Joan As Police Woman New Album Real Life Evolution and 2026 Anniversary Tour

Twenty years after the release of her landmark debut Real Life, Joan As Police Woman is revisiting the album with a fresh perspective on Real Life Evolution, arriving June 12 via Reveal Records.

Ahead of the album’s release, the acclaimed New York artist has shared the moving new version of “I Defy”, featuring vocalist Krystle Warren. Originally co-written and performed with Anohni, the track has been reimagined as part of The Real Life Anniversary Sessions, a series of intimate live recordings celebrating the legacy of Joan’s breakthrough record.

A New Life for a Classic Album

Rather than simply remastering Real Life, Joan Wasser has completely re-recorded the album with new arrangements, collaborators and interpretations shaped by two decades of touring and artistic evolution.

The new version of “I Defy” captures that spirit beautifully, pairing Joan’s soulful delivery with Krystle Warren’s rich guest vocals. Speaking about the collaboration, Joan explained how important the song remains to her:

“It’s a declaration, an insistent act of love.”

She also praised Warren’s contribution, calling her “one of the finest singers alive”.

The album features an impressive cast of collaborators including Iggy Pop, alongside Will Graefe, Jeremy Gustin, Tony Scherr, Parker Kindred, Danny Blume, Oren Bloedow and Thomas Bartlett.

Fans have already had a taste of the project through previously released anniversary session performances including “Anyone”, “Flushed Chest”, “The Ride” and “Eternal Flame”.

A Career Defined by Collaboration and Reinvention

Since emerging in 2004, Joan As Police Woman has built a reputation as one of modern music’s most distinctive artists. Blending art rock, soul, jazz, indie and alternative influences, Joan’s music has consistently defied categorisation.

Across her career she has collaborated with an extraordinary range of musicians including Lou Reed, David Byrne, Damon Albarn, Rufus Wainwright and Tony Allen. She also performs as part of Iggy Pop’s touring band.

Critics have consistently celebrated her work, with publications including The Guardian, Mojo, Uncut and The Timespraising her emotionally rich songwriting and unmistakable voice.

Real Life Evolution Track Listing

1. Anyone (Real Life Evolution version)
2. Flushed Chest (Real Life Evolution version)
3. The Ride (Real Life Evolution version)
4. I Defy feat. Krystle Warren (Real Life Evolution version)
5. Feed The Light (Real Life Evolution version)
6. Christobel (Real Life Evolution version)
7. Save Me feat. Iggy Pop (Real Life Evolution version)
8. We Don’t Own It (Real Life Evolution version)
9. Eternal Flame (Real Life Evolution version)
10. Real Life (Real Life Evolution version)

Joan As Police Woman Announces Real Life 20th Anniversary Tour

To celebrate the album, Joan As Police Woman will embark on an extensive Real Life 20th Anniversary Tour later this year. The shows will see Joan performing the album as a trio alongside fan favourites, deep cuts, reworked covers and special surprises.

New York Performances

• June 18 – Bryant Park, New York (Free Show)
• June 20 – Joe’s Pub, New York (7pm – Sold Out)
• June 20 – Joe’s Pub, New York (9pm – Sold Out)
• June 21 – Joe’s Pub, New York (Sold Out)

Real Life Anniversary Tour 2026

• Nov 5 – London, UK – Union Chapel
• Nov 6 – London, UK – Union Chapel
• Nov 7 – Manchester, UK – RNCM
• Nov 9 – Glasgow, UK – Oran Mor
• Nov 11 – Brugge, Belgium – Cactus Club
• Nov 12 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Zonnehuis (Sold Out)
• Nov 13 – Hamburg, Germany – Mojo Club
• Nov 15 – Aarhus, Denmark – Train
• Nov 16 – Copenhagen, Denmark – DR Concert Hall
• Nov 18 – Budapest, Hungary – House of Music Hungary
• Nov 20 – Rome, Italy – Angelo Mai
• Nov 22 – Berlin, Germany – Haus des Rundfunks & Großer Sendesaal

Where to Buy Real Life Evolution

You can pre-order Real Life Evolution, which is released on 12th June at Chalkys.

Fans of Cat Power, Jeff Buckley, PJ Harvey and Nick Cave should find plenty to love in this beautifully reimagined collection.

FAQ Section

When is Real Life Evolution released?

Real Life Evolution by Joan As Police Woman is released on 12th June, 2026 via Reveal Records.

What is “I Defy” by Joan As Police Woman?

“I Defy” is the latest single from Real Life Evolution, featuring Krystle Warren. The song was originally co-written with Anohni for Joan’s 2006 debut album Real Life.

Who appears on Real Life Evolution?

The album includes contributions from Iggy Pop, Krystle Warren, Will Graefe, Jeremy Gustin, Tony Scherr, Parker Kindred and others.

Is Joan As Police Woman touring in 2026?

Yes. Joan As Police Woman will tour across the UK and Europe in November 2026 as part of the Real Life 20th Anniversary Tour.

Can I pre-order the  Real Life Evolution album?

Yes. Real Life Evolution by Joan As Police Woman is available to pre-order now ahead of its release next month.