Exit Wounds
New West, 2021
9/10
If you’re like me, you can’t hear the name The Wallflowers without thinking about their mid ‘90s hit “One Headlight”, which propelled the band into international fame. An outfit spearheaded by Jakob Dylan and a rotating cast of musicians, though the ‘90s were good to The Wallflowers, they’ve done some great work since, too, and this first album in 9 years is further proof of that.
“Maybe Your Heart’s Not In It No More” starts the listen with warm acoustic strumming as Dylan’s gruff yet melodic vocals guide the bluesy Americana that welcomes backing vocals from Shelby Lynne, and “Roots And Wings” follows with a charming roots flavor as Dylan’s vivid storytelling is illuminated by the Mark Stepro’s fluid drumming and Whynot Jensveld’s precise bass work.
At the halfway point, “Darlin’ Hold On” burn slow with much emotion in the ballad climate where much beauty exists, while “Move The River” is a playful and cultured display of frisky drumming from Brian Griffin amid rugged and pretty moments that embraces grooves. “Wrong End Of The Spear” then has Dylan taking inspiration from his father in the folk friendly landscape that’s full of intimacy, too.
Closer to the end, “Who’s That Man Walking ‘Round My Garden” showcases a lively indie-rocker with firm keys and a bright chorus, and “The Daylight Between Us” exits the listen with a mid tempo gem that possesses both folk and blues in Dylan’s very capable hands.
The always impressive Butch Walker handles guitar, keyboards, percussion and backing vocals, and those contributions, along with the other esteemed help, make Exit Wounds another very well executed chapter of The Wallflowers story that is now 30+ years strong.
Travels well with: Butch Walker- Stay Gold; Fastball- Step Into Light