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

Winter Storm VigilantesEnsiferum

Ensiferum – Winter Storm Vigilantes (Official Video)

A track from the album “Winter Storm,” released in October 2024, is an epic metal tune that paints a grand, uniquely Ensiferum-style fantasy world.

Fusing ferocious riffs with majestic orchestration, the song retains the band’s trademark melodicism.

At the same time, it carries a dose of death-metal-like extremity, delivering a metal sound only they can achieve.

The theme of the piece is based on a fantasy novel currently being written by bassist Sami Hinkka, depicting a battle between a group seeking the power to fly and the people of the North.

Even if you’ve never listened to Ensiferum before, this is a highly recommended track that lets you fully savor the appeal of folk metal.

PerhapsGuns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses – Perhaps (Official Music Video)

Guns N’ Roses’ suddenly announced new song “Perhaps” is an unreleased track said to have been made during the Chinese Democracy era, released in 2008.

It’s a notorious song whose demo versions had previously leaked online.

The life-affirming sound woven by the bold harmony of piano and guitar delivers overwhelming energy to the listener.

Axl Rose’s commanding vocal performance is like witnessing the very essence of hard rock.

It’s shaping up to be a release that excites even non-fans, and it has already been elevated to a live staple.

You’ll surely be swept up by its power! Why not give it a listen?

can u see me in the dark?Halestorm & I Prevail

Halestorm & I Prevail – can u see me in the dark? (Official Lyric Video)

You’ll be captivated by the overwhelming sound woven from the searing guitar riffs and powerful vocals.

The strength of Halestorm and the weight of I Prevail blend beautifully, making this a standout track that brings out the best of both bands.

With lyrics that tell you “You’re not alone,” it’s sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in June 2024, the song was created to commemorate their joint summer tour.

We can already look forward to a fiery live performance.

It’s the perfect track when you need the courage to face challenges or want to encourage someone.

A must-listen for hard rock fans!

Cometh The StormHigh On Fire

High On Fire – Cometh The Storm

Its vintage sound, steeped in a longing for classic metal, holds a compelling appeal that will more than satisfy hard rock fans.

High on Fire’s new album, Cometh The Storm, is their ambitious ninth release, slated for April 2024.

Showcasing a bold approach that incorporates the Middle Eastern traditional instrument, the saz, this record delivers a powerful, subtly doomy atmosphere you can fully immerse yourself in.

The abstract lyrics, rich with insights into nature and human society, are sure to spark the listener’s imagination.

With a U.

S.

tour planned from May 2024, fans should definitely keep an eye out.

AfterglowJerry Cantrell

Jerry Cantrell – Afterglow (Official Music Video)

The new song by veteran American musician Jerry Cantrell is a lyrical ballad wrapped in a melancholic atmosphere.

Known as the guitarist and vocalist of Alice in Chains, he released the track in September 2024 as an advance single from his album “I Want Blood,” scheduled for release in October 2024.

Centered on themes of heartbreak, loss, and inner turmoil, it incorporates his signature grunge and heavy rock elements while maintaining a somewhat gentle, introspective tone.

This piece has the power to stir deep emotions in listeners, and it’s recommended for moments when you stand at a crossroads in life or for quiet nights when you want to reflect on yourself.

BrightenJerry Cantrell

Jerry Cantrell – Brighten (Official Video)

A song by Jerry Cantrell, who also performs as the guitarist and vocalist for Alice in Chains.

It’s the title track from his third album, Brighten—a rock number with a comfortable blend of bluesy guitar phrases and tight band ensemble.

The catchy melody layered with beautiful harmonies and striking guitar riffs overflows with the cool appeal of hard rock.

The expansive feel of the chorus arrangement gives it a classic, old-school vibe that will resonate not only with longtime rock fans but also with younger listeners.

The Devil Is A WomanKissin’ Dynamite

KISSIN’ DYNAMITE – The Devil Is A Woman (Official Video) | Napalm Records

With crunchy, choppy guitar riffs and a catchy vocal melody, this track blends a sound reminiscent of 80s stadium rock with a modern edge.

Depicting the allure of a seductive, dangerous woman, it serves as the lead track from KISSIN’ DYNAMITE’s eighth album, “Back with a Bang.” Set for release on July 5, 2024, the album is already generating strong anticipation.

Following their previous record, which reached No.

2 on the official German album charts, this new release looks poised to draw plenty of attention as well.

It’s a must-listen not only for hard rock fans, but also for anyone who longs for the spirit of 80s rock.