Second advance track offers a deeper look at upcoming album Born To Break Even
Toronto punk rock outfit Doghouse Rose have released “It Gets Worse,” the second advance single from their forthcoming album Born To Break Even, arriving July 31 through Stomp Records. The new track showcases a different side of the band, emphasizing strong songwriting, memorable hooks, and layered harmonies while maintaining the energy that has defined their sound for more than a decade.
While the album’s title track highlighted the group’s skate-punk influences, “It Gets Worse” shifts focus toward melody and emotional depth. Drawing inspiration from power-pop and punk-rock influences, the song combines catchy choruses with polished arrangements, underscoring the band’s ability to craft songs that resonate long after the music ends.
A Band Built on Friendship and Community
Doghouse Rose was founded by longtime friends Sarah Beth and Jefferson Sheppard and later expanded to include Gregory Laraigne and cousins Jordan and Garrick Zagerman. Over the years, the Toronto-based five-piece has built a loyal following through relentless touring across North America and Europe.
The band has performed in a wide range of venues, from major festival stages and packed clubs to community halls, dive bars, and even correctional facilities. Along the way, they have shared the stage with respected acts including Lagwagon, Teenage Bottlerocket, Strung Out, Belvedere, The Planet Smashers, and The Creepshow.
Despite their growing profile, Doghouse Rose have remained committed to the independent spirit and community-focused approach that has shaped the group since its inception.
New Album Explores More Personal Themes
“It Gets Worse” serves as another preview of Born To Break Even, the band’s third full-length release on Stomp Records and what members describe as their most personal record to date.
The album was produced, mixed, and mastered by Scott Komer, known for his work with Boys Night Out and Silverstein. Komer previously collaborated with the band on their last album, Unlearn, and returns to help guide Doghouse Rose through a collection of songs that expands their musical range while remaining true to their roots.
The record tackles subjects including grief, depression, frustration, resilience, and personal growth. While the themes are heavier than those explored on previous releases, the band continues to balance introspection with the optimism, humour, and sense of celebration that have become hallmarks of their music.
Rather than dwelling solely on life’s challenges, Born To Break Even aims to acknowledge hardship while emphasizing perseverance and connection. The album reflects a band that has matured both personally and creatively, channeling years of experiences into songs that are reflective without losing their sense of fun.
Confidence Without Reinvention
One of the defining qualities of “It Gets Worse” is the confidence behind its execution. The song features bigger hooks, tighter harmonies, and a refined songwriting approach that highlights the chemistry developed through years of performing and creating music together.
That chemistry remains central to Doghouse Rose’s identity. Having spent countless hours touring, recording, and navigating the highs and lows of life as a band, the five members continue to draw strength from their shared experiences.
As the release of Born To Break Even approaches, Doghouse Rose are not seeking to reinvent themselves. Instead, they are focused on refining and strengthening the qualities that have earned them a dedicated audience.
With “It Gets Worse,” the band delivers a track that blends punk energy with power-pop accessibility, offering listeners a compelling preview of what to expect from the upcoming album. More than a decade into their career, Doghouse Rose continue to evolve while staying true to the sound and spirit that brought them together in the first place.
Born To Break Even will be released on July 31, 2026, through Stomp Records, with “It Gets Worse” now available on streaming platforms.
George Orwell is a writer and contributor covering politics, society, culture, and current affairs. His work focuses on providing clear analysis and thoughtful commentary on the issues shaping modern Britain and the wider world, helping readers better understand complex topics.