Album Review: A Better Day by Jens O – A Psychedelic Escape Worth Remembering
Released back in 2017, A Better Day by Jens O is one of those albums that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. Hailing from Germany and released under the label HUP, this Psy-Trance gem feels like a late-night drive through neon-lit streets, where reality blurs into something more electric. Written and produced solely by Jens Ophälders, the man behind the magic, this album doesn’t try too hard—it just flows naturally, like a heartbeat synced to a pulsating beat.
Let’s dive into two standout tracks because, let’s face it, no one has time for filler content these days. First up is A Better Day (Psy Mix). This track grabs your attention right away with its hypnotic bassline and swirling synths. It’s not overly complicated—just really, really effective. The layers build slowly, almost teasing you before unleashing a drop that feels like stepping into an alternate dimension. If you’ve ever been to a festival and lost yourself in the crowd, this is the kind of sound that would pull you back there instantly. What sticks with me about this mix? Its ability to balance chaos and calm. One moment you’re riding high on euphoria; the next, there’s this soothing undertone keeping everything grounded. It’s smart, but also raw enough to feel human.
Then there’s A Better Day (Psy Mix Edit), which takes all the goodness of the original and trims it down for those who want something punchier. Honestly, I wasn’t sure how much I’d dig an “edit” version at first—sometimes edits feel lazy or unnecessary—but this one works. It keeps the essence intact while making it slightly more accessible for shorter listens. Think of it as the espresso shot version of the full latte experience. The energy here feels tighter, more focused, perfect for when you need a quick boost without losing the vibe entirely. Plus, the tweaks make it easier to loop during DJ sets, which is always a win.
What makes A Better Day memorable isn’t just the music itself—it’s the vibe. Jens Ophälders clearly knows his craft, blending technical precision with emotional depth. There’s a sense of optimism running through both tracks, even amidst the frenetic beats. Maybe that’s why it’s called A Better Day. You can tell he poured himself into this project, and it shows.
To wrap things up, this album might not change your life, but it’ll definitely enhance whatever mood you’re in. Whether you’re vibing solo or throwing a party, these tunes have got your back. And here’s the unexpected part: listening to this made me realize how rare it is to find electronic music that feels both polished and unpretentious. So yeah, props to Jens O for pulling that off. Now if only we could get a follow-up album…
