Hotline TNT, the New York-based indie rock outfit led by Will Anderson, has released their latest single, “Candle,” offering a glimpse into their upcoming album, Raspberry Moon, slated for release on June 20, 2025. Known for their shoegaze-infused sound, the band has steadily carved a niche in the underground music scene since their formation. “Candle,” described as a raw and heartfelt love song, showcases the group’s creative evolution, now operating as a full band for the first time. With a global tour planned for 2025, Hotline TNT is poised to connect with fans across new territories. Released under Third Man Records, the single is already streaming on major platforms, fueling anticipation for the band’s next chapter.
The recording of “Candle” marks a significant milestone for Hotline TNT, as it features contributions from all band members, a departure from Anderson’s earlier solo-driven approach. The track, born from organic studio sessions, blends distorted guitars, layered textures, and introspective lyrics that capture the intensity of human connection. Its accompanying music video, shot in Japan, amplifies the song’s emotional weight while embracing the band’s lo-fi aesthetic. Early reviews have praised the single’s authenticity, with listeners drawn to its unpolished yet evocative sound.
Hotline TNT reveal “Candle” as the latest preview of their forthcoming album, Raspberry Moon https://t.co/Uxv4oMiMdL pic.twitter.com/c00nUeI3rY
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For fans, “Candle” is more than just a new release—it’s a sign of Hotline TNT’s ambition to grow while staying true to their roots. Raspberry Moon, the follow-up to their critically acclaimed 2023 album Cartwheel, is expected to push the band’s sonic boundaries, incorporating elements of power-pop and noise rock. The 2025 tour, with confirmed dates in North America, Europe, and Asia, underscores the band’s rising momentum as they prepare to take their music to a broader audience.
- New single: “Candle” is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and Bandcamp.
- Raspberry Moon album: Set for release on June 20, 2025, via Third Man Records.
- 2025 tour: Shows confirmed in cities like New York, Los Angeles, London, and Tokyo.
- Full band effort: The album features contributions from the entire lineup for the first time.
Hotline TNT’s rise in the indie scene
Will Anderson, the creative force behind Hotline TNT, began his musical journey in smaller projects like Happy Diving and Weed before launching the band in New York. The group gained traction with their 2021 album, Nineteen in Love, which blended shoegaze guitars with melancholic vocals, earning comparisons to My Bloody Valentine and Dinosaur Jr. Signing with Third Man Records in 2023 was a turning point, providing greater visibility and resources. Their 2023 album, Cartwheel, received widespread acclaim, landing on year-end best-of lists from outlets like Stereogum and Pitchfork.
Hotline TNT’s ascent mirrors the broader resurgence of shoegaze, a genre defined by dreamy melodies and walls of distorted sound. Anderson, originally from Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, infuses the band’s music with a unique perspective, drawing from both the punk hardcore scene and 90s alternative rock icons like Paul Westerberg and Bob Mould. His lyrics, which explore themes of heartbreak and vulnerability, resonate with listeners seeking authenticity in an era of digital overload.
Cartwheel’s success, including its eighth-place ranking on Stereogum’s 2023 best albums list, cemented Hotline TNT’s status as a leading voice in indie rock. Their partnership with Third Man Records, the label founded by Jack White, allowed the band to maintain their DIY ethos while reaching new audiences. Performances at festivals like SXSW and joint tours with bands like Wednesday bolstered their live reputation, where their high-energy shows leave a lasting impression.
“Candle” and a new creative chapter
The single “Candle” signals a shift in Hotline TNT’s sound, leaning into a brighter, more optimistic tone compared to the introspective tracks of earlier releases. Anderson described the song’s creation as effortless, with the band capturing its essence in just a few takes. The production, handled by Ian Teeple and Aron Kobayashi Rich, strikes a balance between lo-fi grit and studio polish, showcasing the band’s growth.
Filmed in Japan, the music video for “Candle” reflects the band’s global outlook. The visuals, capturing live performances and candid moments, convey the song’s raw energy. Japan was a deliberate choice, given its vibrant shoegaze scene, with bands like Boris and Mono shaping the genre worldwide. The single’s warm reception in Japan, where fans embraced the lyrics early on, highlights the universal appeal of Hotline TNT’s music.
