Failure Announces New Album ‘Location Lost’ and Shares Goth-Influenced Single “A Way Down”

Los Angeles-based alternative rock band Failure has unveiled details of their forthcoming album, Location Lost, set for release on April 24th. The announcement coincides with the release of the album’s second single, “A Way Down,” a track that delves into darker sonic territory for the group.

Location Lost will be released via Failure Records, in conjunction with band manager Blaze James’ Arduous Records and Virgin Music Group. The album follows the previously released single, “The Air’s on Fire,” and marks a new chapter for the band following the completion of their documentary, Every Time You Lose Your Mind.

Drawing Inspiration from Post-Punk Pioneers

According to band member Ken Andrews, “A Way Down” is a direct tribute to the influential sounds of The Cure and Siouxsie and the Banshees, specifically their early 1980s work on albums like Juju and Pornography. Andrews described being captivated by the angular guitar work and the intensely dark atmospheres present in those records. He explained that the song explores themes of miscommunication and the resulting isolation, offering a stark and uncompromising lyrical perspective.

Failure’s willingness to embrace these influences demonstrates a continued artistic evolution. The band, comprised of Andrews, Greg Edwards, and Kellii Scott, began developing the material for Location Lost in late 2024. This period coincided with Andrews’ recovery from back surgery, an experience that profoundly shaped the creative process, particularly influencing the emotional core of “The Air’s on Fire.”

Edwards suggests that Location Lost represents a significant departure from previous Failure albums. He notes the presence of sounds and arrangements that are entirely new to the band’s established sonic palette. This willingness to experiment suggests a band unafraid to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of their musical identity.

The band will be touring in support of Location Lost, kicking off a spring club tour on April 21st in Los Angeles. New Jersey-based shoegaze band All Under Heaven will be providing support on the tour. Do you think the resurgence of 80s-inspired sounds is a genuine artistic movement, or simply a nostalgic trend?

Failure’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of artistic resilience. From navigating personal health challenges to embracing new sonic influences, the band continues to evolve and captivate audiences with their unique blend of alternative rock and atmospheric soundscapes. What impact do you believe personal experiences have on an artist’s creative output?

Beyond their own work, the band’s manager, Blaze James, is also making waves with his new label, Arduous Records, further solidifying his position as a key figure in the independent music scene. Billboard recently profiled James and his vision for the label, highlighting his commitment to supporting innovative and boundary-pushing artists.

The band’s documentary, Every Time You Lose Your Mind, offers a deeper look into their history and creative process, providing fans with a more intimate understanding of their artistic journey. Rolling Stone’s review of the documentary praised its honesty and insightful portrayal of the band’s dynamic.

Frequently Asked Questions About Failure and ‘Location Lost’

• What is the release date for Failure’s new album, Location Lost?

  Location Lost is scheduled to be released on April 24th.

• Who are the primary musical influences behind Failure’s single, “A Way Down”?

  “A Way Down” draws heavily from the sounds of The Cure and Siouxsie and the Banshees, particularly their early 1980s albums.

• Will Failure be touring in support of Location Lost?

  Yes, Failure will be embarking on a spring club tour beginning April 21st in Los Angeles, with support from All Under Heaven.

• What was Ken Andrews doing before working on Location Lost?

  Ken Andrews was recovering from complicated back surgery and channeled that experience into the band’s first single, “The Air’s on Fire.”

• What is unique about the sound of Location Lost compared to previous Failure albums?

  According to Greg Edwards, Location Lost features sounds and arrangements that have no precedent within the band’s previous work.