AFI has chosen the first two backup vocalists from their contest launched in December. The band is picking five backup vocalists in total for the record.

In related news, the band has apparently replaced their producer, David Bottrill. The band is now working with Joe McGrath (Morrissey, Alkaline Trio, Blink 182).

The new album will be the band's first since 2006's Decemberunderground. In the intervening years, band members kept busy with a variety of projects. Bassist Hunter Burgan formed Hunter's Revenge and briefly rejoined The Force. Jade and Davey released an electronic side project, Blaqk Audio. Jade also remixed the Cure while Davey developed his own fashion line.