Shearwater is an American indie rock band from Austin, Texas, founded by songwriter and vocalist Jonathan Meiburg. Starting in 1999 as a side project alongside Okkervil River, the band grew into a distinct force known for atmospheric, orchestral music and Meiburg's striking voice. Albums such as Rook (2008) and Jet Plane and Oxbow (2016) cemented their reputation; The Great Awakening followed in 2022. In 2026 the band released The New World on their own Polyborus label, partly funded through crowdfunding.
Shearwater released the album The New World on July 31, 2026 via their own label Polyborus, in collaboration with Secretly Distribution - their first release outside Sub Pop and Matador.
The closing track 'You and Your Dog' from The New World features guest appearances by the legendary Laurie Anderson.
The New World was recorded in London, Berlin, New York and Austin, with an international ensemble of musicians including Shahzad Ismaily, saxophonist Doug Wieselman and percussionists from the Malian group Ngoni Ba.
Shearwater and sister band Loma announced a joint 18-show European tour in November 2026, the first time both bands are touring together.
Frontman Jonathan Meiburg participated in the scientific expedition PS152 to Antarctica in December 2025, an experience that strongly influenced the music and lyrics of The New World.
Two Austin-based bands with shared roots - Loma's pastoral indie rock and Shearwater's expansive sound - perform together, with Any Kind opening the show.
Two Austin-based bands with shared members: Loma featuring Emily Cross's understated vocals and Shearwater led by Jonathan Meiburg, with opener Any Kind.
Two Austin bands with shared members reunite: Shearwater and Loma perform together after years away from live shows, with Any Kind opening.