Incubus Set to Release First Album in Eight Years: A Deep Dive

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. A Long-Awaited Comeback
4. The Impact of Change
5. The Art of Promotion
6. Celebrating Legacy and Future Together
7. Looking Ahead
8. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Incubus's upcoming album is their first since 2017’s 8, and it was completed earlier this year.
• Brandon Boyd revealed plans for a single release before the album's anticipated launch in October.
• The album features contributions from new bassist Nicole Row, marking a significant change for the band.
• Their upcoming performance at the O2 in London will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their iconic album Morning View.

Introduction

At a time when the music industry is often dominated by the rapid churn of singles and ephemeral hits, the announcement of a new album from Incubus comes as a refreshing return to form for the alternative rock band. Lead vocalist Brandon Boyd recently confirmed that the band has completed their first studio album in eight years, marking a significant moment for both the group and their dedicated fanbase. Notably, the album will showcase contributions from their new bassist, Nicole Row, who is said to bring a fresh perspective to the band's sound. For an ardent follower of Incubus, this news is not just a chapter in their discography; it represents a deep dive into a new era for one of the defining rock bands of the late '90s and early 2000s.

This article will explore various aspects of Incubus's upcoming album, including the recording process, upcoming promotions, and the band's evolution in a changing music landscape.

A Long-Awaited Comeback

Incubus's previous record, 8, released in 2017, was met with varied responses. Critics praised its experimental sound, while some fans expressed nostalgia for the band's earlier work. Fast forward to 2025, Boyd recently revealed, "We actually finished the album a little over two months ago. It's like mastered, it's mixed, it's just ready to go."

The complexities of releasing music in the digital age are evident in Boyd’s comments; he laments the risk of an album getting lost amidst the deluge of content on the internet. "We could put it out tomorrow, and we could," he says, "but it would get just lost in the shuffle."

The Impact of Change

The band has seen significant personnel changes over the years, particularly with the departure of longtime bassist Ben Kenney in late 2023 due to health complications resulting from brain surgery. His absence has opened the door for Nicole Row, who Boyd describes as "a breath of fresh air" and praises her contributions to writing the new album. This shift in lineup not only reflects internal changes but mirrors broader trends in the music industry where adaptability is crucial for longevity.

Nicole Row's Influence

Row's integration into the group exemplifies the evolving nature of music creation. As artists today often collaborate with a diverse range of musicians, Row’s past experiences in different genres may help infuse Incubus with a new sound while maintaining their trademark style. Boyd expressed confidence in Row's artistic vision, highlighting her remarkable ideas that align with the band's creative direction.

The Art of Promotion

As the album nears its release, Boyd hinted at a single drop prior to the official album release, which is likely set for October. While the specific title of the album remains under wraps, Boyd’s enthusiasm suggests that fans can expect both familiar and new sounds reflective of the band’s growth.

Promotion in today’s music climate requires a strategic approach. The strategy for this album release includes an extensive setup period to create anticipation. Given that album lifecycles can be short-lived in the digital sphere, the band's approach appears calculated and deliberate. Boyd states, "Even with all of the setup that we're gonna do, it most likely will still get lost in the internet," indicating a realistic understanding of modern-day marketing challenges.

Celebrating Legacy and Future Together

The significance of Incubus’s music journey isn't just tied to what is coming but also to where they have been. This year, the band is revisiting their classic album, Morning View, through a series of special performances. The O2 in London will host a show where they perform the album in full, a nostalgic trip for many fans and a perfect opportunity to showcase their entire repertoire.

Live performances remain a cornerstone of the Incubus experience. In the wake of live music's resurgence post-pandemic, their decision to perform Morning View gives audiences both long-time fans and new listeners a chance to celebrate a musical milestone while transitioning into a new era.

Looking Ahead

The future looks bright for Incubus as they prepare to release their upcoming album and tour in support of it. The blend of nostalgia and innovation positions the band uniquely within a rapidly shifting industry landscape. Boyd aptly sums it up: "I think it’s a really great record, and I’m really proud of it, and all of us in the band are really proud of it."

As the world eagerly awaits this new chapter, the balance of merging established legacy and fresh artistry will undoubtedly continue to define the ever-evolving sound of Incubus.

FAQ

Q: When is the new Incubus album expected to be released?
A: The new album is anticipated to be released in October 2025, with a single likely to precede this launch.

Q: What changes have occurred within the band since their last album?
A: The most significant change is the addition of bassist Nicole Row, who joined after Ben Kenney's departure due to health issues.

Q: How does the band feel about the new album?
A: Brandon Boyd has stated that the band is very proud of the album and believes it showcases their growth as musicians.

Q: Will there be any special performances around the album release?
A: Yes, Incubus will perform their classic album Morning View in full at a special show at the O2 in London, along with additional performances.

Q: How has the music landscape influenced this album's release?
A: Boyd expressed concerns about releasing music in today's digital environment, where it can easily be overlooked amid the vast amount of content available online. The band is taking a strategic approach to promotion to combat this issue.