[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: Highlighted Tracks (41–50)
The Sound Of SilenceDisturbed
Originally released in 1964 by Simon & Garfunkel, this track was covered by the American heavy metal band Disturbed and released in 2015.
It became a hit around the world, reaching No.
1 on the charts in the United States, Portugal, and Austria.
[2025] The State of Western Hard Rock Today: Highlights of Must-Listen Tracks (51–60)
My ChampionAlter Bridge
Alter Bridge is a rock band formed in Florida in 2004.
This refreshing track was released as a single in 2017 from their fifth album, The Last Hero, which was a hit around the world.
It reached No.
18 on the U.
S.
charts.
Gods of Rock N Roll (ft. Steve Stevens)Billy Morrison, Ozzy Osbourne
A powerful track born from the collaboration of British rock heavyweight Billy Morrison and Ozzy Osbourne, set against an overwhelming soundscape woven by a grand orchestra and choir.
Featuring the 61-piece Budapest Scoring Orchestra and the John Burroughs High School Choir, it resounds as a bold anthem to rock ’n’ roll.
Released in February 2025, the song appears on the deluxe edition of the album The Morrison Project.
Written a decade ago in a hotel during a South American tour, it has finally taken shape in its ideal form.
Fred Coury of Cinderella provides the orchestral arrangements, seamlessly blending with Steve Stevens’s razor-sharp guitar work to embody the timeless power of rock music.
Vast in scale and rich in emotion, this is an essential listen for any rock fan.
Living ProofBon Jovi
Bon Jovi’s new song, marking their long-running career, is a powerful rock anthem themed around hope, family bonds, and the enduring nature of love.
It features an energetic sound reminiscent of the ’80s and a catchy melody, with a sing-along accessibility that’s truly appealing.
Released in May 2024, the track is set to be included on their 16th studio album, “Forever,” their first in four years.
In contrast to their previous album, “2020,” which dealt with social issues and personal hardships, this song expresses the hope and joy that come after overcoming those challenges.
Celebrating the resilience to face life’s complexities and adversity, it’s sure to resonate with many listeners.
Voices In My HeadFalling In Reverse
Falling In Reverse, the hard rock band that drew attention with 2020’s “Popular Monster.” Their 2022 release “Voices In My Head” is a track with a pleasing mix of programmed elements and full band sound.
An interesting point is how the airy synthesizers blend with the heavy guitars.
This kind of genre that features pop-style synthesizers is sometimes called “newcore.” If you like the vibe of this song, be sure to look into the newcore genre as well!
NAVIGATE (feat. CITY AND COLOUR)Headstones
Headstones, a band that represents Canada’s hard rock scene, released a collaborative work with singer-songwriter City and Colour in April 2025.
It’s a captivating track where the energetic sound of punk rock and warm harmonies blend in perfect balance.
A limited run of 300 vinyl copies was also released, featuring a cover of Kenny Rogers’ classic “The Gambler” on the B-side.
Ahead of the summer festival season, they’re planning an active run of live shows across Ontario, with this new track set to debut over four performances starting with the Guitars & Gasoline Festival on June 7.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience the fusion of powerful rock and delicate melody.
Time Will HealVolbeat
An impressive track woven from blistering guitar riffs, a mid-tempo groove, and a vocal brimming with emotion.
It’s a medium-tempo number by the Danish heavy metal band Volbeat, released in May 2025 as an advance single from the album “God Of Angels Trust.” Born from the members’ personal experiences of loss, the song powerfully charts an emotional journey from grief to hope.
Combining hard rock heft with a rockabilly-style groove and pop-like accessibility, it showcases the multi-faceted musicality that is uniquely Volbeat.
The music video by filmmaker Julia Peytie also leaves a strong impression with its symbolic red-room staging.
Even listeners who aren’t fans of heavy sounds will find plenty to enjoy in this compelling release.