Review
Audioslave's 'Out of Exile' is a rollercoaster ride through the band's sonic evolution. Released in 2005, this sophomore effort sees the group flexing their musical muscles, diving deeper into their unique blend of classic and alt-rock. The album's 12 tracks, including bangers like 'Be Yourself' and 'Doesn't Remind Me,' showcase the band's knack for crafting anthemic tunes that stick in your head for days.
What really sets 'Out of Exile' apart is its sonic diversity. Chris Cornell's lyrics cut deeper this time around, reflecting personal growth and change. The band ventures beyond their heavy guitar-driven roots, exploring new textures and atmospheres in tracks like 'Heaven's Dead' and 'Dandelion.' Rick Rubin's production adds extra layers of complexity, making this album a feast for the ears.
The album's release was preceded by a groundbreaking concert in Havana, Cuba, where Audioslave made history as the first American rock group to perform there. This 70,000-strong gig cranked up the anticipation for 'Out of Exile' to eleven. The album didn't disappoint, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 and going platinum in multiple countries. Critics were generally on board too, giving it a solid 67/100 on Metacritic. 'Out of Exile' proves that Audioslave weren't content to rest on their laurels, but were dead set on pushing rock's boundaries. - Riley
