Punk rock lifers Social Distortion have announced their eighth studio album, Born To Kill, arriving May 8, 2026, via Epitaph Records. The record marks their first new full-length in 15 years and features 11 tracks, including the title cut, “Born To Kill,” which the band released on February 25, 2026.

After a decade and a half without a studio release, Born To Kill stands as both a comeback statement. Driven by gritty riffs and the unmistakable voice of a cancer-free Mike Ness, “Born To Kill” leans into the band’s signature mix of streetwise punk, roots rock swagger, and melodic grit. It’s defiant, stripped-down, and unmistakably Social Distortion. It’s a return that feels earned rather than nostalgic.

D. Sardy and Mike Ness produced and mixed “Born To Kill”. Ness wrote every track on the album. The band tracked the record at Sunset Sound (Studio 3), where James Monti engineered and edited the sessions. Geoff Neal and Dan Monti contributed additional engineering and editing, Cameron Barton handled second engineering and guitar tech duties, and Alex Miller assisted at Sunset Sound. Stephen Marcusson mastered the album at Marcusson Mastering.

The lineup remains: Mike Ness (vocals/guitar), Jonny Wickersham (guitar), Brent Harding (bass), and David Hidalgo, Jr. (drums).

“Born To Kill” is available for pre-order HERE

They have already announced European & UK Summer Festival dates as well as North American tour dates with Special Guests: Descendents & The Chats.

North American tour dates