Good Charlotte Returns with Eighth Studio Album, ‘Motel Du Cap’
After a seven-year hiatus, Good Charlotte has released its highly anticipated eighth studio album, Motel Du Cap. The veteran pop-punk act’s new LP is available for streaming now, marking a significant moment for the band and its dedicated fanbase.
The band, formed in 1995, continues to feature its core lineup: Joel Madden on lead vocals, Benji Madden on guitar and backing vocals, and Paul Thomas on bass. They are joined by longtime members Billy Martin on guitar and Dean Butterworth on drums, showcasing a remarkable 30-year legacy of musical collaboration.
Leading up to the release of Motel Du Cap, Good Charlotte shared the singles “Rejects” and “Stepper,” offering fans a preview of the 13 tracks that comprise the album. The project expands its sonic palette with collaborations, featuring guest vocalists on four songs. Listeners can hear Wiz Khalifa on “Life Is Great,” Zeph on “Pink Guitar,” Luke Borchelt on “Deserve You,” and Petti Hendrix on “Vertigo.”
The production of Motel Du Cap involved a dynamic duo: former Bring Me the Horizon member Jordan Fish and Zakk Cervini,whose credits include work with blink-182,Simple Plan,and Yungblud. This collaboration suggests a blend of established pop-punk sensibilities with a contemporary edge.
To celebrate the album launch, Good Charlotte will host a Q&A and signing session at Rough Trade Below at Rockefeller Plaza in New York City on Friday at 3 p.m. The band will also be performing at several festivals throughout early October, including the Oceans Calling festival in their home state of Maryland, and Aftershock in Sacramento, California.
Fans can stream Good Charlotte’s new album Motel Du Cap below.
[Album Stream URL]
[Motel Du Cap Artwork]
Why,Who,What,and How did it end?
Why: Good Charlotte released Motel Du Cap after a seven-year recording hiatus,aiming to reconnect with their fanbase and explore a more diverse sonic landscape. The band wanted to create an album that reflected their growth while staying true to their pop-punk roots.
Who: The album features the core Good Charlotte lineup – Joel Madden (lead vocals), Benji Madden (guitar/vocals), Paul Thomas (bass), Billy Martin (guitar), and Dean Butterworth (drums). Production was handled by Jordan Fish (formerly of Bring Me the Horizon) and Zakk Cervini (blink-182, Yungblud). Guest vocalists include Wiz Khalifa, Zeph, Luke Borchelt, and Petti Hendrix.
What: Motel Du Cap is Good Charlotte’s eighth studio album, consisting of 13 tracks. The album blends their signature pop-punk sound with contemporary production elements and features collaborations with various artists. Singles released prior to the album were “Rejects” and “Stepper.”
How did it end?: The album’s release is not an “ending” but a new beginning.It launched with a streaming release, followed by a promotional tour including a Q&A/signing at Rough Trade NYC and performances at the Oceans Calling and Aftershock festivals. The album is currently available for streaming and purchase, marking a return for the band and a continuation of their 30-year career.
