New Zealand's genre defying heavy innovators Banks Arcade have officially announced their highly anticipated second studio album, SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR, arriving on September 25, 2026. Blending crushing metalcore with infectious hip hop grooves and cinematic electronic production, the band continues to create a sound that is unmistakably their own. Pre orders for the album open on August 7, 2026.
With SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR, Banks Arcade expand on everything that has made them one of the most exciting names in modern heavy music. Every song explores a different sonic landscape while remaining instantly recognizable as Banks Arcade. Crushing breakdowns, massive hooks, electronic textures and razor sharp rap influenced vocal deliveries come together to form an album that constantly surprises without ever losing its identity.
Anticipation for the record has been building through a series of successful singles. Tracks such as "ROCKSTAR," "DON'T MISS," and "MIRROR," all featured on the new album, have resonated strongly with fans and highlighted the band's fearless approach to songwriting. The response to these releases has made SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR one of the most eagerly awaited records in the band's career.
Emerging from New Zealand with a vision that ignored the traditional boundaries of heavy music, Banks Arcade have grown from local underdogs into an internationally recognized force. Formed by two lifelong friends determined to create something truly unique, the band's identity has been shaped by diverse life experiences ranging from jazz education to professional MMA competition.
Over the past few years, Banks Arcade have sold out headline shows across the Southern Hemisphere, performed at major international festivals including Download Festival, and shared stages with acclaimed artists such as Northlane, The Plot In You, and Thornhill. Their relentless drive to challenge expectations has earned them a rapidly growing global fanbase and established them as one of the most forward thinking bands in modern heavy music.
Rather than following trends, Banks Arcade continue to redefine what a heavy band can sound like. Their seamless fusion of modern metalcore, hip hop, alternative electronic music and huge melodic hooks has become their signature. No two songs sound the same, yet every track carries the unmistakable Banks Arcade identity.
With SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR, Banks Arcade deliver their boldest and most confident work to date. The album is unpredictable, emotionally charged, relentlessly heavy and packed with unforgettable moments that showcase a band operating entirely on its own terms.
SECOND PLACE SUPERSTAR will be released worldwide on September 25, 2026.
Pre orders begin on August 7, 2026.
Catch the Band Live at:
09.10.2026 I Factory Theatre, Marrickville, AU
11.10.2026 I 170 Russell I Melbourne, AU
13.10.2026 I Lion Arts Factory I Adelaide, AU
15.10.2026 I The Triffid, Newstead, AU
17.01.2026 I Sydney Harbour Boat Tours I Sydney, AU