The Beths Sign to ANTI-, Share New Single “Metal”

The cutest band ever return with new single and news of world tour.

Acclaimed New Zealand indie rock band The Beths have announced their signing to revered label ANTI-, coinciding with the release of a brand new single and video, “Metal”. The track marks their first new material since 2023’s expanded edition of Expert In A Dying Field and arrives alongside news of an extensive world tour this autumn, including the band’s biggest UK headline show to date at London’s Roundhouse.

Led by vocalist and guitarist Elizabeth Stokes, The Beths - rounded out by Jonathan Pearce, Benjamin Sinclair, and Tristan Deck - have become one of the most consistently praised guitar-pop bands of recent years. “Metal” draws on a period of physical and emotional exhaustion for Stokes, reflecting on chronic health challenges and self-perception. “In some ways ‘Metal’ is a song about being alive and existing in a human body,” she explains, describing the song as both a celebration of resilience and an acknowledgement of internal struggle.

Musically, the band lean into a bright jangle rock sound. “There’s a propulsion to the strumming,” says Stokes. “I think we ended up with an arrangement that embodies the frenetic intricacy of an engine in action. There’s a lot going on - until there isn’t.”

The new single follows a wave of acclaim for Expert In A Dying Field, which earned year-end nods from Pitchfork, Stereogum, The Ringer, and NPR, and cemented The Beths as a standout act in the indie rock landscape. Their live profile has grown significantly, with performances on CBS Saturday Morning, a Tiny Desk Concert, and now, a sprawling run of tour dates across Europe and North America. Highlights include shows in New York, Toronto, Berlin, Madrid, and a Los Angeles date with special guest Bret McKenzie of Flight of the Conchords.

The world tour kicks off in Dublin on September 18 and wraps in Washington, D.C. on December 9. UK fans can catch The Beths in cities including Manchester, Bristol, and Brighton before their London Roundhouse show on September 26.

“Metal” is out now via ANTI-, and tickets for the autumn tour go on sale Friday, May 2 at 10am local time.