Cookie Happened

Eels — 2026

“Cookie Happened proves that after 30 years, Eels can still turn life’s frustrations into warm, witty indie rock with melodies that stick.”

At this point, Eels frontman E (Mark Oliver Everett) has become an indie rock staple, and Cookie Happened, the band’s 16th album, is more proof why. With 2026 marking the 30th anniversary of their excellent debut Beautiful Freak and the recent vinyl reissue of Meet The Eels: Essential Eels Vol. 1 (1996–2006), it’s a fitting time to revisit his catalog. E has consistently delivered solid indie music, and this record keeps that streak going with warm piano, playful orchestration, and melodies that quietly become earworms. His lyrics remain the biggest attraction. On “Lost And Barking,” he admits, “But tried and failed is still tried,” while “Congratulations To Me” finds freedom in finally letting go of life’s unnecessary baggage. I also like how “I’m On Standby” turns a string of everyday disasters into a touching reminder that having someone in your corner can make all the difference. Not every song is destined to become a new favorite, and some familiar midtempo stretches could use more spark, but Cookie Happened has enough wit, heart, and understated hooks to make another welcome addition to the Eels catalog.