Motion City Soundtrack Announces First Album in Ten Years

Motion City Soundtrack, the renowned Minneapolis-based emo and pop-punk band, is set to make a monumental return with their new studio album, The Same Old Wasted Wonderful World. This announcement is significant as it marks the band’s first album in a decade, following 2015's Panic Stations. Scheduled for release on September 17 via Epitaph Records, the album signifies a thrilling comeback from a band that has been a stalwart in the pop-punk genre, blending emotive lyrics with catchy melodies.

The band, comprised of vocalist and guitarist Justin Pierre, guitarist Joshua Cain, bassist Matt Taylor, keyboardist Jesse Johnson, and drummer Tony Thaxton, managed to reunite after a breakup that saw them pursue various paths across different states. Their journey back to music started with a surprising reunion concert on New Year’s Eve 2019, followed by a brief tour in early 2020 that was abruptly halted due to the pandemic. Amidst these disruptions, Motion City Soundtrack began to conceptualize their upcoming album, viewing it as an opportunity to both reconnect with their musical roots and explore newfound artistic directions.

The Same Old Wasted Wonderful World sees Motion City Soundtrack returning to their signature sound while integrating fresh influences and insights gained over the past decade. Produced by Sean O’Keefe at Chicago's Electrical Audio—known for its work with significant pop-punk acts like Fall Out Boy—the album is touted as potentially the band's most important to date. It comes packed with collaborations featuring Patrick Stump of Fall Out Boy, Mat Kerekes of Citizen, and Deanna Belos from Sincere Engineer, illustrating the band's connections and influence in the music industry.

The lead single, “She Is Afraid,” is notable not just for its captivating sound but also for its Severance-inspired music video, which reflects the innovative spirit of Motion City Soundtrack. The single has garnered attention for its vibrant guitar riffs and anthemic energy, reminiscent of the band’s earlier work. Justin Pierre expressed his excitement over the song, emphasizing how it captures the band’s knack for integrating diverse musical elements while staying true to their pop-punk roots. He notes influences from artists like Del the Funky Homosapien and That Dog, adding layers of complexity and nostalgia to their sound.

Throughout their hiatus, the band members individually continued to evolve, with Pierre even embarking on a solo career. Yet, their collaborative energy is palpable in this new project, suggesting a rekindling of their shared artistic vision. This development resonates with the band’s tradition of introspective lyrics, but as Pierre explains, there is a newfound clarity in their message. The album’s narrative focuses on personal growth and self-discovery—a theme the band has often explored, but with a sharper and resolved tone this time around.

For fans, the album doesn’t merely represent a return—it’s an evolution. The tracklist, featuring songs like “Particle Physics” and “You Know Who the Fuck We Are,” promises a mix of introspective ballads and energizing tracks, ensuring the album appeals to both longtime followers and new listeners. Motion City Soundtrack's choice to blend familiar rhythms with new, innovative approaches indicates a mature band ready to leave a profound mark on the current music landscape.

As anticipation builds, Motion City Soundtrack’s re-emergence with The Same Old Wasted Wonderful World exemplifies resilience and creativity flourishing against the backdrop of personal trials and industry challenges. Their journey serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of pop-punk, and their commitment to producing compelling music—demonstrated through this upcoming album—cements their status as pivotal figures in the genre. For any enthusiast of emotionally charged rock with infectious hooks, this album is poised to be a milestone exhibition of Motion City Soundtrack’s enduring artistry and relevance.