Long Island’s own Koyo have officially announced their sophomore album Barely Here, landing May 8, 2026 via Pure Noise Records and honestly… this feels like a proper step forward for the band.
Barely Here looks set to see Koyo doubling down on exactly what they do best. With their new single bringing massive hooks, punchy guitars and that familiar Long Island energy, it’s clear the band are focused on refining their sound rather than reinventing it.
To kick things off, they’ve dropped the lead single Irreversible, and it’s the kind of track that feels built for sweaty rooms and shouted choruses. It’s fast, it’s melodic, and it hits straight away. If this is your first taste of the album, you’re in for a good time.
Their debut Would You Miss It? already showed how good Koyo are at blending punk, hardcore and emo without losing their heart, and this new record leans even harder into that sweet spot. Vocalist Joey Chiaramonte says they didn’t want to chase some huge “second album statement” this time around. Instead, they focused on refining their strengths and capturing the band in their most no frills form and you can really feel that mindset here.
The album was produced and mixed by longtime collaborator Jon Markson, with guest spots from Sammy Ciaramitaro and Marisa Shirar, adding extra texture without taking away from what makes Koyo, well… Koyo.
With pre orders now live and a packed year of shows ahead across the UK, Europe and North America, it feels like 2026 is shaping up to be massive for them. If Irreversible is anything to go by, Barely Here might end up being one of those records we’re still talking about long after summer rolls around.
Mark May 8 in your calendar. Your future playlists will thank you.
