Stray Kids Are Back And Bolder Than Ever With Celebratory New Single 'MIROH'

How do you sum up a Stray Kids song? The JYP Entertainment rookies have been (self-) producing some of the boldest, most sonically interesting K-pop tracks since their debut per year ago, and their latest, "MIROH," is no exception. (In fact, it may be their most fascinating lead single nevertheless) Their signature sound is more of a mood; it's loud and in your face — boisterous, even — however it's one that's fitting for a crowd of nine individuals on the cusp of adulthood in an ever-uncertain world.


That, you can mention, is the concept of "MIROH." Inspired by the word miro, or "maze" in Korean, "MIROH" is the starting of a new chapter for Stray Kids. Their previous I Am... series focused heavily on the theme of identity. Who am I? Am I you? And most importantly: Who am I attempting to be? With their new mini album, Clé 1: MIROH (out right now, it's clear that these coming-of-age questions are still at the forefront of their minds — although they're right now more confident than ever.


Stray Kids are maturing in each sense of the word. Their sound is more refined, but still exhilarating. "MIROH" — produced by members Bang Chan, Han, and Changbin, otherwise referred to as 3racha — is a cacophony of sounds, rhythms, chants, and animal noises. The hook is massive, a brilliant stadium-sized banger of a track. However perhaps its most unique excellent is that it doesn't follow any order kind of familiar structure. There's no bridge, or breakdown; it's a relentless 3 minutes and 28 seconds that showcases the group's impressive rap line and explosive choreography.


The music video sets up the world of MIROH — a concrete jungle of sorts — where, having escaped the brainwashed populace of District 9, Stray Kids seemingly stage a coup to overthrow the powerful boys at the best. It's an act of teen rebellion, completely in line with the group's in general message. "It’s not hard, in this rough jungle," leader Bang Chan sings. "It was me who ran into it, I'm okay."


"MIROH" is a celebration, yes, yet it's also a warning call. The powerful choreography was heavily influenced by Haka, the ceremonial dance of the Māori culture. It's usually done as a challenge to opponents.


Overall, everything about "MIROH" is big — the hook, the choreography, the concept — however it never feels empty. That's a real strength for Stray Kids. They make music that matters to them, and in doing so, they connect with a crowd, several of whom are also navigating their own mazes and facing their own anxieties at every turn.


As soon as it comes to Stray Kids, every new release is a developments — and much like growing up, wildly unpredictable.