'TXT know who they are'

minisode 2: Thursday's Child

best songs: "Opening Sequence", "Lonely Boy"

rating: 8/10

TXT has finally made their long-awaited comeback within "minisode 2: Thursday’s Child"

If you have followed my conversation over the past 2 years, you will know I have previously been worried about TXT’s direction. However, I believe the discontent and awkwardness I felt on minisode 1 and The Chaos Chapter: Freeze, is now eased. minisode 2 is undeniably a TXT album. It is the full expression of their musical artistry. It may have been the awkward period that allowed them to grow into an album like minisode 2. Many idol groups have periods of growing pains when transitioning to the next level. Ultimately, it is the outcome of these growing pains that matters.

Apart from this talk of growing pains, what is most striking about minisode 2 is that at its centre, there are echoes of early TXT. The sinister nature of “Opening Sequence” could easily slip into The Dream Chapter: Eternity alongside “PUMA” and “Eternally”. “Good Boy Gone Bad” is a continuation of their rock exploration of 2021, but with a Monsta X edge, a dash of “FROST” in the bass and of course, the menacing core of TDC: E. The acoustic RnB flutterings on “Lonely Boy” may find a home in The Dream Chapter: Magic, or “Trust Fund Baby” in The Dream Chapter: Star. I can also see “Lonely Boy” and “Thursday’s Child Has Far to Go" on minisode 1; the link between past and future TXT.

minisode 2 is TXT matured; the culmination of their artistic journey. I could go into details about the dynamic vocal display in "Good Boy Gone Bad", the charming melodies in "Lonely Boy" or the bleeding heart of "Opening Sequence". Most of all, I adore how neatly they have captured their artistry.

TXT may try a variety of different things in future. It is my personal wish that they emulate the trusted nature and consistency of legacy groups like SHINee. minisode 2 reminds their listeners they will continue to tie their journey back to their artistic identity. TXT know who they are.