Veteran punk band Social Distortion is officially ending its 15-year album hiatus with the announcement of their eighth studio album, Born To Kill. The highly anticipated record is slated for release on May 8, 2026, through Epitaph Records. Fans have already gotten a taste of the new sound with the release of the hard-charging title track.

This album marks the band's first full-length effort since 2011's Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes. Frontman Mike Ness co-produced Born To Kill alongside Dave Sardy, and the album features 11 new songs. Notable guest appearances include Benmont Tench of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and acclaimed singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams. The album artwork is a collaborative effort between Ness and artist Shepard Fairey.

The creation of Born To Kill follows a challenging period for Mike Ness, who successfully recovered from a battle with tonsil cancer, diagnosed in June 2023. Ness has stated that his voice feels stronger than ever, bringing a new layer of grit and aggressive optimism to the new material. Lyrically, the album pays homage to classic rock influences like Lou Reed, Iggy and the Stooges, and David Bowie, particularly in tracks like the title song and “Partners in Crime.”

In support of the new release, Social Distortion has also announced an extensive North American tour. The trek will kick off on August 25, 2026, in Phoenix and conclude on October 3, 2026, in San Diego, with fellow punk veterans Descendents and The Chats joining as support acts.