A significant event for pop-punk fans is on the horizon as The Ataris prepare to release their first new album in 19 years. Bassist Mike Davenport confirmed in an interview with Punk Rock Philosophy that the long-awaited record is complete, with a release anticipated in either March or April 2026. This album will feature the single “Car Song,” which the band released in May of this year.
Davenport expressed his excitement about the upcoming music, stating, “I am really excited about it! We are anxious to get the full record out and for you all to hear it.” He emphasized the emotional journey involved in creating the album, noting that lead singer and guitarist Kristopher “Kris” Roe poured his heart into the project. “It has been a long time, and before he was trying to handle too much,” Davenport explained. “By getting us all back, he can focus on what’s truly important.”
The bassist praised Roe’s vocal abilities, remarking that, unlike many artists whose voices fade over time, Roe’s has only improved. “When old friends come out and see us on tour, they all say ‘his voice was amazing last night.’ He is putting everything into his voice and performance, and I think that shows on the new material.”
30 Years of The Ataris and a Renewed Mission
This year marks the 30th anniversary of The Ataris, who formed in 1996. Davenport reflected on the band’s journey, noting that the group reunited after two lengthy hiatuses, emerging with a fresh energy following the Covid pandemic. “Covid was a reset—the band came back from that on a mission which we haven’t been on since we were kids,” he told Punk Rock Philosophy. “Our focus and our mission is to make new music and be the best band we can be every time we go on stage.”
The Ataris gained prominence during the MySpace and Warped Tour era, releasing five albums between 1997 and 2007. Their discography includes beloved tracks such as “In This Diary,” “San Dimas High School Football Rules,” and “So Long, Astoria,” along with a cover of Don Henley’s “The Boys of Summer.”
In the decade since their last full album, the band has continued to engage with fans through various releases, including demos, live recordings, and a re-recording of “The Boys of Summer” alongside a handful of new songs.
Despite canceling two concerts in December 2023 due to an injury to Roe’s back, The Ataris have scheduled over a dozen tour dates for 2026. Fans eager to witness the band’s return to the stage can find tickets available on platforms such as StubHub and Seat Geek.
As anticipation builds for their upcoming album, The Ataris are set to remind audiences why they became a staple of the pop-punk genre. With their commitment to making music that resonates and their dedication to performance, the band is poised to capture the hearts of both old fans and new listeners alike.
