Release Wave

Held., the trio featuring both Douglas Robinson and Sal Mignano of The Sleeping and Josh Eppard from Coheed And Cambria, release their debut album, GREY, on May 15 via MNRK Heavy. The album is described as both fresh and fully realized, positioning these creative veterans as tornado chasers, ripping and tearing through an urgent, volatile, and surprising sonic storm. The introduction to the band arrives with 'NEW YOU ANTHEM,' featuring My Chemical Romance’s Frank Iero, which serves as a powerful anthem about love and survival. Recorded at the inspiring Animal Farm studio in N.J. and masterfully produced by Jon Markson, GREY promises to be a standout release, showcasing Held.'s powerful sound that should appeal to fans of The Sleeping, Coheed and Cambria and My Chemical Romance but with a fresh take.

Chief State's upcoming album, "Keep Your Friends Closer," Set for release on April 17, 2026 via Mutant League Records, produced by Tim Creviston and mastered by Stu McKillop, encapsulates the band's high-energy pop-punk essence with a newfound sense of urgency and vulnerability. Through a blend of gritty instrumentals and introspective lyrics, Chief State delves into themes of friendship, hardship, and the complexities of human connection, urging listeners to embrace authenticity and understanding in their relationships. This release, born out of a tumultuous period for the band, showcases their resilience and growth, promising an emotionally charged and sonically dynamic listening experience for fans of the genre.

Snail Mail — the project of Lindsey Jordan — announces her highly anticipated third album, Ricochet, due out March 27 on Matador Records. The new LP dives deep into themes of time, mortality, and the quiet terror of loss, showcasing Lindsey Jordan's growth as a generational songwriter. Produced by Aron Kobayashi Ritch, the album features ornate string arrangements and hypnotic textures that evoke '90s alternative rock with a modern twist. Recorded in North Carolina and Brooklyn, Ricochet marks a poignant shift for Jordan, who crafted its 11 introspective tracks as she faced personal challenges. With a renewed focus on her vocals following surgery, she delivers poignant melodies and piercing lyrics that capture the heart of emotional turbulence and acceptance.

Brooklyn band Ringing, the project of bandleader Colton Walker, are excited to announce their debut album, another cycle in the cosmic wash, available March 20, 2026, via Julia’s War Recordings and Signal//Noise Records. The band's debut album is described as a sonic journey through self-realization and existential discomfort, as portrayed through sludgy guitars and visceral lyricism. Recorded live in a single session back in 2024, the album captures the band's instinctual use of dynamics and space across 10 tracks, showcasing their monumental sound and brutalist edge. With a distinct blend of shoegaze antiquity and addictive resolve, Ringing's latest release stands out for its raw energy and introspective themes, making it a noteworthy addition to their discography.

GAEREA's album 'Loss' is a musical journey that blends post-black metal with haunting melodies, showcasing the band's evolution and passion for musical extremity. With their latest single 'Phoenix', the band explores themes of strength and resilience, drawing comparisons to acts like Neurosis and Amen Ra. The album, recorded in 2025 in Portugal, reflects the band's unique identity and commitment to pushing boundaries both musically and philosophically.

Paris-based band Mascara have announced their debut LP titled "Going Postal" set for release on March 13, 2026 via Fever Ltd. Across 9 brand new tracks, Mascara delivers a captivating, well crafted and smart sonic fusion of heavy alternative rock, dreamy shoegaze and post-hardcore, with elements of 90s grunge and nü metal sprinkled in. Drawing from influences like Deftones, Alice in Chains, Silverchair, MBV, Nothing, Hum and the like, Mascara's music delves into themes of generational trauma, memory, and the perpetual struggle for personal and global resilience. Recorded in an intense week with producer Clément Decrock at Boss Hog Studio, the album delivers a visceral experience with its pulsating force of layered guitars, swirling rhythms, heavy grooves, dreamy soundscapes, and haunting vocals. Explosive singles "Nova Ador" and "Marrow" from the forthcoming LP are now streaming everywhere.

RIYL Deftones, Trauma Ray, Keep, Glare, Hum, Soul Blind, Silverchair, Nothing

St. Louis post-hardcore band Family Medicine's have announced their upcoming album, *Very Nice and Good*, set for release on March 13, 2026 via Little Elephant Records/Friend Club Records. The album is described as a sonic journey that combines emo and post-hardcore elements with dynamic energy and heartfelt lyricism. Recorded at Red Pill Studios and mixed/mastered by Adam Cichocki, this release captures the band's growth and commitment to their craft, drawing inspiration from bands like Bear vs Shark, Hey Mercedes and Small Brown Bike and appealing to fans of more recent bands like Drug Church, Miltarie Gun, Drought, Spite House and Touche Amore. With a rich history of collaboration and a dedication to their sound, Family Medicine's new album promises to be a standout release in 2026, showcasing their evolution and passion for connecting with listeners through powerful performances.

SUGAR, the 90s alternative rock trio, led by Bob Mould, announces second single 'Long Live Love' as part of their 2026 reunion World Tour, following the acclaimed 'House of Dead Memories' single which was released in 2025. The single's origins date back to 2007, blending Mould's DJ influences with pop songwriting, a nostalgic yet innovative fusion of grinding guitar riffs and lush synth textures with big melodies and hooks that Sugar is known for.The band's reunion after almost 30 years has been met with excitement, with sold-out shows in New York and London and a forthcoming world tour across North America and Europe.

