originally published: 10/10/2025

(ESSEX COUNTY, NJ) -- New Jersey ska-punk power trio Joker's Republic have released their new album, The Hand You’ve Been Dealt, out now via Punkerton Records. Produced by Roger Lima (Less Than Jake / Rehasher) and mixed/mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer Eric Taft, the record delivers a high-energy blend of ska, punk, and melodic grit across twelve tracks that tackle loss, politics, mental health, and identity — all with the band's trademark humor and heart.
The album marks Joker’s Republic’s most ambitious work yet — their third full-length and first for Punkerton Records — and follows their acclaimed Necessary Evil LP on Ska Punk International. The Hand You’ve Been Dealt captures the band’s evolution as songwriters while maintaining their DIY ethos and community-driven spirit.
Known for their witty lyricism, blazing performances, and undying dedication to ska-punk, Joker’s Republic are a band of true believers in the power of community and catharsis through music. The self-described “Elected Representatives of the Joker’s Republic” have spent the last few years tearing up stages at festivals including Punk Rock Saves Lives Fest and Ska Punk International Fest, sharing bills with some of the genre’s most beloved acts.
With The Hand You’ve Been Dealt, Joker’s Republic take their biggest creative swing yet — crafting songs that reflect both the chaos of the modern world and the joy of surviving it together.
“This record is everything we’ve lived through these past few years,” says frontman Austen Gray. “It’s about growth, reflection, and remembering that even when the world deals you a bad hand, you can still play your cards loud.”
Upcoming Tour Dates
East Coast Tour w/ PWRUP and Mega Infinity
* 10/17 – SKATOBERFEST @ Alchemy (Providence, RI)
* 10/18 – Scottish Dave’s (Clinton, CT)*
* 10/19 – The Woodshop (Brooklyn, NY)
* 10/20 – The Nail (Ardmore, PA)
* 10/21 – Morseberger’s (Catonsville, MD)
* 10/22 – The Milestone (Charlotte, NC)
*10/23 – Boggs (Atlanta, GA)
* 10/26 – FEST (Gainesville, FL)
* 10/31 – Hutghi’s at the Nook (Westfield, MA)+
* 11/1 – TBA (Jersey City, NJ)
* 11/2 – Club Andromeda (Nyack, NY)
* 12/6 – Broken Goblet (Bensalem, PA – w/ Mustard Plug & The Planet Smashers)
(* = no PWRUP / + = no Mega Infinity)
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