Out in the Storm
Waxahatchee · 2017
32 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock
A raw blend of introspective lyrics and melodic hooks wrapped in gritty guitar textures and driving rhythms.
Top tracks — play these first
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Never Been Wrong — The opening track sets an urgent tone with its driving rhythm and reflective lyrics, encapsulating themes of self-doubt and resilience right from the start.
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Recite Remorse — This track showcases Crutchfield's lyrical prowess, presenting a stark exploration of regret and emotional conflict through vivid imagery and dynamic shifts.
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Sparks Fly — With its infectious chorus and upbeat tempo, this song contrasts the album's heavier themes while still capturing the essence of longing and desire.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends polished production with introspective songwriting, creating a compelling yet cohesive sound.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a driving rhythm and layered guitar textures that set a raw, energetic tone.
- Each track features a consistent use of melodic hooks, often juxtaposed with introspective lyrics that explore personal themes.
- The production quality is notably polished compared to earlier works, enhancing the clarity of vocals and instrumentation.
- Several tracks feature dynamic shifts in intensity, with quieter verses building into more explosive choruses.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 mid-tempo reflective moments
- introspective themes of vulnerability
- for afternoon drives
- short bursts of emotional release
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer high-energy party tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the time 'Out in the Storm' was released in 2017, Waxahatchee, led by Katie Crutchfield, was transitioning from the lo-fi sound of her earlier albums to a more polished production style. This album came after her critically acclaimed record 'Ivy Tripp' (2015), marking a period of artistic maturation and broader appeal as she began to reach a larger audience.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Phoebe Bridgers· Margaret Glaspy· Julien Baker
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Recite Remorse
The narrative voice confronts past mistakes directly invokes a sense of urgency and accountability.
Shifting from abstract reflection to direct confrontation intensifies the emotional weight, making this moment pivotal in understanding personal growth.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Never Been Wrong 3:12
- 2 8 Ball 2:49
- 3 Silver 3:24
- 4 Recite Remorse 4:38
- 5 Sparks Fly 3:06
- 6 Brass Beam 2:41
- 7 Hear You 3:00
- 8 A Little More 2:32
- 9 No Question 3:38
- 10 Fade 3:47
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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