April, 2021 Music Releases
A curated month-by-month archive of new and underground music releases across shoegaze, emo, punk, hardcore, indie, and adjacent scenes.
The Month
Assertion
Intermission
Assertion, led by musician William Goldsmith, reveals their debut album 'Intermission' out on April 9 via Spartan Records, marking Goldsmith's return to music after a decade-long hiatus. With bandmates Justin Tamminga and Bryan Gorder, Assertion's sound echoes 90's alternative rock with driving guitars, a frenetic rhythm section, and a mix of dark heaviness and delicate moments, appealing to fans of Sunny Day Real Estate and Foo Fighters.
Come Closer
Pretty Garbage
Come Closer, a new indie-punk/power-pop project with members from Dan Padilla, Tiltwheel, and more, have released their debut LP "Pretty Garbage." Combining a mix of rock 'n roll and indie sensibilities, the album features lo-fi, hook-laden tunes reminiscent of DIY spirit from the band's past works.
American Thrills
Old Things
American Thrills, a pop-punk band from Connecticut, is set to release their 2nd EP "Old Things" on April 16, 2021, filled with energetic punk rock and emo influences. Produced by Chris Teti, known for his work with The World Is a Beautiful Place & I Am No Longer Afraid to Die, the EP promises melodic, hook-laden tracks ideal for fans of The Menzingers, The Gaslight Anthem, and Iron Chic. Expect anthemic shout-along pop-punk tunes reminiscent of live music settings, echoing with undeniable hooks and Midwest emo vibes.
Harker
Axiom
Harker, a Brighton-based indie-punk band, released their single "The Beast Must Die" from the upcoming album "Axiom" on April 23rd in collaboration with multiple record labels. Their music is influenced by a blend of pop, 90s college fuzz sounds, and bands like Sonic Youth and Black Sabbath.
Paerish
Fixed It All
Pærish's sophomore album, "Fixed It All," is set for release on April 23 through SideOneDummy Records. The album, produced by Will Yip, features the single "Mike + Susan," reflecting vocalist Mathias Court's personal experiences and emotions, blending various stories into a cohesive narrative. The band's sound, described as honest and passionate, resonates with fans of artists who appreciate raw and substantial music. The album's singles showcase Pærish's ability to create massive and authentic songs that captivate listeners.
Seasonal
The Summers to Come
Seasonal, from Lancaster, PA, is set to release their debut LP "The Summers to Come" on April 28, 2021. Their sound, blending emo, indie, post-rock, and ambient dream pop, will appeal to fans of American Football, Death Cab for Cutie, and Turnover. Featuring Death Cab for Cutie's Dave Depper, the lead single "Rubber & Plastic" offers a glimpse into the emotive and intricate music awaiting listeners.
Big Mother Gig
Gusto
Big Mother Gig, a Milwaukee-bred/LA-based indie rock band, is set to release their new full-length album 'Gusto' on Friday, April 30. The album is a heartfelt exploration of sobriety and second chances, exemplified by the guitar-driven cathartic sound and guest vocals from Leah Wellbaum of Slothrust. 'Gusto' is a personal journey written by frontman Richard Jankovich during a weekend of solitude, addressing themes of family, addiction, and hope. The album was mixed by Dan Long and mastered by Howie Weinberg, promising a polished and introspective musical experience for fans of bands like Local Natives and The White Stripes.
Guided By Voices
earth man blues
Guided By Voices will release their upcoming LP Earth Man Blues on April 30th, marking their 33rd album. This cinematic rock album explores a journey of growth and darkness for Harold Admore Harold, featuring vivid snapshots of youth and fantastical nightmares. Fans of indie rock and alternative music may appreciate the band's unique storytelling and surreal twists.
Manchester Orchestra
The Million Masks of God
Manchester Orchestra's new album The Million Masks of God, releasing on April 30th, 2021 via Loma Vista Recordings, is a grand, narrative-driven work of art produced by a talented team. Drawing influences from artists like PJ Harvey and Phoebe Bridgers, the album delves into personal themes of loss, growth, and faith, creating a cohesive and profound listening experience that explores the highs and lows of life.
Sleepwalk
Underneath The Shade
Sleepwalk, the Chicago-based band known for their melodic shoegaze alt-rock sound, is set to release their 3rd LP, "Underneath The Shade," on April 30, 2021. Drawing comparisons to bands like Nothing, Narrow Head, Smashing Pumpkins, Hum, and Swervedriver, their latest single "Underneath The Shade" previews another dark and fuzzed-out album that fans of 90s alternative rock will appreciate.
Teenage Fanclub
Endless Arcade
Teenage Fanclub's tenth studio album, 'Endless Arcade', captures their quintessential sound blending heartwarming melodies and distorted guitars, fitting alongside classic albums like 'Bandwagonesque' and 'Grand Prix'. The album strikes a balance between melancholy and hope, exploring themes of home, community, and life's complexities. Featuring a lineup shift with Euros Childs on keyboards, the band's refreshing approach and invigorating energy shine through in the music.
Warper
Lateness
Lateness is Warper's three-song 2021 EP, the Loveland, Colorado band's follow-up to their debut single. Recorded and produced by Corey Coffman in Loveland, it deepens their "downer shoegaze" — heavy, distorted guitars and soft, melancholy melodies across "Felt," "Lateness" and "Gives Way."