What are the most anticipated rock and metal albums of 2026? Let’s find out\u00a0and let’s take a look at the bands who currently working on new music, but haven’t announced an album yet.<\/p>\n
The 2020s are racing by and we’ve only got four years left.<\/p>\n
Leading the way in 2026, all eyes are on Megadeth<\/a>, whose self-titled January album will be their last-ever record. It’s even going to feature their version of the Metallica song “Ride the Lightning,”<\/a> which Dave Mustaine<\/a> famously co-wrote. If you’re sad about Megadeth saying goodbye, you’ll at least have plenty of time \u2014 Mustaine said the farewell tour will last about three to five years.<\/p>\n READ MORE:\u00a0The 51 Best Rock + Metal Songs of 2025<\/a><\/p>\n There’s loads of other thrash on the way, too. Kreator also have a January release (Krushers of the World), while Exodus<\/a>, Anthrax<\/a>, Death Angel <\/a>and Overkill<\/a> are all readying new material.<\/p>\n Even earlier in the year, Alter Bridge<\/a> are returning with their first new album since 2022. Of course, the band’s instrumental section have been quite busy with Creed<\/a>‘s comeback over the last couple years and singer Myles Kennedy<\/a> has been busy with his own solo career and singing with Slash<\/a> and The Conspirators. Guitarist Mark Tremonti<\/a> even managed to squeeze out a solo record last year.\u00a0They’re quite the productive bunch!<\/p>\n Poppy<\/a>, another prolific artist, is looking ahead to her seventh album,\u00a0Empty Hands and already it’s looking like another great year for heavy music.<\/p>\n See what’s coming in 2026 below!<\/p>\n The Most Anticipated Rock + Metal Albums of 2026<\/p>\n We’re on the back half of the 2020s. Take a look at some of the biggest releases due in 2026 AND check out what artists are working on new music but haven’t announced an album yet.<\/p>\n Gallery Credit: Loudwire Staff<\/a><\/p>\n And now let’s look back on all the standout albums of 2025!<\/p>\n The 51 Best Rock + Metal Albums of 2025<\/p>\n We’re more than half way through the decade! Let’s revisit the best rock and metal albums of 2025, in the order they were released.<\/p>\n See how many of your favorite albums from this year made the list!<\/p>\n Contributions by Chuck Armstrong (CA), Jordan Blum (JB), Rob Carroll (RC), Chad Childers (CC), Joe DiVita (JD), John Hill (JH) and Lauryn Schaffner (LS).<\/p>\n