Basement – Wired
Release Date: 8th May 2026
Label: Run For Cover
Despite multiple hiatuses, alt-rockers Basement are a group that have stayed firmly rooted in fond memory as much as they are an active part of the scene that made them. From dabbling in everything from soft grunge to post emo, the Ipswich collective return eight years on from their previous full length to bring us their filth studio album Wired. Following their re-signing with Run For Cover, a recent support slot with the critically acclaimed Turnstile, and a conveniently viral boost across TikTok, (vocalist) Andrew Fisher and the gang find themselves fifteen years on from their debut still with plenty to say, and enough ground to explore with new perspective.
Characteristically, Wired remains truthful to the group’s archetypal sound, and while not as immediately attention grabbing as their magnum opus Colourmeinkindness, there’s plenty for listeners to stop and take a moment to embrace. Fisher’s always seemingly had a knack when it comes down to a sing-a-long hook or two, and while rhythm guitarist Alex Henery may have spent more time in recent with Fiddlehead, or operating as Turnstile’s touring videographer, there’s enough grit and punch still in their melodies to chalk up as noteworthy.
On album opener ‘Time Waster’, we’re welcomed with the tried and tested formula Basement fans have come to expect and love. Packed with fuzzed out chords, welcome half-time refrains, and verses that’d have Rivers Cuomo do a double take, this track suitably sets the tone for the rest of the runtime. Title track and lead single ‘Wired’ dips into almost Jimmy Eat World territory with its crunchy tones and vibrant layering, and while the shortest track on the album, is all the more impactful for it.
Things slow down for ‘Broken By Design’, where the high gain is traded for shuffling, out of phase drums and meditative guitar lines, while ‘Sever’ shifts the limelight to the rhythm section, driven by dominant bass rattles and frenetic percussive fills. Closing out the record on a high note is the perfectly placed ‘Summer’s End’. Laced with playful Britpop style leads lines and steeped in confidence, this track serves as a reminder as to why their fan base is so faithfully patient.
Overall, the light and airy approach to this record comes across as a breath of fresh optimism. Be it the stripped production, or simply being able to step back as a collective when needed, Wired strikes as a yearning slow burn and letter of thanks to those who continue to show up.
FFO: Fiddlehead / Jimmy Eat World / Title Fight
Recommended Track: Summer’s End