The Cribs – ‘Selling A Vibe’ Review: Indie Stalwarts Spark Vibrant Life with New Album

The Cribs’ new album Selling A Vibe blends punk-rooted energy with vibrant indie pop, proving the band still knows how to evolve their iconic sound.

The Cribs’ Musical Journey: A Perfect Punk-Pop Balance

If you’ve followed The Cribs for a while, you know they’ve always danced effortlessly on the edge of punk grit and catchy pop hooks. Their sound is a vivid tapestry woven from raw energy and melodic charm—a duality that’s kept them relevant through the years. What fascinates me about their ninth studio album, Selling A Vibe, is how the band chose to steer their ship this time.

Back in 2017, with 24-7 Rock Star Shit, they called upon the legendary Nirvana producer Steve Albini to capture that raw, grungy edge. This time around, they flipped the script by teaming up with Patrick Wimberley, known for his work with Lil Yachty and ex-Chairlift. It’s a bold move for a band rooted in indie rock traditions. Guitarist Ryan Jarman summed it up nicely last year when he said, “We wanted to try working with someone who specifically worked with more pop kind of people.” And honestly, it shows.

The Cribs continue to evolve while keeping their signature punch - Photo by Steve Gullick

A New Chapter: Pop Precision Meets Punk Heart

Don’t worry, this isn’t some commercial sellout moment trying to mimic pop megastars. The opening track, “Dark Luck,” kicks off with those fuzzy yet sharp guitar riffs that only Ryan Jarman can deliver. But there’s a clear, focused intention behind it all. These 12 songs, each roughly three minutes long, wear their pop influences on their sleeves but with that unmistakable Cribs toughness.

The lyrical themes remain deeply personal and reflective. “Self Respect” delivers that uncompromising message with lines like, “Self respect will never cash the cheques…”, while “Looking For The Wrong Guy” confronts mental health struggles with raw honesty. The melodies, however, feel streamlined and confident, cutting through with a fresh vibrancy.

A Touch of Operatic Drama and ‘80s Nostalgia

One of the album’s standout moments is “You’ll Tell Me Anything,” which opens with an Italian operatic tenor singing the phrase “for a life lived at night.” It’s a striking, cinematic intro before Ryan and bassist Gary Jarman dive into a duet about escaping the shadows of touring life. It’s these kinds of unexpected flourishes that make Selling A Vibe so captivating.

The track “Self Respect” ventures into new territory with its spindly bass lines and bright guitar work that nod toward ‘80s pop. Yet, it all feels natural, like a new chapter in a story that’s been unfolding for over 25 years. The musical foundation The Cribs have built is rock-solid, enabling them to experiment while still sounding like themselves.

The Jarman Brothers’ Vocal Rawness and Timeless Wisdom

The brothers’ signature gritty, almost fragile vocals shine brightly on “A Point Too Hard To Make,” bringing that authentic emotional edge fans adore. Then you get the duo of “Never The Same” and “Summer Seizures,” two tracks that perfectly showcase the band’s maturity. “Never The Same” is a Beatles-esque jangler that’s irresistibly catchy, while “Summer Seizures” builds slowly into an anthemic slow burn that punches the air with feeling.

It’s clear these guys have grown up but refused to lose their spark. The Cribs have found fresh ways to sound like themselves, a feat that’s rarer and more impressive than it might first seem.

Watch The Cribs’ official video for “Never The Same” below:

Album Details at a Glance

• Record label: Sonic Blew
• Release date: January 9, 2026

Bringing It All Together: A Vibrant Indie Revival

As someone who’s followed The Cribs through thick and thin, Selling A Vibe feels like a refreshing yet familiar breath of life. It’s an album that’s both a nod to their punk-pop past and a confident step forward into new sonic landscapes. The band’s commitment to authenticity and growth shines through every track, making this record a vibrant testament to their enduring spirit.

How do you think The Cribs have evolved with this release? Has Selling A Vibe captured that rare balance of keeping your roots while exploring fresh ground? Let’s chat in the comments!

FAQ

• What is the general sound of Selling A Vibe?
  It’s a blend of punchy indie rock with polished pop elements, mixing The Cribs’ punk roots with catchy, hook-driven melodies.
• Who produced the new album?
  Patrick Wimberley, known for working with pop artists like Lil Yachty and ex-Chairlift members, produced Selling A Vibe.
• Are there standout tracks that showcase new directions?
  Yes, tracks like “You’ll Tell Me Anything” with operatic touches and “Self Respect” with ‘80s-inspired bass lines highlight fresh sonic ideas.
• Does the album maintain The Cribs’ signature style?
  Absolutely. Despite new influences, their raw vocals and energetic guitar work keep the classic Cribs vibe alive.
• When was Selling A Vibe released?
  The album dropped on January 9, 2026, under Sonic Blew Records.

If you’re a fan of The Cribs or just love a good indie-rock album with heart and soul, why not bring that vibe home? Shop your favorite album cover poster and celebrate the legacy of this enduring band in style at Architeg Prints.