From Worcester, MA, Hedge's new EP Freeze Frame High Five will release on March 27, 2026, described as a gritty pop-punk blitz that pays homage to '90s alt-rock legends like Dinosaur Jr., Sugar, The Lemondheads and Guided By Voices. With speedy power chords, raw vocals, and infectiously catchy hooks, the band's sound is a nod to the golden age of indie rock while staying fresh and urgent. Collaborating with an array of Boston-area college rock influences, Hedge's latest release is a short burst of lo-fi energy that proves polished production isn't necessary when the music is this raw and exciting.

The Academy Is… is set to release their first new album in 18 years, titled 'Almost There', on March 27, 2026. The band's signature alt-rock sound, showcased in the lead single '2005', captures themes of nostalgia and personal growth, resonating with fans of alternative rock and emotional vocal performances.

Red Arrow Highway's sophomore album, Be Someone Better, resonates with the timeless spirit of classic rock legends like Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty, infused with the raw energy of modern alt-rock favorites such as The Menzingers, The Gaslight Anthem, and Bright Eyes. Their lead single, 'Not the End,' captures the essence of societal sacrifices for convenience, weaving together infectious melodies and bold instrumentation. Formed in 2020 and now expanded to a full lineup, the band's evolution shines through in this release, as they delve into themes of resilience and optimism in the face of contemporary challenges. With a compelling blend of somber reflections and electrifying moments, Be Someone Better showcases Red Arrow Highway's growth and unwavering dedication to crafting anthems that resonate deeply with listeners.

Footballhead, Chicago's prominent up and coming alternative rock band, is set to release their new album 'Weight of The Truth' on March 20, 2026 through Tiny Engines, featuring the single "Used To Be" with a nostalgic early 2000s heavy alt-rock vibe with monster hooks. Their sound blends melody and grit, reminiscent of late 90s/early 2000s heavy alt-rock and emo bands like Story of the Year, The Used, and Jimmy Eat World while also having heavier elements of bands like Basement, Anxious and One Step Closer. The new songs should have something for everyone ranging from alternative rock, pop punk and emo, to heavier, darker, more post-hardcore and grunge-influences throughout. With their debut album 'Overthinking Everything' receiving acclaim, the band is gearing up for a global presence with their upcoming release.

SHORELINE's upcoming album "Is This The Low Point Or The Moment After?" is set to be released on March 13, 2026, via Pure Noise Records, featuring singles "Sweet Spot" and "Out Of Touch" now streaming everywhere. The band's blend of emo, hardcore, and alternative rock channels themes of personal growth and introspection, drawing inspiration from bands like One Step Closer and Koyo while maintaining a raw, DIY punk ethos. The album explores themes of hitting rock bottom and finding hope, reflecting a clear creative vision and showcasing SHORELINE's evolution in sound.

Sweet Pill's sophomore album "Still There’s A Glow" will be released on March 13, 2026, via Hopeless Records. Lead single "No Control" showcases the band's dynamism and singer Zayna Youssef’s emotive vocals, exploring themes of self-worth and boundaries, amidst a more cohesive and elevated sound recording. The album marks a personal journey of growth and self-reflection, aiming to connect with listeners through honest and vulnerable songwriting.

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.

Nashville-based emo-punk quintet Free Throw have announced their new album, Moments Before The Wind, which will be released on March, 27 2026 via Wax Bodega. The first single, A Hero’s Grave, juxtaposes a serpentine guitar line and buoyant ’90s groove against vocalist Cory Castro’s gruff vocals, showcasing the band's signature sound. Drawing inspiration from their own experiences, including the dissolution of a long-term relationship and impending fatherhood, this release is described as a powerful exploration of life's fragile structures. The new LP will contain 11 brand new tracks with distinctive sonic qualities and poignant lyricism, and will hopefully be a standout addition to Free Throw's discography. Ben Quad, Hot Mulligan, Mom Jeans.

Tigers Jaw have just announced their 7th album and first new LP in 5 years titled 'Lost on You' set for release on March 27, 2026 via Hopeless Records. Showcasing a blend of emotive rock akin to Jimmy Eat World, Weezer and The Get Up Kids, lead single 'Head is Like a Sinking Stone' offers a glimpse into the band's introspective lyrics and emotionally charged melodic sound. Fans can expect a mix of classic Tigers Jaw elements intertwined with reflective themes on time and personal growth across 11 brand new tracks. Check out the official video for the lead single now streaming everywhere.

Belgium emo-rock band Feverchild is releasing their debut album 'Center of the Earth' on March 20, 2026, featuring introspective and emotional tracks like "Endless" and "Forms of Falling Gently." Across 12 brand new tracks, including lead single "Endless" (available for streaming Jan 27), the album explores themes of longing, isolation, and memory, with driving rhythms and intimate moments reminiscent of bands like Texas is the Reason and Sense Field.

Poison the Well returns after 15 years with 'Peace In Place', set for release on March 20, 2026. Their new single 'Thoroughbreds' continues their signature blend of emotive lyrics and powerful riffs, appealing to fans of introspective hardcore and post-hardcore music.

Lafayette, LA band Cashier are excited to join the roster of Julia’s War Recordings with the announcement of their debut EP, The Weight, available March 13, 2026. The EP delves into a raw and introspective realm with driving riffs and powerful vocals that resonate throughout the record. Bandleader Kylie Gaspard's exploration of human connection and uncertainty shines through in the band's distinctive sound, which merges elements of generic rock with a personal touch. Recorded during previous tours around the country, this release showcases Cashier's evolution from their heavy, melodic singles to a full-length project that captures the essence of navigating relationships and life choices with a profound sense of emotional weight.