What's Happening?
Philadelphia-based band Her New Knife has released their new single, 'Lyre,' through Julia's War Recordings. This marks their first new music since their 2024 EP, 'chrome is lullaby.' The track features a metallic riff, bright guitars, piano, and weighted
drums, showcasing the band's characteristic precision with Edgar Atencio's vocals. Atencio described 'Lyre' as a 'simple and beautiful pop song' that reinvigorated his musical passion. The release follows 'chrome is lullaby: re,' a deluxe remix version of their 2024 EP, which included reinterpretations from various artists. Her New Knife is also embarking on a North American tour with Slow Pulp, starting November 9 in Washington, D.C., and includes stops in Richmond, Philadelphia, Brooklyn, Boston, Toronto, Detroit, Chicago, Minneapolis, and Madison. They are also scheduled to appear at the Treefort Music Festival in Boise, ID, in 2027.
Why It's Important?
The release of 'Lyre' and the accompanying tour signify a continued artistic output and growing presence for Her New Knife within the alternative music scene. Their collaboration with Julia's War Recordings, a Philadelphia-based community label, highlights the importance of independent labels in fostering new talent and pushing musical boundaries. The band's tour with Slow Pulp, a well-regarded indie act, provides them with significant exposure to a broader audience across major U.S. cities and Canada. This exposure is crucial for emerging artists to build their fanbase and establish their reputation in a competitive industry. The band's influences, including Björk and Siouxsie and the Banshees, suggest a unique sound that could appeal to listeners seeking innovative and experimental music, contributing to the diversity of the U.S. music landscape.
What's Next?
Her New Knife's immediate future involves their North American tour with Slow Pulp throughout November 2026, which will see them perform in various key cities. Following this, they are slated to appear at the Treefort Music Festival in Boise, ID, in March/April 2027. These performances will be critical for promoting 'Lyre' and their broader discography, potentially leading to increased album sales, streaming numbers, and further touring opportunities. The band's continued collaboration with Julia's War Recordings suggests more releases are likely as they work towards a full album, as hinted by Atencio. The success of their current tour and festival appearance will likely influence their future booking and recording decisions, potentially solidifying their position in the alternative music genre.
Beyond the Headlines
The band's background, with members having art school backgrounds and classical guitar training, suggests a deeper artistic approach to their music beyond typical pop structures. This academic influence, combined with their appreciation for rhythm and minimalist live shows, indicates a deliberate and thoughtful creative process. Their development of songs during long stretches on the road points to an organic and immersive songwriting method, where emotional expression is prioritized. This approach could resonate with audiences looking for authenticity and depth in music, contrasting with more commercially driven acts. The band's commitment to pushing boundaries, as noted by Julia's War Recordings, could contribute to evolving musical trends and inspire other artists to explore unconventional sounds and performance styles within the U.S. music industry.
