Naughty Professor have teamed with hip-hop icon Chali 2na of Jurassic 5 and Dexter Gilmroe of Sexy Dex & The Fresh to release a new politically-charged single called “Darker Daze.” The track is slated to appear on the band’s forthcoming album, Identity.

“’Darker Daze’ plays on an obvious double entendre that represents the confines placed on marginalized people throughout the history and development of organized government in the United States.” says Naughty Professor drummer Sam Shahin. “As these confines became less physical and less embedded into the written law, the daze of these confines emanated into the systematic power structures and societal norms. Some say things have been uncovered recently, we say the daze has thickened to the point that even those with weak vision can’t help but feel it shrouding the move of every American.”

“’Darker Daze’ is a song that reflects the opinions, predictions, and fears of people who are against a Donald Trump led America,” adds Chali 2na. “Basically, ‘Darker Daze’ is our way of saying, whether you like it or not, fasten your seat belts because there will be turbulence! The Naughty Professor family created the inspiration and the vessel to convey this concept and I am happy to have been a part of this collaboration.”

“Darker Daze”—the second offering from Identity—comes a few weeks after the band released its collaboration with The Revivalists frontman David Shaw. Much like today’s single, that track was accompanied by a video of Naughty Professor in the studio with their friend and guest collaborator.

In related news, the jazz-funk ensemble also unveiled their tour plans for early 2017. The outing kicks off at the end of January and includes a run of dates through the Southeast, Midwest and Northeast. The band will then wrap things up with a hometown set at Hogs for the Cause on Friday, March 31. Naughty Professor’s last extended run of dates found them backing Chali 2na, who first teamed up with the band during NOLA Brewing Company’s seventh anniversary party.

Naughty Professor will perform at tonight’s Best of the Beat Awards at Generations Hall. The band is nominated for a few awards, including Best R&B/Funk Band, Best Drummer and Best Bass Player.

Naughty Professor Tour Dates