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Joker's Republic to release "The Hand You've Been Dealt" via Punkerton Records

originally published: 07/27/2025

(ESSEX COUNTY, NJ) -- New Jersey’s high-energy ska punk trio Joker's Republic is back with their second full-length album, The Hand You've Been Dealt, set for release on October 10, 2025 via their new label home, Punkerton Records. Produced by ska-punk icon Roger Lima of Less Than Jake/Rehasher and mixed/mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer Eric Taft, the album brings 12 punchy, infectious tracks that explore themes of identity, grief, politics, and mental health—all delivered with the band's signature humor and unforgettable hooks.

Following the success of their 2023 LP Necessary Evil (released on Ska Punk International), Joker’s Republic toured extensively, hitting the stage at festivals like Punk Rock Saves Lives Fest and Ska Punk International Fest. Now, with The Hand You’ve Been Dealt, they take another bold leap forward, further cementing their place among ska punk’s next generation torchbearers.

“This record is us at full throttle,” the band says. “It’s personal, it’s loud, and it’s ridiculously catchy. Plus, Roger Lima told us it slaps—so there’s that.”

Known among fans as the “Elected Representatives of the Joker’s Republic,” this New Jersey-based power trio delivers tightly wound ska punk that nods to genre legends while pulling in unexpected influences. Their stripped-down, horn-free format allows for maximum crossover appeal—and fewer band members to keep track of.

With a DIY spirit, razor-sharp lyrics, and a growing fanbase (affectionately dubbed “Citizens of the Joker’s Republic”), the band continues to fly the flag for all things loud, fast, and fun. And while they categorically refuse to acknowledge the existence of “Brass Rock,” they proudly proclaim: “One nation under Ska, and together we will save rock and roll.”




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UPCOMING TOUR DATES

8/14 - Bookclub - Chicago, IL (Supporting Space Monkey Mafia)

8/15 - High Noon Saloon - Madison, WI (Supporting Space Monkey Mafia)

8/16-8/17 - Green Room - Minneapolis, MN (SPI Fest 2025)

9/12 - Starland Ballroom - Sayreville, NJ (Supporting Save Ferris)

East Coast Tour With PWRUP and Mega Infinity (* = no PWRUP)

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 - Milestone - Charlotte, NC

10/23 - Bogg’s - Atlanta, GA

10/25 & 26 - Gainesville, FL (FEST)



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EVENT PREVIEWS

(AVENEL, NJ) -- The dynamic trio of Pat Guadagno, James Maddock, and Lisa Bouchelle, accompanied by a powerhouse band of 'First Call' musicians, including Saturday Night Live drummer Shawn Pelton, come together to deliver 20,000 Roads: The Music of Gram Parsons, a soulful and heartfelt celebration of the timeless catalog of one of American music's most influential pioneers. The show comes to the Avenel Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 7:30pm.
Bergen Pop/Rock Ensemble Brings Revives the

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(PARAMUS, NJ) -- Bergen Community College's talented Pop/Rock Ensemble returns to the stage for one electrifying night of '90s favorites with The Roots of Pop & Rock Volume III, a live tribute to the unforgettable sounds of this influential decade. Join the ensemble on a journey back to a time when alternative rock reshaped mainstream radio and pop music soared to new creative heights. The diverse array of artists being paid tribute to will run the gamut from Nirvana and Green Day to No Doubt and the Spice Girls to Selena and Shakira.
South Jersey Jazz Society to Honor Bob Ferguson

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South Jersey Jazz Association To Honor Bob Ferguson At Awards Ceremony on April 30th

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(LINWOOD, NJ) -- The South Jersey Jazz Society will honor trumpeter Bob Ferguson with the 2026 George Mesterhazy Jazz Master Award at a gala event on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at Linwood Country Club. The award, named for a much-beloved local jazz pianist who made a lasting mark on the great American art form of jazz, is given to individuals who have greatly contributed to the performance of jazz both locally and nationally.
Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Alastair Green on April 30th

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(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Alastair Greene on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 7:30pm. A native of Santa Barbara,California and now residing in Austin, Greene has ridden his Blues-soaked rock into the 21st century, traversing a constantly changing global (and musical) landscape.
Hey Bulldog to Pay Tribute to The Beatles at Liberty Science Center

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(JERSEY CITY, NJ) -- Hey Bulldog will perform a tribute to The Beatles in the Planetarium at Liberty Science Center on Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. Come see one of the area's best Beatles cover bands perform some good old fashioned no fuss rock and roll!
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(ATLANTIC CITY, NJ) -- Fronted by the unmistakable voice of Ali Campbell, UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell will be bringing their Big Love Tour to Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City with Matisyahu on Friday, May 1, 2026. Showtime is 9:00pm.
Tuckerton Porchfest returns May 2nd with Music, Poetry, Art & Community along Main Street

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(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- Tuckerton Porchfest returns on Saturday, May 2, 2026 (rain date: May 3rd) from 11:00am to 4:00pm, transforming Main Street into a vibrant, walkable celebration of local creativity. Featuring live music, poetry, visual art, vendors, and community experiences, this grassroots festival invites attendees to explore multiple porch stages hosted by local businesses and residents.
Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Cold Shot on Saturday

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(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Cold Shot on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 7:30pm. The band is dedicated to capturing the electrifying energy and soulful sound of legendary Texas blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan.
bergenPAC presents Six-Time Tony Award (R) Winner Audra McDonald on May 3rd

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