The Format Releases First Album in 20 Years

The indie rock band The Format has released its first album in 20 years, titled "The Formatted," marking a significant return for the duo of Nate Ruess and Sam Means. The album, which dropped on October 4, 2024, signifies a new chapter for the band, which originally formed in 2001 and released their last album, "Dog Problems," in 2006. "The Formatted" features a collection of songs that the band describes as protest anthems, reflecting a shift in their lyrical focus towards social and political commentary.

Nate Ruess, also known for his work as the lead singer of the band fun., stated that the new album was inspired by a desire to address contemporary issues through music. The band's hiatus, which began after "Dog Problems," allowed both Ruess and Means to pursue other projects, including Ruess's highly successful career with fun. and Means's work as a songwriter and producer for other artists. The reunion of The Format was reportedly driven by a shared creative impulse and a feeling that their voices were needed to speak out on current events.

In an interview discussing the album's themes, Ruess and Means highlighted the influence of artists who have historically used their music for activism. They specifically mentioned the current socio-political climate as a catalyst for the album's more overtly political lyrics. The band's previous work, while often introspective and emotionally charged, did not typically engage with protest themes as directly as "The Formatted." This new direction signals a maturation of their artistic expression and a willingness to use their platform for advocacy.

The release of "The Formatted" has been met with anticipation from long-time fans who have followed the band since their early days. The album's title itself, "The Formatted," is a playful nod to their established identity while also suggesting a re-establishment or redefinition of their sound and message. The band expressed their hope that the album would resonate with listeners and encourage dialogue about the issues it addresses, positioning their music as a form of active engagement rather than passive entertainment. The 20-year gap between albums underscores the significance of this comeback and the band's renewed commitment to their collaborative artistry.