Rock ’N’ Raleigh

Following a four-year hiatus, Jack the Radio is back.

It’s the Raleigh rock scene’s dream come true. Jack the Radio is back with a new album and a collab beer with Trophy Brewing—a Helles lager with 100% NC Pilsner malt dubbed Jack the Radio Fast Fun (a nod to their 2023 single). After a four-year hiatus, the roots rockers are set to drop Under Lonely Light June 21, with a release show slated for June 22 at The Pour House feat. Fancy Gap, a comic release and vinyl fresh off the presses.

We caught up with half the group, George Hage and Danny Johnson, ahead of their tunes and brews release. Time to “tell everyone around!” 

Why the hiatus? 

We never stepped away from music, but there were a lot of steps taken as we maneuvered the twists and turns of the past few years, which have been a journey leading to a lot of introspection—and deeper and sometimes darker lyrics. 

George Hage

How does the brew play on the vibe of “Fast Fun?” 

This is our second collab with Trophy Brewing, and we’re superlucky to call co-owners Chris [Powers] and Woody [Lockwood] friends and supporters. We chatted with them about the vibe of the song and pitched some general targets (light and summery), but part of the fun is putting it in the hands of the professionals and seeing where they land! Fast Fun really fits the feel of the song as an upbeat summertime groove.

Danny Johnson

Your biggest inspiration? 

I’m equally inspired by the music I listen to and the gear I have available. Mike Viola’s American Egypt didn’t really guide my engineering or mixing, but as an album full of unexpected twists and turns, it did constantly remind me there are no wrong sounds—as long as we’re serving the song.

Danny Johnson

I’ve tried to push myself to be more vulnerable when sharing my words and voice. I can attribute some of that to long hours listening to Tom Petty. He is a master of delivering genius in a clear and simple way.

George Hage

Any advice for local aspiring creatives?  

Don’t wait for permission. Get out and go to shows and  events—and see the amazing art and artists we have in the community. Create the art you want to see. 

George Hage

*Responses have been lightly edited for space and clarity