ONE OK ROCK, Taking Off | Track Review 🎵

Japanese rock band ONE OK ROCK shines on “Taking Off,” a promo single from their latest album, Ambitions.

[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”O” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color” shadow=”shadow” square=”square”]NE OK ROCK looks to make a bigger splash stateside.  Who is ONE OK ROCK? A Japanese rock band, known for their punk-oriented style.  The latest album, Ambitions, marks their debut for alt-label, Fueled by Ramen.  Ahead of Ambitions, the band released three singles: “Taking Off,” “Bedroom Warfare,” and “I Was King.  Simply put, “Taking Off” rocks![/otw_shortcode_dropcap]

After a brief, rhythmic, mysterious start, bombastic guitars assert themselves on “Taking Off.”  Following the intro, the band brings it back down a smidge on the verse.  On both verses, Taka delivers clear vocals, including a taste of falsetto. Even given the poise of the verses, the vocals are powerful on the catchy, assertive chorus:

“I know, I know
We’re talking off together
Even though we always crash and burn
Tonight you and I will fall from the sky
Drag me all the way to hell
Cause I’m never gonna let it go
I’m never gonna let it go.”

Lyrics embody the (and/or punk), tortured spirit.  On the first verse, Taka sings: “Stuck in the same routine / living an empty dream / when am I gonna wake up?” On the second verse, he focuses on the broken heart:

“Build a broken heart
Watching it fall apart
This is how I like it.”

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Taking Off” is a well-rounded, enjoyable, and energetic rock joint.  ONE OK ROCK isn’t quite a household name stateside, but perhaps they should be.

ONE OK ROCK • Ambitions • Fueled by Ramen • Release Date: 1.13.17

Photo Credits: Fueled by Ramen