Queens Indie Band Gains Spotlight
Queens-based indie rock band Blanket Approval has earned national recognition after receiving co-writing credits on Twenty One Pilots’ new album, Breach, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
Frontman Tyler Joseph discovered Blanket Approval’s 2023 single “My Soft Spots My Robots” and incorporated elements of it into “Robot Voices,” the album’s seventh track. Breach marks the biggest opening week for a rock album in six years.
Joseph reached out to the band earlier this year through Instagram, telling them he was inspired by their music.
“As a long-time fan of Twenty One Pilots, I’m still in shock that Tyler has even heard my voice,” said drummer and vocalist Joey Hadden. “His interpolation made me feel seen in a new way that I’ll be chasing forever.”
Formed in 2021, Blanket Approval includes Jack Matteucci, Joey Rae Hadden, Rahul Chakraborty, and Max Mena. The group has built a following through performances at New York City venues including Mercury Lounge and Arlene’s Grocery, as well as tours along the East Coast.
Following rumors of their involvement in “Robot Voices,” the band’s online audience surged. Their Spotify listenership grew from about 3,200 monthly listeners three months ago to more than 130,000.
“After years of supporting emerging, up-and-coming artists, being platformed by a much larger artist feels full circle and is incredibly affirming,” said Mena. “We can’t thank Tyler and his team enough. You really never know who is listening.”
Blanket Approval is finalizing its debut album, Heartbreak City, with singles “Berlin Blues,” “Hot Sweaty Summer,” and the title track already available on streaming platforms.
