Sungjin, leader of the South Korean band DAY6, has finally released his first solo album, marking the last of the members to embark on a solo project. The album, titled 30, features 10 tracks, with the song "Check Pattern" selected as the album's main title track.
In an interview with Newsis, Sungjin shared that he chose the title 30 because all the songs were completed as he turned 30. He spoke candidly about how this album isn't just a collection of music but a reflection of his life journey. In his twenties, Sungjin found himself focused on the future, believing life would be easier when he reached 30. But now, at this milestone age, he is embracing the present rather than looking too far ahead.
As with many who turn 30, 30 embodies a mix of his sweetest and hardest experiences. Many fans remember the difficult period he went through, facing mental health struggles that led him to take a hiatus from DAY6 and even made performing a challenge. But he reassured fans during those tough times, promising he would return stronger.
This year has been a significant one for DAY6, with the band releasing two EPs, FOUREVER and Band Aid, along with Sungjin's solo album. The release of 30 has resonated deeply with fans, reaching the top 100 on Melon's music charts, proving that their wait for Sungjin's return to songwriting and performing was more than worthwhile.
REVIEW OF 30 BY SUNGJIN
"Covered in Love"
Setting the tone for the album's journey, "Covered in Love" radiates a bright, imaginative vibe. Its original Korean title, 동화 속 아이처럼, means "a child in a fairytale," capturing the innocence of someone who believes love is warm and magical, just like a fairytale. Yet, as they experience it, they find that reality doesn't match their dreams.
As a reflection of Sungjin's life story, the song represents the end of youth, where the sweet illusions of childhood give way to the bittersweet truths of adulthood.
그렇게 나도 어쩔 수 없는
어른이 되었어
That's how I became an adult
I can't help it
"Check Pattern"
With its rock ballad style, the album's title track beautifully complements Sungjin's signature raspy voice. This weighty track, driven by acoustic guitar and piano, offers a sense of comfort with every listen. "Check Pattern" delves into the reality that life rarely moves in a straight line; instead, it's filled with unexpected twists and turns, much like a black-and-white checkered pattern. The song paints a vivid picture of life's endless rhythm of encounters, goodbyes, and lingering regrets that shape who we are.
"I don't wanna do anything"
With hypnotic guitar and synth sounds, this indie pop track builds up to an explosive finale, making it perfect for a live performance. In terms of its message, this song shares a storyline that connects with DAY6's "Zombie" from their 2020 album The Book of Us: The Demon that showcases the hardship of keeping alive in a face-paced world that always pushes us to go through it either way.
내일은 훌쩍 또 다가올 거란 걸
나도 알아
So 내일부터는 더 힘을 내 봐야지
늘 그랬듯
Tomorrow will come again
I know that
So I'll have to try harder from tomorrow
Like I always have
"Nowhere You Are"
This track is easily one of my top favorites on the album. Dominated by electric guitar riffs, Nowhere You Are has an incredibly catchy post-chorus that lingers long after listening. Sungjin's signature raspy, powerful vocals add a rich, unforgettable layer that brings the song to life. In the bridge, he uses delicate falsetto that gradually grows in intensity, adding a breathtaking build-up that hits with full impact. The entire song feels perfectly crafted, leaving a lasting impression-truly a chef's kiss.
"as always"
The next track, "as always" (나무는 결국 겨울을 견뎌낼 거야), which means "the tree will eventually survive the winter," carries a warm, comforting vibe, perfect for a winter setting. Its acoustic guitar accompaniment gently touches the heart, bringing a sense of hope and resilience. The lyrics tell the story of someone who stays strong through tough times, like a tree waiting for spring to bloom again after winter. Even when life feels lonely or hard, they keep going, trusting that brighter days will come.
"Wednesday Night"
The sixth track from Sungjin's 30 album, which he actually performed live during DAY6's fan meeting earlier this year, opens with the crisp sound of a flute. The song captures the excitement of eagerly anticipating a Wednesday night meeting with a loved one, and this feeling is beautifully reflected in both the melody and the arrangement. This track stands out as a refreshing change amidst the deeper, more introspective songs that fill the 30 album, offering a lighthearted moment in the midst of it all.
"EASY"
With its catchy city pop instrumentation, this song reflects Sungjin's inner struggle. It tells the story of how he's a complicated person, yet he's not exactly "easy" either, carrying a range of personal issues that he keeps to himself. He yearns to change, to become someone more approachable and easygoing, in order to be accepted by those around him. Much like a storm that pours down on a quiet night, the song leaves a lasting impression with its unique genre, evoking a sense of both turmoil and introspection.
"You Wake Me Up"
"You Wake Me Up" is Sungjin's personal favorite track from his album, and it serves as a heartfelt love letter to his fans, whom he considers his source of strength. With its intense build-up and the sparkling touch of piano, this beautiful pop-R&B track perfectly showcases Sungjin's distinctive voice. It's a song that not only captivates with its melody but also conveys deep emotion, making it a standout moment on the album.
"I don't wanna lose"
As an avid fan who often spends time on social media, the 9th track on 30 has been the talk of the fan community ever since its teaser was released a few weeks ago. With a hook that highlights Sungjin's raspy, powerful voice, this rock ballad blends piano melodies with intense, raw emotion. While the previous track served as a love letter from Sungjin to his fans, I don't wanna lose feels more like a letter from him to his younger self-one who was struggling with darkness inside. This song holds a special place for fans, offering them a glimpse into how Sungjin sees himself during a difficult time in his life.
겁을 먹은 아이는 한 구석에
Why? 웅크려 있는지
The scared child
Why?
is huddled in a corner
"Memories"
To conclude the album, this song is truly sweet and full of emotion. Despite telling a painful story, it still carries a certain warmth. The lyrics of the final track from 30 reflect on reminiscing old memories filled with regret. With its beautiful piano arrangement and delicate string accents, the song adds a deep, lingering emotional touch, making it the perfect closing piece to the personal journey Sungjin has shared throughout his solo album.
Sungjin's debut solo album, 30, unfolds as a warm and reflective journey through life's bittersweet moments-meetings and goodbyes, dreams and expectations, each track layered with the gentle tension between hope and the often stark contrast of reality. It's an album that embraces both the beauty and the ache of growing up, capturing the emotions we all feel yet rarely express.
(DIP/tim)