W: Pigeon.

An immediate fan-favorite and a powerful statement of evolution. This is Rum Jungle at their sharpest and most self-aware.

The Newcastle quartet returns with a fast, unfiltered track that balances their signature coastal swagger with a biting, introspective edge.

Following a banner year that saw their debut, Recency Bias, top the ARIA charts and sell-out tours globally, Newcastle’s own Rum Jungle have returned with “What’s Next,” the potent first glimpse of their highly anticipated sophomore era. And if this single is anything to go by, "What’s Next" is growth, maturity, and a compelling depth wrapped in the band's trademark infectious groove.

Produced by the highly regarded Julian Sudek (known for his work with artists like Royel Otis and Genesis Owusu), "What’s Next" immediately grounds itself in Rum Jungle's best sonic elements: the bright, jangly guitars, the driving, relentless rhythm section, and that undeniable coastal swagger that has won them fans across the world. However, there’s a noticeable shift in the emotional landscape. The edges are sharper, and the hooks pull deeper.

The track is described by the band as being sung from the perspective of a "dropkick" character—a self-destructive figure caught in a "fleeting point of clarity." This is where the song truly excels. It manages to capture the chaos of internal conflict—the moment a party-loving persona looks in the mirror and asks a genuinely troubling question—all while maintaining an upbeat, feel-good pace. The juxtaposition of raw, self-destructive themes with an infectiously fast and unfiltered melody is brilliant, ensuring the song sticks in your head while giving you something meaningful to chew on.

It’s clear why “What’s Next” became the heartbeat of their new creative direction. As one of the first tracks from their upcoming album sessions, it possesses an instant, room-energizing quality. The production by Sudek elevates the existing chemistry, giving the track a clean, driving clarity while retaining the raw energy Rum Jungle is known for.

This single serves as an excellent revelation of the band's future in 2026. They are entering a more introspective phase, moving beyond their successful debut by adding layers of lyrical sophistication without sacrificing the carefree pulse that defines them. “What’s Next” is not just a great track; it’s a confident declaration that Rum Jungle knows precisely where they are going, even if their subject is still figuring it out.