and hopes that MONBEBE will see his commitment to them in his lyrics, "24/7 I love you, BEBE."

I.M spoke about the colorfulness of the track that he produced, composed, and wrote, 'Rotate,' and how he sees the song as solving the feeling of ever-rotating. He put the challenge up to fans, urging them to listen to the track a lot and figure it out.

Episodes & Fun Talks

The MONSTA X members had a Naver NOW comeback showcase on Jun. 1, where they discussed the details of preparing for their comeback. The members sacrificed a lot for the best outcome. JooHoney was apparently so nervous about being a part of the title track production for the first time, that during break time he couldn't eat for 15 minutes because he was too busy monitoring. MinHyuk also had a few struggles whilst filming the music video. He had to go up and down the elevator several times which was physically difficult for him, and had the hardest time filming the fight scene, too. He and KiHyun had to film the scene several times, taking a toll on them. The members also expressed sadness at not being able to do the comeback with ShowNu, but they mentioned that he would be watching and streaming along with MONBEBE.

Naver NOW's Twitter

It is good to see that during 6 years of working together, the members are still as close as ever. On their "Weekly Idol" appearance (which aired on Jun. 2) the members talked about JooHoney's habit of video calling them at odd hours of the night. Although show host EunHyuk, from Super Junior, was surprised that they even video call each other at all. JooHoney clarified that he often calls when he's working on a track and would like some feedback. Sometimes the members don't answer though. They defended themselves by saying that sometimes JooHoney would call them and say weird things after having had a drink or two. Either way, MONBEBE loves to see how close the members still are.

Weekly Idol's Twitter

This comeback felt that much more significant as the members played a huge role in the production process. It seems that every comeback becomes more personal and a clearer message from MONSTA X to MONBEBE. What was your favorite part of this comeback?