Japanese punk band Otoboke Beaver have returned with their first new music since 2022, leading with the track “I Don’t Need to Be in Your Strike Zone” from the three-track single Is the New Album Out Yet?. The release marks the final one featuring drummer Kahokiss before her retirement. A video for the lead track, directed by Haruko Tajima, accompanies the announcement.
Otoboke Beaver, known for their high-energy punk sound, dropped the lead single from their maxi single Is the New Album Out Yet? on Tuesday. This is the band's first studio material since the 2022 album Super Champon. The group has kept busy in the interim with two live albums and upcoming European tour dates supporting Foo Fighters, as first reported by Pitchfork. The other tracks on the single, “Hey, Where’s the Thank You?” and the title song, are scheduled for digital release on April 10 and April 15, respectively. A limited 4-inch vinyl edition will follow on June 10. This single represents the last recording with longtime drummer Kahokiss, who took maternity leave last year. She plans to retire from band activities after performances in Osaka, Tokyo, and Kyoto. Otoboke Beaver will welcome Leo (Emi), previously of Shonen Knife, as her replacement.