Chicago Queer power poppers Pinksqueeze sign to Skeletal Lightning and share “Springtime” video

Emerging from Chicago's vibrant indie scene, Pinksqueeze has announced their partnership with Urbana, Illinois-based label Skeletal Lightning. This alliance positions the queer power-pop band alongside notable acts on the label's roster, emphasizing a shared affinity for Midwest indie and emo sounds.

Ahead of their highly anticipated second album, We Can Have It, set to be released on October 23, 2026, Pinksqueeze has unveiled a new music video for the track "Springtime." The single marks a thematic turning point, embodying optimism and renewal, and is distinguished by a viola arrangement that enriches its sonic texture.

Formed in 2018 originally as a duo featuring April Hickey and Ava Marvin, Pinksqueeze expanded their lineup with the addition of bassist Anna White and drummer Logan Greenfield. This four-piece dynamic allows for a diverse creative process, with all members contributing to songwriting and sharing lead vocal duties. The band's approach to composing for We Can Have It includes both individual and collective efforts, showcasing the varied artistic voices within the group.

Their upcoming album follows 2023's Be Gay Have Fun, which established their sound for fans of contemporary indie pop and emo, drawing comparisons to acts such as Beach Bunny, The Beths, and Illuminati Hotties. We Can Have It continues to explore similar genres but broadens its palette by incorporating elements of noise and ambient music, creating a more expansive auditory experience.

This album also serves as a tribute to Simon Small, known professionally as Tunnel of Reverb, whose role as a sound engineer and producer played a pivotal role in shaping the record's final form. The band’s homage underscores the importance of production in realizing their artistic vision.

Thematically, We Can Have It envisions a future imbued with hope, advocating for the possibility of a better world. The single "Springtime" opens the album with this message, setting a tone of fresh beginnings. Other tracks, including "The Rock Show," "Stoner Butch Blues," and "The Gay Agenda," further reflect the band’s engagement with queer identity and personal narratives.

Pinksqueeze will support the album's release with a nationwide tour across the United States, highlighted by a release event scheduled for December 12 at Lincoln Hall in Chicago. While no international dates have been confirmed, the band’s growing momentum suggests potential for broader touring opportunities.

By joining Skeletal Lightning's roster, Pinksqueeze aligns themselves with a label that champions indie and emo artists from the Midwest, reinforcing their regional and musical identity. With We Can Have It, the band continues to expand their artistic footprint, offering a nuanced blend of power pop, emo, and experimental sounds that reflect both personal and collective aspirations.

As the release date approaches, anticipation builds for Pinksqueeze’s evolving sound and their contribution to the contemporary indie landscape.