Ha the Unclear Returns with "Cumberland Street (Astigmatic)" Single, EP Set for October 2026
New Zealand band Ha the Unclear has released their latest single, "Cumberland Street (Astigmatic)," crafted by lead vocalist Michael Cathro after his return to Dunedin. The lyrics explore themes of distorted views, featuring a memorable line about stars that are, in reality, streetlights. Produced by Tom Healy in Auckland, this vibrant track offers a unique take on their melodic pop-rock style, drawing inspiration from Vampire Weekend's work. This single paves the way for the group's forthcoming EP, Astigmatic, set to launch on October 16, 2026, followed by a full album expected in 2027.
Key facts
- Ha the Unclear released the single "Cumberland Street (Astigmatic)".
- The song was written by frontman Michael Cathro after returning to his hometown of Dunedin.
- It was recorded in Auckland with longtime producer Tom Healy.
- The single precedes the EP Astigmatic, due out on October 16, 2026.
- A new album is planned for 2027.
- The band has been nominated twice for the APRA Silver Scroll.
- They have opened for The Shins and toured with Courtney Barnett and The Dandy Warhols.
- They have performed at the Old Bar in Melbourne and the Bearded Tit in Sydney.
Entities
Artists
- Michael Cathro
- Ha the Unclear
- Tom Healy
- Vampire Weekend
- XTC
- Talking Heads
- The Chills
- The Clean
- The Bats
- The Shins
- Courtney Barnett
- The Dandy Warhols
Institutions
- Flying Nun
- APRA Silver Scroll
- Old Bar
- Bearded Tit
Locations
- Dunedin
- New Zealand
- Auckland
- South Island
- Australia
- Melbourne
- Sydney