Is Exile a good place to start with Hurts?

Yes, Exile is recommended as a starting point for new Hurts listeners. A lush tapestry of synths and emotive vocals, blending melancholy with danceable rhythms throughout its narrative journey. Released on March 8, 2013, Exile marked Hurts' third studio album, following their successful sophomore effort, Happiness. By this time, the duo had solidified their presence in the synth-pop scene, building on their established sound while exploring darker themes and more complex arrangements.

Exile works well if you're into steady pacing for deep reflection, haunting melodies for emotional introspection and mid-tempo flow for evening listening.

How many songs are on Exile?

Exile has 12 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Exile

Hurts · 2013

50 min · 12 tracks · synth-pop

A lush tapestry of synths and emotive vocals, blending melancholy with danceable rhythms throughout its narrative journey.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Exile Start here — The title track sets the tone for the album with its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, encapsulating the central themes of longing and isolation.
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Miracle — As the lead single, this track showcases an uplifting yet bittersweet energy, balancing pop sensibilities with emotional depth that exemplifies Hurts’ unique style.
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Somebody to Die For — This track stands out for its dramatic arrangement and poignant lyrics about devotion and sacrifice, representing a high point in both songwriting and production.
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The Crow — With its atmospheric buildup and powerful delivery, this song explores themes of loss and redemption, showcasing the duo's ability to convey deep emotion through their music.

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

Exile showcases strong production and songwriting but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that sets a somber tone, followed by the upbeat lead single 'Miracle', creating a contrast in mood.
Several tracks feature layered synths and vocal harmonies, with 'Somebody to Die For' incorporating orchestral elements that elevate its emotional weight.
The pacing fluctuates throughout, with mid-tempo tracks like 'Blind' and 'Only You' interspersed with slower ballads such as 'The Rope'.
The final track, 'Help', concludes the album on a reflective note, leaving an unresolved feeling that invites further listening.

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

steady pacing for deep reflection
haunting melodies for emotional introspection
mid-tempo flow for evening listening
atmospheric soundscapes for solitude

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party tracks
prefer instant gratification sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Exile shows an evolution in sound, blending new elements that differ from earlier works.
Themes: emotional isolation· bittersweet devotion
Career context: Released on March 8, 2013, Exile marked Hurts' third studio album, following their successful sophomore effort, Happiness. By this time, the duo had solidified their presence in the synth-pop scene, building on their established sound while exploring darker themes and more complex arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors: The 1975· Chvrches· Empire of the Sun