Dark City Kings – “Joy Is Defiance”

Dark City Kings are back with a new album titled Joy Is Defiance, and it really marks a strong return. The record was produced by Kevin Moloney, the same producer behind Sinead O’Connor’s early work, which already says a lot about the care that went into it. What really caught my attention was where the band made it, a weathered homestead up a dirt road in Swannanoa, North Carolina. You can picture the late nights, the candle smoke, and the quiet determination that shaped these songs, and Listening to Joy Is Defiance, you can tell the group poured everything they had into it. The title isn’t just a name, it matches the spirit behind the whole record. These tracks come from a place of strength that’s earned through experience, the kind that turns pain into motion. It’s an album for people who still care, who keep going even when things get hard and this is why I love it.

“The Searchers” stands out as a folk-punk anthem that turns late-night talks and deep thoughts into something raw and real. “Hotel Room In West Virginia” captures that feeling of distance between those who stay behind and those who move on, without trying to smooth it over. Then there’s “Atmosphere”, which takes a colder, more distant tone that adds contrast and emotion to the record. Together, these songs build a steady rhythm that balances grit with heart.

The band has carved out a sound that sits somewhere between pop, punk, and new wave, and the comparison to The Waterboys fronted by Debbie Harry actually makes perfect sense. It’s confident, melodic, and full of energy. If you haven’t heard Joy Is Defiance yet, give it a listen and explore more of Dark City Kings’ releases while you’re at it. Follow them on social media to stay up to date with new music and future shows.