Justin Hawkes Unveils Ambitious Album 'Now Or Never'

American drum & bass producer Justin Hawkes has unveiled his second studio album, titled Now Or Never, released through Drumcaste Collective on August 14, 2026. The album’s arrival comes on the heels of a meteoric rise in Hawkes' career, earning him recognition from luminaries in the electronic music scene, including Sub Focus, Andy C, and Porter Robinson. His previous works have accumulated over 100 million streams, and he has showcased his talent in more than 14 countries, gracing prominent stages at events such as Electric Daisy Carnival and Tomorrowland in both Belgium and Brazil.

Now Or Never diverges from conventional album structures by weaving a cohesive narrative throughout its 12 chapters, which range from tech-driven drum & bass to modern jump-up and future jungle influences. Hawkes embraces the concept of a storytelling experience—each track interlinked to create a rich tapestry of thematic exploration. While his 2022 debut, Existential, focused on the duality of tragedy and harmony, this album emphasizes passion as a driving force shaped by identity, memory, and instinct.

In his own words, Hawkes describes the album as, "a complete cycle of time and transcendence; it narrates a continuous path of transformation within my life." Each chapter is likened to a lifetime, with the music reflecting a journey of self-discovery and personal growth that unfolds with every track. Themes such as healing, dance, resistance, and self-realization permeate the album, inviting listeners into an intimate exploration of his artistic evolution.

Hawkes has taken a notably hands-on approach to the creative process behind Now Or Never, having written and produced all tracks while also contributing vocals and lyrics. Collaborating closely with visual artists Chase Yaws and Sadler Milbrath, he ensured the project retained a distinctly human touch amidst the growing influence of technology in music production. The album's visuals complement the auditory experience, enhancing the multidimensional narrative that Hawkes aims to convey.

Following the album's release, Hawkes has plans to continue touring through the remainder of 2026, with upcoming performances across North America and Europe. His next appearance is set for August 15 at Bass Canyon Festival in George, Washington, followed by a series of shows in September and beyond, promising fans an opportunity to experience this ambitious new material live on stage.