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

DroneKarnivool

Karnivool – Drone (Audio)

After twelve long years, the epic story is finally stirring once more.

This new work from Australia’s proud progressive rock titan, Karnivool, sounds like a fanfare heralding the dawn of a new chapter.

The band’s sound—what they themselves call “the weight of the Western Australian desert”—weaves glass-fragile silence with earth-shaking roar in dramatic contrast, drawing listeners into an overwhelming sonic journey.

Don’t you feel the powerful message of gratitude to the fans—“Thank you for waiting so long; this is where it truly begins!”—and their resolve for the future? It’s a track that sends expectations soaring for their first album since the 2013 masterpiece Asymmetry, which topped the ARIA charts.

SILOSStarset

STARSET – SILOS (Official Visualizer)

This is a track by the American rock band Starset that weaves a grand story fusing science and music.

Released in June 2025, it features the band’s signature “cinematic rock” sound.

The dramatic sonic landscape—where heavy guitar riffs intertwine with delicate electronic textures—leaves a strong impression.

Its poetic worldview portrays isolated minds and a sense of self-loss through a unique metaphor of “silos,” prompting many listeners to reflect on their inner selves.

The participation of the former As I Lay Dying guitarist also drew attention, with fans praising it as “pushing the envelope beyond expectations.” It’s a perfect song for nights when you want to immerse yourself in a sweeping soundscape.

San QuentinNickelback

Nickelback – San Quentin (Official Music Video)

Nickelback, the popular Canadian rock band, has a track called “San Quentin” that features heavy guitars and a flavorful vocal melody.

The choppy “da-da-da-da” guitar rhythm in the intro is especially cool.

Chad Kroeger’s voice has just the right amount of rasp, which fits the vibe of the song perfectly.

Plus, the guitar solo is incredibly emotional and electrifying, so be sure to pay attention to that part when you listen!

The River Is RisingSlash ft. Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators

Slash ft. Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators – The River Is Rising (Official Music Video)

A track by Slash feat.

Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators, led by Slash, who influenced musicians worldwide as the guitarist of Guns N’ Roses.

It’s a single cut from their fourth album, “4,” and the arrangement—born out of a jam session—carries an atmosphere where freedom and tension coexist.

The ensemble of powerful vocals and a striking guitar riff is the essence of hard rock cool.

Even as the rhythm shifts during the guitar solo, Slash’s bluesy lead evokes the sense that hard rock still has room to evolve.

So Called LifeThree Days Grace

Three Days Grace – So Called Life (Official Video)

So Called Life is a track released in 2021 by Three Days Grace, a hard rock band from Canada.

Despite its very heavy sound, its catchy melodies are a big draw.

It reached No.

8 on the U.

S.

rock chart and No.

7 in Canada.

The lyrics, which vent frustration about one’s day-to-day life, are particularly striking.

Give it a listen when you’re feeling aggravated and blow off some steam!

Set Your SightsThe Vintage Caravan

THE VINTAGE CARAVAN – Set Your Sights (OFFICIAL VISUALIZER)

The Vintage Caravan is a young hard rock band from Iceland.

True to their name, they stick to a vintage hard rock style, delivering a warm sound despite their youth.

If you love classic hard rock, of course, but also if you’re a younger heavy metal fan, be sure to check out this tasteful, retro sound!

Three Six FiveShinedown

Shinedown – Three Six Five (Lyric Video)

Shinedown, a band that represents the American rock scene, released a powerful new song in January 2025 that centers on the transience of life and the importance of time.

It’s a track where rock ’n’ roll dynamism, superb songwriting, and passion merge, characterized by deep emotional expression and a strong melodic line.

The song marks a new musical direction for the band and is sure to leave a strong impression on listeners.

It was released alongside the announcement of a 35-city U.

S.

tour starting on April 25, 2025.

The lyrics, which depict the experience of losing a loved one and the importance of moving forward while carrying that sense of loss, are sure to resonate with many.