Reading Time: 2 min read

3.5 out of 5 stars

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

ONE 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!

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.

3.5 out of 5 stars


ONE OK ROCK • Ambitions • Fueled by RamenRelease Date: 1.13.17
Photo Credits: Fueled by Ramen

 

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the musical hype

the musical hype aka Brent Faulkner has earned Bachelor and Masters degrees in music (music Education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and a freelance music journalist. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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