Album Review: Better Days by One Outta Ten

Release Date: August 9, 2024

Review By Glen Parkes

Hailing from Los Angeles, One Outta Ten is an indie rock band that effortlessly captures the triumphs and turmoils of growing up. With a raw live energy and a keen ear for infectious melodies, this five-piece outfit weaves together anthemic hooks and relatable lyrics with frenetic instrumentation. From unruly smog-dripping surf rock riffs to earworm refrains, the music of One Outta Ten is an invitation to both revel in the chaos and find comfort in the shared human experience. One Outta Ten is ready to become the soundtrack to your coming-of-age movie, equal parts turbulent and beautiful. Buckle up for the ride.

1. How To Phone Home
The album kicks off with “How To Phone Home,” a punchy three-minute opener that encapsulates the band’s knack for merging frenetic energy with introspective lyrics. The track bursts to life with gritty, surf rock-inspired riffs that instantly pull you in, while the lyrics explore the disconnection and longing that comes with trying to find your way back—both literally and metaphorically. It’s a perfect introduction to One Outta Ten’s sound, setting the stage for what’s to come.

2. Down and Out
“Down and Out” slows the tempo slightly, but not the intensity. This four-minute track delves into the frustrations of feeling stuck in life’s ruts, with its driving bassline and relentless drums reflecting the inner turmoil. The chorus is anthemic and cathartic, with the repeated line “we’re down, but we’re not out” serving as both a mantra and a rallying cry. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt like they’re fighting an uphill battle.

3. Michael Cera
One Outta Ten delivers a slice of pop culture with “Michael Cera,” a track that cleverly uses the actor’s awkward charm as a metaphor for the insecurities and quirks that define our formative years. With jangly guitars and a catchy melody, the song balances humor and depth, capturing the essence of not fitting in while still finding your place. It’s a playful yet poignant track that adds a lighter touch to the album’s narrative.

4. All Roads
“All Roads” is a contemplative track that reflects on the paths we take in life and the choices that define us. The song’s mid-tempo pace and reflective lyrics are underscored by warm, layered guitar work that creates a sense of journey and progression. The refrain “all roads lead somewhere” carries an optimistic undertone, suggesting that even when we feel lost, we’re still moving forward. It’s a thoughtful moment in the album, encouraging introspection.

5. Forever
The shortest track on the album, “Forever,” packs a punch despite its brief runtime. With its upbeat tempo and infectious energy, this song is a whirlwind of youthful exuberance. The lyrics speak to the fleeting nature of time and the desire to hold on to moments that feel like they could last forever. It’s a high-octane reminder to live in the now, making it one of the most exhilarating tracks on the album.

6. One Long Fog
“One Long Fog” slows things down again, offering a more atmospheric and moody vibe. The nearly five-minute track is a brooding exploration of confusion and uncertainty, using the metaphor of a fog to represent the unclear and hazy periods in life. The instrumentation is lush and immersive, with echoing guitars and a haunting melody that lingers long after the song ends. It’s a standout track that showcases the band’s ability to create depth and mood.

7. Rose Tea
“Rose Tea” brings a brighter, more whimsical energy back to the album. With its breezy, surf-inspired riffs and playful lyrics, the track feels like a lazy summer afternoon. The song’s imagery of sipping rose tea and watching the world go by evokes a sense of nostalgia and simplicity. It’s a charming, feel-good track that lightens the mood before the album’s final, more intense moments.

8. SCREAM!!! (Album Version)
The album version of “SCREAM!!!” is an epic journey, expanding on the single version with extended instrumental sections and more intense dynamics. At over eight minutes, the track is a cathartic release of pent-up emotions, capturing the raw, unfiltered energy that defines One Outta Ten’s live performances. The screamed vocals and crashing guitars build to a fever pitch, creating a sonic explosion that leaves you breathless by the end. It’s a powerful centerpiece that anchors the album.

9. Friends/Anyway
“Friends/Anyway” is a two-part track that explores the complexities of relationships, both platonic and romantic. The first part, “Friends,” is a reflective and melodic exploration of friendship and loyalty, while “Anyway” shifts gears into a more intense, rock-driven sound that confronts the frustrations and misunderstandings that can strain these bonds. The track’s duality mirrors the highs and lows of relationships, making it one of the most emotionally resonant songs on the album.

10. Better Days
The album closes with its title track, “Better Days,” a hopeful and uplifting anthem that ties the entire record together. The song looks forward to the future with optimism, acknowledging the struggles of the past but focusing on the promise of what’s to come. With its soaring chorus and heartfelt lyrics, it’s a fitting end to the album, leaving listeners with a sense of closure and a reminder that better days are always ahead. “Better Days” by One Outta Ten is a cohesive and emotionally charged album that captures the ups and downs of growing up with raw honesty and infectious energy. Each track offers a different perspective on the journey, making it a compelling listen from start to finish. Whether you’re reflecting on the past or looking forward to the future, this album is sure to resonate and become the soundtrack to your own coming-of-age story.