Curated new music releases
RELEASE WAVE the best new and underground music releases in 90s alternative, shoegaze, pop punk, rock, hardcore, punk, emo, indie and more.
New Music Updates
Here are a few highlights of some upcoming releases featured on release wave.
Owen's "The Falls of Sioux" is a captivating blend of acoustic guitar, shoegaze textures, and introspective lyrics, co-produced by Sean Carey and Zach Hanson.
Microwave's "Let's Start Degeneracy" offers a diverse mix of ambient pop, R&B, and emo-punk elements, creating a sonic journey akin to a concept album.
Joyer's "Night Songs" marks a departure from slowcore to a more expansive and hook-driven sound, blending swirling guitars and catchy melodies for dreamy shoegaze enthusiasts.
Roving's debut LP "Spindrift" embraces a unique "grunge-gaze" sound with spacey vocals and thick guitars, paying homage to '90s influences while carving out their own distinct style.
Cloud Nothings' upcoming album "Final Summer" encapsulates their signature blend of surging guitars and infectious hooks, promising a raw and melodic listening experience produced by Jeff Zeigler and mixed by Sarah Tudzin.
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Upcoming Releases
Strange Desires
Her Head's On Fire
July 19, 2024Her Head’s On Fire is an indie rock supergroup set to release their sophomore album, "Strange Desires," on July 19, 2024, via Iodine Records. The band, comprising members from notable groups like Garrison and Saves the Day, presents a blend of post-hardcore and emotive rock with influences from late 80s New Wave and early 90s indie, creating a memorable musical experience similar to artists such as Texas is The Reason and The Get Up Kids.
Strut of Kings
Guided By Voices
June 28, 2024Guided By Voices announced their upcoming album "Strut of Kings," set to be released on June 28, 2024, marking their 41st album. The album was largely recorded in Kings County, New York, reflecting themes of royalty and power. The first single from the album, "Serene King," is available now, offering a taste of the band's timeless indie rock sound.
Worldviews
Annabel
June 14, 2024Akron, Ohio band Annabel is set to release their 4th LP "Worldviews" on June 14, 2024 via Tiny Engines, featuring 12 tracks including the lead single "Defense Mechanism." The album showcases a blend of indie-emo sound familiar to fans, with tracks like "Dog" and "Small Victories" reminiscent of classic Annabel while also exploring new territory with songs like "Every Home Needs a Ghost."
Rage Gracefully
Rad Owl
May 31, 2024Rad Owl, led by scene veterans, is gearing up for their sophomore LP, "Rage Gracefully," to be released on May 31, 2024. The band's high-energy punk rock style is reminiscent of Descendents, Propagandhi, and Samiam, featuring new lead guitar lines by Ryan Tate. Their lead single, "Every Second," tackles personal themes like fatherhood, and they are set to perform at Pouzza Fest in Montreal before the LP release.
All You Embrace
One Step Closer
May 17, 2024One Step Closer's highly anticipated new full-length album, "All You Embrace," expands their melodic hardcore sound, showcasing anthemic and passionate tracks. Drawing on influences from hardcore, emo, '90s alternative, and more, this release produced by Jon Markson captures a widescreen version of the band's bold sound. Fans of Koyo, Anxious, Have Heart, and Title Fight will find a lot to love in this powerful new era for One Step Closer.
Vows
Hot Water Music
May 10, 2024Hot Water Music, the influential punk veterans from Gainesville, Florida, are set to release their 10th studio album "Vows" on May 10, 2024, featuring guest appearances from Thrice, City and Colour, The Interrupters, and more. Led by powerful tracks like “Menace” and “Burn Forever,” the 12-song LP showcases the band's intense and musically daring sound.
With a three-decade legacy in American punk, Hot Water Music's Vows marks a celebration of their history and future, produced by Brian McTernan who previously collaborated with the band on their classic albums in the early 2000s. Don't miss their 30th-anniversary tour this spring with Quicksand.
Cold World
Death Lens
May 3, 2024East LA post-punk band Death Lens is set to release their sophomore LP "Cold World" on May 3, 2024, via Epitaph Records. Their sound blends West Coast surf punk and Britrock influences while delivering energetic live performances akin to Turnstile and Militarie Gun.
The album showcases a departure from their early style, encapsulating matured post-hardcore rock songs with poignant lyrics addressing social injustices. Produced by Brett Romnes, "Cold World" features expanded sonic elements such as harmonies, piano, and strings, presenting Death Lens at their most confident and adventurous.
Vol. III
Webbed Wing
July 12, 2024Webbed Wing from Philadelphia, PA, release their third album "Vol. III" on July 12, 2024, characterized by fuzzed-out pop nostalgia. Drawing influences from The Lemonheads and Teenage Fanclub, the album features catchy anthems blending modern pop, grunge heaviness, and country sincerity. Standout tracks "Further" and "Burn It Down" showcase the band's musical cohesion and exploration of various genres like big country ballads and shoegaze.
I Want to Disappear
The Story So Far
June 21, 2024The Story So Far's 5th studio album, "I Want To Disappear," set for release on June 21 through Pure Noise Records. Produced by Jon Markson, the album includes the single "Big Blind" and showcases the band's signature vulnerability and defiance. Fans of Drug Church and Koyo may particularly enjoy this release.
