[2025] The State of Western Hard Rock Today: A Roundup of Notable Tracks
Hard rock, which took influence from 1960s psychedelic rock and blues rock and became established from the 1970s onward, is centered on louder, more aggressive guitars.
There isn’t a clear-cut standard that distinguishes it from heavy metal, but even in the 2020s there are bands—both veterans and newcomers—playing what you could call “hard rock” that’s distinct from so-called heavy metal.
In this article, we’ll introduce the latest popular tracks and recommended songs by bands that play hard rock in a broad sense—from the genre’s legendary figures to younger acts who show the influence of vintage hard rock.
It’s also a great way to get a handle on the state of hard rock “right now” in the 2020s!
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[2025] The State of Western Hard Rock Now: Top Tracks to Watch (1–10)
Saving FaceMyles Kennedy

Characterized by fierce guitar riffs and a powerful beat, this track is a lead single from solo artist Myles Kennedy’s 2024 album, “The Art of Letting Go.” Showcasing his trademark, emotionally rich vocals, the song celebrates the importance of believing in your own worth and facing forward in life.
Starting with an acoustic introduction, the arrangement gradually builds into a full band sound, delivering a gripping climb to its climax.
It’s a must-listen not only for hard rock fans but for anyone who wants to live authentically.
This work fully displays Kennedy’s musical roots—be sure to check out the entire album as well!
Let Me InScarlet Rebels

A captivating sound that deftly fuses intensity and melodicism! This is a powerful new track from Scarlet Rebels, the melodic rock band Wales is proud of.
Set to a driving rock sound, the song passionately conveys a desperate yearning for trust and emotional openness.
It’s a studio-recorded version of a track that has long been a staple of their live shows.
Included on the album “Where the Colours Meet,” released in August 2024, it was brilliantly reimagined with producers Colin Richardson and Chris Clancy.
If you’re looking for a rock number with an aggressive, headbang-worthy beat and emotionally resonant melodies, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Six Feet DeepThe Warning

The new release from The Warning, a talented sister trio from Monterrey, Mexico, is a powerful track themed around anger and disappointment.
It features heavy guitar riffs and an explosive sound, with striking lyrics that criticize self-centered individuals.
The song is included on their album “Keep Me Fed,” released in June 2024, and showcases the band’s musical growth.
It’s also a live favorite, frequently appearing on their setlists.
This is the perfect track for venting anger or disappointment, or for firing yourself up.
Crank it up loud and enjoy a song packed with everything that makes The Warning so compelling.
[2025] The State of Western Hard Rock Now: Highlights of Must-Listen Tracks (11–20)
ObsidianCrobot

With its heavy riffs, gritty groove, and powerhouse vocals pushed to the forefront, this dark and aggressive sound makes a striking impression! Known for their unique musicality that incorporates elements from a wide range of genres—doom, stoner, grunge, and more—Crobot deliver the title track from their album Obsidian, released in September 2024.
The lyrics symbolize an unshakable strength as hard as obsidian, encouraging listeners to face their inner darkness and rise above it.
Masterfully fusing a heavy sound with profound lyricism, this work is recommended not only for hard rock fans but also for those who enjoy introspective music.
Neon EyesBlack Stone Cherry

Black Stone Cherry from Kentucky.
With a sound that fuses no-frills hard rock and Southern rock, carrying the spirit of AC/DC and Lynyrd Skynyrd, they’re a familiar name to rock fans.
Since their formation in 2001, they’ve stuck to a consistent style, and this time they deliver a track that feels like pure live-show frenzy distilled into a song.
There’s even an anecdote that it was born from a riff during soundcheck, and it’s been shaped into a powerful party anthem where impulsive, catchy guitars explode.
It’s the lead single from the EP “Celebrate,” set for release in March 2026, and the must-see music video captures their fiery performance at a UK festival in 2025.
It’s perfect for a drive or whenever you want to get pumped up, so be sure to check it out.
The OneBombus

The new track by Bombus, a heavy rock band from Gothenburg, Sweden, features a powerful sound that fuses heavy metal with classic rock.
Its raw guitar riffs and commanding vocals are striking, and while it shows influences from W.
A.
S.
P.
and Motörhead, it firmly establishes the band’s own unique world.
The song is included on the album “Your Blood,” released in November 2024, and stands as an important piece that signals the band’s new musical direction.
With lyrics centered on personal struggles and choices, it’s sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
It’s a must-listen not only for fans of heavy sounds, but also for classic rock enthusiasts.
HometownGlorious Bankrobbers

While embracing the essence of country rock, this song radiates the soul of classic rock ’n’ roll.
With slide guitar tones that stir nostalgia, it stands out as one of the most notable tracks on the album “Rock’n’Roll Church,” released in September 2024.
Formed in Stockholm in 1983, Glorious Bankrobbers have stayed true to their unique style despite cycles of breakups and reunions.
This piece seems to center on feelings for one’s hometown and a deep attachment to one’s roots, with warm vocals and melodies that truly resonate.
It’s perfect for a laid-back weekend drive or a reunion with old friends.
Highly recommended not only for classic rock fans but also for lovers of country music.





