American Football Releases New Single "Bad Moons" Ahead of Upcoming Album

American Football, the influential Midwest emo band, has announced the release of their fourth studio album, titled *American Football (LP4)*, set to debut on May 1, 2026. The album's lead single, "Bad Moons," is an eight-minute track that blends elements from two previously separate demos. The song features intricate guitar melodies and dynamic rhythms, showcasing the band's signature sound while exploring themes of aging and responsibility.

American Football Share "Bad Moons," First Single From Upcoming Fourth Album

Frontman Mike Kinsella describes "Bad Moons" as a "Frankenstein of two different demos"—one playful, featuring children and toy pianos, and the other brooding, characterized by intense guitar and drum arrangements. Kinsella noted that the challenge lay in thematically bridging the innocence of the first part with the despair of the second. He elaborated, “I decided to begin the song as a child. Or, rather…two. Stacked up in a single trench coat; secretly, reluctantly living the life of a grown man, accruing all of his missteps and guilt along the way.” The song culminates in a cathartic confession, aiming to resonate with listeners who have navigated similar life experiences.

American Football Share “Bad Moons,” First Single from “LP4”

The music video for "Bad Moons," directed by Alex Acy and Rémi Belleville, visually encapsulates the song's themes. Acy commented on the video’s concept, stating, “Part of growing up is realizing you can only become more empathetic with others once you become empathetic with yourself.” He emphasized the shared experiences of boys during their transition to adulthood, which the video aims to portray through a slow-motion montage.

American Football Return With New Song ‘Bad Moons’

In conjunction with the album release, American Football will embark on a world tour starting May 15, 2026. The tour will include performances across North America and Europe, with additional dates announced due to high demand. Notably, the band will donate $1 from each ticket sold to Safe Passage International and the Illinois Coalition for Immigration & Refugee Rights, organizations dedicated to supporting immigrant rights and assisting refugees.

American Football Return With New Single, “Bad Moons”

*American Football (LP4)* marks the band's first full-length release since 2019's *LP3* and represents a significant evolution in their sound and thematic focus. Kinsella has expressed a desire to move beyond nostalgia, aiming to create music that reflects contemporary experiences and emotions. The album is anticipated to address the complexities of middle age, including disorientation and compromise, making it a relevant addition to their discography.

Spin Magazine

• “Bad Moons is actually a Frankenstein of two different demos we’d been passing around for quite a while: one playful, with children playing and toy-pianos plinking; one brooding, with guitars screeching and drums bombasting,” — Mike Kinsella, Frontman

American Football have shared their first single from LP4

• “ Acy added of the video: “I think part of growing up is realizing you can only become more empathetic with others once you become empathetic with yourself.” — Alex Acy, Video Director

American Football Return With New Song ‘Bad Moons’

American Football's return with "Bad Moons" and the forthcoming *LP4* signifies a pivotal moment in their career, blending nostalgia with a fresh perspective on life's challenges.

American Football Share "Bad Moons," First Single From Upcoming Fourth Album