What makes Damage by Jimmy Eat World notable?

'Damage' received a warm reception from critics, noted for its introspective songwriting and emotional depth, which resonated with fans of the band's earlier work. The album debuted at number 29 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing its commercial viability, and solidified the band's influence on the pop-punk and emo revival movements of the early 2010s. Released on June 11, 2013, 'Damage' is Jimmy Eat World's sixth studio album and comes after their commercially successful record 'Invented' from 2010. At this point in their career, the band was navigating a return to their emo roots while addressing themes of vulnerability in relationships amidst evolving musical landscapes. This album marked a significant moment as they sought to re-establish their identity within the alternative rock scene.

Damage works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, introspective melodies for solitude and heartfelt themes of love lost.

How many songs are on Damage?

Damage has 10 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Damage

Jimmy Eat World · 2013

37 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A reflective blend of heartfelt melodies and raw, confessional lyrics that captures the complexities of love and loss.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Damage — The title track encapsulates the album's central theme of navigating emotional scars from past relationships, combining earnest lyrics with a haunting melody.
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I Will Steal You Back — This track stands out with its catchy hooks and upbeat tempo while exploring the complexities of desire and regret within a relationship.
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Byebyelove — This closing track poignantly reflects on loss and finality, using layered instrumentation to enhance its emotional weight and leaving a lasting impression.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album blends introspective songwriting with varied tempos, maintaining listener engagement through its structure.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a slower ballad that shifts the album's energy.
Several songs feature layered guitar melodies that intertwine with the vocal lines, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The last two tracks gradually reduce in tempo, creating a reflective conclusion that contrasts with the earlier material.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
introspective melodies for solitude
heartfelt themes of love lost
consistent flow for focused listening

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party anthems
prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on June 11, 2013, 'Damage' is Jimmy Eat World's sixth studio album and comes after their commercially successful record 'Invented' from 2010. At this point in their career, the band was navigating a return to their emo roots while addressing themes of vulnerability in relationships amidst evolving musical landscapes. This album marked a significant moment as they sought to re-establish their identity within the alternative rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Dashboard Confessional· Taking Back Sunday· Brand New