Mixtape cover

Mixtape

Stray Kids · 2018

24 min · 7 tracks · J-pop

A vibrant blend of K-pop energy and hip-hop attitude, layered with electronic beats and infectious melodies.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Hellevator Start here — This track serves as a powerful introduction to the group, showcasing their raw energy and emotional depth while addressing themes of struggle and perseverance.
  • →
    Grrr 총량의 법칙 — With its catchy hooks and energetic delivery, this song encapsulates the rebellious spirit of youth, making it a standout anthem for fans.
  • →
    School Life — This track blends nostalgia with a contemporary sound, effectively capturing the essence of adolescent experiences and the pressures of school life.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong production and varied styles, establishing Stray Kids' identity but lacks depth for long-term engagement.

What we noticed

  • The first track, 'Hellevator', opens with a heavy bass line and layered vocal harmonies that set a dark tone for the EP.
  • Tracks like 'Grrr 총량의 법칙' and 'YAYAYA' feature rapid tempo changes and aggressive rap verses interspersed with melodic choruses.
  • The EP closes with '4419', which incorporates a softer instrumental arrangement, contrasting sharply with the preceding tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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, punchy listening sessions
  • gradual builds and payoffs
  • youthful, energetic vibes
  • dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This EP established Stray Kids' reputation and showcased their distinct sound.
Themes
adolescent pressures· K-pop debut energy· rebellious youth spirit
Career context
Released on January 8, 2018, 'Mixtape' marks Stray Kids' debut project following their formation through a reality show. This EP showcases the group's distinct sound and artistic vision as they began to carve out their identity within the competitive K-pop landscape.
Stylistic neighbors
Ateez· NCT 127· Seventeen

Tracklist

  • 1 Hellevator Start here 4:00
  • 2 Grrr 총량의 법칙 3:09
  • 3 어린 날개 3:20
  • 4 YAYAYA 3:21
  • 5 GLOW 3:24
  • 6 School Life 3:36
  • 7 4419 3:13

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata