The Xcerts Announce 'i think i want to go home now' Album and Share 'pretty ugly' Video

The Xcerts have announced their new album “i think i want to go home now”, set for release on July 10, 2026 via FLG.

Alongside the announcement, the Brighton-based, Aberdeen-originating alternative rock band has released the video for their latest single “pretty ugly.”

“pretty ugly” stands among the band’s heaviest material to date, combining fast-paced instrumentation with a more aggressive tonal direction.

The track was written during a period of personal strain, with vocalist Murray Macleod addressing both internal conflict and external criticism.

The song also draws from personal experiences, including his father’s cancer diagnosis, incorporating references that reflect both emotional intensity and confrontation.

Musically, it takes inspiration from UK post-hardcore acts while continuing to push the band’s sound forward.

“i think i want to go home now” represents a new chapter for The Xcerts, shaped by personal experiences and the band’s long-standing creative relationship.

The album reflects a period marked by significant life events, including family illness and loss, with the band channeling those experiences into the songwriting.

At the same time, the record reconnects with the urgency of earlier releases such as:
“In The Cold Wind We Smile”
“Scatterbrain”
“There Is Only You”

According to the band, the album captures a return to their core identity, focusing on the dynamic that originally defined their sound.

After more than two decades together, the material reflects both their history and current perspective, emphasizing the role of friendship and resilience in shaping the record.

LIVE — 2026 DATES
June 9 — Stirling — Albert Hall (with Twin Atlantic)
June 10 — Edinburgh — La Belle Angele (with Twin Atlantic)
June 11 — Aberdeen — Beach Ballroom (with Twin Atlantic)
July 11 — 2000 Trees Festival (full album performance)
August 1 — Arbroath Music and Food Festival

The band will perform a full run-through of the album at 2000 Trees Festival, a recurring event in their career and a key connection point with their audience.

LINEUP
Murray Macleod — Vocals, Guitar
Jordan Smith — Bass
Tom Heron — Drums

“pretty ugly” introduces the direction of “i think i want to go home now”, presenting a heavier and more direct side of The Xcerts ahead of the album’s release.

Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist

Photo Credit: Sam Carter

Watch “pretty ugly” below: