Cootie Catcher’s “Something We All Got”: A Shift Towards Polished Indie Pop

Toronto-based indie pop quartet cootie catcher released their second LP, Something We All Got, in 2026, marking a move towards a more polished sound while retaining the band’s signature energetic spirit. Following their 2025 album, Shy at First, the new record explores themes of transition and the anxieties of modern life through a blend of electronic quirks and guitar-driven arrangements.

From Basement Recordings to Studio Fidelity

While previous music was largely created in basement studios, Something We All Got represents cootie catcher’s first full embrace of professional studio recording. This shift in environment has resulted in a crisper fidelity and a more direct musical approach. The band, comprised of Nolan Jakupovski (guitars), Anita Fowl (bass), and Sophia Chavez (synths), still incorporates elements of kitsch, such as stock drum sounds and synth trills, but with greater focus and intention.

Musical Influences and Comparisons

Cootie catcher’s sound draws comparisons to “laptop twee” artists like friends& and Worldpeace DMT, who blend hyperpop maximalism with the optimistic sensibilities of early 2000s indie bands. The band also echoes the creative freedom of early-aughts indie rock classics, such as The Unicorns’ Unicorns Are People Too and Animal Collective’s Spirit They’re Gone, Spirit They’ve Vanished. More recently, their work has been likened to that of fellow Carpark Records labelmates, The Beths, with a similar breezy power-pop sensibility.

Highlights from “Something We All Got”

The album showcases cootie catcher’s ability to create intentional friction within their music. Tracks like “From here to Halifax” and “Quarter note rock” are particularly energetic, featuring dynamic arrangements and a willingness to experiment with sound. “Quarter note rock” includes a notable drum solo, while “No biggie” utilizes a lowered bitrate on the guitar to create a unique, lo-fi effect reminiscent of older gaming consoles.

While the album largely benefits from the increased studio polish, some tracks, like “Lyfestyle,” feel less developed. Despite interesting ideas, such as pitched-up vocal chops and a K.K. Slider-esque synth lead, the song’s brevity prevents it from fully realizing its potential.

A Tactical Retreat and Future Aspirations

Something We All Got can be seen as a strategic step for cootie catcher, moving towards more recognizable songcraft as they pursue broader artistic goals. While the band’s identity may be less sharply defined on this record, the strength of the hooks and the element of surprise are sufficient to fuel their continued exploration. The album is available via Carpark Records.

Cootie Catcher Release Indicate

Cootie catcher will celebrate the release of Something We All Got with a show at The Garrison in Toronto on March 29, 2026. The performance will feature support from Good Flying Birds, Touch Girl Apple Blossom, and Ether Girls. Tickets are available through DICE here.