Ugly Casanova Reunites for Modest Mouse Cruise Performance

The indie rock side project plays its first show in 24 years as part of the band's four-night cruise.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Modest Mouse spent the weekend aboard the Ice Cream Floats, their four-night indie rock cruise from Miami to the Dominican Republic. As part of the festivities, the band's long-dormant side project Ugly Casanova played its first show in 24 years for the cruise attendees.

Why it matters

Ugly Casanova was formed by Modest Mouse frontman Isaac Brock as a side project in the early 2000s, but the band has been inactive since 2002. The reunion performance on the Modest Mouse cruise is a rare treat for fans of the indie rock group and signals a potential return to activity for the project.

The details

Ugly Casanova, which features Modest Mouse members as well as other collaborators, played a set of songs from their lone 2002 album 'Sharpen Your Teeth' during the cruise's festivities. The performance marked the first time the band has taken the stage together since their initial run over two decades ago.

  • Ugly Casanova last performed live in 2002.
  • The Modest Mouse cruise took place over the weekend of February 6-10, 2026.

The players

Ugly Casanova

An indie rock side project formed by Modest Mouse frontman Isaac Brock in the early 2000s.

Modest Mouse

An American indie rock band known for hits like 'Float On' and 'Dashboard'.

Isaac Brock

The lead singer and guitarist of Modest Mouse, who also founded the Ugly Casanova side project.

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What they’re saying

“It was surreal to be back up on stage with the Ugly Casanova guys after all these years. The energy was just as electric as I remembered.”

— Isaac Brock, Modest Mouse Frontman (Instagram)

What’s next

Fans are speculating whether Ugly Casanova's reunion performance on the Modest Mouse cruise could lead to the band playing additional shows or even recording new music in the future.

The takeaway

The surprise Ugly Casanova reunion on the Modest Mouse cruise demonstrates the enduring appeal of the indie rock side project and the continued drawing power of Modest Mouse, who have maintained a devoted fanbase over their decades-long career.