Xdinary Heroes Explores Love in All Its Forms with New Mini Album 'LXVE to DEATH'

If love were a disease, the diagnosis would be a lifetime. Xdinary Heroes has translated various forms of love into rock music.

Xdinary Heroes (consisting of Gunil, Jungsu, Gaon, O.de, Jun Han, and Jooyeon) released their 7th mini album 'LXVE to DEATH' on the 24th. This marks their first release in seven months since 'Beautiful Mind' in March. The album features seven tracks, each depicting a different aspect of love, creating a collection that feels like a series of short stories.

The title track 'ICU' is reminiscent of the raw energy of 80s hard rock with its explosive beats and guitar riffs. The unpredictable flow of the song keeps listeners engaged. It begins with a powerful yet refreshing band sound, leading into soaring high notes. The mood shifts with a rap section driven by bass and drums, culminating in a climactic guitar solo. The combination of O.de's rap, Jooyeon's shouts, and Jungsu's high notes creates a captivating auditory experience.

The lyrics, penned by the members themselves, are notable for their unique approach. They cleverly compare love to an illness with lines like 'diagnosis: lifetime' and 'self-treatment impossible.' Xdinary Heroes captures the explosive emotions of love with their energetic rock sound and humorous medical metaphors.

The music video offers a fresh perspective on the universal theme of love. It portrays the members longing for a cat that has crossed the rainbow bridge, striving to reconnect with it. The video expands the concept of love beyond romantic feelings, exploring it in various forms.

The album also showcases the band's growth and experimentation. Track 5, 'Spoiler!!!', stands out with its prominent use of synthesizer sounds. Despite using the same riff, different tones are applied in the chorus, verse, and interlude. The song's introduction features a striking vocal scream, leaving a strong impression.

Track 4, 'Ashes to Ashes', highlights the contrasting vocal styles of main vocalists Jungsu and Jooyeon, adding diversity to the album. The final track, 'LOVE ME 2 DEATH', starts with a sweet melody and transitions into growling and intense sounds, maintaining tension until the end.

Since their debut, Xdinary Heroes has consistently included all members in the album credits, solidifying their unique identity. This album presents love from a multifaceted perspective, allowing listeners to project their own experiences onto the music.

By Ji-won Kim, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr