EXO’s Chanyeol made his return with his second mini album, ‘Upside Down,’ on Aug. 25, almost a year after his first solo album, ‘Black Out.’ With this comeback, he expands his sound by combining his love for band arrangements with elements of pop, rock, hip-hop, and R&B. Across six tracks, he expresses a wide spectrum of emotions that listeners experience in life. Just as the title ‘Upside Down’ suggests, the album portrays both moments of happiness, love and friendship, as well as darker emotions such as pain, hurt and emptiness. By doing so, Chanyeol delivers a sense of catharsis and invites fans into a deeper layer of his artistry.
Overall, the album unfolds like a journey. It begins with resilience in the face of chaos, then flows through fragile relationships, treasured friendships, personal struggles, and tender romance, before closing with a message of optimism and determination. Each song brings its own texture, yet all are tied together by Chanyeol’s ability to channel raw emotions through his vocals and rap.
CHANYEOL 찬열 'Upside Down' TEASER IMAGE 4 – On Ver.
— EXO (@weareoneEXO) August 14, 2025
CHANYEOL 찬열 The 2nd Mini Album 【Upside Down】
➫ 2025.08.25 6PM (KST)
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“Upside Down”
The title track “Upside Down” combines distorted guitar riffs, classic rock drums and electronic synths to create an electrifying electronic rock sound. The lyrics express an earnest will to never give up on ourselves, even when the world seems as if it is collapsing. As the song progresses, Chanyeol’s vocals shift and transform with intensity, amplifying the cathartic rush of the track.
“Back & Forth”
“Back & Forth” is an alternative hip-hop track driven by heavy synth pads, lyrical electric guitar and an emotional melody line. It tells the story of a precarious relationship where love and hurt are repeated in cycles. Chanyeol’s delivery adds to the tension, pulling listeners into the complexity of love’s dual edges.
“Ocean Drive”
With glitchy hyperpop-style guitar and funky drum beats, “Ocean Drive” shines as a dynamic pop-rock song. Its lyrics capture the thrill of escaping everyday life and going on a trip with close friends, celebrating the brilliance of friendship. The track washes over you with a free energy as if you are feeling the waves and wind passing by.
“High & Dry”
“High & Dry” draws on country and pop-rock influences in a slow-tempo pop track. The acoustic guitar paired with the pedal steel guitar creates a warm yet lonely mood. The lyrics depict a desire to find our true selves among emptiness and helplessness, painting a portrait that many listeners can see themselves in.
“Happy Accident” (Feat. SOLE)
This R&B track carries a retro flair and compares the process of falling in love and becoming a couple to a “happy accident.” Chanyeol’s expressive vocals blend harmoniously with the smooth and distinctive voice of SOLE, who features on the track. Altogether, they deliver a heartfelt sound filled with warmth and excitement.
“123 Dance”
Closing the album, “123 Dance” stands out with its rough and vintage texture created by old-school drums and lively synth bass. The lyrics recall those who cheer Chanyeol on and contain a message of keeping a positive attitude while continuing to give our best in every moment. His dynamic rap flow adds energy, leaving listeners uplifted and motivated as the album concludes.
Which song from Chanyeol’s ‘Upside Down’ spoke to your own highs and lows? Tell us how his music moved you on Instagram and X/Twitter!
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Featured Image Credit: EXO Official X
