What Happened to Interpol?
Interpol is an American rock band formed in New York City in 1997, known for its distinctive post-punk revival sound. The band, currently composed of Paul Banks, Daniel Kessler, and Sam Fogarino, has released seven studio albums and is actively touring and preparing for an eighth album in 2026, despite drummer Sam Fogarino's temporary absence from touring due to spinal surgery.
Quick Answer
Interpol remains highly active in 2026, with an eighth studio album announced and new music already debuted during their ongoing world tour. The band is currently touring extensively across South America, North America, Australia, and Europe, including appearances at major festivals like Coachella. While drummer Sam Fogarino contributed to the new album, he is temporarily not touring due to spinal surgery, with Urian Hackney filling in for live performances.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline15 events
Band Formation
Interpol forms in New York City with Paul Banks, Daniel Kessler, Carlos Dengler, and Greg Drudy.
Sam Fogarino Joins
Drummer Greg Drudy leaves the band and is replaced by Sam Fogarino.
Debut Album 'Turn On the Bright Lights' Released
Interpol releases their critically acclaimed debut album, establishing their signature sound and gaining widespread recognition.
Second Album 'Antics' Released
The band releases their sophomore album, 'Antics,' which achieves greater critical and commercial success.
Carlos Dengler Departs
Bassist Carlos Dengler leaves Interpol to pursue other projects, reducing the band to a trio.
Album 'El Pintor' Released
After a brief hiatus, the band releases their fifth studio album, 'El Pintor,' which is well-received by fans and critics.
Album 'Marauder' Released
Interpol releases their sixth studio album, 'Marauder,' recorded with producer Dave Fridmann.
Album 'The Other Side of Make-Believe' Released
The band's seventh studio album, 'The Other Side of Make-Believe,' is released, with its creation influenced by remote collaboration during the pandemic.
Sam Fogarino Undergoes Spinal Surgery
Drummer Sam Fogarino undergoes spinal surgery, impacting his ability to tour in subsequent years.
'Antics' 20th Anniversary Tour
Interpol embarks on a tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of their album 'Antics,' performing it in its entirety.
Eighth Studio Album Announced
Interpol announces that a new, eighth studio album is on the way, with Sam Fogarino having played on and co-written the record.
2026 Tour Begins in Miami
Interpol kicks off their extensive 2026 tour in Miami, continuing through South America.
Coachella Performances
Interpol performs at both weekends of the Coachella Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California.
New Song 'Wings On Fire' Debuted
During a show in Albuquerque, Interpol debuts another new song titled 'Wings On Fire,' following the earlier debut of 'See Out Loud' in São Paulo.
Co-Headline Tour with Bloc Party Begins
Interpol commences a co-headline tour with Bloc Party across the UK and Europe, starting in Copenhagen.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Interpol emerged from the vibrant New York City indie rock scene in 1997, quickly becoming a pivotal band in the post-punk revival movement. The original lineup featured Paul Banks on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Daniel Kessler on lead guitar, Carlos Dengler on bass and keyboards, and Greg Drudy on drums. After Drudy's departure in 2000, Sam Fogarino joined as the drummer, solidifying the trio that forms the core of the band today, following Carlos Dengler's exit in 2010 to pursue other projects.
Their debut album, 'Turn On the Bright Lights' (2002), was critically acclaimed for its moody atmosphere, intricate guitar work, and Paul Banks's distinctive baritone, drawing comparisons to bands like Joy Division and The Smiths. This success was followed by 'Antics' (2004) and 'Our Love to Admire' (2007), which further cemented their status and brought commercial success. The band continued to evolve through subsequent albums like 'Interpol' (2010), 'El Pintor' (2014), and 'Marauder' (2018), consistently delivering their signature sound while exploring new lyrical and musical territories.
The band's seventh studio album, 'The Other Side of Make-Believe,' was released in July 2022. The writing process for this album was notably impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with initial remote collaboration before the band reconvened in person. In 2024, Interpol celebrated the 20th anniversary of 'Antics' with a dedicated tour, performing the album in its entirety.
As of 2026, Interpol remains highly active. In March 2026, the band announced that a new, eighth studio album is underway. Sam Fogarino played on and co-wrote this upcoming record, but due to spinal surgery he underwent in 2023, he is currently unable to tour. Urian Hackney has stepped in as the touring drummer. The band has already begun debuting new material, with tracks like 'See Out Loud' and 'Wings On Fire' being performed live during their 2026 tour dates.
Interpol's 2026 schedule is packed with extensive touring. They performed at both weekends of the Coachella Music and Arts Festival in April 2026 and have numerous dates scheduled across South America, Australia, Europe, and North America throughout the year. This includes co-headline shows with Bloc Party in the UK and Europe in late 2026. The band continues to be a significant force in alternative rock, maintaining a dedicated global fanbase and consistently releasing new music while actively engaging in live performances.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Interpol made different choices?