Despite forming in 1978, SoCal punk rockers Social Distortion have only released seven studio albums, but that's about to change as a new one is in the works on the back of frontman Mike Ness inking a new publishing deal.

The singer has signed with Concord Music Publishing, reports Billboard. The deal covers Ness' solo work as well as the recorded output of Social Distortion. The report also states that Concord has confirmed that Social Distortion's eighth studio album will be released through Epitaph Records while Craft Recordings are plotting archival releases.

"Getting to work with and represent Mike Ness’ songwriting is an honor beyond words, and a task we don’t take lightly," Tom DeSavia, SVP of A&R/Artist Relations of Concord Music Publishing, said. "Ness is the definition of a modern classic American songwriter; a quintessential punk poet who has evolved into ranks of the very writers that have influenced and inspired him. He’s part of a tradition that owes as much to the Ramones and the Clash as it does to Gene Vincent, Merle Haggard and Leadbelly."

Ness added, "I’m really looking forward to working with Concord Music Publishing. I know this change will come with new challenges, and I'm stoked by everything that lies ahead."

Social Distortion's last album, Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes, was released in 2011.

See Social Distortion in the Top 25 Punk Albums of All Time

 

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