White Reaper release new album ‘Only Slightly Empty’ – UK/Ireland shows with Militarie Gun in 2026

Kentucky guitar heroes, White Reaper, have released their new album, “Only Slightly Empty”, out today via Blue Grape Music!

“Only Slightly Empty” is packed with all the distortion and hooks that White Reaper are known for, but also ventures into darker, grungier musical depths with some of the heaviest songs the band have ever penned. Early singles like ‘Blink‘, ‘Honestly‘, and ‘Blue 42‘ drew attention from the likes of Kerrang, Stereogum, BrooklynVegan, Alternative Press, FLOOD and more, showcasing White Reaper’s ability to tap into the raw urgency of their earlier work and apply it to ambitious, widescreen songwriting. Now listeners can finally crank up the album in full and listen to one of the best rock releases of 2025.

Stream / purchase “Only Slightly Empty” here
Watch the new ‘Freakshow‘ visualiser here

“Only Slightly Empty” finds White Reaper overcoming a tumultuous few years that ultimately resulted in their most anthemic and substantive work to date. After label upheaval, creative blocks, lineup changes, burnout, and more, the group have created an airtight half hour of undeniably great rock & roll. Self-produced by the band (vocalist/guitarist Tony Esposito, keyboardist Ryan Hater, and guitarist Hunter Thompson) and recorded with engineer Joey Oaxaca (Hunny, Mamalarky, Rocket), the record draws on elements of ’90s alternative and darker sounds without ever sacrificing the infectious power pop core that makes White Reaper so appealing. It’s an expert balance that takes the band in exciting new directions while still feeling more confidently like White Reaper than ever.

There’s definitely a fresh start feeling with this record. I even have more nerves leading up to people hearing it–I feel like I did back when we were putting out our first music ever. Everything’s so different now but I have that excitement again. Tony Esposito

White Reaper’s US headline kicks off next week with support from Lip Critic, Worlds Worst, and Dazy. Then in early 2026 the band will head to the UK and Ireland for a run of shows with Militarie Gun. See the band’s UK dates below and find tickets here.

WHITE REAPER – UK TOUR DATES 2026
Supporting Militarie Gun
11/02/26 – Electric Ballroom, London
12/02/26 – KOLA, Portsmouth
13/02/26 – Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff
14/02/26 – Brudenell Social Club, Leeds
15/02/26 – Beech Avenue Social Club, Glasgow
17/02/26 – Button Factory, Dublin