I Would Have Two Nickels

If I'd get a nickel every time AJR delayed the release of their new album/EP, I'd have two nickels, which is not a lot, but it's funny that it happened twice. 

AJR, an American indie pop band that I personally admire a lot, has always been more than just music for me. Their songs are quirky yet emotional, often blending humor with heartbreak in a way that feels so human. Whether it’s exploring self-doubt, ambition, or simply the chaos of growing up, AJR manages to package heavy themes in an upbeat, catchy sound. 

On June 16, 2025, AJR announced their new EP What No One’s Thinking. Fans (including me) were buzzing with excitement, especially after the release of the lead single “Betty” on July 9, 2025. The EP was originally scheduled to release on August 29, 2025, but in true AJR fashion, it got pushed back a week to September 5, 2025, because, as they admitted, it “wasn’t finished yet.”

It’s not the first time this has happened. Back in 2023, AJR announced their album The Maybe Man with a release date of November 3, 2023. Fans were already counting down the days, but on October 11, 2023, the band revealed that the album would be pushed back by a week to November 10, 2023. The reason? “Exciting opportunities” tied to the rollout.

Sure, a delay can be frustrating. But AJR’s music has always been about life’s imperfections. In a strange way, the delays mirror their themes of unpredictability, vulnerability, and learning to embrace the messiness of life. By the time the music finally arrives, the anticipation has only made it sweeter. Each delay turns into part of the shared fandom experience, with fans speculating, joking, and ultimately celebrating together. 

So yes, I’d only have two nickels. But when both of those nickels represent albums that shaped my playlist and meant something deeply personal, I’ll gladly keep them. Because if there’s one thing AJR has proven, it’s that the wait is always worth it.

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