The All-American Rejects are back with their first album in 14 years, Sandbox, released independently. The band, known for hits like Swing, Swing and Dirty Little Secret, is embracing a DIY approach, playing intimate house parties and criticizing the music industry's pricing practices.
A Return to Roots
Vocalist Tyson Ritter and guitarist Nick Wheeler spoke from Coldwater, Michigan, about their decision to go independent. 'Putting this album out felt like a necessity,' Ritter said. 'The thought of going back to one of those ivory towers to take some money from them and do it the way they wanted… that was the biggest recoil for us.' The band spent three years crafting Sandbox, rejecting industry pressure to work with modern producers like Benny Blanco.
House Party Revolution
The band has been performing in backyards and bowling alleys, aiming to reconnect with fans. 'We started doing house parties because we wanted to get back at eye level with our audience,' Ritter explained. 'People are tired of having their bank accounts run dry.' These shows have grown unexpectedly large, sometimes drawing police attention, but the band sees them as a solution to a broken live music industry.
Holding Artists Accountable
Ritter and Wheeler criticized dynamic pricing, which has driven up concert costs. 'How has it become less expensive to go overseas to see your favourite band than just see them in your own city?' Wheeler asked. Ritter added: 'We need to hold artists responsible. Does your favourite artist need to make $75 million this summer, or could they make $30 million?' He called the current system a 'one-percenter's experience' that excludes the most passionate fans.
Playhouse Platform
Ritter has launched Playhouse, a platform to help emerging artists tour affordably. 'We've had over 6,000 artists sign up and 15,000 venues,' he said. 'We all crave intimacy and unique experiences.' The band hopes to inspire change in an industry they see as commodifying fans.
Upcoming UK Tour
The All-American Rejects will tour Europe and the UK in June, including a performance at Download Festival. 'There's never a crowd like the UK,' Wheeler said. 'Concerts are almost religious experiences out there.' Ritter hinted at a possible London house party, promising to bring red cups. Sandbox is out now, and the tour begins June 9 in Warsaw.
