One Too Many Times - EP (2024)
Lauren Blackford’s One Too Many Times - EP is a poignant exploration of love, heartbreak, and the inevitable uncertainties of life. Each track is meticulously crafted, drawing listeners into a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The EP opens with Stranger (Intro), a short but purposeful piece that sets the thematic and sonic tone for the record. From the first note, it’s clear that One Too Many Times will delve into the complexities of love and uncertainty, serving as a delightful appetizer for main course to come.
A Good Thing follows, capturing the all-too-familiar experience of idolizing someone, placing them on a pedestal, and then grappling with the pain when things inevitably fall apart. Blackford’s lyrics hit at the heart of this dilemma, and the energy in this track is palpable. It’s crisp, dynamic, and cleverly uses modern sounds to elevate the message. What starts as a seemingly acoustic, relationship-laden, singer songwriter EP quickly reveals its unexpected depth, blending familiarity with innovation in a way that’s both refreshing and captivating.
Games continues the narrative, exploring the early stages of a relationship where emotions run high, and the lines between reality and fantasy blur. “So there I go, making something out of nothing.” Blackford’s words perfectly capture that moment when you begin to question everything—are they playing games, or is it just in your head? The song builds masterfully, with teasing bass lines, synths, and strong guitar chords that create a sense of tension and release. The transition into Reset Button is seamless, carrying the listener into the next chapter of this tumultuous relationship.
In Reset Button, Blackford confronts the hurt that comes from realizing the relationship was perhaps a game all along. The modern synth and drum elements that began as subtle hints in earlier tracks now take center stage, underscoring the emotional intensity of the lyrics. Blackford’s ability to blend these contemporary sounds with raw emotion is a testament to her creativity and originality—qualities that are often sought but rarely delivered so effectively in todays musical climate.
Wasted Potential shifts to a more familiar sonic territory, but it’s a fitting choice. The track speaks to the universal experience of what could have been—the unfulfilled potential of a person and a relationship, with the narrator caught in the crossfire. The simplicity in the arrangement allows the song’s intimate, personal nature to shine through, making it a standout moment in the EP.
The title track, One Too Many Times, brings the narrative to a powerful close. Here, Blackford reflects on the end of the relationship, the pain of wasted time, and the lingering thoughts of someone who has moved on. “I hate that I live in the back of your mind while you’re still in the front of mine.” This line encapsulates the emotional core of the song, and it’s the culmination of everything that came before it—emotionally charged, sonically rich, and deeply relatable. The intimate yet dynamic acoustic pop arrangement hits all the right notes, leaving a lasting impression. The piano in this track, in particular, resonates deeply, making it a perfect concluder to an EP that is as heartfelt as it is musically intricate.
Lauren Blackford’s One Too Many Times is a masterclass in blending modern sounds with timeless themes, creating a collection of songs that feel both fresh and familiar. It’s a deeply emotional journey that leaves you reflecting on your own experiences with love, loss, and everything in between. This EP is not just a listen—it’s an experience.
