New Orleans’ own The Bottoms have dropped a barnburner with “One In A Million”, a raucous, harmony-drenched ride that proves their status as indie rock’s most underrated crew. The five-piece—lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist Jason Rhein, keyboardist Michael Girardot, bassist Charles Depret, lead guitarist Eric Nichelson, and drummer Eric Nelson—raise the amps and dial into their collective chemistry.
Born from the ashes of Rhein’s former indie outfit Rotary Downs, The Bottoms came roaring to life after a fateful 2024 gig at New Orleans’ DBA on Frenchmen Street. Rhein, itching to reignite his musical fire, linked up with Nelson, and the duo quickly recruited Depret, Girardot (a Revivalists touring member), and Nichelson (of Midlake fame) to round out their gritty, harmony-heavy sound. This isn’t some garage-band fluke—these guys are veterans; they’ve been around the block.
“One In A Million” slaps like a love letter to ’90s indie grit, with Rhein citing Liz Phair’s “Exile in Guyville” as a key influence. The track’s jangly instruments and voicing hit like a shot of adrenaline, while the lyrics—co-written by Rhein, Depret, and songwriter Jeff Christian— fall into the messy feeling of wanting something so bad it hurts. They sing “Take me down into the wishing well” and “People passing by everyday, you’re the reason why I wanna stay,” and it’s ike they’re reaching into your chest and squeezing your heart.
But the real kicker? That unexpected acapella breakdown at the 2:15 mark. When the guitars and drums peel away, leaving nothing but Rhein’s crew belting harmonies tighter than a dive bar’s last call, it’s a gutsy move that pays off. Most bands wouldn’t dare, but The Bottoms aren’t most bands—they’re different.
Recorded DIY-style between Nelson’s “Stu Stu Studio” and Rhein’s garage setup, the track’s naturality are its secret weapon. Mixed by Paul Alexander (who’s handled their previous singles “Running In Mud” and “Incarnadine”), it’s a masterclass in balancing scruffy authenticity with radio-ready polish.
“One In A Million” is for anyone chasing that lightning-in-a-bottle moment. The Bottoms aren’t simply making a comeback; they’re here to steal the damn show.