There's something inspiring about hearing a band as young and full of energy as One For The Team. The band's influences are obvious and well-noted – this is "emo," as far as that term goes, but there's also striking originality here.

"I Promised I'd Grow Up" has a sweet melody accompanying lines such as "Getting older doesn't mean much to me," with a wistful "ba ba ba" background vocal. Then there's the magic ingredient that tops the best pop tracks: The handclaps. These are used judiciously throughout "Good Boys Don't Make Noise," and to great effect.

The record isn't perfect – some songs, like the hard rock steamroller "Tame The Beast," are a bit contrived – but its focus makes up for its shortcomings. "Stickler For Punctuality" is another highlight, and frontman Ian Anderson uses this focus to emote without melodrama.

Anderson's childlike voice, too, helps him sneak in clever lines that would falter if sung by a lesser singer, lines such as "If you're so damn smart/how come you're losing me?," the refrain to "As Far As It Can Go."

In mentions of One For The Team, Built to Spill and Death Cab For Cutie get namechecked often and the best of those bands are certainly present here. This, however, doesn't give the band credit for its originality. These are good, well-written songs with individual personalities.
The best thing about One For The Team is their ability to know when to hold back. "Leave 'em wanting more" is a tired but truthful cliche and this record's tight 10 tracks do just that.

www.onefortheteammusic.com