BTS Cement Their Legacy With Magnum Opus ‘Map of the Soul: 7'

It is difficult to sum-up what this album means to both BTS and their fans, but perhaps the best way put it is to call it a promise; there is an assurance that this story is eternal

-  Riddhi Chakraborty

In addition to being an emotional journey full of joy, sadness, nostalgia, victory and love, Map of the Soul: 7 is a highly symbolic record that deals with the various levels that make up the psyche of a human being. The direct references to Carl Jung’s psychological theories act as metaphors to map the evolution of BTS as they climb the ladder of fame and encounter the joys and pain that come with it. It’s a complex record, both in terms of its music and lyricism, but what makes it a stand-out LP and BTS’ magnum opus is its honesty.

Map of the Soul: 7 begins with leader RM’s solo “Intro: Persona,” (originally the opener to 2019’s Map of the Soul: Persona EP) a most fitting start, since this record sees BTS take on the task of understanding who they are as artists, celebrities and seven men on a journey together. “Intro: Persona” also sets the pace in terms of the genres BTS tackle on this record–the group expand on hip-hop, trap, soul, rock and more. “Boy With Luv” and “Make It Right” (also from MOTS: Persona) might seem a little out of place on MOTS7, but their presence is necessary understandable since they’re both singles that brought the group massive success and airplay over the past year, helping them build their global identity. Both tracks also mark two of their biggest collaborations to date–with Halsey and Lauv respectively (although the version of “Make It Right” on the record is the one without Lauv.) “Jamais Vu” and “Dionysus” blend seamlessly.