MUSE [SERENADE ver.] [Barnes & Noble Exclusive] in Bloomington, MN

Lighter and less aggressive than its 2023 predecessor,
Jimin
's
MUSE
finds the
BTS
vocalist in a slightly different space, opting for breezy pop escapism over pulse-pounding synth intensity. Floating through a spectrum of good vibes, the short set is soaring and inspirational ("Rebirth (Intro)") at times, dipping into warm romance ("Slow Dance" with
Sofia Carson
) and sensual allure ("Be Mine"), expanding
's solo output to match some of that lovelorn, angelic emotion heard on his
showcases. The tender "Closer Than This" and yearning R&B-pop of the catchy earworm "Who" are standouts, while the inventive sampling, popping beat, and verses by Korean rapper
Loco
make "Smeraldo Garden Marching Band" an immediate highlight. ~ Neil Z. Yeung