Michael Clifford

As the vibrant guitarist and vocalist of the record-breaking Australian pop-rock band 5Seconds of Summer, Michael Clifford has reintroduced himself with a monumental solo debut album, “sidequest.” Out July 25 2025 via Hopeless Records. It is an ode to human connection–for his dedicated fans and anyone else who needs to hear it. “sidequest” defies categorization–moving from the playful pop-punk and alternative sounds of his youth to forward-looking peppy synths, glimmery electronic rhythms and asymmetrical arrangements. There are no precise reference points, no unimaginative plays for nostalgia here. Michael has created a sound all his own, where working through self-doubt feels like euphoria and soul-bearing revelations are revealed atop power chords, enticing the listener to dive deeper. Much of “sidequest” reflects Michael’s current reality: He moved across the country and became a father for the first time. On “sidequest,” his worlds make for an interesting tension through clear-eyed reckoning, never once sacrificing a sense of joy. Happy-sounding songs deal with less-than-favorable subjects; fatherhood yields expansive sonic detours. Michael has always appealed to outsiders–those who feel out of step with the world and a deep desire to create. “sidequest” is for those people, because he is one, too. Having been in 5 Seconds of Summer since 2011–the only Australian band in history to have their first three full-length studio albums enter the Billboard 200 at No. 1, with over 18million albums sold – he’s up for the challenge.