Monkey business with new EP: The Disliked return with 'The Zoo'

Screenshot from video of 'The Zoo'

After more than two decades of ska-punking, dancing, and not taking life too seriously, The Disliked return with their brand-new EP The Zoo, dropping on 2 May 2026. And because subtlety has never really been their thing, they’re celebrating with what promises to be a suitably wild release party at Rotondes the very same night.

A new era (with familiar fun)

This release marks a major turning point for the band. Following the departure of long-time frontman Raph after 20+ years, The Zoo introduces a fresh twist: Ben Nilles, previously known for blasting trumpet lines, steps up as lead singer, but still keeps his trumpet at the ready.

The result is a new chapter that still sounds unmistakably The Disliked. Their signature reggae ska-punk sound is alive and kicking, now fronted by a voice that’s already been part of the band’s DNA all along. So in true collective spirit, the band aren’t reinventing themselves, they’re evolving together.

Enter The Zoo

The title track sets the tone for the whole project, and yes, it’s as unhinged and entertaining as you’d hope.

Behind the humour and fun, there’s a sharper message lurking beneath the surface as a band statement proves:

"THE ZOO is an alarm, a shock, an invitation to open your eyes. Too often, humans remain prisoners of their habits, unable to change their perspective or question their actions. So nature reverses the roles: animals take over... and the mirror shatters".

It’s classic The Disliked: playful, amusing, but with just enough bite to make you think twice.

23 years later… still going strong

Let’s not forget this band has been going for quite some time now. Many would quietly fade into nostalgia by this point. Not these guys. Instead, they’re coming back louder, weirder, and more self-aware than ever and The Zoo is a comeback and a reset button.

Party like animals

If you want to experience this new era properly, the place to be is Rotondes on 2 May. Expect horns, sweat, ska punking, and probably at least one moment where you question what’s actually happening on stage.

In other words, exactly what you want from The Disliked. On top of that, two superb support acts hit the stage: Dillendub and Le Vibe.

Some bands become too serious, others just get better at being gloriously entertaining. We all know which side of the fence The Disliked is on!

Tickets cost €24 and you can already buy them online! For more details, check out the scene.lu event page