Pretoria have released new single “Emerson, Everywhere,” the track is off the Chicago band’s forthcoming album, If We’re Pretending available June 13th. The EP was produced by Phil Joly (The Strokes, Daft Punk, Lana Del Rey), who was drawn to the band’s sound and songwriting. Eager to get involved, he produced If We’re Pretending at Narwhal Studios in the spring of 2025.

Pretoria is vocalist/bassist/guitarist Rob Gullett, guitarist/bassist Matt Burdick, guitarist Trevor Sharnas, and primary lyricist/drummer Ben DeWitt, Writing from his perspective being pansexual and intentionally avoiding traditional gendered language, his lyrics capture a broader spectrum of relationships.

Ben explains: “My goal is to contribute to a culture where non-gendered language feels natural and normalized—especially in indie music, where so many songs still default to boy-meets-girl. That narrative doesn’t always reflect my own relationships, and I want our songs to create space for a broader range of the human experience.”

Pretoria
If We’re Pretending
Tracklisting

Boil Water Notice
Emerson, Everywhere
My New Room
Selfish
I’ve Got No Wanting
Laundry II
Home

pre-order If We’re Pretending HERE