Shudder to Think Unveils First New Music Since 1998 Amid Reunion Tour

Shudder to Think returns with fresh tracks and a reunion tour, delivering their first new music since the late '90s post-hardcore era.

When a band you’ve loved since the '90s suddenly drops new music after a 27-year pause, it’s impossible not to feel a surge of excitement. That’s exactly what’s happening with Shudder to Think, the legendary post-hardcore band known for their unique blend of alternative rock and glam, as they release their first new songs since the soundtrack for Velvet Goldmine back in 1998. Alongside this musical comeback, the band is also hitting the road for their first proper tour in 17 years.

Shudder to Think live on stage (photo: Diona Mavis)

A Long-Awaited Return to the Spotlight

If you’ve been following Shudder to Think’s trajectory, you know these new songs mark a monumental moment. The band recently kicked off their reunion tour, crisscrossing the country to play for diehard fans and newcomers alike. The tour wraps up on November 11 in Los Angeles, but the excitement doesn’t end there. At each show, fans can grab a special seven-inch vinyl featuring two brand-new tracks, “Thirst Walk” and “Playback.”

For those who can’t make it to the concerts, the vinyl is also available for pre-order through Dischord Records — their longtime label partner — with an official release date set for November 7.

It’s wild to think that this is their first new music since the late Clinton administration, a reminder of how much time has passed, but also how timeless their sound remains.

The Band: Old Friends, New Vibes

Seeing Shudder to Think back on stage is like reuniting with old friends who’ve been on their own incredible journeys but still have that spark that made you fall in love with them in the first place. The current lineup is a dream team:

• Craig Wedren (vocals) – The unmistakable voice that carried the band’s signature sound.
• Nathan Larson (guitar) – Co-founder and creative force.
• Adam Wade (drums) – Driving the rhythm with precision.
• Clint Walsh (guitar) – Adding fresh textures.
• Jherek Bischoff (bass) – Bringing a new depth to the low end.

Their performances earlier this year — including intimate shows in Los Angeles at Permanent Records and a set at Riot Fest in Chicago — reaffirmed just how influential they remain in alternative music circles.

From Indie Roots to Major Label Experimentation

Shudder to Think’s journey began with a solid foundation in Dischord Records, where they released early gems like Funeral at the Movies and Get Your Goat. These records were beloved in the underground scene for their wild, experimental approach to post-hardcore.

But their leap to the major leagues came in 1994 with Pony Express Record, released under Epic Records. This album remains one of the most intriguingly strange major-label debuts ever, blending complex arrangements, catchy hooks, and an unrelenting creative energy. Although their follow-up album, 50,000 B.C., didn’t receive unanimous praise, it showcased their willingness to push boundaries.

Eventually, the band parted ways — until now.

The enduring legacy of Shudder to Think’s distinctive sound

Creating New Music in a Modern Era

Craig Wedren recently opened up about the band’s fresh approach to songwriting and collaboration in this new phase.

“We’re trying to do this in a very organic way that works for everybody’s individual lives and collective health… We have shared ProTools sessions where we record demos together, but then everybody can tweak ideas on their own. It’s a more multi-dimensional, accordion-esque creative process rather than just being in a room, working on the song, playing the songs live and recording the songs.” — Craig Wedren

This approach feels perfectly suited for the times — a fusion of technology and old-school band chemistry. They’re not rushing; whether it results in a full album, a series of EPs, or singles, the goal is to create new music that feels true to Shudder to Think’s spirit.

The plan? To have a record ready within the next year, potentially dropping next summer or fall. It’s a thrilling prospect for fans who have waited patiently to hear new material from this beloved band.

Why Shudder to Think Still Matters

Listening to Shudder to Think in 2025 is like stepping into a time capsule filled with innovation and raw emotion. Their sound is a kaleidoscope of post-hardcore intensity, alternative rock’s melodic edge, and glam’s theatrical flair. For fans of the genre, their return is more than just nostalgia; it’s a reminder of how genre-defying music can stay fresh across decades.

They’ve managed to stay true to themselves while embracing new ways to create and share their art. It’s a lesson in evolution — not just surviving the changing tides of music but thriving in them.

To the Fans and Beyond

Whether you caught them in the ’90s or are discovering their sound now, Shudder to Think’s reunion and fresh tracks are a gift. Their music has a timeless quality that resonates with anyone who’s ever found solace or excitement in a chord progression or a lyric.

If you’re planning to catch them on tour or want to snag their new single, the window is open but won’t last forever. And keep an ear out for what comes next — this could just be the beginning of a new chapter for the band.

FAQ

• What new songs has Shudder to Think released?
  They’ve released a seven-inch vinyl featuring two new tracks: “Thirst Walk” and “Playback.”
• When was Shudder to Think’s last new music before this release?
  Their last new music was part of the Velvet Goldmine soundtrack in 1998.
• Who is in the current lineup of Shudder to Think?
  The band includes Craig Wedren, Nathan Larson, Adam Wade, Clint Walsh, and Jherek Bischoff.
• How is Shudder to Think creating new music now?
  They use shared ProTools sessions for remote collaboration, blending individual tweaks with group rehearsals.
• Is there a new album coming from Shudder to Think?
  The band hopes to have new music, possibly a full album, ready by next summer or fall, but they’re open to releasing EPs or singles as well.

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