It can be tough to see at first, but the truth is, a lot of breakups are for the best.

New Jersey-based alt-rockers The Break Plans deliver that message in empowering fashion on their latest single, “Better Off” (released May 10). The tune combines scorching guitar work with an anthemic pop sensibility, providing a lift to anyone struggling with what comes next after a relationship.

“Heartbreak is really hard and can be incredibly lonely,” shares vocalist Colton Braun. “I wanted to talk about those experiences so many of us have had. What I’ve learned is that there’s a great deal of freedom that comes from finally letting go. Writing these songs with my band was the most cathartic thing I’ve ever done. I hope our listeners can relate and find comfort in it.”

The single — the first from the band’s debut EP, Mistakes Are a Friend of Mine (due Fall 2024) — marks a watershed moment in the band’s creative process, with guitarist Mikey Strawz noting that the band feels free to create music they love.

 “This is our third cycle of releasing new music, and we’re allowing each other total freedom to write the songs that we want to make,” Strawz said. “It’s completely uninhibited and has helped the writing process immensely. After working with so many talented producers (Carl Bahner -The Wombats, Rob Chiarappa – Gray Scale/Jake Miller, Corey Mouch-Knox) and keeping a keen eye on modern pop music, we have a clear direction of what works for us.”