Single Review: Kings County – “What Now?” – Release date June 19, 2026
Orlando hard-rock mainstays Kings County are back with a vengeance, unleashing their explosive new single, “What Now?” Since 2020, Rock At Night has proudly tracked the evolution of this hard-hitting Florida outfit, but their latest offering sets a massive new benchmark for the band’s trajectory.
Originally written and demoed years ago, “What Now?” sat waiting for the right moment. That moment arrived when the band revisited the track with a completely fresh perspective, handing it over to super-producer and engineer Chuck Alkazian at Pearl Sound Studios. Alkazian has successfully rebuilt the track from the ground up, injecting it with modern, razor-sharp aggression. Driven by clicking, urgent drum patterns and colossal, heavy guitar riffs, the track easily claims its territory in the modern hard rock and metal scene. Rob Dexter’s growling, impassioned vocals pierce through the mix, climaxing in a soaring, screaming chorus that perfectly captures the frustration and ultimate triumph of overcoming a toxic relationship.
Beyond the sonic upgrade, “What Now?” highlights a milestone evolution in the band’s lineup. Rob Dexter’s 20-year-old son, Robbie Dexter, has formally stepped into the rhythm section on bass. After showing a rapid natural mastery of the instrument, the younger Dexter made a stunning debut last summer in front of 1,000 screaming fans. Injecting a bolt of youthful energy alongside veteran players Steve Bell (Guitars/Vocals), Bill Kania (Guitars/Vocals), and Joe Lopez (Drums), the band feels more unified and formidable than ever.
The track’s raw energy translates seamlessly to the screen. Stepping away from external production crews, Kings County embraced their DIY roots, shooting the official music video themselves on a Tampa soundstage in just ten hours. The result is an electric, atmosphere-driven performance piece that relies heavily on dramatic lighting and intense stage presence—proving that a clear vision and a great camera can outshine a Hollywood budget.
Following on the heels of their highly successful hard-rock cover of INXS’s “Don’t Change,” “What Now?” cements 2026 as a landmark year for the group. With another single alongside Alkazian already nearing completion and dates lined up across the Southeast U.S., Kings County is showing no signs of slowing down. “What Now?” is a track built from real-life upheaval, sharpened by experience, and delivered with absolute urgency.
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I grew up in a household full of rock music, studied journalism in college, and then became a scientist.Although my science career has served me well, music has always played a major role in my life. I grew up reading "Creem" magazine; I play several musical instruments as a "hobby";and it seems a camera has always been in my hand. Now, I am combining what I love the most--music and photography--serving as editor of Rock At Night. I travel between the US and UK seeking my dream! My motto: life is short...no regrets. Chyrisse
