Tomorrow X Together – ‘The Star Chapter: Sanctuary’ [EP] [Album Review]

The fourth-generation K-pop boy band Tomorrow X Together (TXT) marked their comeback on November 4th with their 7th mini album, The Star Chapter: Sanctuary. With their previous release in April being the mini-album Minisode 3: Tomorrow, fans were eager for new music from the group. The group has kept busy this year, having spent a large part of their “Act: Promise” world tour. Despite their intense schedules, the boys were able to gift fans new music before the end of the year.

The members Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taeyhun, and Hueningkai all participated in the making of the album, demonstrating their songwriting growth. Like their previous releases, TXT has challenged their sound by delving deeper into the R&B genre. The group has released a consistent and cohesive album, leaving a pleasant surprise for longtime and new listeners alike.

The euphoric disco track “Heaven” is the perfect introduction to this dreamy album. Lyrics describing the feeling of ecstasy in being with someone invite the audience to their world of dreamscapes and fantasy. Though lacking in the experimental aspect TXT fans are used to, it excels at establishing the album’s narrative of a burgeoning love story.

On “Over The Moon,” the members’ silky voices blend into this pleasant dance-pop track. The lead single’s ethereal concept and sincere meaning enhance its dreamy quality, fitting soundly in the sanctuary theme. The accompanying music video adds another dimension to the song about yearning and devotion with its beautiful and moody visuals. Its symbolic imagery conveys themes of innocence and young love emblematic to the boy band.

“Danger” is a song incorporating early 2000s R&B-pop, which provides a catchy hook evoking the thrilling nature of pursuing love. Its message diverges from the overall dreamy concept by portraying love as dangerous, providing an interesting contrast. Nodding to TXT’s edgy side with passionate lyrics such as “Throw me in the unbearable fire”  and “Damn, I’m so obsessed.” It playfully explores the intense and overwhelming desire for someone that has completely consumed the individual. Members Yeonjun, Taehyun, and Beomgyu collaborated on writing lyrics, giving it a personal touch.

“Resist (Not Gonna Run Away” is the most distinct song on the album. Opening with a captivating falsetto by Taehyun, the song demonstrates the impressive vocal range of the members. Its faster beat, acoustic guitar strums, and upbeat synth rhythms draw you in instantly. A song about facing realities head-on, it reveals a deeper emotional maturity. Compared to earlier releases such as the “9 and Three Quarters (Run Away),”  where one will run away and escape their troubles together, “Resist (Not Gonna Run Away)” conveys a loyal devotion and commitment to confront challenges no matter the consequences, “I’ll endure anything for you.”

This groovy and smooth R&B track plays on the idiomatic expression “forty winks,” which refers to a short nap. The “41st wink” symbolizes waking up to a heartfelt reunion. With its rich, soulful sound and slower tempo, the track invites the listener to bask in its intimate and cosmic undertones.

The album closes with the hopeful rock anthem “Higher Than Heaven.” Resonating similar themes to the popular electronic rock B-side “Miracle”  from Minisode 3: Tomorrow, where one gains strength for an uplifting future together, the final track offers listeners a happy ending. “Higher Than Heaven” contrasts with “Heaven,” where love has taken over the boys and elicits emotions, “You make it, you make it, you make it feel like heaven.” For the former, the lyrics show unwavering confidence and choice, “With the magical power you gave me, I’ll take you.” The resolution comes full circle, and a tomorrow full of joy is promised.

Overall, the charming mini-album is a solid addition to TXT’s discography, providing dreamy and easy-listening tunes and developing the group’s continuing narrative. Short and sweet, the album entices fans to want more. It reaffirms TXT’s ability to evolve their sound while maintaining the heartfelt storytelling that has become their signature.

The Star Chapter: Sanctuary Track Listing

1. Heaven
2. Over the Moon
3. Danger
4. Resist (Not Gonna Run Away)
5. Forty One Winks
6. Higher Than Heaven

Runtime: 14:52
Release Date: November 4, 2024
Record Label: Big Hit, Republic, YG Plus