Beach Weather Talks “New Aesthetic,” Creative Freedom, and Life After “Sex, Drugs, Etc.”

Frontman Nick Santino opens up about the band's evolving sound, moving beyond viral success, and what's next.

Beach Weather knows what it's like to have a song take on a life of its own. With “Sex, Drugs, Etc.” surpassing two billion global streams and reaching No. 1 at Alternative Radio, the band has experienced the kind of success that can completely change an artist's trajectory.

But their latest single, “New Aesthetic,” isn't an attempt to recreate it.

Released October 2, the track introduces the next chapter for the alternative trio, bringing together the darker guitar-driven sound and infectious pop melodies that have become unmistakably Beach Weather.

Speaking with Everyday Jams, frontman Nick Santino revealed that the band considered several songs to lead this new era before ultimately choosing “New Aesthetic.”

“I think we had five or six different songs in mind for what we all thought could be the first single from this record, but new aesthetic always seemed to shine a little brighter for us in terms of what to release first.”

While the title suggests reinvention, Santino sees the release as something closer to refinement.

“Honestly, I don't think the music has changed much but I would say if anything it's more dialed in to what we've always wanted this band to sound like.”

And beneath its catchy exterior, “New Aesthetic” carries an interesting perspective on conformity, particularly in a music industry where viral moments can quickly become the measure of success.

“We live in a time where everyone jumps from one viral thing to the next, and that goes for music which we have witnessed firsthand.”

For a band whose music has reached millions through exactly that kind of cultural moment, the observation carries weight.

Finding Freedom Beyond “Sex, Drugs, Etc.”

Success can create expectations, especially when a song becomes bigger than anyone anticipated. But Beach Weather has never been particularly interested in repeating themselves.

“When we write music, we never tried to make the same thing twice and that's been the same since day one,” Santino explained.

It's an approach that has allowed the band to move comfortably between alternative rock, indie, and pop without committing to one particular formula.

Their sound thrives on contrast. Heavier guitar riffs sit alongside bright, memorable melodies, while darker production gives even their catchiest songs an unmistakable edge.

“I think we do the hooky/heavy guitar riff matched with a poppy vocal melody thing pretty good at this point,” Santino said. “You can expect a darker tone or grit to the music while also feeling a light pop sensibility to it.”

That balance is part of what makes “New Aesthetic” such a fitting introduction to the band's next record. It feels familiar without suggesting they're standing still.

The Next Chapter

Beyond the studio, Beach Weather has spent years building a connection with audiences through sold-out headline shows, festival appearances, and tours alongside artists including Young the Giant and Pierce the Veil.

For Santino, those experiences continue to shape the band's creative process, particularly the desire to write songs that translate just as naturally to the stage.

“If anything, it just makes us want to write more songs for the sake of just hearing them and performing them live and hearing people sing them back.”

As for what listeners can expect from the forthcoming record, Santino isn't interested in being cryptic.

“I just see a level up in our music on this record and I think we are delivering the best of what we can do.”

It's a simple statement, but one that says plenty about where Beach Weather stands. Nearly a decade into the band's journey, they're still finding new ways to push their sound forward without losing what made people connect with it in the first place.

“New Aesthetic” isn't about becoming an entirely different band. It's about knowing who you are, recognizing what's worth keeping, and making the music you actually want to make.

“New Aesthetic” by Beach Weather is out now. Stream the single on all major streaming platforms and stay tuned for more from the band's upcoming record.