Release Wave

Influential 90's LA space rockers Failure have announced their upcoming album "Location Lost" set for release on April 24, via Failure Records/Arduous Records/Virgin Music Group. Along with the announcement, the band has released lead off single 'The air's on Fire'. The new album is described as a testament to the band's journey of self-discovery and reinvention, following their 17-year hiatus and reformation in 2014. With nine new tracks, the LP presents a modern and evolving sonic landscape that pushes the boundaries of their signature sound. Noteworthy collaborations, such as with Paramore's Hayley Williams on 'The Rising Skyline,' add layers of emotion and depth to the album, making "Location Lost" a standout release under their new label. Expect a captivating blend of introspective themes, disorienting yet cathartic sonic elements, and a raw, authentic exploration of where Failure stands in the present music landscape.

Death Lens, a punk band from Southern California, is set to release their new album "What's Left Now?" on April 24th, via Epitaph, and the follow up to their highly acclaimed LP Cold World. Writing stage-dive fist in the air anthems for the oppressed, the band's sound is described as a mix of urgency and celebration, similar to artists like Militarie Gun, Drug Church and Touché Amoré. Across 12 brand new tracks including latest singles "Monolith" and "Power" the new album reflects the band's gritty journey from hardship to strength, addressing personal struggles and societal issues with raw honesty and energy.

Sparta is an American post-hardcore/alternative rock band from El Paso, Texas, formed in 2001. The band currently consists of Jim Ward (vocals, guitar), Matt Miller (bass), and drummer Neil Hennessy. Founding members Ward, Paul Hinojos, and Tony Hajjar were members of post-hardcore group At the Drive-In, forming Sparta in 2001 after the break-up of their former band while the other members from At the Drive In went on to form progressive rock band The Mars Volta. Sparta went on hiatus in 2008 for Ward to focus on his solo career and side projects, reuniting from 2011 to 2013 for a series of shows and permanently reuniting in 2017. The band has released five studio albums to date; their fourth, Trust the River, was released in 2020 after a 14-year break between releases and their 5th LP (self titled) in 2022. A sixth album, Cut a Silhouette produced by the legendary J Robbins (Jawbox), is set for release in May 2026 on Equal Vision Records. Sparta's music has been described by Pitchfork as "anxious, epic guitar rock", and by SPIN Magazine as having "a reliably cathartic and emotionally charged presence."

SoCal pop punk band Super Sometimes has announced their upcoming album 'Show the World What’s Underneath', set to be released on May 15 via Pure Noise Records. Across 10 brand new songs, Super Sometimes merges skate punk grit with modern pop punk sensibilities, delving into themes of coming-of-age malaise and romantic turmoil. Lead single 'Afterthought' sets the tone with haunting melodies, heavy distortion, and clean guitar riffs, that evoke raw emotions of longing and desperation. The album showcases a distinctive sound that captures the essence of pop-punk's evolution and the sounds the band members grew up listening to, while staying true to its roots, making this release a must-listen for fans of the genre. RIYL: early 2000s pop punk (Drive Thru Records era), Slick Shoes, MXPX, The Story So Far, Arm's Length, Real Friends, Knuckle Puck

Hailing from the Odessa and Midland areas of Texas, Oakwood is a West Texas trio comprising Mat Dwyer (vocals/guitar/bass), Noah Roots (drums), and TJ James (guitar/bass). With a fusion of emo and melodic punk and post-hardcore influences reminiscent of Title Fight, Algernon Cadwallader, Marietta, and Praise, their latest album "Blurred Away" is set to release in May of 2026, showcasing a raw, cathartic exploration of existential themes. The band's authentic approach to music-making recently led to a resurgence in popularity, culminating in a sold-out tour and a growing fan base eager to delve into their emotive and introspective sound.

Nerd-Core-Mid-West-Emo is back better than ever, with Columbus, Ohio 3-piece Palette Knife announcing the release of their upcoming LP 'Keyframe' due on April 10th, 2026 via Take This To Heart Records. Their new single and music video for 'Sleep Paralysis' is now available across all platforms along with the previously released single Prototype V.2. Mixed by Billy Mannino, known for his work with Oso Oso, Ben Quad and Macseal, the album offers a blend of PUP's pop punk in your face songwriting decisiveness and Hot Mulligan's explosive choruses, appealing to fans of early 2000s pop punk and riff-heavy midwest emo. Critics highlight the band's ability to connect nerdy passions with relatable songwriting, creating anthemic, addictive music also reminiscent of Charmer, Ben Quad, Good Sleepy, Arm's Length and the like.

Prepare to be swept away by the emotional rollercoaster that is Jaguero's debut album, 'Make Me Feel Alive Again' set for release on April 10, 2026 via Anchors Aweigh Records. This Vicenza-based punk/emo band expertly navigates themes of urgency, vulnerability, and emotional honesty, showcased through contrasting tracks like the intense 'Hold Me Close' and the intimate 'Monday' now streaming. Produced by Maurizio Baggio at La Distilleria and following their successful EP releases, this album pushes boundaries with a blend of emo/punk energy, grunge influences, and melodic anthemic hardcore with heartfelt lyrics, making it a standout release that captures the essence of human connection and resilience. RIYL: Death Lens, Militarie Gun, Gave Secrets, Shoreline, Jimmy Eat World

Embark on a sonic journey with Sparta's highly anticipated album, 'Cut A Silhouette', set to release on May 29, 2026 via Equal Vision Records. Produced by the renowned J. Robbins at Magpie Cage Studio, this record signifies a bold evolution for the Texas alt-rock stalwarts, blending post-hardcore energy with melodic introspection. Collaborating with Frank Iero of My Chemical Romance on the dynamic single 'Crater' now streaming everywhere, Sparta's distinctive sound shines through, offering a fresh exploration of new musical territories while still sounding very much like classic Sparta.

