Get ready to relive the magic of the 90s indiepop scene, because Rocketship is bringing back their iconic debut album, 'A Certain Smile, A Certain Sadness,' for its 30th anniversary—and it’s a big deal. But here’s where it gets exciting: for the first time since its original release, this cult classic is getting a vinyl reissue, a move that’s long overdue considering original copies are now selling for over $200 on the secondary market. Mark your calendars for March 20, when it drops via Slumberland Records, and preorder your copy here (https://rocketship.bandcamp.com/album/a-certain-smile-a-certain-sadness-30th-anniversary-edition) before it’s gone again.
What makes this album stand out even today? It’s a masterful blend of sugary-sweet melodies, jangly guitars, shoegaze ambiance, and krautrock drones—a sound that feels as fresh in 2026 as it did in 1996. And this is the part most people miss: Rocketship’s ability to weave nostalgia with innovation is what’s kept this record relevant for three decades. Give it a listen below and see for yourself.
But that’s not all—the celebration doesn’t stop at the reissue. Rocketship is hitting the road for the A Certain Smile, A Certain Sadness 30th Anniversary Tour, their first shows in eight years. Kicking off in April, the tour will take them through San Francisco, their hometown of Sacramento, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Portland. Along the way, they’ll be joined by a stellar lineup of Slumberland labelmates, including The Umbrellas, Tony Molina, Kids on a Crime Spree, Chime School, and more. It’s a dream come true for indiepop fans.
Here’s the controversial part: Why no East Coast dates? Rocketship last played NYC in 2014, and fans are begging for a return. Could this be a missed opportunity, or is there a bigger plan in the works? Let’s hope for an expanded tour soon.
Check out the full tour schedule below and grab your tickets fast—this is one anniversary party you won’t want to miss.
Rocketship – 2026 Tour Dates
April 9 – San Francisco, CA – The Chapel w/ The Umbrellas & Chime School
April 10 – Sacramento, CA – The Starlet Room w/ Tony Molina & The Frenchmen
April 11 – Los Angeles, CA – The Teragram Ballroom w/ Tony Molina & Kids On A Crime Spree
April 16 – Seattle, WA – The Sunset Tavern w/ Telephone Numbers and Remedy & Wren
April 17 – Portland, OR – Mississippi Studios w/ Telephone Numbers and Remedy & Wren
Now, here’s a thought to leave you with: In an era of streaming and digital dominance, does the vinyl reissue of a 30-year-old album signal a broader nostalgia trend, or is it a testament to Rocketship’s timeless appeal? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears!
