NewDad unveil Roobosh single ahead of second album and Manchester gig

NewDad release new single Roobosh and confirm sophomore album Altar

Galway-born alt-rock outfit NewDad return with new single Roobosh, the first track from their forthcoming second album Altar, which will be released on Friday 19 September 2025. The new track is accompanied by a one-shot video directed by Peter Eason Daniels and Rory Mullen, the creative team behind the visual concept for the album.

The single and album land ahead of a Manchester gig at Manchester Academy 2 in October. The Manchester gig is one of 12 UK and Ireland dates they have confirmed.

Described as one of their boldest tracks to date, Roobosh channels frustration through sharp vocals and a punchy, pop-inflected arrangement. Speaking about the track, vocalist Julie Dawson said: “Roobosh is just about being fed up. I wanted to write one song for the album that allowed me to shout, to get out all my frustration. Women get angry and we are expected to contain our rage but on this song I just allowed myself to go there. I wanted a song where I could moan and scream cause we all need to do that every once in a while and honestly it was just a bit of fun, letting myself get angry when I never allow myself to.”

NewDad’s unique blend of spellbinding alt-rock has earned them international acclaim since their debut How in 2020. The Galway-born, London-based trio – comprised of Julie Dawson (vocals/guitar), Sean O’Dowd (guitar), and Fiachra Parslow (drums) – are known for their lush, immersive sound, blending shimmering melodies with cathartic guitar-driven intensity, all fused together by Julie Dawson’s emotionally resonant and intimate lyricism. Debut album Madra (2024) saw the trio expand their sonic palette further, touring extensively across the UK, Europe, Asia, and North America, and supporting icons like Pixies, The War on Drugs and Fontaines DC.

When do NewDad release Altar?

NewDad will release Altar on Friday 19 September 2025. The record was written over two years following the band’s relocation to London, and explores themes of homesickness, identity, ambition and sacrifice. Building on the immersive textures of their debut Madra (2024), Altar is described as their most emotionally direct and expansive release yet.