Get ready for a musical revolution! The Format is back, and they're shaking things up with their highly anticipated comeback album, Boycott Heaven, dropping on January 23rd, 2026, via their independent label, The Vanity Label. But here's where it gets exciting: this isn’t just any album—it’s their first full-length release since 2006’s Dog Problems, marking a triumphant return for the indie pop duo of Nate Ruess (yes, the voice behind fun.) and Sam Means. And this is the part most people miss: the album is produced by the legendary Brendan O’Brien (think Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen, The Killers), who also lends his talents on bass, alongside Matt Chamberlain on drums. Talk about a dream team!
A press release teases the album as a “collection of existential protest songs, power chord-driven anthems, heartfelt tributes to family and friendship, and an unshakable hope for a brighter future.” Sounds like a recipe for something truly special, right? Pre-orders are already live, so you can secure your copy now. But here’s the controversial part: in an era dominated by streaming and singles, is a full album still the best way for artists to connect with fans? Let us know what you think in the comments!
To give fans a taste of what’s to come, The Format has released the lead single, ‘Holy Roller,’ a track that perfectly encapsulates the album’s carpe diem spirit. Nate’s lyrics—‘Holy roller, don’t go wasting all your time / Praying for a sign / I’m burning up faster than a candle in the night / I’ll be gone before sunrise’—urge listeners to seize the moment. It’s a message that feels both timeless and urgently relevant. Don’t miss the Vanessa Pla-directed music video, which showcases the band’s electrifying performance.
Before the album drops, The Format has one final date on their fall reunion tour, set against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles on October 10th. Supported by Phantom Planet, this show promises to be unforgettable—though tickets are sold out, you might still snag some via resale. And if you can’t make it, catch the duo on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon this Monday night for a sneak peek of what’s in store.
Boycott Heaven isn’t just an album—it’s a statement. With its blend of raw emotion, powerful storytelling, and unapologetic optimism, it’s poised to be a defining moment in The Format’s career. But here’s the question: Can an album like this truly ‘boycott heaven’ and inspire real change, or is it just another drop in the ocean of modern music? Share your thoughts below—we’re all ears!
