The influential post-hardcore band Quicksand has dropped a confrontational new single titled “Cool Guy,” showcasing a return to their classic hardcore roots. As reported by Stereogum, the track serves as a blistering diss song, arriving just weeks before the release of their upcoming album Bring On The Psychics on July 18, 2025. This marks the third preview from the record, following earlier singles “Get To It” and “Crystallize.”
The release matters because it signals a potent and focused energy from a band that helped define the 90s post-hardcore scene and continues to influence modern rock. According to Consequence, “Cool Guy” specifically channels the aggressive, confrontational spirit of classic hardcore diss tracks, a stylistic choice that underscores the band’s enduring connection to their foundational sound. For fans, it’s a promising indicator that the new album will deliver the raw, tense musicianship that made albums like Slip landmarks.
A Return to Confrontational Roots
“Cool Guy” arrives as the latest piece of a deliberate rollout for Bring On The Psychics, Quicksand’s first studio album in several years. The track was first highlighted in a broader new music roundup by Brooklyn Vegan, which also featured new songs from artists like De La Soul and Confidence Man. Stereogum’s coverage notes the song’s pointed, argumentative lyrics, framing it as the band “picking fights.” This editorial observation suggests Quicksand is not merely revisiting past glories but actively engaging with the visceral, competitive energy that fueled hardcore’s early days.
The album’s release date is set for July 18, 2025. While specific tracklist details beyond the singles are still under wraps, the consistent output of aggressive, melody-driven post-hardcore confirms the band—fronted by Walter Schreifels—remains a vital creative force. The strategic release of multiple singles builds anticipation for what could be one of the more significant rock releases of the summer.
Why It Matters for Southern California
For SoCal fans, the new music is more than a streaming event; it’s a direct precursor to live experience. Quicksand has confirmed two major Southern California performances for August 2026. They are scheduled to play Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach on August 12, 2026, followed by a show at The Bellwether in Los Angeles on August 13, 2026.
These dates solidify the band’s ongoing draw in a region with a deep historical connection to alternative and hardcore music. The LA show at The Bellwether, in particular, places them in a premier mid-capacity venue known for hosting pivotal rock acts. For a fanbase that grew up with Quicksand’s influential sound—a sound that also resonates with newer artists like Glixen—these concerts represent a rare opportunity to witness a foundational group perform new material alongside classics in an intimate setting.
What Happens Next
Attention now turns to the full album release in July. Fans can expect “Cool Guy” and the other singles to anchor their upcoming setlists. The August 2026 SoCal tour stops are likely to be in high demand, serving as a benchmark for the band’s current stage power a year after the album’s release. With new music that proudly echoes their past while pushing forward, Quicksand’s 2025-2026 campaign is shaping up to be a significant chapter for one of post-hardcore’s most enduring acts.
Last updated June 22, 2026.
Sources: Brooklyn Vegan, Stereogum, Consequence
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