Hoobastank has bumped the release of its new Island album, “Every Man for Himself,” from April 18 to May 16. No reason was given for the change. First single “If I Were You” is No. 26 this week on Billboard’s Modern Rock chart. Its accompanying video was directed by Hype Williams (Kanye West, Pharrell), marking the first clip he’s shot for a rock band.
No tour dates have yet been announced, but Hoobastank will perform the new single on a variety of TV shows, including “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno (May 12), “Jimmy Kimmel Live” (May 18) and “Last Call With Carson Daly” (May 25).
— Jonathan Cohen, N.Y.
The Wrens’ Charles Bissell, Nada Surf’s Matthew Caws and Ira Elliot, Okkervil River’s Will Sheff, Man Man and comedian Eugene Mirman will perform at a March 24 benefit for the Future of Music Coalition. The event, which Bissell organized, will be held at New York’s Knitting Factory. Tickets are $15.
“It’s amazing that members of the music community feel strongly enough about our work and our mission that they’re willing to take the initiative and organize an event like this,” says FMC executive director Jenny Toomey. Similar artist-organized benefits are in the works in other cities.
— Jonathan Cohen, N.Y.
New York-based indie rock act the Hold Steady has signed with Vagrant Records. The group will hit the studio in May to record the follow-up to its 2005 French Kiss swansong, “Separation Sunday,” which is expected to be out before the end of the year.
Several new tunes have been appearing in recent set lists, including “Hot Soft Light,” “Same Kooks” and “Massive Nights.” The group’s only scheduled show at present is April 7 at Warsaw in Brooklyn, N.Y.
— Jonathan Cohen, N.Y.