[2025] The State of Western Hard Rock Today: A Roundup of Notable Tracks

The Writing On The WallIron Maiden

Iron Maiden – The Writing On The Wall (Official Video)

Iron Maiden is one of the most famous heavy metal bands in the world and a towering presence that has remained at the top of the scene for years as a flagship act of the so-called NWOBHM.

It’s still fresh in our minds that they delighted heavy metal and hard rock fans worldwide by releasing their 17th full-length album, Senjutsu, in 2021.

The Writing On The Wall was released the same year as an advance single from the album, and its animated music video—featuring Eddie the Head, the band’s iconic mascot, in full armor—also became a hot topic.

Beyond the wistful, unmistakably Maiden-esque melody, the song leans less toward classical, “neo-traditional” heavy metal and more toward a bluesy vibe, with a solid, mid-tempo band ensemble.

The Southern rock-style riffs give it a hard rock edge that’s seriously cool.

And that dramatic chorus is guaranteed to spark massive sing-alongs in stadiums!

Don’t Back DownMammoth WVH

Mammoth: Don’t Back Down (Official Video)

A song by Mammoth WVH, the solo project of Wolfgang Van Halen, whose father, Edward Van Halen, sadly passed away in 2020.

Recorded with him performing every instrument, including vocals, the track exudes the presence of someone poised to lead the next generation of the hard rock scene.

Its rock sound riding on a heavy shuffle beat and soulful vocals will likely be welcomed into the hard rock world with considerable impact.

It’s a rock tune where tradition and modernity fuse, showcasing the cool simplicity of strong melodies and a tight rock sound.

Can’t Stop TalkingThe Struts

The Struts – Can’t Stop Talking

The Struts are known for their music that blends the tradition of British rock with a modern sound.

This track, released by the UK-born band in October 2024, features a lively rhythm and catchy melodies.

The lyrics, based on vocalist Luke Spiller’s own experiences, mix humor with depth and are sure to resonate with listeners.

Since forming in 2012, the band has steadily built their career, including opening for The Rolling Stones and Foo Fighters.

This release showcases a new challenge for The Struts and can be seen as a song packed with their signature appeal.

Better The Devil You KnowHarem Scarem

Harem Scarem – “Better The Devil You Know” – Official Video

Harem Scarem, the melodic hard rock band with over 35 years of history in Canada, is taking a new step toward April 2025.

Their signature powerful guitar riffs and catchy melodic lines remain intact, and the lead single from their first album in five years, “Chasing Euphoria,” is an energetic track that truly represents the band at their best.

Showcasing a superb blend of Harry Hess’s soaring high-range vocals and Pete Lesperance’s outstanding guitar work, this song is highly recommended not only for long-time fans of melodic rock but also for anyone drawn to classic, straight-ahead hard rock sounds.

Pet Feat. The Never EversKit Vale

Kit Vale – Pet Feat. The Never Evers (Official Music Video)

Kit Vale is the solo project of singer-songwriter Jen Simpson.

“Pet Feat.

The Never Evers,” steeped in an irresistible alternative rock vibe, is one of the project’s most popular tracks.

Its atmosphere is a bit dark and mysterious, and the bursts of shouted vocals throughout make it incredibly satisfying to listen to.

The next time you’re having a rough day, give this song a spin and let it blow off some steam for you!

CannonballL.A. Guns

L.A. Guns – “Cannonball” – Official Music Video

A track by the rock band L.

A.

Guns, led by Tracii Guns—also known as a founding member of the globally successful Guns N’ Roses.

Featured on their 14th album, “Checkered Past,” this song kicks off with a guitar riff over a driving, fast-paced beat that’s sure to get any hard rock fan fired up from the first bars.

Its straightforward rock sound evokes the atmosphere of classic rock, and even amid the many branching subgenres, it retains its identity while continuing to evolve with undeniable power.

It’s a track packed with everything that makes rock cool—one we’d love even hard rock newcomers to hear.

ParalyzedLenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz – Paralyzed (Official Music Video)

This track blends energetic rock ’n’ roll with funk, highlighted by Lenny Kravitz’s signature powerful vocals and striking guitar riffs.

It has an upbeat sound that brims with appeal and draws listeners in.

The song is included on the album “Blue Electric Light,” released in May 2024, marking Kravitz’s twelfth ambitious studio effort.

His music has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, so expectations are high for future tie-ins as well.

It’s especially recommended for moments when you need an energy boost, such as during a drive or a workout.