BTS' studio album, ARIRANG, has received strong reviews from major outlets, with critics praising its ambition and aggressive first half. The 14-track album was produced by Diplo, Kevin Parker of Tame Impala, Mike WiLL Made-It, Ryan Tedder, JPEGMAFIA, and Flume. While some critics found the opening run not the safe, pop-forward return many anticipated, others found it more individualistic. The album's back half shifts into a more melodic mode anchored by lead single "SWIM." Despite criticism, group leader RM emerges as the album's connective thread, credited as a writer on every track except the interlude.