With a heartfelt vibe and captivating charm, Jersey Shore-based The Break Plans offer a refreshing perspective on navigating life's beautiful mistakes on their seven-track EP, “Mistakes Are a Friend of Mine.” Each song serves as a beacon of hope, reminding listeners that while heartbreak may be painful, it also can be a transformative experience that ultimately leads to growth and self-discovery.
A blend of ‘80s- and ‘90s-influenced indie pop, the journey of self-discovery and celebration kicks off with “Better Off,” a chronicle of the aftermath of a bitter breakup apparently experienced by vocalist-guitarist-keyboardist Colton Braun. The reflective anthem explores the realization that sometimes letting go is the best path to self-improvement and personal happiness.
Also drummer Dan Carr and guitarist Mikey Strawz, The Break Plans continue to mop up the messiness of love and life with the danceable but dark “Not What I Want.” The edgy yet vulnerable track confronts the internal conflict of wanting to move on while still holding onto memories of the past. Modern synth-pop elements blend with an infectious melody and catchy beat that will make the listener simultaneously want to think and dance.
The cathartic collection of resonant melodies and poignant lyrics continues with “Is This Love,” a catchy and upbeat tune that takes a break from the mess with a celebration of the unpredictability of love and an embracing of the chaos that comes with it.
The hopeful and uplifting “Happy Again” then continues to remind that happiness is attainable, even after enduring heartbreak. The juxtaposition of the innocent fun of a new romance with the dissolution of the relationship makes for a powerful track as do layers of soft acoustic and energetic electric guitars and a catchy singalong chorus.
The high point of the soul-stirring EP’s deep dive into the raw and often tumultuous journey of overcoming heartbreak is “All Torn Apart,” a powerful duet between Colton and rising Nashville country star Jessica Rose. Like much of the EP, the intense tune captures the essence of emotional turmoil and the struggle to find closure after a breakup, becoming stronger and more resilient as a result.
Deftly produced by Corey Mouch (Knox), Rob Chiarappa (Grayscale, The Story So Far) and Noah Althoff, the EP includes an ethereal cover of the Cyndi Lauper smash “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” which isn’t as fun as the original, but it is prettier. The closer is a beautiful acoustic version of the opener that features really fine guitar playing.
Signed with MGM Distribution and Sentric Music Group, The Break Plans will celebrate the release of “Mistakes Are a Friend of Mine” on Nov. 9 at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park. Sharing the bill will be The Brothers Union and Above the Moon.
For more about The Break Plans, visit https://www.thebreakplans.com.
Bob Makin has produced Makin Waves since 1988. Follow Makin Waves on Facebook and contact Bob at [email protected].
