On July 26, the O2 Empire in London was set ablaze with energy as I.M (Im Changkyun), the charismatic rapper and songwriter from the globally renowned Kpop group Monsta X, delivered an unforgettable solo performance. From the moment he stepped on the stage, the atmosphere was electric, filled with the buzz of anticipation and excitement from fans who had been eagerly awaiting this night – as I.M stressed later, 5 whole years.
I.M made a dramatic entrance to the stage, emerging from a backdrop of visualisers, dazzling lights and smoke. In a denim-and-leather outfit that sparkled and facing a jam-packed venue of people, he instantly set the tone for the night. The gig was 21+, so there was a high expectation for the show, while his instantly sensual and powerful performance captivated the crowd. His deep and resonant voice filled the venue, and the intensity of his stage presence was palpable. It is worth noting that I.M had a live band on stage – guitars, keys, bass and drums, who did a more than excellent job in playing the songs and capturing the gig’s energy.
I.M’s tour ‘Off the Beat’, as he explained in the first segment, was planned before the album came out. Yet, the setlist for the night was carefully curated to take the audience in a journey of I.M’s musical evolution. He seamlessly transitioned between the newer songs from his newly released album such as ‘Bust It’ and ‘LURE’, to more introspective numbers such as ‘Happy to Die; and ‘Habit’. Each song showcased a different kind of artistry, highlighting his versatility both as a performer and a songwriter.
One of the evening’s highlights, other than the crowd barking when the suit jacket came off, was I.M's performance of ‘God Damn’. The reaction of the crowd, singing along to every single lyric to a song that he did not expect such a reaction created a very intimate moment that resonated deeply with the audience and with him. It was a moment that showed how his songs connect deeply with the fans on a personal level.
Another brilliant transition was the song ‘Scent’, which came straight after the words ‘I am addicted to your scent’ appeared on the VCR. I.M. highlighted how London is ‘one of his favourite cities’, tried to pull off his best British accent, engaging in fun banter and British slang, explained which songs were his favourite and of course, introduced to us the brilliant band behind him. It is to be noted that the bassist and the drummer paid their tribute to Queen, with the former playing a bit of ‘another one bites the dust’ and the latter drumming along the iconic line of ‘we will rock you’, having the audience ask for more.
I.M.’s interactions with the audience was very authentic and genuine, as he shared heartfelt stories. The set list, continuing on with songs such as ‘Overdrive’, ‘Slowly’, ‘nvrmnd’ and of course ‘Dumb’, accompanied by the live band and the visualisers felt more like a spectacle than an experience. The songs were perfectly complemented by the intricate lighting designs, the dynamic stage setup and the stunning visuals, creating an immersive experience.
My favourite moment was of course when ‘MMI’ came on, following a heartfelt story about its deep resonance with I.M. The energy in the room was at its peak, with fans singing along, waving lightsticks and buzzing in excitement. The whole concert felt like a triumph, showcasing I.M’s growth as an artist and his ability to command the stage on his own. If this concert is an indication for what’s to come, then it is testament to show that the future is bright for I.M as a solo artist. Whether or not you are a long-time Monsta X fan or new to I.M’s solo music, the concert was proof of his extraordinary talent and the powerful connection he shares with his audience.
Photo Cr. Sony MusicIM will be continuing this tour in Paris, Cologne, and Berlin before heading to the US leg of the tour in starting in Boston on August 8. Grab your tickets here! https://imnameim.lnk.to/WORLDTOUR2024
Review by Charis Bagioki @photosby_focus / @director_lydia