Recording Raspberry Moon as a full band has brought a fresh dynamic to the group’s creative process. Previously, Anderson handled most of the songwriting and recording, with rotating musicians joining for live shows. Now, with a stable lineup including Kyle Mullarky and Danny Baeza, the band’s sound is more cohesive and expansive. “Candle” exemplifies this, with intricate guitar interplay and a driving rhythm section.
- Emotional lyrics: The song explores the rush of falling in love, with lines like “You light me up like a candle in the dark.”
- Collaborative production: Ian Teeple and Aron Kobayashi Rich return after Cartwheel’s success.
- Global influence: The Japan-shot video ties into the country’s thriving shoegaze scene.
- Stable lineup: The full band’s involvement enhances the song’s depth and texture.
Raspberry Moon and 2025 expectations
The announcement of Raspberry Moon has sparked excitement among fans and critics alike. As Hotline TNT’s third album, it promises to be their most ambitious yet. Unlike Cartwheel, recorded under tighter constraints, Raspberry Moon benefits from a larger budget and extended studio time, allowing for sonic experimentation. Anderson hinted at influences from drum and bass and electronic textures, while staying rooted in shoegaze.
The album’s title, Raspberry Moon, evokes poetic imagery of lunar cycles and transformation. Anderson explained that it reflects the record’s core theme: seeking renewal amid uncertainty. Tracks like “Julia’s War” and “Candle” suggest a blend of introspective and high-energy moments, continuing the band’s knack for dynamic contrasts. Teeple and Kobayashi Rich’s production ensures the album retains Hotline TNT’s signature sound.
Third Man Records is betting big on Raspberry Moon, planning a robust promotional campaign with colored vinyl, limited editions, and exclusive merchandise. Pre-orders are already live, offering bundles with tour tickets and collectibles like posters and T-shirts. The label’s support underscores Hotline TNT’s growing influence in the indie world.
Global tour and fan engagement
Hotline TNT’s 2025 tour will be their most extensive to date, spanning three continents. The band plans to perform in new markets like São Paulo, Mexico City, and Berlin, alongside established hubs like New York and London. The itinerary includes summer festivals like Primavera Sound and standalone shows in mid-sized venues, perfect for their intimate yet intense live experience.
Fan engagement is central to Hotline TNT’s ethos. Anderson, who runs a fanzine called Association Update, uses social media to connect directly with listeners. Posts on X reveal tour behind-the-scenes, music recommendations, and lighthearted content like memes, fostering a loyal community. The band also released a limited-edition cassette with Wednesday, featuring mutual covers, available only at live shows.
Hotline TNT’s performances are a highlight, often opening with high-octane tracks like “Protocol” or “Stampede” to create an immersive sonic experience. Guest appearances, such as Wednesday members joining recent shows, add unpredictability. For 2025, Anderson promised diverse setlists, blending new material with fan favorites.
- Confirmed dates: The tour kicks off in July 2025, covering North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Festivals: Appearances at Primavera Sound and Pitchfork Music Festival are planned.
- Fan interaction: The fanzine and social media keep the band accessible to supporters.
- Live collaborations: Expect surprise guests during select tour stops.
Cultural impact and modern influences
Hotline TNT is more than a shoegaze band; it’s a cultural touchstone. Anderson, a self-professed pop culture enthusiast, draws inspiration from diverse sources. A basketball fan, particularly of the Minnesota Timberwolves, he often references NBA games in band lore. He also admires figures like PinkPantheress and streamer Hasan Piker, appreciating their navigation of digital culture.
These influences shape Hotline TNT’s music. Cartwheel incorporated nods to Fortnite and sports radio, reflecting the 2023 zeitgeist. Raspberry Moon is expected to continue this trend, with lyrics capturing the complexities of life in the social media age. Anderson’s ability to weave these elements into shoegaze makes the band’s work uniquely contemporary.
