Brand New Announces Controversial Reunion Amid Past Scandals

NEW YORK, NY — Brand New, the alternative-emo rock band known for their poignant lyrics and impactful music, has announced plans to reunite for a series of public performances after a lengthy hiatus following serious allegations against lead vocalist Jesse Lacey. The band is set to perform in Dallas, Texas, Newport, Kentucky, and Nashville, Tennessee, in late March.

This will mark the band’s first public shows since their disbandment in 2017. Following the release of their acclaimed album, *Science Fiction*, which topped the U.S. Billboard Top 200, Brand New faced severe allegations against Lacey, including sexual abuse and solicitation of explicit photographs from minors. This controversy led to the band’s decision to step back from performing.

In 2017, the year of their disbandment, Brand New released *Science Fiction*, their first LP in over eight years. The album not only debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 but also became the first independent release to achieve this milestone since Frank Ocean‘s *Blonde* in 2016. Despite the success, dark clouds loomed as the band members, particularly Lacey, faced public scrutiny.

During a fall tour in 2017, Lacey made a statement hinting at the band’s impending break: “We’re gonna be a band for about 14 more months, so thank you so much for being here tonight.” Shortly thereafter, allegations emerged from two women who detailed their disturbing interactions with Lacey when they were minors. Their accounts highlighted the manipulation and abuse they experienced, which led to an uproar in the media and among fans.

In response to the growing backlash, Lacey issued a public apology, admitting to past mistakes and expressing regret over his actions. “I was selfish, narcissistic, and insensitive in my past,” Lacey stated, acknowledging the emotional pain he caused. “I hope to be able to take the correct actions to earn forgiveness and trust,” he added.

Despite the controversies, interest in Brand New’s music has remained strong. In December 2024, the band performed a private reunion show in Nashville, playing a mix of old favorites and new material under a strict no-phones policy. The show included an unknown track alongside songs from *Science Fiction*.

Brand New’s upcoming concerts on March 26 through March 29 have incited a variety of reactions among fans. While some express excitement for the reunion, others are vocal against the band’s decision to return to the stage amidst the lingering cloud of scandal. The mixed opinions reflect a divided fanbase, as many grapple with the legacy of the band’s music relative to the serious allegations against Lacey.

As ticket sales go live on March 5, it remains to be seen how the band will navigate the complexities of their revival in the public eye. Jesse Lacey’s solo performances earlier this year, including a charity show in Los Angeles, signal a potential re-emergence, possibly beyond the reunion shows scheduled. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how Brand New handles the weight of its past while attempting to move forward.