Modern Life Is War drop second single “Jackie Oh No” ahead of new album

Midwestern hardcore punk act Modern Life Is War have released their second single, “Jackie Oh No,” from their impending studio album “Life on the Moon.” The album marks the band’s first full-length in over twelve years—slated for release on September 5, 2025, via Deathwish Inc. and Iodine Recordings.

Following the June debut of “Johnny Gone,” which introduced themes of revolution, economic struggle, and narrative-driven lyrics, “Jackie Oh No” deepens the emotional landscape of the upcoming album. The track is described as a ballad-turned-hardcore anthem, enveloped in imagery of obsessive love interlaced with assassination folklore—from rugged badlands to remote boundary waters to dusty libraries.

Vocalist Jeff Eaton explained that the initial demo appeared as a “ballad covered in cobwebs,” and he aimed to write and sing it as if he had no prior experience in that style. The result is a track that explores the dangerous intensity of obsessive love and serves as an anthem for those who’ve gone too far—and are willing to pay the price with their lives.

“Life on the Moon” is described as a tribute to loss and grief, capturing struggle and the beauty of existence through melodic hardcore’s raw, introspective lens. Produced by the band alongside longtime collaborator Brooks Strause, the album features a range of instrumentation, including violin, viola, saxophones, organs, synths, and backing vocals from various contributors.

The album’s full thirteen-track list includes “Invocation,” “Empty Shoes,” “Homecoming Queen,” “In the Shadow of Ingredion,” and more. It’s available now for pre-order in digital and vinyl formats, including limited-edition colored variants.

1. Invocation
2. First Song on the Moon
3. There Is a Telephone That Never Stops Ringing
4. Empty Shoes
5. Jackie Oh No
6. Johnny Gone
7. Homecoming Queen
8. You Look Like the Morning Sun
9. In the Shadow of Ingredion
10. Bloodsport
11. Kid Hard Dub
12. Over the Road
13. Talismanic