Afghan Whigs Return with Dark New Album *Soft Control*

In August 2026 the Afghan Whigs released their fourth post-reunion record, *Soft Control*. The album, described by frontman Greg Dulli as “darkly magnificent,” reflects the band’s blend of alt-rock and soul that has defined their career. At 61, Dulli acknowledges that the loss of longtime collaborator Mark Lanegan, who died in 2022, still haunts the creative process.

The Guardian

Formed in 1986 in Cincinnati, the Afghan Whigs first emerged from the Sub Pop roster with 1990’s *Up in It*, becoming one of the label’s early non-Seattle signings. Their breakthrough came with 1993’s *Gentlemen*, an album rooted in Dulli’s turbulent personal relationships and an examination of male ego, sexuality, and chauvinism. Subsequent releases such as 1996’s *Black Love* and 1998’s *1965* pursued “concept album ambitions” and a brief attempt at mainstream hits, respectively, but commercial success remained limited.

The Guardian

The band dissolved in 1999, after touring with Aerosmith, and Dulli pursued side projects—including the Twilight Singers, the Gutter Twins with Mark Lanegan, and a series of bar-ownership ventures—before reuniting in 2012. A surprise backing-band stint for Usher at SXSW in 2013 sparked renewed enthusiasm, leading to the 2014 reunion album *Do to the Beast* and a steady output that culminated in *Soft Control*.

The Guardian

• Greg Dulli – vocalist, guitarist, primary songwriter; the band’s lyrical voice.

The Guardian

• John Curley – bassist and co-founder; instrumental in early rehearsals.

The Guardian

• Mark Lanegan – former Gutter Twins partner; his 2022 death influences the new album’s tone.

The Guardian

• Dulli’s age at the time of *Soft Control*’s release: 61.

The Guardian

• The Afghan Whigs have released four studio albums since reuniting (2014-2026).

The Guardian

Dulli frames his songwriting philosophy as an acknowledgment of consequence rather than moral judgment, emphasizing a personal acceptance of mortality. He notes that the band’s early reliance on distortion was a practical response to drummer Steve Earle’s “metalhead” volume, and that their eclectic covers—ranging from Sinéad O’Connor to Hall & Oates—served to subvert and honor soul influences. The loss of Lanegan is described as a “heartbreaking” void that continues to affect Dulli’s creative outlook.

The Guardian

• “My songs acknowledge consequence, more than they deal in judgment,” — Greg Dulli

The Guardian

• “Watching those dudes knock Michael Jackson off the No 1 spot … that escalated quickly,” — Greg Dulli

The Guardian

• “That was the only time I tried to write a hit song,” — Greg Dulli

The Guardian

*Soft Control* illustrates how a veteran act can reinterpret its foundational blend of rock, soul, and funk while confronting personal loss. The album’s dark tone and lyrical focus on consequence reinforce the Afghan Whigs’ reputation for “arch romantic dysfunction” and position them as a persistent, if niche, influence on contemporary alternative music.

The Guardian

While the band has not announced specific future tours or releases, Dulli’s remarks suggest an ongoing commitment to creating music that serves as his “co-pilot” through both triumphant and somber moments.

The Guardian