Social Distortion Returns: New Album Out in May 2026 After 15 Years
Legendary punk rock band Social Distortion is preparing a long-awaited new studio album, set to be released in May 2026. This will be the first album by the band in 15 years, since the release of Hard Times And Nursery Rhymes in 2011. Frontman Mike Ness confirmed the release in an interview backstage at the KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas 2025 concert in Los Angeles. He also announced that the first single from the new album will be released in January 2026.
Social Distortion is one of the most influential punk bands in the U.S., founded in the late 1970s in Fullerton, California. Over more than four decades, the band has developed its distinctive style, combining punk, rock, country, and blues. Their debut album Mommy’s Little Monster (1983) became a punk classic, while Prison Bound (1988) showcased the band’s musical diversity, including country and blues influences.
In recent years, Social Distortion has been actively touring, performing at major venues across the U.S. and Europe. In 2024, the band participated in a joint tour with Bad Religion, performing both classic hits and new material, paving the way for the new album. Additionally, the band has been confirmed for major music events in 2026, including the Azkena Rock Festival in Spain, sharing the stage with stars such as Alice Cooper and Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit.
It is worth noting frontman Mike Ness’s personal story, which adds special significance to the new release. In 2023, he was diagnosed with throat cancer, and after a complex surgery, he had to relearn how to speak, sing, and eat. Today, according to Ness, his voice is stronger than ever, and the band’s new music is full of inspiration and emotional depth.
Thus, the new Social Distortion album promises to be one of the most significant musical events of 2026. Fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the long-awaited return of the legendary band, and Ness’s story and the band’s creativity make this release especially meaningful and emotionally powerful.
📷 Jonathan Weiner
