Pearl Jam have just dropped a new four-track EP deeply connected to The Last of Us franchise, celebrating the band’s ongoing relationship with both the critically acclaimed video game series and its HBO television adaptation.
The release serves as a musical tribute to a story that’s captivated millions, while also tying back to the band’s roots—both emotionally and geographically. A significant portion of The Last of Us Part II, along with the current season of the HBO series, takes place in Seattle, Pearl Jam’s hometown. The synergy is further emphasized through the inclusion of the band’s 2013 ballad “Future Days,” a track that has become a recurring emotional anchor within the franchise.
The EP offers a blend of studio precision, live energy, and creative reinvention. The tracklist includes:
- “Future Days” (studio version, Lightning Bolt, 2013)
- “All or None” (Riot Act, 2002)
- “Future Days” (live at the 2024 Ohana Festival)
- “Present Tense (Redux)” – a newly reimagined version of the fan favorite from No Code (1996)
An exclusive vinyl edition is being released for Ten Club members, adding a collectible layer for dedicated fans. On the flip side of the vinyl pressing, listeners can hear the evolution of “Future Days” through its powerful live rendition, along with a fresh perspective on “Present Tense” that breathes new life into the classic track.
This EP arrives amid Pearl Jam’s massive 2025 global tour in support of their twelfth studio album, Dark Matter, which debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200. The tour includes major stops across North America and Europe and has already delivered standout moments—most notably, a heartfelt duet of “Black” with Peter Frampton in Nashville.
Whether you’re a fan of the band, the game, or the series, this EP bridges emotional storytelling with musical legacy—offering a unique sonic experience that echoes through both the post-apocalyptic landscapes of The Last of Us and the enduring spirit of Pearl Jam.
Writer and extreme metal devotee, Ialdagorth has spent over a decade covering the darkest corners of heavy music. A black metal lifer, he spends his free time wandering the Carpathian Mountains, likely humming blast beats to the trees.
