Clé: Levanter cover

Clé: Levanter

Stray Kids · 2019

27 min · 8 tracks · J-pop

A vibrant fusion of genres blends dynamic beats with introspective lyrics, showcasing Stray Kids' growth and versatility.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    STOP Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Double Knot — This track features a powerful blend of hip-hop and electronic elements, showcasing the group's energy and strong choreography that has become synonymous with their performances.
  • →
    바람 (Levanter) — The titular track stands out with its emotive lyrics that reflect themes of hope and perseverance, encapsulating the album's overarching message.
  • →
    Astronaut — With its engaging melody and heartfelt lyrics, this song highlights the group's vocal strengths while exploring feelings of longing and connection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production but follows familiar J-pop trends.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature a consistent high-energy tempo, while the subsequent tracks gradually introduce slower rhythms and more introspective themes.
  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, with members alternating lead lines to create a dynamic interplay.
  • The final track, MIXTAPE #5, features a stripped-down arrangement that contrasts sharply with the preceding production-heavy tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short, energetic listening bursts
  • vibrant and uplifting moods
  • contemplative yet lively themes
  • dynamic emotional contrasts

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established Stray Kids as a global force following earlier EPs.
Themes
hopeful perseverance· dynamic self-discovery· global K-pop rise
Career context
Released on January 1, 2019, Clé: Levanter is Stray Kids' first studio album following their successful EP I Am WHO. At this point in their career, the group had gained significant attention both domestically and internationally, solidifying their position in the K-pop landscape as innovative artists blending various musical styles.
Stylistic neighbors
Ateez· NCT 127· Seventeen

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • 바람 (Levanter)

    A pivotal moment occurs when the singer shifts from expressing doubt to embracing strength and resilience.

    This transition marks a crucial narrative pivot, reflecting an internal struggle that aligns with the album's theme of overcoming adversity.

Tracklist

  • 1 STOP Start here 3:10
  • 2 Double Knot 3:10
  • 3 바람 (Levanter) 3:18
  • 4 Booster 3:41
  • 5 Astronaut 3:00
  • 6 Sunshine 3:43
  • 7 You Can STAY 3:29
  • 8 MIXTAPE #5 3:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata