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

MasterpieceMotionless In White

Motionless In White – Masterpiece [Official Video]

Motionless In White is a rock band that has gained popularity with their gothic fashion and dark aesthetic.

Among their songs, “Masterpiece” is a top recommendation, featuring satisfying, intense shouts.

It starts with a quiet arrangement and progressively swells into something grand—guaranteed to hook you.

From the middle of the track, a breakdown ushers in a fierce shouting section.

It then immediately returns to a melodious part where the beautiful vocals soar, creating a sense of tension that keeps it engaging and never boring.

LachrymaGHOST

Ghost – Lachryma (Official Music Video)

An epic rock number themed around tears from Sweden’s Ghost, known for their dark, theatrical worldbuilding and distinctive production.

The hefty doom-metal riffs blend seamlessly with sophisticated melodies reminiscent of ’80s AOR, and the gentle vocals leave a strong impression.

This lead track comes from the album “Skeletá,” slated for release on April 25, 2025, and anticipation is high for its performance on the “Skeletour,” which kicks off April 15 the same year.

An ambitious work that fuses the band’s unique artistry—backed by numerous accolades including Grammy and Grammis awards—with rock ’n’ roll, it’s a must-listen for anyone drawn to theatrical music.

SatanizedGHOST

Ghost – Satanized (Official Music Video)

From Ghost, the rock band representing Sweden, comes a new track from their upcoming album “Skeletá,” slated for release in April 2025.

It opens with a solemn blend of organ and choir that evokes a demonic ritual, then shifts into a heavy riff reminiscent of 1970s Black Sabbath.

Coupled with vocals by the new character, Papa V Perpetua, the song fully unleashes the dark allure of heavy metal.

The band’s signature mystical, occult worldview remains intact, and with added symphonic elements, their sound feels even more refined.

Packed with the appeal that led Ghost to win a Grammy in 2016, this is a track I can highly recommend to anyone wanting to lose themselves in a grand rock sound.

Heat AboveGreta Van Fleet

Greta Van Fleet – Heat Above (Official Video)

The song by Greta Van Fleet, a band that won numerous rock awards the year after their debut and has since grown to headline shows across five continents.

It’s the opening track of their second album, The Battle at Garden’s Gate, featuring an organ-led, dreamlike sound and a clear, airy arrangement with acoustic guitar that feels so pleasant.

At first listen, it may seem far from the general image of hard rock, but the dynamics in the chorus and the husky vocals carry a powerful pull that hard rock fans will likely find captivating.

It’s a richly layered rock tune that showcases the musicality of a young band whose future success is highly anticipated.

My Friends (Sweeney Todd cover)Black Veil Brides

Black Veil Brides – My Friends (Sweeney Todd cover)

This work vividly covers a classic musical number in hard rock.

The popular American rock band Black Veil Brides faithfully recreates the world of Sweeney Todd while adding the band’s own interpretation.

The cynical vibe and fierce guitar sound are a perfect match, conjuring the musical’s dark scenes before your eyes.

Released in May 2024, the track is included on their new EP.

Its arrangement, infused with respect for musicals and film, has captured fans’ hearts.

It’s perfect for rock fans who love movies or anyone seeking a fresh musical experience.

The live performance should be something to look forward to as well.

Shooting VelvetThe Night Flight Orchestra

THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA – Shooting Velvet (Official Video) | Napalm Records

A time slip to the ’80s woven from shimmering synthesizers and searing guitars! Released in October 2024 by Sweden’s THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA, this track is the lead single from their upcoming album “Give Us The Moon,” slated for release in January 2025.

Infused with disco and funk elements, the sound vividly paints the bustle and romance of the urban night, guiding listeners into a sonic world that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

Backed by this release, the band is set to embark on a European tour titled “Moon Over Europe 2025” starting in January.

Highly recommended for those who want to soak in a nostalgic vibe or are seeking songs that resurrect the ’80s sound for the modern day.

RiseExtreme

Extreme – “Rise” (Official Video)

Extreme, who have won popularity with a style that wields their exceptional musicianship and blends hard rock with elements like funk, released the song “Rise” in 2023.

Its powerful guitar riffs and dynamic melodies truly shake the very soul of hard rock.

The lyrics focus on the double-edged nature of fame, conveyed through Gary Cherone’s commanding vocals that resonate deeply with listeners.

Nuno Bettencourt’s dazzling guitar solo is a must-hear as well! This is truly the essence of timeless rock delivered by a veteran band.

Highly recommended.