Image: Glasswaves [Kelly Hough, Official Press Photo]
Always on the lookout for fresh sounds and excited to discover new bands before they hit the biggest stages? Then you should definitely have Glasswaves on your radar! The trio from Rochester, New York, combines alternative rock, dark pop, and electronic sounds with modern metalcore influences. It’s not just about heavy riffs and catchy melodies, but also dark stories, emotional themes, and a musical world of their own. With their debut album while(True) set for release in October 2026, Glasswaves are gearing up for their next big step. That’s reason enough to take a closer look at the band in our Fresh Blood feature.
Who Are Glasswaves?
Glasswaves hail from Rochester, New York, and formed in 2023. The band consists of Noah Rich on vocals, Owen Miller on guitar, and Brendan Curtis on bass. Since forming, the trio have gradually made a name for themselves through singles, an EP, and live performances. From the beginning, Glasswaves have focused on a sound that doesn’t fit neatly into a single genre.
Rather than sticking to classic alternative rock or metalcore, the band combines different influences and puts a strong emphasis on atmosphere. Electronic elements meet dark melodies, while emotional vocals alternate with heavier passages. The result is a sound that’s modern, melodic, and pretty dark all at once, making Glasswaves a great fit for fans of contemporary alternative and heavy music.
Between Dark Pop, Alternative Rock, and Modern Metalcore
Musically, Glasswaves move between several different worlds. Sometimes atmospheric sounds and melancholic melodies take center stage; then the guitars kick in, and the songs develop a much heavier dynamic. Nu-metal influences also find their way into the mix.
If you’re into bands like The Plot In You or Bring Me The Horizon and also enjoy darker pop and alternative influences, Glasswaves might be right up your alley. The band also cites The Neighbourhood, Tame Impala, and Sace6 as musical influences. That gives you a pretty good idea of the wide range of sounds Glasswaves draw on to create their own style. For a first taste, check out tracks like “Swarm.ING_” and “SCARed.” Both songs offer a good preview of what the band have in store for their debut album.
while(True): A Debut Album with a Dark Sci-Fi Story
On October 23, 2026, Glasswaves will release their first full-length album, while(True), via SharpTone Records. The record is intended to be more than just a collection of individual songs: it tells one continuous story. At its center is the fictional medical technology company Liminal-Neuro, which uses an experimental substance called “Neuro Veil” to investigate trauma, addiction, and other mental health issues. When the experiments spiral out of control, a mysterious entity known as “The Veil” emerges, manipulating its victims’ desires and bringing out their darkest sides. Thematically, the album explores trauma, addiction, perception, and the invisible forces that influence the way we think.
With twelve tracks in total, including “FALSE_glow:”, “Saving[face]”, “doomed:2”, and “://WishIDidn’t”, while(True) promises to offer a comprehensive look at the trio’s musical and storytelling vision. If you’re into concept albums where sound and story intertwine, this is definitely a release worth keeping an eye on.
Pre-orders for the upcoming album are available here!
Who Should Listen to Glasswaves?
Glasswaves could be a great fit if you enjoy modern heavy music that isn’t all about sheer heaviness. The band combine crushing guitars and metalcore outbursts with electronic elements, dark melodies, and emotional depth. Alongside the heavier moments, there are plenty of passages that feel more atmospheric or even pop-leaning.
If you’re into bands that blur genre boundaries and connect their music to a bigger story, you should definitely give Glasswaves a chance. Their blend of alternative rock, dark pop, and metalcore might not be for fans who want nonstop brutality. But if you appreciate catchy hooks alongside dark sounds and emotional themes, the trio could be exactly what you’re looking for.
Why You Should Have Glasswaves on Your Radar Right Now
Glasswaves are still at the beginning of their journey, but their releases so far have already helped them develop a distinctive musical direction. Their debut album while(True) brings their mix of alternative rock, dark pop, electronic sounds, and modern metalcore together in a larger concept. It’s precisely this combination of heavy sounds and ambitious storytelling that makes the trio so interesting.
So, if you enjoy discovering new bands and are looking for a group that refuses to be boxed into a single genre, keep Glasswaves on your radar. Start by checking out “Swarm.ING_” and “SCARed” and see what you think of their sound. You can find official merch right here!
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