Dispatch launches 9th album ‘Yellow Jacket,’ kicks off major US tour with John Butler this summer

Dispatch released their highly anticipated 9th studio album titled ‘Yellow Jacket’ on June 6, 2025. The 11-track record features collaborations with John Butler and Ani DiFranco. The Boston-based indie/folk/rock band also announced a massive summer tour. The tour kicks off alongside special guests including G. Love & Special Sauce and Donavon Frankenreiter.

What Happened with the New Release?

On June 6, 2025, the legendary Dispatch unleashed their ninth studio album. The album is called ‘Yellow Jacket’ and arrived via Bomber Records and AWAL Recordings. The Boston-based band recorded the project to celebrate their return to their roots. The album channels the ska and reggae influences that defined their early years.

Frontman Chadwick Stokes explained the vision behind the project. He stated: “For us, this album is a way to acknowledge what our culture is facing and the effects of the abuse of power.” The band crafted songs addressing serious themes. Tracks like “Johnny Whoops” explore war’s impact on families. The song “Trinket” features John Butler and showcases Emily Dickinson‘s poetry.

“In this album, you’ll find the effects war has on family in ‘Johnny Whoops,’ the complexity and brilliance of Emily Dickinson’s words in ‘Trinket (ft. John Butler),’ and we pay homage to the great activists of our time alongside Ani DiFranco on ‘In the Street,’ as a reminder of how crucial it is to not sit back idly.”

Matt Embree receives his first featured lead vocal on the record. The multi-instrumentalist also works with RX Bandits and The Sounds of Animals Fighting. Songs like “Whisk Me Away” showcase Allman Brothers Band-style guitar work. The collaboration with Ani DiFranco on “In the Street” emphasizes activism and community engagement.

Why This Album Matters Right Now

‘Yellow Jacket’ arrives at a crucial moment for the music world. The album marks Dispatch’s first new material since 2021. It’s the first album to fully document the band’s current lineup. Fans have waited nearly four years for this release. The wait makes the new songs feel extraordinary.

The record demonstrates that Dispatch remains socially conscious and artistically vital. The band hasn’t lost touch with their activist roots. They still believe music can drive real change. In an era where many bands lose focus, Dispatch stays dedicated to meaningful storytelling. Each track tackles complex themes without sacrificing musicality.

The album also represents growth within the ensemble. Matt Embree’s vocal presence adds dimension to the sound. Collaborations with John Butler and Ani DiFranco expand the sonic palette. These partnerships prove Dispatch remains connected to the broader folk-rock community. The production quality rivals anything released this year.

Album Tracklist and Notable Features

The 11-track album opens with the instrumental “Yellow Jacket.” The release includes songs viewers previewed online before launch. “Whisk Me Away” led the promotional campaign. “Trinket (ft. John Butler)” showcased the collaboration early. “Everyone’s In the Street (ft. Ani DiFranco)” highlights the socially conscious message.

Track Number	Song Title	Featured Artists	Key Theme
1	Yellow Jacket	Solo	Instrumental intro
2	Whisk Me Away	Solo	Lead single
3	Trinket	John Butler	Poetry & activism
5	Everyone’s In the Street	Ani DiFranco	Social change
6	Johnny Whoops	Solo	War’s family impact

The complete album spans 42 minutes of music. It features deep cuts like “Flood,” “Hush Money,” and “Tulsa Picnic.” The closing track “Darker Light” provides a powerful finale. Every song connects to the album’s overarching message. Dispatch crafted this record with intention and purpose.

What’s Coming Next for Dispatch?

The summer tour kicks off immediately following the album release. Tour dates span from June through August 2025. The band plays outdoor amphitheaters and iconic venues nationwide. Shows in Charlotte, Philadelphia, New York, and San Francisco are confirmed. West Coast dates include stops at Red Rocks in Colorado.

• Tour Lineup: John Butler with Band appears as primary special guest
• Additional Support: G. Love & Special Sauce and Donavon Frankenreiter rotate on select dates
• Festival Appearances: Band confirms spots at Ravinia Festival and Britt Festival
• Album Sales: ‘Yellow Jacket’ available on CD, vinyl, and all streaming platforms
• Merchandise: Exclusive tour merchandise available at dispatchmusic.com

Fans can expect setlists spanning the entire Dispatch catalog. The band likely performs all 11 new songs live. Classic tracks from earlier albums will feature prominently. The tour promises an unforgettable celebration of Dispatch’s incredible journey.

Is This Just a Summer Thing or Something Bigger?

The band formed in Vermont during college when Chadwick Stokes and Brad Corrigan got together. They disbanded in 2002 but reunited for benefit concerts starting in 2004. The official reunion tour was announced in 2011. Since then, Dispatch has consistently released new music. Each album feels more purposeful than the last.

‘Yellow Jacket’ signals that Dispatch has no plans to disappear. The band continues growing creatively with each release. The album’s heavyweight collaborations prove their standing in music. John Butler and Ani DiFranco wouldn’t join forces unless the material warranted it. This isn’t a nostalgia cash-grab or forced reunion.

The summer tour proves Dispatch remains committed to live performance. They’re not just dropping an album and vanishing. The Boston legends want to connect with fans directly. Venues across 40+ cities will host shows. Fans of jam bands, indie rock, and folk music should mark their calendars. This tour represents significant cultural moment for the band.