Stray Kids' 'THIS & THAT' Album: All Tracks Ranked

Stray Kids have solidified their dominance on the Billboard 200 chart with the release of their latest album, THIS & THAT, marking their ninth consecutive No. 1 debut. The South Korean boy band, signed under Republic Records in the U.S. since 2022, has achieved an unprecedented streak by topping the chart with every Korean-language album they’ve released since their American partnership began.

The new album, launched on August 7 via JYP Entertainment and the REPUBLIC Collective, arrives amid a period of expanding international visibility for the group. Earlier in the summer, Stray Kids captivated an audience of approximately 45,000 at New York’s Governors Ball, further bolstering their global presence. Upcoming highlights include a milestone performance as the first international male act to headline Tokyo’s National Stadium and a headlining slot at Brazil’s Rock in Rio festival, followed by the launch of their STRAYCITY festival series across multiple continents.

THIS & THAT was prefaced by the single “RUN IT,” released shortly after the album announcement in late June. The track stands as an anthem reflecting the band’s journey from their Seoul origins to their current status on the world stage, emphasizing persistence and ambition. This thematic focus on drive and aspiration permeates the album, which explores various musical styles and lyrical themes tied to perseverance, loyalty, nostalgia, and self-reflection.

Musically, THIS & THAT showcases Stray Kids’ commitment to diversity and experimentation. Tracks span genres from R&B and rock to EDM and hip-hop, highlighting the group’s versatility. For instance, “After You” integrates mostly English lyrics with a euphoric EDM segment, crafted in collaboration with renowned producers who have shaped Billboard Hot 100 hits, positioning the song as a potential crossover appeal. However, this polished approach contrasts with Stray Kids’ characteristic penchant for sonic experimentation.

The album also features introspective compositions such as “I Do,” a mid-tempo rock-pop piece that offers reassurance and empathy, with poignant vocal performances that reveal subtleties like Bang Chan’s distinctive Australian accent and Changbin’s compelling vocal delivery. This track, penned solely by Changbin, navigates complex bilingual lyricism, underscoring the members’ growing linguistic skills.

“RUN IT” continues the tradition of Stray Kids’ impactful album openers, incorporating grand instrumental arrangements including brass and marching drums, designed for large-scale live performances. Its anthemic nature aligns with the band’s narrative of global ambition and relentless momentum.

Another notable contribution is “Back Then,” a late-summer themed track imbued with nostalgic ’80s influences and surf rock elements, written by HAN. Its reflective tone and metaphor-rich lyrics provide a contemplative counterpoint within the album’s broader energetic palette.

Experimentation reaches a peak with “FARMING,” a track distinguished by its eclectic, off-kilter rhythm and innovative sound design reminiscent of pioneering hip-hop producers. Thematically, it tackles hustle culture and the relentless pursuit of success, resonating with both the band’s ethos and a wider audience grappling with burnout.

“Way Out” stands out for its organic blend of electro-R&B and trap, enhanced by acoustic guitar layers and rich vocal harmonies among the members. This song emphasizes musical craftsmanship and emotional nuance, spotlighting the group’s vocal dynamics in multiple languages and demonstrating an understated yet powerful artistry.

In contrast to their typically maximalist production style, the title track “THIS & THAT” embraces restraint with a minimalist hip-hop beat and a catchy, repetitive hook easily adaptable for social media virality. The accompanying music video features unique choreography and surreal imagery, reinforcing the band’s willingness to subvert expectations and embrace simplicity as a form of strength.

With THIS & THAT, Stray Kids not only maintain their unprecedented Billboard 200 success but also expand their sonic horizons and global footprint. The album reflects their evolving artistry and strategic positioning as a leading force in the international music landscape in 2025.