The band also stands out for its social consciousness. They contributed to Good Music To Lift Los Angeles, a benefit compilation supporting California wildfire victims, with an exclusive track, “Break Right.” This commitment to causes resonates with younger audiences who value artists with a purpose.
Shoegaze and the genre’s revival
Shoegaze, born in the late 80s with bands like My Bloody Valentine and Ride, is experiencing a renaissance. Modern acts like DIIV, Slowdive, and Hotline TNT have revitalized the genre, blending its dreamy roots with fresh influences like post-punk and electronica. Effects pedals, reverb, and delay remain staples, but today’s bands push boundaries with genre crossovers.
Hotline TNT is a key player in this “new American shoegaze” wave, alongside bands like They Are Gutting A Body Of Water and Wednesday. Their lo-fi approach, embracing recording imperfections, sets them apart from slicker productions, creating an intimate listener experience. The band’s active presence on Bandcamp, where they release tracks like “If We Keep Hangin Out,” reflects the DIY spirit driving the genre’s resurgence.
The internet has been a game-changer for shoegaze. Platforms like Bandcamp and SoundCloud enable independent artists to reach global audiences without major labels. Hotline TNT’s Bandcamp bio, describing their music as “something to play after redownloading Hinge,” captures their wry humor and relatability, endearing them to fans.
Collaborations and side projects
Beyond Hotline TNT, Anderson pursues creative ventures that enrich his artistry. His fanzine, Association Update, published through his Poison Rhythm label, covers music, politics, and culture. Priced at $7–$10 monthly, it’s mailed to subscribers, offering a tangible connection in a digital age.
The band’s collaborations are equally notable. The Somersault remix collection reimagined Cartwheel tracks with artists like DJ Sabrina The Teenage DJ and Poisonfrog, transforming songs into electronic and psychedelic experiments. Anderson, who admits to limited technical expertise, gave collaborators free rein, resulting in bold reinterpretations.
A standout partnership was with Wednesday, yielding a tour-exclusive cassette. Hotline TNT covered “Chosen To Deserve,” while Wednesday tackled “Had 2 Try,” creating a collectible that sold out quickly. The collaboration highlights the camaraderie within the indie scene.
- Fanzine: Association Update offers monthly insights into Anderson’s world.
- Remixes: Somersault features five reworks of Cartwheel tracks.
- Wednesday collaboration: The cassette is a coveted item for fans.
- Poison Rhythm: Anderson’s label plans to support new artists in 2025.
Release and event calendar
Hotline TNT’s 2025 is packed with milestones. Here’s a breakdown of key dates and events:
- June 20, 2025: Raspberry Moon releases via Third Man Records.
- July–September 2025: North American tour, including New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
- October 2025: European tour, with stops in London, Paris, and Berlin.
- November 2025: Asian tour, featuring Tokyo and Seoul.
- December 2025: Latin American debut, including São Paulo and Mexico City.
Album pre-orders are live on Third Man Records’ website, with exclusive colored vinyl options. Additional singles are expected before the album, keeping fans engaged. Festival slots at Primavera Sound and Pitchfork Music Festival will boost the band’s global profile.
Legacy and future of Hotline TNT
Hotline TNT’s journey reflects the enduring appeal of independent music. In under five years, they’ve gone from basement gigs to international stages, all while preserving their authenticity. Their Third Man Records deal opened doors, but Anderson’s vision—blending shoegaze with raw emotion—defines their sound. His lyrics, tackling love, loss, and hope, strike a chord with a generation navigating modern challenges.
Raspberry Moon could propel Hotline TNT to new heights. With a fixed lineup, bigger budget, and global tour, the band is ready to make waves. Anderson’s multimedia approach, from fanzines to Mario Kart streams, suggests they’ll keep pushing boundaries. Their shoegaze roots ensure relevance in a thriving genre, while their “band’s favorite band” status hints at broader appeal.
Hotline TNT’s cultural impact extends beyond music. They embody a generation valuing authenticity and community. Whether through packed shows or X posts, Anderson and company create a space where fans feel seen. As 2025 approaches, Hotline TNT is set to light up the indie rock world, one candle at a time.
