Robert Jon & The Wreck: Heartbreaks & Last Goodbyes Review

Heartbreaks & Last Goodbyes, the ninth studio album from Robert Jon & The Wreck, is scheduled for release on August 22, 2025. The band consists of Robert Jon Burrison on vocals and guitar, Andrew Espantman on drums and vocals, Henry James on lead guitar and vocals, Warren Murrel on bass, and Jake Abernathie on keys and vocals. The album is a solidly respectable entry into the group’s discography, firmly in their tried-and-true southern rock sound.

There are no real lows on Heartbreaks & Last Goodbyes! The first seven tracks on the album are radio-friendly country rockers and ballads that would feel at home amongst the likes of ZZ Top and Rival Sons records. The album is largely characterized by classic-feeling riffs and solos, with big anthemic choruses taking advantage of the two guitar and triple vocal sound of the band. 

There’s fun, thrilling solo work, dirty country organ sounds, and some big emotional numbers (“Highway”) that feel straight out of 90s country radio. There’s nothing wrong about these tracks, but the final three songs of the album shine the brightest.

In order, tracks eight, nine, and ten are: “I Wanna Give It,” “Heartbreak and Last Goodbye.” and “Keep Myself Clean.” These three closing songs feature lyrics that feel the most emotionally authentic and resonant on the album, and the band’s work on keys and guitar feels stronger than the first two-thirds of the album. All three feature big, bold choruses, catchy keys work, and strong, atmospheric riffs to hold up the message of the lyrics. There’s also a direct correlation between how excellent these tracks feel and how much they remind me of 70s and 80s classic southern rock tunes; they just feel timeless and elemental in the way the best songs of The Band do.

“I Wanna Give It” feels like a fun gospel-influenced ballad straight from the 70s, and is probably the strongest song. “Heartbreak and Last Goodbye” is the title track and the obvious single, and feels like it was pulled straight off a “greatest 80s ballads” collection. The final track on the album, “Keep Myself Clean,” is a great noodling reflection on sobriety and feels like a natural thematic cap to the record, which is deeply introspective and heartfelt.

It may not surprise longtime listeners with new innovations or changes to the band’s vibe, but Heartbreaks & Last Goodbyes is a fun and well-made album. Robert Jon & The Wreck are currently on an international tour to promote the record, and fans of southern rock should check out the dates!

The Review: 8/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– I Wanna Give It
– Heartbreak and Last Goodbye
– Keep Myself Clean

The Big Hit

– Heartbreak and Last Goodbye