Swimsuit Addition revive fierce punk spirit on long-lost single ‘Smile’

Chicago punk outfit Swimsuit Addition are finally unveiling ‘Smile’, the explosive first single taken from their previously unreleased archival album Don’t Tell Me to Smile, recorded before the band’s breakup nearly a decade ago.

Blending sharp-edged punk aggression with infectious pop instincts, ‘Smile’ captures the fearless energy that made Swimsuit Addition a standout presence within Chicago’s underground scene between 2011 and 2016. Driven by raw guitars, urgent rhythms and unapologetic attitude, the track feels every bit as immediate and relevant today as it would have during the band’s original run.

Fronted by guitarist and songwriter Jen Larson, the band became known for championing individuality, authenticity and female voices within punk music. Their intense live reputation saw them sharing stages with artists including Melt-Banana, Tacocat and Big Freedia.