The Mountain Goats Unveil New Album, Set for Australia and New Zealand Tour

The renowned indie-rock band The Mountain Goats will be making a much-anticipated return to Australia and New Zealand next year, coinciding with the launch of their 24th studio album.

Set to kick off in April 2026, the tour will stop in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Auckland, and Wellington, marking their first appearances in Australia in nine years and in New Zealand in 16 years.

The Mountain Goats and Their Legacy

Led by talented songwriter and novelist John Darnielle, The Mountain Goats are celebrated for their extensive collection of 23 studio albums, released from 1994 to 2023. Known for their poignant lyrics and emotional depth, the band has cultivated a fiercely loyal fanbase, with live performances often recognized as deeply communal experiences.

Upcoming Album and Lead Single

The band is set to promote their forthcoming album, Through This Fire Across From Peter Balkan, releasing on November 7th through their own label, Cadmean Dawn Records. The lead single, “Armies Of The Lord,” was unveiled today and is now available for listening.

Produced by the multi-talented Matt Douglas, Through This Fire Across From Peter Balkan stands out as the most conceptually rich and musically intricate work in the band’s ever-evolving catalog.

The album features contributions from notable artists, including Tommy Stinson of The Replacements, harpist Mikaela Davis, musical theater star Lin-Manuel Miranda, and the band’s new bassist, Cameron Ralston.

A Deep Dive Into the Album’s Concept

The title, Through This Fire Across From Peter Balkan, reflects a narrative about a small crew stranded on a desert island. Among the survivors—an unnamed narrator, Captain Peter Balkan, and Adam—they face dwindling resources and ominous visions of the end.

These stories delve into themes of survival, despair, compassion, and hard-won wisdom, infused with a novelistic quality that only The Mountain Goats can deliver. This collection of songs adds another layer to their impressive three-decade legacy.

Special Releases and Publications

Additionally, The Mountain Goats have announced a special 20th anniversary reissue of their beloved 2005 album, The Sunset Tree, which has been remastered at Abbey Road Studio. John Darnielle is also set to publish This Year – 365 Songs Annotated: A Book of Days in December. This upcoming book will include personal reflections on 365 of his songs, sharing insights into his life and creative process.

Tour Information

Presale tickets will be available starting at 10 AM on Thursday, September 11th, with general sales commencing at 10 AM on Friday, September 12th. Be sure to sign up to secure your chance at these much-anticipated shows!

THE MOUNTAIN GOATS AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND 2026

Friday, April 10th
Double Whammy, Auckland NZ

Saturday, April 11th
Meow, Wellington NZ

Monday, April 13th
Metro Theatre, Sydney NSW

Tuesday, April 14th
Princess Theatre, Brisbane QLD

Thursday, April 16th
The Gov, Adelaide SA

Friday, April 17th
Forum, Melbourne VIC

Sunday, April 19th
Freo.Social, Perth WA