Say Anything and Wavves have announced a collaborative album titled "Cherry Soda," arriving September 18th. The two indie rock acts unveiled the project by releasing the lead single "Deathx1k."
Say Anything, fronted by Max Bemis, built a devoted following through emotionally raw pop-punk records like "...Is a Real Boy" and "Anarchy, My Dear." The Los Angeles band specializes in vulnerable, introspective songwriting that balances melodic hooks with confessional lyrics. Wavves, led by Nathan Williams, operates in the lo-fi indie rock sphere, trading in fuzzy guitars and surf-influenced textures across albums such as "King of the Beach" and "V."
The pairing represents an interesting collision of sensibilities. Say Anything leans toward grand emotional gestures and theatrical production. Wavves gravitates toward bedroom recording aesthetics and understated hooks. "Deathx1k" hints at how these contrasting approaches might blend, merging Say Anything's earnest vocal delivery with Wavves' minimalist instrumental palette.
This collaboration marks a notable moment for both bands. Say Anything has maintained a steady presence since their 2004 debut, though without the commercial penetration they once enjoyed during the mid-2000s emo wave. Wavves experienced peak momentum around 2010-2011 but has maintained cult status among indie rock enthusiasts.
The decision to create a full collaborative album rather than a one-off single suggests both acts see genuine creative potential in working together. Such partnerships remain relatively uncommon in the indie rock world, where individual band identities typically carry significant weight. The announcement positions "Cherry Soda" as a serious artistic statement rather than a novelty project.
With the September 18th release date set, the album arrives during autumn's quieter months in the music calendar, potentially allowing deeper critical engagement with the work.