Toronto-based punk rock band Doghouse Rose has released “It Gets Worse,” the second advance single from its upcoming album Born To Break Even, scheduled for release on July 31 through Stomp Records. The track arrives as the latest preview of the group’s third full-length album for the label and highlights a different side of the band’s evolving sound.
Running three minutes and featuring no explicit lyrics, “It Gets Worse” blends elements of melodic punk, pop punk, power pop, punk rock, and alternative rock. While the album’s title track emphasized the band’s skate-punk influences, the new single places a stronger focus on melody and songwriting, showcasing the group’s ability to craft memorable hooks and layered harmonies.
The release marks another milestone for a band that has spent more than a decade building a dedicated following through extensive touring and a commitment to independent music culture. Founded by longtime friends Sarah Beth and Jefferson Sheppard, Doghouse Rose is completed by Gregory Laraigne and cousins Jordan and Garrick Zagerman.
Over the years, the five-member group has performed in a wide range of venues, from major festival stages and packed music clubs to community halls, dive bars, and correctional facilities. Their touring schedule has taken them across North America and Europe, where they have shared stages with established acts including Lagwagon, Teenage Bottlerocket, Strung Out, Belvedere, The Planet Smashers, and The Creepshow.
The band’s extensive touring history has helped establish its reputation within the punk rock community while reinforcing the DIY values that have guided its career. Despite changes in the music industry and the evolving landscape for independent artists, Doghouse Rose has remained focused on building connections with audiences through live performances and consistent releases.
“It Gets Worse” serves as a preview of what listeners can expect from Born To Break Even, which is being described as the band’s most vulnerable and emotionally reflective album to date. The project marks Doghouse Rose’s third full-length release for Stomp Records and continues a creative partnership with producer Scott Komer, known for his work with Boys Night Out and Silverstein.
Komer produced, mixed, and mastered the new album, having also worked on the band’s previous release, Unlearn. According to information provided by the group, the album expands upon their established sound while maintaining the elements that have resonated with fans throughout their career.
The record explores themes including grief, frustration, depression, resilience, and personal growth. While tackling more serious subject matter, the album also aims to preserve the optimism, humor, and sense of community that have long been central to Doghouse Rose’s identity.
Music industry observers note that many veteran punk bands face the challenge of balancing artistic growth with audience expectations. Doghouse Rose appears to address that challenge by broadening its lyrical themes without abandoning the energetic melodies and accessible songwriting that have defined its catalog.
“There’s a confidence running through ‘It Gets Worse’ that only comes from a band comfortable in their own skin,” the release notes. The song highlights the group’s emphasis on strong choruses, vocal harmonies, and polished songwriting rather than relying solely on speed and intensity.
As the July 31 release date for Born To Break Even approaches, Doghouse Rose continues to position itself as a band focused on evolution rather than reinvention. The chemistry developed through years of touring, recording, and performing together remains a defining characteristic of the group’s music.
That shared experience is reflected throughout the new material, which draws upon the band members’ personal and collective journeys while maintaining the energetic spirit that has attracted listeners for more than a decade.
The upcoming album arrives during a period when independent artists continue to adapt to shifting consumer habits and a highly competitive music marketplace. For Doghouse Rose, however, the focus remains on creating authentic music and strengthening the connection with its audience.
With “It Gets Worse” now available and Born To Break Even set for release later this month, the Toronto-based group is building momentum around a project that represents both artistic maturity and a reaffirmation of the values that have shaped its career. The new single suggests that Doghouse Rose continues to find new ways to grow creatively while remaining true to the sound and community that helped establish its place in the punk rock scene.
