North Carolina Band Wednesday Releases Critically Acclaimed Sixth Album Bleeds

Wednesday's sixth album, "Bleeds," released in September 2025, stands out as a compelling blend of southern rock, alt-country storytelling, shoegaze, and grunge, which the band dubs "Creek Rock." The album is deeply personal, heavily influenced by the recent breakup of bandmates Karly Hartzman and MJ Lenderman, with vivid lyrics exploring themes of heartbreak, substance abuse, death, and small-town angst. Tracks like "Elderberry Wine" and "Wound Up Here (By Holdin' On)" showcase Hartzman's razor-sharp lyricism and emotional depth, while the album's sound ranges from gentle ballads to ferocious shoegaze. Critics praise "Bleeds" for its unpredictable yet refined storytelling and musical texture, capturing the struggles of those living on society's edge with dark, Southern gothic narratives. The album has been recognized as a potential rock album of the year, resonating through its authentic portrayal of complex human experiences and emotional rawness. Overall, "Bleeds" reflects Wednesday's evolution and their unique ability to narrate contemporary realities through powerful music and lyrics.