What makes Surviving by Jimmy Eat World notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics, debuting at number 4 on the Billboard Rock Albums chart. Its themes of perseverance resonated with listeners during a time of global uncertainty, contributing to its relevance in contemporary music discussions. Surviving is Jimmy Eat World's tenth studio album, released in 2019, following the band's 2016 release, Integrity Blues. At this stage in their career, they were establishing a renewed creative energy after their previous work, showcasing growth and resilience in both sound and lyrical themes.

Who is Surviving for?

Surviving works well if you're into steady pacing with uplifting themes, revitalizing energy for daily motivation and introspective lyrics for self-reflection.

How many songs are on Surviving?

Surviving has 10 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Released 7 years ago this October

Surviving

Jimmy Eat World · 2019

36 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

Energetic melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, reflecting a mature yet vibrant take on alternative rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Surviving — The title track encapsulates the album's core message of resilience and survival through catchy hooks and relatable lyrics about overcoming challenges.
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Criminal Energy — This track stands out for its infectious energy and commentary on societal pressures, blending upbeat instrumentation with sharp lyrical insight.
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All the Way (Stay) — With its anthemic chorus and heartfelt sentiments, this song serves as a powerful reminder of commitment and emotional connection amidst life's chaos.

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 balances energetic melodies with introspective themes, showcasing solid writing and production.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy title track that sets a brisk pace, which is maintained through the first half before slowing down in the latter tracks.
Several songs feature layered guitar riffs and harmonized vocals, creating a rich sound texture that supports the introspective lyrics.
The last three tracks exhibit a noticeable drop in tempo, allowing for reflective moments that contrast with the earlier energetic pieces.

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 with uplifting themes
revitalizing energy for daily motivation
introspective lyrics for self-reflection
short tracks for quick engagement
catchy choruses to sing along

Maybe skip if you

prefer longer, sprawling albums
seek deep, complex narratives

Where this album fits

Career context: Surviving is Jimmy Eat World's tenth studio album, released in 2019, following the band's 2016 release, Integrity Blues. At this stage in their career, they were establishing a renewed creative energy after their previous work, showcasing growth and resilience in both sound and lyrical themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Dashboard Confessional· Taking Back Sunday· Brand New