Hyena Smyle Drop Bold New Anthem “21st Century Basic Bitch” – Out February 20 + QLD Launch Tour Announced

Sunshine Coast indie pop/rock trio Hyena Smyle are set to make serious noise in 2026 with the release of their second single, 21st Century Basic Bitch, arriving February 20.

And no — the lyrics don’t pull punches.

Produced, recorded and mixed by James See at Airlock Studios in Brisbane and mastered by Matthew Grey, 21st Century Basic Bitch is a sharp, hook-heavy alt-rock anthem that takes aim at influencer culture, toxic beauty standards and the pressure to curate a picture-perfect digital identity.

Frontwoman Anne-Marie originally penned the track about a frenemy whose main hobby was filming designer shopping hauls and unboxing luxury brands for social media. But as the song evolved, so did its meaning.

“What started as a tongue-in-cheek dig at one person turned into something bigger,” says Annie. “Why do women feel like they have to inject, filter, pose and purchase their way into being ‘beautiful’ or ‘okay’? The song became a manifesto.”

Built around the chant-along hook —
“I got my / I got my / 21st Century basic bitch” —
the track walks a razor-thin line between satire and empowerment. It’s glossy, biting, and dangerously catchy, pairing gritty guitars with pop-driven hooks that demand repeat listens.

Formed in 2024 on the Sunshine Coast, Hyena Smyle channel the golden era of ’80s and ’90s alt-rock — think Garbage, Weezer, Smashing Pumpkins and Divinyls — infused with a modern pop sensibility. Their sound blends nostalgic grit with infectious energy and a smyle that bites, especially in their high-voltage live show.

Frontwoman Annie commands from behind the bass with soaring alt-pop vocals and fierce presence. Guitarist Josh delivers edgy, melodic riffs that define the band’s distinctive sound, while drummer Dale’s powerhouse rhythms ensure every track lands hard and sticks.

After making waves throughout 2025 across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast — and winning FrightFest’s Battle of the Bands on The Station’s main stage — the band are gearing up for a breakout year. Their debut single The Payoff amassed over 6,000 Spotify streams and 32,000 YouTube views, setting the stage for what’s next.

To celebrate the new release, Hyena Smyle will take 21st Century Basic Bitch on the road for a four-date Queensland launch run:

SINGLE LAUNCH TOUR

• 21 February – The Presynct, Sunshine Coast – Hostile Fest
• 28 February – Old Bundy Tavern, Bundaberg – Sirenfest
• 7 March – Iron & Resin Garage, Currumbin Waters – Rockn’ Iron & Resin Festival
• 20 March – Greaser Bar, Brisbane

With sharp social commentary, unapologetic attitude and a chorus built to be screamed back from the front row, Hyena Smyle aren’t just releasing a song — they’re starting a conversation.

And it rocks.

Release Date: February 20, 2026
Genre: Indie Pop / Alt-Rock
Location: Sunshine Coast, QLD

Pre-save here: https://gyro.to/21stCenturyBasicBitch