New Wave and punk veterans The Vapors are kicking off the year with a bang, releasing their energetic new single “Hit The Ground Running” today. This marks the first glimpse of their much-anticipated forth studio album, Wasp In A Jar, set to drop February 28, 2025, via Vapors Own Records.

Despite being the last track written for the album, “Hit The Ground Running” leads Wasp In A Jar with a relentless pace that sets the tone for what’s to come. “It’s a statement of intent,” the band explains. The track begins with the chirping of cricketss—an homage to the sounds heard while wrapping up recording sessions—before launching into blistering guitars, thunderous basslines, and raucous drums. Built around classic punk riffage and a chorus that plays with listener expectations, it’s a thrilling start to an album that refuses to let up.

Trouser Press praised the single, saying it feels “straight outta 1979, with all the energy, spit, and look-at-us enthusiasm great new wave records had back then.” Meanwhile Highwire Daze lauded the track for its “breakneck rhythms” and nostalgia yet invigorating vibe, while Wildfire Music applauded the band for continuing to exude fun and energy, even 45 years after their debut.

Best known for their global hit “Turning Japanese” in 1980, The Vapors initially disbanded in 1981 after producing six singles, two albums, and an impressive number of international tours. They reunited in 2016 after a 35-year hiatus for a series of shows that were met with overwhelming enthusiasm. Since then, they’ve played over 160 gigs, released their comeback album Together in 2020, and dropped several download-only singles, solidifying their place as a still-vibrant force in the music world.

“We look at the band with the philosophy of Viv Savage from Spinal Tap: ‘Have a good time all the time,’” bassist Steve Smith said. “Playing music together is still really fun for us.”

The Vapors lineup includes:

• Dave Fenton – Lead vocals, rhythm guitar
• Steve Smith – Bass
• Michael Bowes – Drums
• Danny Fenton – Guitar

The album was recorded and produced by Michael Giblin (The Split Squad) in Mechanicsburg, PA, and mastered by Greg Reierson at Rare Form Mastering.

With Wasp In A Jar poised to reignite the spark for their iconic new wave sound, The Vapors are ready to show the world that their energy and passion remain undiminished. The album promises to be a testament to their enduring legacy and their ability to craft music that’s as relevant today as it was decades ago.

Mark your calendars for February 28, 2025, and prepare to hit the ground running with The Vapors.