Born to Be XX is the second extended play (EP) by South Korean girl group Kiss of Life. It was released on November 8, 2023, through S2 Entertainment. The EP contains seven tracks, including the lead singles "Bad News" and "Nobody Knows".[1]
Speaking about the album's name, member Belle explained that the two X" symbols in the album's name signify two different concepts: special things that are not welcomed [by others] and the group's message to reject prejudice, misunderstandings and stereotypes.[2]
On September 28, 2023, S2 Entertainment released a poster indicating that Kiss of Life would make their comeback in November.[3][4] On October 13, 2023, the group revealed that they would make a comeback on November 8, 2023, by posting a teaser.[5][6]
On October 16, 2023, a poster was released featuring the members mugshots with the caption 'Who's the villain'.[7] On October 17, the group released the tracklist of the album.[8] From October 19 to 25 the group released various concept photos.[9][10] On October 27, a trailer for the EP was released.[11] On October 30, the group released the sneak peek of the tracks.[12]
The lead single "Bad News" is a groovy mid-tempo that blends elements of pop, hip-hop, and rock, which makes this feel like the most natural evolution of the burgeoning band's sound,[13] whereas "Nobody Knows" is a slick, upbeat slice of R&B influenced by the 1970s.[13][14] "TTG" was described as a R&B track which reminds music from 2000s,[15] and "Gentleman" is a song which has a unique sound with Afro rhythm, reggae patterns, and soulgospel.[15] "Says It" is a track dedicated to fans written by member Belle captures the emotions of unrequited love.[15]
Carmen Chin writing for NME described the extended play as "as a diamond in the rough" and is a sophomore album, which certainly has some gigantic shoes to fill after their debut which exceeds all expectations.[13] Kim Do-heon of Zenerate ranked the album at number 6 for their list of The 15 Best K-pop Albums of 2023.[16]
