Sydney's rapidly ascending indie-rock outfit, NO CIGAR, are once again proving why they're a band to watch, not just in New Zealand but globally. Following a period of extensive touring that's seen them captivate audiences across the UK and Europe, the five-piece is now gearing up for their highly anticipated third studio album, 'Under The Surface', slated for release on Wednesday 30th July. Leading the charge is their latest single, the effortlessly cool 'Clean'.
'Clean' arrives as a fresh taste of what's to come, hot on the heels of other dynamic 2025 releases like 'Best Behaviour', 'Problem', and 'Chantilly'. Recorded at Auckland’s renowned Roundhead Studios, 'Clean' embodies the essence of NO CIGAR in its most authentic form. As the band themselves describe it, 'Clean' is “relaxed, cruisy and chill, but also energetic, catchy and gritty.” The track showcases a rhythmic lead vocal that smoothly navigates the verses before swelling into expansive choruses, enriched by delicate harmonies and ethereal backing vocals.
Lyrically, 'Clean' delves into the complexities of modern existence, exploring themes of escapism, temptation, self-control, and hedonism. NO CIGAR articulates this push and pull beautifully: “The escapism we seek in the modern world, the temptations of indulgence, the power of self-control, the allure of hedonism. We tread the line between what's right and wrong, what we want and what we need. We're always being pushed and pulled here and there.” It’s a relatable narrative, wrapped in their signature compelling arrangements.
The announcement of 'Under The Surface' marks a significant new chapter for NO CIGAR. Having spent the last two years honing their craft and connecting with fans on the road, the band is eager to unveil their evolved sound. Speaking on the new album, NO CIGAR shared their excitement: “The album brings a new flavour to the mix. Just as we’ve grown as people in the last few years since our first album, so too has the music. We never set out to make music that is ‘heavier’ or ‘softer’; we just find the time to lock ourselves away from the world, get comfortable, and open the floodgates.”
This growth promises their most diverse offering yet. “The way the heavier tones in the album balance nicely with softer numbers make for our most dynamic album to date. NO CIGAR like you’ve never seen before,” they reveal. With a reputation for infectious earworms and thought-provoking lyrics, 'Under The Surface' is poised to further cement NO CIGAR’s standing as a formidable force in the indie-rock landscape. Keep your ears peeled for what promises to be a captivating listen.
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