Philadelphia melodic punk trio FILM, featuring Ken Vasoli of The Starting Line and Joe Reinhart of Algernon Cadwallader, will release their debut album 'Permanence' on May 22 via Lauren Records, marking the final recordings of drummer TJ DeBlois who passed away in 2023. The album carries a raw, instinct-driven sound akin to Drive Like Jehu, Braid and Mclusky, touching on themes of legacy and the transient nature of time. The lead single 'Roundabout' exemplifies their urgent and heartfelt songwriting style, capturing the essence of their collaborative journey and paying tribute to DeBlois's lasting impact on their music.

Jackson, Wyoming emo band Box Elder has announced their self titled LP, set for release on April 10, 2026 via Steadfast Records and Sweet Cheetah Records. Across 11 emotionally charged melodic rock songs, including the songs from their previously released EP, the band showcases the project's evolution from a solo effort into a collaborative band endeavor. The album delves into themes of mental health struggles, love lost, and the quest for belonging, offering anthems of vulnerability and resilience channeling the melodic urgency of The Get Up Kids and Jimmy Eat World. With input from all members shaping the songwriting, this album represents a significant step for Box Elder, appealing to fans of bands like Saves The Day, Jimmy Eat World, The Get Up Kids, The Menzingers, The Wonder Years and Silversun Pickups.

I AM THE AVALANCHE, the celebrated New York punk band lead by Vinnie Caruana (The Movielife), is set to release their first new album in six years, titled 'THE HORROR SHOW', on April 10 via Equal Vision Records. The new LP serves as a poignant return for the New York punk outfit, delving into themes of loss, resilience, and friendship. Reflecting frontman Vinnie Caruana's personal journey through grief, the album offers an expansive and textured sonic landscape, showcasing the band's evolution over their six-year hiatus. Featuring deeply personal tracks like the title song, 'THE HORROR SHOW' which is now streaming, this release stands out for its raw emotion and fearless exploration of new musical territories, making it a powerful companion for listeners navigating their own struggles. RIYL: The Movielife, Crime In Stereo, Polar Bear Club, The Descendents, Lagwagon

Melodic punk rock band FakeYou's debut album, Promise To Disappear, will release on April 3, 2026 via 59 X Records. The album is a visceral punk offering that delves deep into themes of loss and emotional turbulence, capturing the tumultuous aftermath of all-consuming devotion. Infused with gritty melodies and driving rhythms, the album's raw intensity is balanced by moments of introspection that mirror the band's Montreal roots in the DIY punk scene. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Max Lajoie, the album's production amplifies FakeYou's raw edge, while poignant lyrics, notably showcased in singles like "All About You," spiral through memory and longing with urgency. With a drummer formerly of The Sainte Catherines, FakeYou's sound boasts a seasoned punk backbone that grounds their volatile energy, making Promise To Disappear an unapologetically loud and honest release that lingers long after the final chord. FFO: Leatherface, Hot Water Music, The Flatliners, Off With Their Heads, Jawbreaker

Philadelphia melodic punk trio FILM, featuring Ken Vasoli of The Starting Line and Joe Reinhart of Algernon Cadwallader, announce their debut album 'Permanence', set for release on May 22 via Lauren Records. The album is particularly poignant as it includes the final recordings of drummer TJ DeBlois, who passed away in 2023. The band chose to preserve the rawness of the sessions, transforming what was initially intended as a demo into a powerful document of collaboration and loss. The music reflects a gritty, instinct-driven sound reminiscent of bands like Drive Like Jehu, Braid and Mclusky, while exploring themes of legacy and the fleeting nature of time. The lead single 'Roundabout' is available now, showcasing the band's urgent and stripped-down approach to songwriting. The track captures the essence of a basement practice session, emphasizing the immediacy and emotional weight of their music. Vasoli and Reinhart express their gratitude for DeBlois's contributions, highlighting the importance of sharing this final work as a tribute to their friend and collaborator. 'Permanence' stands as a testament to the band's journey and the lasting impact of their shared experiences.

Melodic emo-core band Oakwood return after 10 years with a new album "Blurred Away" set for release on May 29, 2026 via Memory Music. The album has been described as an exhilarating sonic journey that seamlessly blends the raw emotion of early wave emo and post-hardcore with the high-energy melodies of indie and punk rock. Collaborating with acclaimed producer Phil Odom and Grammy Award-winning mastermind Will Yip, the West Texas trio deliver what is expected to be a deeply cathartic album that channels existential dread into a poignant narrative of survival and self-discovery. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Title Fight and Algernon Cadwallader, Oakwood's long-awaited release stands out for its unapologetic authenticity and poignant exploration of the complexities of growing up and finding one's place in the world.