What makes Exit Wounds by The Wallflowers notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics, showcasing the band's continued relevance in the music landscape. Notably, it debuted at number 17 on the Billboard 200, indicating a strong commercial performance that reflects both nostalgia for their earlier work and an appreciation for their evolving artistry. Exit Wounds is The Wallflowers' sixth studio album and their first since 2012's Glad All Over. Released in 2021, it marks a significant return for the band, as they reestablish their presence in the alternative and roots rock scenes after nearly a decade-long hiatus. Frontman Jakob Dylan continues to explore personal themes while expanding the band's sound within contemporary contexts.

Who is Exit Wounds for?

Exit Wounds works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, reflective listening experiences and mid-tempo soothing backgrounds.

How many songs are on Exit Wounds?

Exit Wounds has 10 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Exit Wounds

The Wallflowers · 2021

40 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A collection of reflective narratives anchored in roots rock, blending wistful melodies with thoughtful lyrical introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Roots and Wings — This track encapsulates the album's themes of growth and longing while featuring a catchy chorus that bridges classic and modern influences.
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I Hear the Ocean (When I Wanna Hear Trains) — The song uses vivid imagery to contrast feelings of yearning with everyday life, highlighting Jakob Dylan's skillful storytelling.
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Darlin’ Hold On — A heartfelt anthem about resilience and support, this track showcases the band's signature blend of melody and emotion.

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 combines reflective lyrics with solid craftsmanship but doesn't significantly stand out in its genre.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
The instrumentation often includes layered guitar work and subtle keyboard arrangements that enhance the reflective mood of the songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
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, consistent energy levels
reflective listening experiences
mid-tempo soothing backgrounds
emotional storytelling journeys

Where this album fits

Career context: Exit Wounds is The Wallflowers' sixth studio album and their first since 2012's Glad All Over. Released in 2021, it marks a significant return for the band, as they reestablish their presence in the alternative and roots rock scenes after nearly a decade-long hiatus. Frontman Jakob Dylan continues to explore personal themes while expanding the band's sound within contemporary contexts.
Stylistic neighbors: Counting Crows· Gin Blossoms· Matchbox Twenty