Lacey hints at band ending

On October 11, 2015, during a tour-ending performance at Ryman Auditorium , Lacey told the audience that “this isn’t going to last much longer”. He spoke about his friendships with the band, the possibility of a new album, and how he would soon be a father. During their summer 2016 tour, the band released new shirt designs which read “2000–2018”. One of them was projected onto the stage after the band’s set at the Vogue Theatre in Vancouver on June 2, increasing speculation that Brand New planned to break up in 2018. On June 28 in Salt Lake City, Lacey said between songs, “We’re done. Oh yeah, we’re done, and it makes nights like this all the more special so thanks for being here.” In September 2016, when Brand New announced that their fifth studio album would not be released that year as originally scheduled, the band issued more statements alluding to the band’s end: “What’s left should be a strange demise, but hopefully one as loud and as fun as the rest of our time together has been. All are invited. Please send flowers.”