[CONCERT RECAP] I.M in the Bay: A Night of ‘Off The Beat’ Energy

By iamraeiam | August 31, 2024

I.M’s Bay Area tour stop on his ‘Off the Beat’ world tour left the crowd in awe, blending raw emotion with unparalleled stage presence.

On the evening of August 29th, 2024, the historic UC Theatre in Berkeley buzzed with excitement as fans gathered for one of the final U.S. stops on I.M’s first solo world tour, ‘I.M WORLD TOUR 2024 <Off The Beat>.’ Known for his role as the main rapper and youngest member of the acclaimed K-pop group MONSTA X, I.M has long captivated audiences with his deep voice, sharp rap skills, and magnetic stage presence. This tour, however, marked a new chapter in his career, showcasing his individual artistry and solidifying his position as a formidable solo performer.

As the slight chill of the Berkeley air settled in, anticipation mounted among the diverse crowd. MONBEBE and new admirers alike were eager to experience I.M’s solo material, which has been making waves since his debut EP ‘DUALITY’ in 2021. The air was thick with expectation for a night that promised to blend I.M’s signature charisma, provocative lyrics, and versatile musicality.

The setlist was a carefully curated journey through I.M’s growing solo discography, showcasing his versatility as an artist. The night kicked off with the intense energy of “Burn,” immediately setting the tone for an electrifying performance. As the show progressed, I.M seamlessly transitioned between high-energy tracks and more introspective moments.

“Bust It” had the crowd moving with its pulsating beat, while “Flower-ed” offered a more vulnerable side of I.M, its emotional depth resonating through the theater. The performances of “God Damn,” “LURE,” and “Skyline” was a highlight, with I.M delivering the provocative lyrics of each song with a perfect blend of confidence and artistry.

Throughout the night, I.M’s charisma was on full display. He engaged with the audience between songs, and his natural wit and charm shone through. Fans were treated to glimpses of I.M’s playful side as he occasionally broke into silly expressions or delivered humorous quips, creating a connection that transcended the typical artist-audience dynamic.

The encore started with “Happy to Die,” a standout fan-favorite track from I.M’s debut EP that showcases just how powerful an artist he really is—the evening concluded with “Dumb,” bringing the night full circle from intense and provocative to introspective and back again.

As the final notes faded and the lights came up, the energy in the UC Theatre remained electric. This tour stop wasn’t just another concert but a definitive statement of I.M’s evolution as an artist. Throughout the evening, he demonstrated not only his well-known rap skills and stage presence but also a versatility and depth that pointed to a bright future as a solo performer.

The ‘Off The Beat’ tour has clearly been a transformative experience for I.M, allowing him to step out from the collective identity of MONSTA X and firmly establish his individual artistic vision. As fans spilled out onto University Avenue, their excited chatter and beaming faces told the story of a night they wouldn’t soon forget – and of an artist they were eager to see again, both in his solo ventures and as part of MONSTA X. In Berkeley, I.M didn’t just perform; he cemented his place as a multifaceted artist capable of captivating an audience entirely on his own terms.