JER Announces Sophomore LP ‘Death of the Heart’ & Releases ‘The Way You Tune It Out’

The internet’s most prolific ska evangelist and a vital new voice in punk, JER (the solo project of Skatune Network mastermind Jer Hunter), has announced their highly anticipated sophomore album. Titled Death of the Heart, the record is set to drop August 15th via the scene-defining label Bad Time Records and marks the official follow-up to their acclaimed 2022 debut, Bothered / Unbothered.

To celebrate the announcement, JER has released the album’s lead single, “The Way You Tune It Out,” a track that showcases their fiercely ska punk and hardcore sensibilities. Accompanied by a self-produced video, the song is a blast of raw, breakneck energy, proving once again that JER is refusing to be confined by any single genre. The new album is available now for pre-order.

For years, Jer Hunter has been a beloved force in music, gaining widespread prominence through their YouTube channel, Skatune Network, where they meticulously deconstruct and reimagine popular songs as vibrant ska anthems from their bedroom. But since 2020, Skatune Networks’ focus has shifted to their original work as JER, a project that has rapidly evolved from a solo endeavor into a full-fledged, studio-backed band.

Their debut, Bothered / Unbothered, was a powerful statement. Produced with Reade Wolcott of We Are The Union, the album demonstrated a massive evolution in sound, blending ska, punk, indie, hardcore, and emo into a cohesive and exhilarating package.

With Death of the Heart, JER promises to push those boundaries even further. According to a statement from Bad Time Records, fans can expect a dynamic sonic journey. “The songs range from breakneck ska punk, to hip hop, hardcore, two tone and reggae with Jer bridging the gap with their uniquely honed composition skills and fresh spin on each style.” The label adds, “And if you’re looking for a record that reflects the times we’re living in, look no further.”

Based in Gainesville, Florida, JER’s music is not just a masterclass in multi-instrumental talent and genre fusion; it is an essential platform for their fiercely political and progressive worldview. As a black, queer, non-binary person, JER infuses their lyrics with a powerful and deeply personal conviction. Their songs are a searing indictment of systemic injustice, but crucially, they are rooted in a spirit of joyous liberation.

JER’s music is a potent and timely reminder that resistance is a form of celebration, and that the fight against oppression is, at its heart, an act of liberation. With a full band of seasoned musicians now bringing their vision to life both live and in the studio, JER is poised to deliver one of the most important and exciting albums of the year. Mark your calendars for August 15th.