MJ Lenderman Releases "Wristwatch" from Upcoming Album 'Manning Fireworks'

North Carolina-based singer, songwriter, and musician MJ Lenderman has released "Wristwatch," the final single from his highly anticipated new album, 'Manning Fireworks', set to drop this Friday via ANTI-.

New Single "Wristwatch"

"Wristwatch" follows the previously released singles "She's Leaving You" (dubbed the "slacker anthem of the summer" by The FADER) and "Joker Lips" (described as the "Manning Fireworks thesis statement" by UPROXX). The new track showcases Lenderman's trademark style, blending humor and melancholy in a world-weary narrative.

In "Wristwatch," Lenderman sings about someone too proud of their possessions to acknowledge what they've lost: "I got a beach home up in Buffalo / And a wristwatch that's a compass and a cell phone," he deadpans, before concluding it's just "a wristwatch that tells me / I'm on my own."

'Manning Fireworks' Album Details

'Manning Fireworks', recorded at Asheville's Drop of Sun Studios and co-produced with frequent collaborator Alex Farrar, is being hailed as an instant classic. The album represents a significant development in Lenderman's career as an incisive singer-songwriter, maintaining his characteristic humor while exploring deeper, more disorienting themes.

The album retains the punchlines and rusted-wire guitar solos that have made Lenderman a favorite among indie rock fans looking for an emerging guitar hero. With increased precision and care, Lenderman presents everyday anxieties and enthusiasms in uncanny ways, making his songs feel like short films.

Critical Acclaim

MJ Lenderman has received widespread critical acclaim:

• "We are in the presence of greatness here" - MOJO (4/5)
• "A catch-in-your-throat solo album from Wednesday's guitarist" - Uncut (9/10)
• "Lenderman is one of indie rock's brightest young stars" - NME
• "Lenderman once again redefines slacker charm on Manning Fireworks" - The Line Of Best Fit (9/10)
• "An unqualified triumph." - Record Collector (4/5)
• "Lenderman's off-kilter observations are enveloped in a haze of melancholy, but there's a comforting, wool-blanket warmth to the tone of his guitar and the broken croak of his voice." — New York Times

European and UK Tour

MJ Lenderman will be touring Europe and the UK this November in support of 'Manning Fireworks'. The tour includes sold-out shows in London, Manchester, Leeds, and Dublin. Dates include:

• Mon. Nov. 11 - Berlin, DE @ Privatclub
• Tues. Nov. 12 - Hamburg, DE @ Hafenklang
• Thu. Nov. 14 - Amsterdam, NL @ Bitterzoet
• Fri. Nov. 15 - Brussels, BE @ Botanique Witloof Bar
• Sat. Nov. 16 - Paris, FR @ Point Ephemere
• Mon. Nov. 18 - London, UK @ The Garage [SOLD OUT]
• Tue. Nov. 19 - London, UK @ The Garage [SOLD OUT]
• Thu. Nov. 21 - Manchester, UK @ YES Pink Room [SOLD OUT]
• Fri. Nov. 22 - Leeds, UK @ Brudenell Social Club [SOLD OUT]
• Sat. Nov. 23 - Dublin, IE @ Workman's Club [SOLD OUT]
• Sun. Nov. 24 - Dublin, IE @ Whelan's

Fans can pre-order 'Manning Fireworks' now and find tickets for available shows on MJ Lenderman's official website.