I.M of MONSTA X performs at The UC Theatre in Berkeley on Aug. 29, 2024. Aaron Lee/STAFF.

BERKELEY — South Korean rapper and singer I.M of K-pop group MONSTA X brought his first solo tour to The UC Theatre on Thursday.

The 28-year-old artist, whose name is Im Chang-Kyun, is the boy band’s lead rapper but has also released three solo EPs; most recently, April’s Off the Beat. He led off with “Burn,” off 2021 debut solo EP Duality, 2023’s “More,” and “nbdy,” off his latest EP.

“Welcome to the I.M first world tour in the Bay Area!” he shouted.

I.M was supported by a spectacular live band that played moody and atmospheric arrangements that complemented his delivery. His vocals were crisp, versatile and had impressive range throughout the 90-minute set. His solo work is more melody-based than his MONSTA X work and it showed the entire evening.

I.M of MONSTA X performs at The UC Theatre in Berkeley on Aug. 29, 2024.

Following “flower-ed,” I.M left for several minutes, coming back out to “LURE,” in a an all-black suit; he’d change several times during their show. His dancing matched his sleek aesthetic, keeping pace and alongside his fast, smooth movements.

Between tracks, I.M chatted with the crowd.

“As you all know, this is my first solo world tour … and every single one of you is precious to me,” he said.

He changed once again after “God Damn,” this time to leather vest and cargo pants for “Howlin’.” And during  a 15-second guitar solo at the end of “Skyline,” he took another opportunity to show off some quick dances moves set to the musicians notes.

The relatively small size of The UC Theatre—at least compared to the larger halls that his group typically plays— allowed for an intimate viewing experience. Attendees spent the entire evening cheering loudly, singing along to every track while waving white MONSTA X light sticks and barking their approval, as is customary.

Before ending the night with “Dumb,” he shared one last message.

“I’m enjoying my life, I’m enjoying the moment, and I’m so happy you guys came to my concert to share this precious time,” he said. “When I’m on the stage it makes me happy seeing all your faces, it gives me lots of energy, and it means a lot to me.”

Follow photographer Aaron Lee at Instagram.com/aaronxphotos.