One Step Closer has long believed in the boundless potential of hardcore, a conviction they fully embody with their latest release All You Embrace. The Wilkes-Barre melodic heavy hitters have embarked on an exploration through hardcore, emo and alternative rock – allowing us to believe that they are not afraid to journey outside of their comfort zone. This is affirmed by vocalist Ryan Savitski who stated “We know what we want to do with the band, we’re just naturally writing what feels right to us" emphasizing their commitment to authenticity and instinctual expression. Join us on an emotional journey as we explore the feelings of loss, self-doubt, belonging and happiness in All You Embrace.
Ironically, the introductory single “Color You” was not the first single to be released. Despite its melancholic scaffolding in juxtaposition with its heavy hitting melody, the track is a superior representation of One Step Closer’s diversity and is unparalleled by their previous releases. The lyrics of this song seem to convey themes of loss, longing, and the struggle to maintain a connection in the face of distance and emotional turmoil. The opening lines "Where the time has gone / And blues have shown" suggest a reflection on the passage of time and the sadness that has emerged over time. This is something most of us can relate to. It’s easy to get stuck in an ongoing cycle of life, challenges hitting you left and right, only to finally look up and realize how much time has passed. The mention of "a life so full of roaming" and "empty space" implies a sense of aimlessness or emptiness despite the constant movement or search for meaning. The song expresses a desire for understanding or resolution in the face of brokenness and confusion. It fully encapsulates the feeling of struggling to find a purpose within life to the point where we feel like we are wandering aimlessly through life's turmoils. The lyrics talk about one person fighting for the other ("While I’m fighting for you"), indicating a struggle to maintain a relationship or connection amidst challenges. It takes two people to form a relationship, constantly working together to build a bond; however, it becomes difficult to manage when you are struggling with feelings of isolation within yourself. The lines "but you left a mark and chose to forget / How dark this colored you" suggest that the departure of the other person has deeply affected the protagonist, leaving them in emotional pain and darkness. The repeated references to waiting for a call and the difficulty in finding words to express oneself highlight feelings of loneliness and longing for communication or connection. The line "I see it / Turn off the lights and suffer through" suggests a struggle to move on or find closure, even in moments of solitude.The mention of "If this was home then I’d say goodnight" indicates a longing for a sense of home and comfort, even in the midst of emotional turmoil. The conclusion of the song seems to encapsulate a sense of resignation and acceptance amidst the emotional turmoil and longing expressed throughout the lyrics. Despite the pain and difficulty in finding resolution, there is a recognition of the need to confront and endure the challenges faced. The repeated acknowledgment of "I see it" suggests an awareness of the situation and the emotions involved, perhaps hinting at a form of self-awareness or coming to terms with the reality of the circumstances. Ultimately, "Color You" leaves the listener with a sense of unresolved longing and a recognition of the ongoing struggle to find closure and peace within oneself.
“Leap Years” was one of the first singles to give us a look into the band's redefined sound. The song delves into the emotional aftermath of a relationship or significant loss, portraying a journey marked by turmoil and longing. The opening line “Watch the feeling rot from the inside” sets a tone of decay and internal struggle, with the narrator feeling the effects of emotional deterioration from within. Amidst the hardships, the inability to breathe and the constant presence of the person they've lost make it challenging to find stability. There's a plea for clarity, a desperate hope that the other person might provide answers or closure to the confusion and pain. However, the lyrics reveal a sense of betrayal and emptiness, with promises broken and nothing left behind but memories. The recurring motif of encountering the other person's name and facing their memory as a dream highlights the ongoing struggle with longing and nostalgia. Despite waiting and hoping for resolution, there's an acceptance of loneliness and the realization that, even with time passing, the impact of the past remains deeply ingrained. Through its exploration of these themes, the song captures the complexity of navigating loss and the enduring quest for closure and peace amidst the remnants of a shattered relationship. In the conclusion of the song, there's a subtle shift towards acceptance and resignation. Despite the tumultuous emotional journey depicted throughout the lyrics, there's a realization that the narrator is not truly gone, even as time passes. The acknowledgment of waiting for too long and the reluctance to be alone suggest a sense of longing and vulnerability. Yet, there's also a hint of resilience as the narrator resolves to stand by and watch as time progresses. The final lines convey a bittersweet sense of acceptance, suggesting that despite the pain and longing, life goes on. Ultimately, the conclusion leaves the listener with a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of love and loss, and the ongoing quest for closure and peace amidst the complexities of life.
