Joyce Manor Returns After 3-Year Hiatus with New Album "I Used to Go to This Bar

Joyce Manor Preview First New Album in Three Years With 'Well, Whatever It Was' Los Angeles, CA - Joyce Manor, the SoCal pop rock band known for their catchy melodies and relatable lyrics, has announced their first album in three years. The new record, titled "I Used to Go to This Bar," is set to release on January 30, 2026, via Epitaph Records. According to a statement from guitarist Barry Johnson, the band tapped SoCal legend and Bad Religion co-founder Brett Gurewitz to produce their latest effort. "When it comes to our musical DNA, he's one of the architects of everything we grew up on," Johnson said. Having Gurewitz guide their record helped the band create something that can stand alongside classic records from their influences. The first single from the album, "Well, Whatever It Was," is a beachy thrum about being down and out. The track comes with a playful music video that parodies The Great British Bake Off. In an interview, Johnson described the song as having "that vivacious energy" that Gurewitz brought to the production process. Gurewitz himself added, "I always try to work fast and keep things creative and fun. That's what I think is palpable on Joyce Manor's new song." Background context reveals that Joyce Manor has been a staple of the SoCal music scene since their formation in 2008. With a string of successful albums under their belt, including "Never Hungover Again" (2016) and "Million Dollars to Kill Me" (2018), the band has built a loyal following. The announcement of their new album comes as a welcome return for fans who have been eagerly awaiting new music from Joyce Manor. With Gurewitz at the helm, expectations are high for the band's latest effort. As the music industry continues to evolve with the rise of AI-generated content, it will be interesting to see how Joyce Manor's new album fits into the larger conversation about creativity and authorship in music. Will their use of a seasoned producer like Gurewitz help them stand out in an increasingly crowded market? The release of "I Used to Go to This Bar" is set for January 30, 2026. Fans can pre-order the album now on Epitaph Records' website. Latest Developments: Joyce Manor's new single, "Well, Whatever It Was," is available now on all major streaming platforms. The band will embark on a North American tour in support of their new album, with dates to be announced soon. Fans can follow Joyce Manor on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes peeks at the recording process. About the Author: Maya Georgi is a music journalist based in Los Angeles. She has written for various publications, including Rolling Stone and Pitchfork. *Reporting by Rollingstone.*