Rising shoegaze artist Wisp, born Natalie R. Lu, has officially announced her debut studio album, If Not Winter, set for release on August 1, 2025, through Music Soup and Interscope Records. The album signifies a pivotal moment in Wisp’s musical evolution, blending her shoegaze roots with pop and electronic influences to create a cohesive and expansive sound.
If Not Winter is described as a “complete realization of a boundary-exploding vision for shoegaze,” incorporating elements of medieval fantasy and diaristic lyrics. The album features a fusion of melodic pop songwriting, folk narrative poetry, and the communal ideals of hardcore music, resulting in a unique and evocative aesthetic.
The album has been preceded by three singles: “Sword,” “Get Back to Me,” and “Save Me Now.” “Sword,” released on March 14, 2025, is characterized by its nu-gaze style and medieval-themed music video. “Get Back to Me,” released on April 18, 2025, continues the high medieval fantasy theme with dreamy melodies and pedal-heavy guitars. The latest single, “Save Me Now,” released on June 6, 2025, showcases Wisp’s grungiest sound to date, reflecting on themes of vulnerability and the longing for connection.
In support of the album, Wisp will embark on an extensive headlining world tour, beginning on August 22, 2025, in Washington, D.C., and spanning North America and Europe through November. The tour includes notable venues such as Webster Hall in New York City, The Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles, and The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco.
Additionally, Wisp will join System of a Down, Korn, Deftones, and Avenged Sevenfold as a supporting act on select stadium dates in East Rutherford, NJ; Chicago, IL; and Toronto, ON.
Wisp’s rapid ascent in the music industry began with her debut EP, Pandora, released in April 2024, which included the viral single “Your Face.” Her unique blend of shoegaze, dream pop, and alternative rock has garnered critical acclaim and a growing fanbase.
If Not Winter represents a significant milestone in Wisp’s career, showcasing her artistic growth and commitment to pushing the boundaries of genre and storytelling in music.