The lyrics of "Blur My Memory" seem to convey a sense of struggle and longing for meaning and purpose in life. The speaker appears to be burdened by various challenges and responsibilities, perhaps feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from themselves. They express a desire to forget their cares and blur their memories as a way to cope with their inner turmoil. The line "I’m used to spending days running from myself" suggests a deep-seated internal conflict or dissatisfaction. Despite trying to escape from their own thoughts and emotions, the speaker finds themselves confronted with the collision of their different worlds, symbolized by "staring at the ceiling of my room." The repeated plea for a life with meaning reflects the speaker's yearning for something more fulfilling and purposeful. They seek validation and significance in their existence, hoping that it will make their struggles and sacrifices worthwhile. The mention of drowning in angst but choosing not to succumb to it today implies a resilience and determination to overcome adversity. The decision to "set myself free" indicates a willingness to break free from whatever is holding them back and to pursue a life of meaning and fulfillment. In essence, the conclusion of the song encapsulates the ongoing journey of self-discovery and personal growth, as the speaker strives to find meaning and purpose amidst the complexities of life.
The lyrics of "The Gate" scratch that itch in the folds of my brain. It paints a poignant picture of letting go and moving forward from a past relationship or situation. It begins with imagery of an endless summer night, a time of warmth and joy, which eventually breaks down during a season typically associated with growth and renewal. There's a sense of detachment expressed in forgetting to feel something when reminiscing about the past lover. Themes of sacrifice and compromise emerge, hinting at the struggles faced within the relationship. The abrupt end is highlighted in the lines about letting go without reply, leaving one party grappling with closure. As the narrator metaphorically closes the gate and turns away, there's a definitive sense of finality, accompanied by reflections on wasted time. However, amidst the pain, there's a determination to move forward and strive for personal growth, symbolized by the resolution to walk away and strive to become a better person. Overall, the song captures the emotional journey of coming to terms with the end of a relationship, finding closure, and embarking on a path of self-discovery and improvement.
"Your Hazel Tree" – my personal favorite, I will try to refrain from any bias. The track delves into a narrative of deep-seated betrayal and emotional turmoil, where the persona finds themselves forcibly ousted and burdened with a sense of shame. There's a palpable frustration with the ease at which judgments are passed, and a lingering resentment towards someone who has seemingly lied or deceived them. Amidst this backdrop of hurt and disillusionment, there's a fierce determination to rid oneself of the toxicity, to erase the memories and emotions tied to the source of their pain. However, amidst this struggle, there's also a moment of introspection, where the persona considers their own role in the changing dynamics of the relationship. Despite the desire for clarity and resolution, there's an acknowledgment of the difficulty in finding closure, and a refusal to simply forgive and forget. The imagery of grabbing the knife suggests a readiness to confront the harsh realities, even if it means enduring more pain. Ultimately, the song reflects a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the bittersweet quest for closure in the aftermath of betrayal.
"Orange Leaf" is the last part of the trinity that makes me so absorbed into the album. The song seems to reflect themes of longing, nostalgia, and a sense of loss or change. The opening lines suggest a desire for renewal or rejuvenation ("Bring life to me / As my colors bleed"), perhaps after a period of stagnation or hardship ("When I wait too long after months of rain"). The mention of tragedy could indicate past pain or disappointment, and there's a desire to move past it ("You don’t have to speak / Of this tragedy / When I thought that things could be different"). The repetition of the phrase "make me forget" suggests a yearning to escape or overcome these negative feelings. The imagery of trees, leaves, and seasons changing could symbolize the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. The speaker seems to find solace or familiarity in certain places or experiences in lyricism such as "Sit at the top of courtright / I’ve seen the view a thousand times / With each season’s pass" There's also a sense of detachment or resignation in lines like "You’ll come and go / Lose touch with everyone / You cared to know." This could reflect a feeling of isolation or disconnection from others. The reference to choosing to be alone and the final lines about "Nothing will change if I don’t go" suggest a theme of self-reliance and the need for personal growth or change, even if it means leaving behind what's familiar. Overall, the song appears to explore themes of introspection, resilience, and the complexities of human emotion.
“ESRUC” – my dyslexia unscrambled it as CURSE, and I can’t decipher if this is a Title Fight reference or not (hey "MRAHC..."). – The song's lyrics intricately explore a myriad of emotions, blending themes of sorrow, isolation, betrayal, and the quest for closure. Initially, the verses set a tone of deep reflection and despair, with the protagonist grappling with a fear of losing all hope and confronting their solitary existence. There's a distinct feeling of being ensnared in a situation that feels inherently wrong, coupled with an intense desire to break free from the shackles of familiarity. The imagery of igniting a spark to incinerate it all hints at a yearning for drastic change, while also acknowledging the daunting challenge of moving forward while concealing inner turmoil. Throughout the composition, there's a pervasive sense of anguish and betrayal as the narrator recounts feeling deceived by someone they once held dear. The recurring refrain of "You said it best" alludes to a significant moment or utterance that continues to resonate deeply with the protagonist, serving as a poignant reminder of past wounds. In essence, the lyrics paint a poignant picture of emotional upheaval, a yearning for closure, and the arduous journey towards reconciliation with the pain of betrayal, all while striving to find a path towards healing and resolution.
"Slow to Let Go" encapsulates the emotional struggle of grappling with unresolved feelings and the challenges of moving on from a past relationship or situation. The lyrics depict a narrator who struggles to express their thoughts openly, leading to a sense of emptiness symbolized by "a hole where I left you." There's a yearning for clarity and understanding, represented by the desire to "know where the willows cry" and the difficulty of thinking straight. The repetition of "I’ll take it slow / Leave it go" reflects a deliberate effort to navigate emotions at their own pace. Metaphorical imagery of the sun rising and setting signifies cycles of change and renewal, with a hopeful undertone despite past hardships. Yet, there's also a resolve to prioritize self-care and personal growth, refusing to be entangled in someone else's changing narrative. Ultimately, Slow to Let Go portrays the journey of embracing personal growth, letting go of the past, and moving forward with courage, albeit cautiously.
"Topanga" seems to explore themes of change, longing, and the search for happiness. The lyrics evoke a sense of transition and movement, symbolized by the shift from a constant pattern to an endless summer where time seems to stand still. There's a conflict between moving forward and holding onto past love, as the narrator grapples with the idea of forgetting their love while also longing for connection. The repetition of "try again" suggests a cycle of attempting to move forward but ultimately feeling stuck in the past. The mention of spring symbolizes renewal and forgetting, but also serves as a reminder of the passage of time. Despite expressing a desire for happiness, there's a lingering sense of dissatisfaction and a question of what truly brings fulfillment. The imagery of the green grass on the other side and fantasizing about a different perspective hints at a longing for change and a search for meaning. Ultimately, the song conveys a complex emotional journey of seeking happiness amidst uncertainty and longing for a sense of belonging.
"Giant's Despair" appears to delve into themes of introspection, self-doubt, and the search for meaning in the face of personal struggles. The repetition of the word slow sets a contemplative tone, suggesting a gradual realization or understanding unfolding throughout the song. The lyrics depict a sense of inner struggles and frustrations, with the narrator feeling as though they've been suffering and questioning their own actions and decisions. There's a desire to confront past mistakes and understand where things went wrong, as expressed in lines like "When did I mess this up" and "Did I fail the life I’ve been through now." The mention of throwing something at the wall to gauge progress suggests a metaphorical attempt to confront obstacles and assess personal growth. Despite feeling stuck in a cycle of self-reflection, the narrator grapples with a longing for connection and understanding, seeking help to navigate through their struggles and find a sense of resolution. The repetition of "Who are you outside of town" could signify a search for identity and purpose beyond familiar surroundings, while the references to falling down and hearing talks from the bedroom hint at the internal battles and external influences shaping the narrator's journey. The band stated via twitter, "This is a nod to the importance of the community and culture that Wilkes Barre will always have to us. A lot of the places in this video shaped our lives. This is for WB.” Ultimately, Giant's Despair captures the complexities of grappling with inner demons, seeking redemption, and striving to find clarity amidst uncertainty.
To bring this record to a celebratory close, "So Far From Me" appears to explore themes of distance, departure, and the bittersweet nature of farewells. The song paints a picture of a beautiful sight illuminated by streetlights, but this beauty is overshadowed by the impending sense of separation and departure. The repetition of "such a beautiful sight" juxtaposed with the inevitability of being swallowed whole by the night creates a poignant contrast between the external beauty and the internal turmoil of the narrator. There's a sense of urgency and restlessness conveyed through the desire to keep running, suggesting an attempt to escape or avoid confronting difficult emotions associated with goodbyes. The repeated refrain of "back again see you soon / and the next time to say goodbye" emphasizes the cyclical nature of departures and reunions, highlighting the transient nature of relationships. Despite the pain of separation, there's a recognition that sometimes letting go is necessary for growth, as expressed in the lines "If I hurt you / I will let you fly." The song captures the heartache of watching loved ones move on and evolve while acknowledging the inevitability of change and the transient nature of human connections. Ultimately, So Far From Me encapsulates the complex emotions surrounding farewells and the longing for connection despite physical or emotional distance.
In the culmination of All You Embrace, One Step Closer has undeniably transcended the confines of traditional hardcore, embarking on an emotive journey that resonates deeply with listeners. Each track from the album offers a poignant exploration of themes such as longing, loss, and the transient nature of relationships. Through visceral lyrics and dynamic melodies, the band navigates the complexities of human emotion with raw authenticity and unyielding passion. As a listener, it's rare to connect so profoundly with an album, but All You Embrace achieves just that, speaking to the universal experiences of struggle, resilience, and the quest for meaning. While the narratives within each song are unique to the narrator's journey, they effortlessly transcend personal boundaries, offering solace and understanding to anyone who has ever grappled with similar emotions. All You Embrace serves as a testament to the transformative power of music, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, we are never truly alone.
One Step Closer will be touring the U.S. along side Koyo, Anxious and Prize Horse this summer. Purchase tickets here.
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