Joyce Manor Kicks Off 2026 with New Single
New Track: “I Know Where Mark Chen Lives”
Joyce Manor has started the year with an exciting release, unveiling their latest single, “I Know Where Mark Chen Lives.” This track serves as the opening song from their upcoming album, I Used To Go To This Bar, set to be released on January 30 via Epitaph Records.
Inspiration Behind the Song
Vocalist Barry Johnson shared insights into the inspiration behind the single, noting its connection to musician Mark Chen, who was part of the bands Summer Vacation and Winter Break. Johnson expressed admiration for Chen’s songwriting talent and distinctive voice, stating, “Mark Chen was a singer and songwriter for the bands Summer Vacation and Winter Break, which didn’t get quite as popular as they deserved to. I just love Mark’s songwriting and voice.”
A Glimpse into the Lyrics
The lyrics of “I Know Where Mark Chen Lives” draw from a memorable hangout session between Johnson and bandmate Chase. They reminisced about the early days of cannabis culture, particularly how weed clubs would often offer free dabs, creating a unique social atmosphere. Johnson humorously reflected on the chaotic nature of those times, describing the experience of a young girl who, after indulging in multiple dabs, finds herself in a precarious situation. He explained, “I was cracking myself up imagining some 19-year-old girl that just did her third dab of the hour before getting robbed at gunpoint, because they’d always get robbed as cash businesses.”
The Wild West of Cannabis Culture
Johnson elaborated on the song’s imagery, portraying the early days of marijuana legalization as reminiscent of the Wild West. “It was like the Wild West, a little bit. And yeah, that just gave me a chuckle because it’s really dark and brutal,” he added, highlighting the juxtaposition of humor and seriousness in the narrative.
Music Video Release
Accompanying the single is a vibrant music video that showcases the energy and spirit of the track. Fans can watch the video for “I Know Where Mark Chen Lives” below:
Conclusion
Joyce Manor’s latest single not only marks an exciting beginning to 2026 but also sets the stage for their forthcoming album. With its blend of humor, nostalgia, and sharp lyrical observations, “I Know Where Mark Chen Lives” promises to resonate with fans and newcomers alike. As the band prepares for their album release, anticipation continues to build for what they have in store.
FAQs
When will Joyce Manor’s new album be released?
The new album, I Used To Go To This Bar, is set to be released on January 30, 2026.
What is the new single by Joyce Manor about?
The single “I Know Where Mark Chen Lives” draws inspiration from cannabis culture and personal experiences related to early weed clubs and their chaotic environments.
Who is Mark Chen?
Mark Chen is a singer and songwriter known for his work with bands Summer Vacation and Winter Break.
Where can I watch the music video for the new single?
The music video for “I Know Where Mark Chen Lives” can be found in the article above.
