One of Us cover

One of Us

Ava Max · 2023

14 min · 5 tracks · dance-pop

A vibrant blend of dance-pop anthems that explore self-empowerment and emotional resilience through catchy hooks and dynamic beats.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    One of Us Start here — The title track captures the essence of the album with its exploration of belonging and individuality, layered over an infectious dance beat.
  • →
    Weapons — This track stands out for its powerful message about emotional strength, weaving together personal lyrics with an engaging chorus that encourages resilience.
  • →
    Maybe You’re the Problem — Featuring a catchy hook and relatable lyrics, this track highlights themes of self-reflection and accountability in relationships, showcasing Max's lyrical maturity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album delivers catchy hooks and danceable beats but lacks significant depth or innovation.

What we noticed

  • Each track features a strong, repetitive chorus that emphasizes the dance-pop style and encourages listener participation.
  • The album maintains a consistent tempo throughout, with all tracks designed for upbeat danceability.
  • Lyrical themes of self-empowerment are prevalent, with each song addressing personal strength and resilience in a straightforward manner.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • quick bursts of energetic fun
  • danceable tracks for celebration
  • introspective themes in catchy format
  • for short listening breaks

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer longer, immersive albums
  • seek deep, complex narratives

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Solidifies Ava Max's position with commercial appeal and strong themes in her evolving sound.
Themes
dance floor empowerment· self-reflection in relationships· belonging and individuality
Career context
Released in 2023, One of Us marks Ava Max's third studio album following the commercial success of her debut album, Heaven & Hell. At this stage in her career, she was solidifying her position as a prominent figure in the dance-pop genre, building on hits like Sweet but Psycho and Kings & Queens.
Stylistic neighbors
Dua Lipa· Tove Lo· Charli XCX

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Weapons

    The writing shifts from vulnerability to empowerment emphasizes taking control over one's emotional landscape.

    This transition not only underscores the song's theme but also showcases Ava Max's growth as a songwriter who embraces personal strength.

Tracklist

  • 1 One of Us Start here 2:58
  • 2 Dancing’s Done 2:47
  • 3 Weapons 2:31
  • 4 Million Dollar Baby 3:04
  • 5 Maybe You’re the Problem 3:10

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata