‘Closing Time’ is Over for Semisonic, Back in Business with New EP ‘You’re Not Alone’ (First New Music in 19 Years)

Minneapolis alt/rock band Semisonic, which hit it big in the late ’90s with its single “Closing Time,” from 1998’s Feeling Strangely Fine, released a new EP today — and You’re Not Alone is the group’s first release since 2001.

The five-song EP was previewed in recent weeks with the title track, and the album is available now.

(Click here to grab a copy of You’re Not Alone from our Rock Cellar Store).

You’re Not Alone comes after a significant break for the band, though front man Dan Wilson kept plenty busy himself over the years.

After an underwhelming reception to its 2001 album All About Chemistry, Semisonic went on hiatus, reforming in 2017 with a series of live performances.

During the time away from Semisonic, Wilson worked with a number of artists as a producer, most notably the Dixie Chicks (two songs on their 2006 album Taking the Long Way) and Adele (co-writing three songs, including the global smash-hit “Someone Like You”). Other artists Wilson worked with included Weezer, Chris Stapleton, My Morning Jacket, John Legend, Rita Wilson and many more.

More on the new EP, via its official album description:

Throughout the years, Wilson would try to write new Semisonic songs that stayed true to their classic sound. Just when he thought he might not remember how to be “that guy” anymore, Wilson was re-inspired by trying to write songs appropriate for Liam Gallagher ( Sparking Wilson to get back in touch with his mid-90’s self, the songs came flowing out). Sounding more vital, more dynamic, and more like themselves than ever before, Semisonic’s impressive return, produced by Wilson, includes gems that mix hope and nostalgia with human connection and shared mortality. With long time bandmates John Munson (bass) and Jacob Slichter (drums), You’re Not Alone is above all a testament to the trio’s enduring chemistry which has only grown more potent and self-assured with time.

Stream You’re Not Alone below, via Spotify: