CxM ‘Hype Vibes’ Review: Unpredictable Energy from SEVENTEEN’s Rap Duo

An exciting dive into SEVENTEEN’s hip-hop unit project reveals vibrant vibes with some uneven yet refreshing twists.

Exploring CxM’s Bold New Chapter

When SEVENTEEN’s dynamic rappers S.Coups and Mingyu unveiled their first collaborative project outside the main band, expectations naturally leaned toward a solid hip-hop record. After all, these two make up half of SEVENTEEN’s acclaimed hip-hop unit. But Hype Vibes isn’t just another rap album—it’s a delightful curveball that flips the script.

Right out of the gate, the opening track “Fiesta” serves up the expected hip-hop flavor—it’s light, catchy, with a party vibe that invites you to “like a rock star” celebration mode. But beyond this familiar terrain, the album takes you on unexpected detours that challenge the duo’s usual style and showcase their versatility.

When Hip-Hop Meets the Unexpected: Lead Single Highlight

The lead single “5, 4, 3 (Pretty Woman)” is a prime example of this adventurous spirit. It cleverly samples the instantly recognizable 16-bar blues riff from Roy Orbison’s classic “Oh, Pretty Woman,” transforming the nostalgic melody into a smooth, romantic rap ballad. S.Coups and Mingyu adopt the roles of lovelorn crooners, weaving playful, heartfelt lines into their verses.

“You walk that walk, bad thoughts, jaw drop / Can’t keep my cool,” S.Coups croons, followed by Mingyu’s falsetto sweetly adding, “Everyday Sunday baby, I’m tryna sin with you.”

The track’s charm is further amplified by a vibrant feature from Philly rapper Lay Bankz, whose spirited input brings fresh layers of attitude and flirtation to this flirtatious bop.

Check out the official music video to see this creative fusion in action:

The Rollercoaster Ride of ‘Earth’ and Other Gems

Closing the album, “Earth” kicks off with a sound that wouldn’t feel out of place on a Coldplay record: stadium-ready EDM-pop with soaring “woah-oh-oh” chants perfect for big crowds. But just when you settle into that vibe, the track surprises you with an earth-shaking beat and a bass-heavy synth line that jolts the mood in a refreshing way. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s a daring departure that keeps listeners on their toes.

Following “Earth” is “Young Again,” a slower, more reflective pop-rock track with a simple drumbeat and acoustic guitar backing. Here, S.Coups and Mingyu sing about embracing youth with spirited lines like:

“We get loud / We get wild / Never, never be this young again.”

Though it feels a tad plodding compared to other tracks, it adds emotional texture to the album’s spectrum.

On a brighter note, “For You” shines as a sun-kissed tribute to friendship. Crafted with the personal touch of the duo during their time recording in Los Angeles, the song bubbles with warmth and nostalgic vibes:

“Chasin’ sunsets, palm trees all around us / I’ll trade all this for you, for you.”

Wrapping Up ‘Hype Vibes’: Bright Energy with a Few Rough Edges

Overall, Hype Vibes might not hit every note perfectly. It’s uneven in its pacing and style at times, but its infectious energy pulls everything together. The album reminds us that artistry thrives when creators refuse to be boxed in, and S.Coups and Mingyu’s willingness to surprise their audience is the project’s biggest triumph.

Album Details

• Record label: PLEDIS Entertainment
• Release date: September 29, 2025

FAQ

• What style of music does CxM’s ‘Hype Vibes’ primarily explore? While rooted in hip-hop, the album incorporates EDM-pop, pop-rock, and soulful ballads, showing impressive diversity.
• Who features on the lead single ‘5, 4, 3 (Pretty Woman)’? Philly rapper Lay Bankz joins S.Coups and Mingyu, adding a fresh and flirtatious dynamic.
• Is ‘Hype Vibes’ a solo project or a SEVENTEEN release? It’s a special joint project by SEVENTEEN’s rap duo, S.Coups and Mingyu, operating under the name CxM, separate from the main group’s catalog.
• What themes are explored in the album? The album touches on partying, romance, youth, and friendship, blending upbeat fun with emotional depth.
• Where was part of the album recorded? Parts of Hype Vibes were recorded in Los Angeles, which influenced the vibe of songs like “For You.”

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