The Early November
The Early November
June 14, 2024The Early November is set to release their self-titled album on June 14th, characterized by introspective lyrics and anthemic melodies. Drawing inspiration from youthful turbulence and tenderness, the 10-song collection, including lead single "What We Earn", showcases a blend of emotional intensity and artistic growth. Fans of alternative rock should anticipate a journey through self-reflection and creative experimentation in this upcoming release.
PS: Seriously
Bats & Mice
May 31, 2024Bats & Mice, a Chapel Hill indie-rock band, have resurfaced after a 12-year hiatus with the upcoming release of their LP "P.S. Seriously" on May 31, 2024 via Lovitt Records. The band's music combines hardcore roots with dark melodies and energetic drive, featuring members from Sleepytime Trio, Engine Down, Denali, Rah Bras, and Milemarker. Drawing inspiration from bands like Fugazi and Denali, Bats & Mice's latest single "Worst Time" offers a glimpse into their long-awaited return to the music scene.
Actually, the quiet is nice
Draag
May 17, 2024Draag, the Los Angeles shoegazers, are set to release their new EP, "Actually, the quiet is nice," featuring the lead single “Orb weaver” characterized by warped guitars and dreamy harmonies. Their upcoming EP, due out on May 17th, continues their unique sound previously praised in their debut album, Dark Fire Heresy.
You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To
Knocked Loose
May 10, 2024Knocked Loose is set to release their new LP, "You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To" on May 10, 2024 via Pure Noise Records. The album showcases intense metalcore aggression with diverse elements and thematic depth, similar to their underground seasoned sound that has garnered them a growing fanbase. Through 10 tracks in 27 gripping minutes, the LP pushes boundaries with chaotic turbulence, seismic breakdowns, and collaborates with artists like Poppy, all while maintaining their signature uncompromising heaviness.
True To You
HEAVYHEX
May 3, 2024HEAVYHEX, a melodic hardcore band from Long Island, NY, is set to release their debut album "True To You" on May 3rd with producer Jay Maas. Their music blends aggression, clarity, and emotion, showcased in singles like "You Can't Stay Here" and "True To You." With influences from bands like Private Mind and Stand Still, HEAVYHEX delivers energetic live performances and has already made a mark in the Long Island melodic hardcore scene.
Your Own Becoming
Milly
June 28, 2024MILLY's highly-anticipated second album, "Your Own Becoming," produced by Sonny DiPerri, is set for release on June 28, 2024 via Dangerbird Records. The album features 10 new tracks, with lead single "Drip From The Fountain" described as the standout track, showcasing the band's evolution and commitment to crafting powerful, straightforward music rooted in personal introspection and collaboration. The album reflects principal songwriter Brendan Dyer's journey of capturing and transforming dark thoughts into a galvanizing and productive musical experience, offering a raw, cathartic collection of songs that emphasize simplicity and explosive energy.
Gravity
The Dangerous Summer
June 21, 2024The Dangerous Summer from Baltimore, Maryland will release their 7th full-length album 'Gravity' on June 21st via Rude Records. Their lead single "Gravity" explores themes of personal struggle and growth, blending mystical instrumentals with AJ Perdomo's evocative vocals, fitting for fans of introspective alt-rock acts.
Mi Amigo Slow Joy
Slow Joy
June 7, 2024Slow Joy, led by Chicano artist Esteban Flores, will release the EP "Mi Amigo Slow Joy" on June 7th, 2024, produced by Mike Sapone. The first single, "Pulling Teeth," showcases a blend of Foo Fighters and Pixies influences and reflects Flores' gratitude and vulnerability in relationships, following up on his 2023 EP, Wildflower.
Frog In Boiling Water
DIIV
May 24, 2024Brooklyn shoegazers DIIV are set to release their fourth album, Frog in Boiling Water, produced by Chris Coady. The album reflects a tumultuous four-year creative process that almost tore the band apart but ultimately led to a deeper and more ambitious musical exploration. With a blend of dream-pop and post-rock, their lead single "Brown Paper Bag" offers a taste of the lyrical and musical depth found throughout the record.
Head Void
From Indian Lakes
May 15, 2024From Indian Lakes is set to release their new album Head Void on May 15th, marking their return after over five years. Lead single “The Flow” showcases an intense, immersive sound blending synths and guitars. Drawing inspiration from bands like Mew, Valleyheart, Moving Mountains, and Hrvrd, the upcoming album is a must-listen for fans of atmospheric indie rock.
Nightfixer
Daybreaker
May 9, 2024Daybreaker, an alt-emo band from Chicago, is set to release their debut album "Nightfixer" on May 9th, 2024, showcasing their blend of alt-rock and emo influences. Led by Alex Petrov and Cameron Wentworth, the album delves into themes of love, resentment, sobriety, and introspection, offering a raw and immersive listening experience similar to bands in the alt-rock and emo genres. Produced by Joe Scaletta, "Nightfixer" features melodic hooks and heartfelt lyrics, inviting listeners on a cathartic journey through life's struggles and uncertainties.