Is Away from the World a good place to start with Dave Matthews Band?

Yes, Away from the World is recommended as a starting point for new Dave Matthews Band listeners. A rich tapestry of rock melodies interwoven with introspective lyrics and layered instrumentals, capturing a sense of both longing and hope. Released on September 11, 2012, Away from the World marked Dave Matthews Band's first studio album in four years following Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King. This album came during a period of evolution for the band as they navigated changes in their lineup and aimed to reconnect with their core sound while also experimenting with new musical ideas.

Who is Away from the World for?

Away from the World works well if you're into wave-like pacing with crescendos, introspective moments for reflection and gradual build to emotional climax.

How many songs are on Away from the World?

Away from the World has 11 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

Away from the World

Dave Matthews Band · 2012

53 min · 11 tracks · rock music

A rich tapestry of rock melodies interwoven with introspective lyrics and layered instrumentals, capturing a sense of both longing and hope.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Broken Things Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Mercy — This track highlights the album's blend of emotional vulnerability and musical sophistication, showcasing poignant lyrics that address themes of compassion and understanding.
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Gaucho — With its infectious groove and lively instrumentation, Gaucho represents the band's ability to craft engaging songs that balance narrative depth with rhythmic energy.
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Drunken Soldier — This nine-minute epic encapsulates the band's signature improvisational style, evolving through intricate sections that reflect both personal struggles and broader social themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production but follows familiar patterns within the band's style.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces slower ballads that create a reflective atmosphere.
Several tracks incorporate layered harmonies and intricate instrumental arrangements, with multiple sections that shift dynamics throughout.
The lyrics often explore themes of introspection and connection, with a focus on storytelling that unfolds over the course of each song.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

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

wave-like pacing with crescendos
introspective moments for reflection
gradual build to emotional climax
suitable for contemplative listening
for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer upbeat party tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality after a four-year gap and debuted at number one.
Themes: post-9/11 reflection· intimate compassion· personal struggle
Career context: Released on September 11, 2012, Away from the World marked Dave Matthews Band's first studio album in four years following Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King. This album came during a period of evolution for the band as they navigated changes in their lineup and aimed to reconnect with their core sound while also experimenting with new musical ideas.
Stylistic neighbors: Phish· Widespread Panic· The String Cheese Incident