West Texas Exiles’ debut album blows out a matter-of-fact reflection on moving on from what doesn’t suit you. 8000 Days follows many singles and one EP since 2023 from the Americana clan, whose members arrive in Austin from Amarillo, El Paso, and Lubbock. Though their previous Volume 1 showcased their voice well, their latest release expands upon that with a stronger, more confident sound that suggests the group has really found what works for them. Alongside bassist Eric Harrison and drummer Trinidad Leal (Honky, Dixie Witch), the Exiles boast three singer-songwriters – Marco Gutierrez, Daniel Davis, Colin Gilmore (son of Jimmie Dale) – whose storytelling coalesces across 10 songs. “I should have asked to marry you before I really knew myself/ Maybe then I’d’ve never gotten old,” they sing in “Division,” a gut punch of a tale of a failed relationship featuring vocals from Kelly Willis. Elsewhere, upbeat guitar rhythms (“Circles in the Yard,” “Wind’s Gonna Blow”) prophesize steady play at honky-tonks and home shows alike. The band’s record release show, this Sunday at Peggy’s Porch Party, suggests they’ll leave plenty of opportunity for fans to do just that.

West Texas Exiles

8000 Days (Floating Mesa Records)

This article appears in September 26 • 2025.

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