[Review] TAEMIN’s ‘ETERNAL’: An artistic journey beyond boundaries
TAEMIN, an idol known for his boundary pushing artistry, returns with his fifth mini-album ETERNAL, released 10 years and a day after his solo debut Ace.
TAEMIN 'ETERNAL' concept photo. Image: Big Planet Made Entertainment.
This album marks a significant milestone in TAEMIN’s career, as this is his first self-produced EP, as well as his first release under Big Planet Made Entertainment, following his departure from SM Entertainment earlier in the year.
The album kicks off with “G.O.A.T,” a bold and powerful declaration of self-confidence. The lyrics revolve around TAEMIN reclaiming his place, breaking boundaries and forging his own path in the industry, with him repeatedly spelling out ‘O.M.G.R.E.A.T.N.E.S.S.’
This track serves as a powerful declaration of self-empowerment — making it clear that no matter how others try to hold him back, he will continue to ascend to new heights.
“Sexy In The Air,” the first lead single, shifts focus to sensuality and confidence. The lyrics capture an electrifying feeling of attraction, with TAEMIN describing an irresistible allure that’s almost palpable. The music video, set in an old warehouse and work yard, perfectly complements the track’s raw, rocky sound.
With sharp electric guitar riffs and a beat switch that simply just works, Taemin pulls listeners into his world, showcasing the seductive confidence that has become a hallmark of his artistry.
The involvement of Dwayne "Dem Jointz" Abernathy Jr., who has worked with legends like Rihanna, Janet Jackson, and Eminem, adds another layer of prestige to the track.
The second lead single, “Horizon,” is the album’s most upbeat track, capturing the thrill of breaking free from the ordinary. The lyrics describe a desire to escape the monotony and venture into the unknown, where the boundaries of reality blur.
This song is reminiscent of TAEMIN’s 2020 track “Criminal” with its energetic ‘villain-arc’ vibe, but it also stands on its own as a testament to the artist’s ability to push beyond familiar boundaries and explore new artistic territories.
“The Unknown Sea” takes the album in a more introspective direction. TAEMIN sings about casting away the familiar and facing the emotions that arise as he stands before the unknown. The lyrics: ‘Like a karma hurts,’ convey the anxiety and anticipation of embracing something greater, even when it’s frightening.
TAEMIN 'ETERNAL' concept photo. Image: Big Planet Made Entertainment.
The strong vocals against a low-key instrumental amplify the emotional weight of the song, making it a standout track that encapsulates the theme of growth through challenge — a recurring motif in ETERNAL.
“Crush” offers a refreshing contrast with its funky, feel-good vibe. The lyrics delve into the emotions of a powerful attraction, where even the smallest gestures become significant. It’s a song that captures the exhilarating yet overwhelming nature of having a crush, perfectly balancing the intensity of desire with the lightness of a catchy beat.
In the penultimate track, “Deja Vu,” TAEMIN explores the concept of reliving moments in a distorted, dreamlike state, where he is reflecting on how far he’s come, yet feels the familiar pull of his past. The lyrics describe a complex web of memories and emotions, blurring the lines between the past, present and future.
The album closes with “Say Less,” an electro-pop track that speaks of the peace found after a long, challenging journey. TAEMIN reflects on moments of solitude and introspection, realising how far he has come and finding contentment in that knowledge. The lyrics suggest that words are no longer needed to express the depth of his journey — the peace he has found speaks for itself. This track is a fitting end to ETERNAL, bringing the album’s narrative full circle.
ETERNAL is a storytelling masterclass from TAEMIN, blending themes of growth, transformation, and self-discovery across its seven tracks. Despite his departure from SM Entertainment, TAEMIN’s unique style and creative freedom remain intact, affirming his place as one of the industry's most innovative artists.
This album not only reflects TAEMIN’s personal and emotional evolution but also explores facets of self-confidence, desire, exploration, uncertainty, and peace, contributing to a broader narrative of artistic maturity and the lessons he has learned over the past decade.
Edited by Chelsea Cheetham.
