What makes Wastelands by Eskimo Joe notable?

The album received moderate success in Australia, peaking at number 25 on the ARIA Albums Chart. Critics noted its mature songwriting and cohesive production, which illustrated the band's evolution while appealing to longtime fans. 'Wastelands' also solidified Eskimo Joe's position as enduring figures in the Australian music landscape. By the time 'Wastelands' was released in 2013, Eskimo Joe was already a well-established band in the Australian alternative rock scene, having formed in 1997. This album marked their fifth studio release, following their commercially successful album 'Ghosts of the Past' (2011), and it signaled a return to a more introspective sound after exploring broader themes in previous works.

Who is Wastelands for?

Wastelands works well if you're into steady mid-tempo introspective flow, melancholic melodies for reflection and emotional depth in every track.

How many songs are on Wastelands?

Wastelands has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Wastelands

Eskimo Joe · 2013

42 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

Melancholic melodies intertwine with reflective lyrics, crafting a soundscape that evokes both nostalgia and hope.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Running Out of Needs — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its earnest exploration of longing and vulnerability, encapsulating the band's signature sound while featuring an engaging melody.
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Sad Song — This track stands out for its emotional depth, where haunting vocals convey a sense of resignation that resonates with listeners navigating personal struggles.
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Last Beacon Light — Closing the album, this song builds on themes of hope and redemption, featuring layered instrumentation that creates a powerful culmination of the album's journey.

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 showcases solid songwriting and production but remains within familiar territory for its genre.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a steady mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
Several songs utilize layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.

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 mid-tempo introspective flow
melancholic melodies for reflection
emotional depth in every track
thoughtful listening during quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party vibes
prefering fast-paced energy

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows the band's continued evolution and maturity in songwriting.
Career context: By the time 'Wastelands' was released in 2013, Eskimo Joe was already a well-established band in the Australian alternative rock scene, having formed in 1997. This album marked their fifth studio release, following their commercially successful album 'Ghosts of the Past' (2011), and it signaled a return to a more introspective sound after exploring broader themes in previous works.
Stylistic neighbors: Silverchair· The Temper Trap· Jebediah