In the ever-evolving landscape of indie rock, few reunions have sparked as much excitement as The Format’s return with their latest album, *Boycott Heaven*. Released on January 23, 2026, this marks the duo’s first studio album in two decades, a period during which fans clung to the hope of new material from Nate Ruess and Sam Means.
A Journey Back to the Roots
The Format’s story is one of enduring friendship and musical synergy. Formed in 2002, the Arizona-based duo quickly garnered a dedicated following with their unique blend of indie pop and rock. Their sophomore album, *Dog Problems*, released in 2006, was both a critical and fan favorite. However, in 2008, the band announced a hiatus, leaving fans yearning for more. During this hiatus, Ruess found success with the band fun., achieving mainstream acclaim with hits like “We Are Young.” Means, on the other hand, pursued solo projects and co-founded the merchandise company Hello Merch. Despite their individual successes, the chemistry that defined The Format remained a lingering presence.
The Spark of Reunion
The seeds of reunion were sown in 2019 when Ruess revisited their debut album, *Interventions + Lullabies*. This nostalgic journey prompted him to reach out to Means, leading to a surprise performance in 2020. Although plans for a reunion tour were thwarted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the duo’s desire to create together was reignited. By 2024, Ruess’s newfound passion for guitar and a prolific writing streak set the stage for what would become *Boycott Heaven*. Initially conceived as a solo project, the material’s essence felt inherently Format-esque, prompting the duo to collaborate once more. They embarked on writing sessions split between Ruess’s home in Santa Barbara and Means’s workspace in Phoenix, crafting songs that resonated with both their past and present selves.
Crafting ‘Boycott Heaven’
Enlisting the expertise of producer Brendan O’Brien, known for his work with Pearl Jam and Bruce Springsteen, The Format aimed to infuse their sound with a rock-oriented edge. O’Brien, who also played bass on the album, recognized the duo’s innate pop sensibilities, guiding them to embrace their strengths. Drummer Matt Chamberlain joined the sessions, adding depth to the rhythm section. The album’s lead single, “Holy Roller,” debuted on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*, signaling the band’s official return. Subsequent releases like “Shot in the Dark” and the title track “Boycott Heaven” showcased a matured sound that retained the infectious melodies fans cherished. Tracks like “Right Where I Belong” delve into personal narratives, reflecting on the lives built during their time apart. As the band expressed, “We know that many of you have grown alongside us and our music over the years… We hope this song finds you where you are.”
Embracing the Present
*Boycott Heaven* is more than a nostalgic trip; it’s a reflection of the duo’s growth and the world around them. Songs like “Depressed” tackle mental health with candidness, while “Leave It Alone (Till the Morning)” offers a poignant commentary on global conflicts, including a nod to the situation in Gaza. The album balances introspection with broader societal observations, making it both personal and universally relatable.
The Road Ahead
To celebrate the album’s release, The Format organized listening parties across U.S. record stores and intimate in-store performances in cities like Phoenix, Long Beach, Seattle, and New York City. These events allowed fans to reconnect with the band in a personal setting, bridging the gap of the past two decades. Looking forward, the duo has announced a full U.S. tour set to commence in March 2026. With a rotating cast of openers, including Piebald, Ben Kweller, Phantom Planet, Adult Mom, and Limbeck, the tour promises to be a celebration of indie rock camaraderie. For fans old and new, *Boycott Heaven* serves as a testament to The Format’s enduring legacy and their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. It’s a reminder that, sometimes, the best things are worth the wait.