Kuwentong Bangtan: Happy 6th Year, Mono!

 Happy 6th year, "Mono"!

RM's second mixtape, "Mono", truly resonated with me. Sonically, I find it diverse, blending genres that diversify my listening experience. Each track invites me to delve into RM's thoughts and emotions, transforming the mixtape into a poignant narrative that reflects his life.

Lyrically, "Mono" speaks of themes of life, love, and loneliness, providing an intimate look into RM's psyche. I appreciate how he shares his struggles and triumphs, creating a relatable narrative that resonates deeply. It feels comforting to connect with someone who articulates those feelings of isolation and yearning so well.

Forever Rain pushed me to accept stoically the realities of being abandoned by a dear friend who left me hanging and used up. It became my theme song for a while as I grappled with issues of loyalty; the risk of being open and vulnerable; giving my best without expecting anything in return, but to be respected as a person and what I am able to contribute, though small and immaterial it may have seemed to others. In everythingoes, I find the courage to move on by pursuing art that I can do and eventually, leading me to my “ARMY Glow Up”. Moonchild remains as one of my favorite anthems especially in times of sorrow and defeat.

"Mono", RM’s art and music, has healed and saved me in more ways I can do and imagine.

Ultimately, RM's talent, skill, and intelligence shine throughout the project. His

ability to weave thought-provoking lyrics with innovative production elevates "Mono" beyond a typical mixtape. It inspires me to explore my own emotions and creativity, reaffirming RM's place as a significant voice in contemporary music.

Stay safe and dry, friends, family and ARMY chingu!

Photo/poster by: @sincityarmy on Threads

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Kuwentong Bangtan: Mono and Me

I love Mono for its sophisticated sound and wholeness. It has seven tracks that are sonically distinct from each other but with one musical theme tying the songs together. The bass and down beats tug at the heartstrings so it is best to listen to the mixtape on headphones. Despite the moody and gloomy tones, there is the sharpness of light permeating in each song. Hope, yes. And the acceptance of realities that no one else can change. This too is light, emanating in the darkness.

It is what it is. Live with it. But also, make the most of it. This is Mono’s message to me and it has comforted me many times especially on days when sanity hangs by a thread. The Bangtan creativity is not lost in Mono. Because, while RM sings of his own pain, struggles and beliefs, he also sings to me; to us who care enough to listen to his stories. Offering encouragement and companionship as he goes.

Needless to say, Mono is a journey in which RM sings and raps away his feelings and anxieties of a future yet to come. It is a quiet and soothing reflection about change, isolation and the unending quest for meaning. Deeply introspective and beautifully poetic, Mono is by far, RM’s definitive work as a solo performer and artist.

This is RM in 2018. Who is the Kim Namjoon we are to meet in Indigo? My insides are tittering with excitement!

I leave you with the MV of ‘forever rain’ and a painting of rain falling softly on monochromatic green mountains and gray skies by Christabel Annelle Sevilla. How it reminds me that, as I walk through midlife and menopause, in this phase of empty nesting and claiming autonomy of self, I am not alone. I am never alone.

The painting is her response and personal take on RM’s painting in ITS season 2. What precious gifts these are that have been given to me. I am forever grateful.