Bleachers – Everyone for Ten Minutes: New Album & Music Video

Bleachers, the project spearheaded by songwriter and producer Jack Antonoff, is gearing up for the release of its fifth studio album, May 22nd. Titled Everyone for Ten Minutes, the album arrives via Dirty Hit and is heralded as an optimistic and hopeful work, a departure perhaps from the darkness hinted at within its tracks.

The first taste of the new record comes in the form of the single “You and Forever,” accompanied by a music video directed by Alex Lockett. The video stars Antonoff’s wife, actress Margaret Qualley, alongside the musician himself. The visual narrative presents a stark contrast between the two: Antonoff is depicted enduring physical hardship, pacing city streets while seemingly taking blows and navigating rain-soaked landscapes. Qualley, in contrast, embodies a sense of carefree joy, dancing within her apartment and interacting with a small dog. The juxtaposition underscores the song’s lyrical theme of finding solace and connection amidst personal turmoil.

Antonoff’s prolific output extends far beyond Bleachers. In recent years, he’s become one of the most sought-after producers in the music industry, lending his talents to a diverse range of artists. He co-wrote and co-produced the majority of Sabrina Carpenter’s albums, Short n’ Sweet and Man’s Best Friend, demonstrating a knack for crafting commercially successful and critically acclaimed pop music. His production credits also include work with Kendrick Lamar (“6:16 in LA”), Gracie Abrams (“Us”), and Paramore (a remix of “Sanity”). Notably, Antonoff co-wrote and produced 11 of the 12 songs on Lamar’s Grammy-winning album, GNX, solidifying his position as a dominant force in contemporary music production.

The announcement of Everyone for Ten Minutes arrives over a decade into Bleachers’ career and two years after the release of their self-titled album. The band’s evolution has been marked by a willingness to experiment with sound and explore themes of vulnerability and longing. While Antonoff’s production work often leans towards polished pop sensibilities, Bleachers allows him a space for more raw and emotionally resonant expression.

The tracklist for Everyone for Ten Minutes reveals a collection of songs that hint at both introspection and exuberance. The titles – “Sideways,” “The Van,” “We Should Talk,” “Dirty Wedding Dress,” “Take You Out Tonight,” “I Can’t Believe You’re Gone,” “Dancing,” “She’s From Before,” “I’m Not Joking,” and “Upstairs at Els” – suggest a narrative arc that explores the complexities of relationships, loss, and self-discovery. The album’s title itself, Everyone for Ten Minutes, evokes a sense of fleeting connection and the desire for shared moments of joy.

Antonoff’s success as a producer has, at times, drawn criticism, with some observers labeling him as overly influential or homogenizing the sound of contemporary pop. A recent essay, referenced in coverage of the album announcement, explored the complexities of his public persona and the debate surrounding his creative contributions. However, his consistent ability to deliver chart-topping hits and collaborate with a wide range of artists speaks to his undeniable talent and adaptability.

The release of “You and Forever” and the announcement of Everyone for Ten Minutes signal a renewed focus on Bleachers, offering fans a glimpse into Antonoff’s evolving artistic vision. The album’s promise of optimism and hope, coupled with its exploration of personal themes, positions it as a potentially significant release in the spring music calendar. The contrast presented in the music video – Antonoff’s struggle against a backdrop of Qualley’s joy – suggests a narrative that will resonate with listeners navigating their own challenges and seeking connection in a complex world. The album is currently available for pre-order at Rough Trade for $29.99.