Summer’s heating up with some of the hottest rock and metal album releases on the way—get ready for a season packed with heavy riffs and bold soundtracks.
As Summer 2025 quickly approaches, these standout releases are gearing up to take center stage. Whether it’s a long-awaited return or a genre-defying debut, each album brings something new to the table. Consequently, fans can expect a season filled with bold sounds, raw emotion, and unforgettable moments. In short, these five picks are not just albums; they’re the pulse of summer 2025.
5. BABYMETAL – Metal Forth
How the Sound Was Born
Formed in Tokyo in 2010, BABYMETAL quickly redefined the metal and rock scene through their bold fusion of J-pop idol culture and hard-hitting metal. Led by Su-metal, Moametal, and the newly official Momometal, the trio spearheaded the rise of the “kawaii metal” subgenre.
As a result, they gained global recognition for their high-energy performances and futuristic soundscapes. With critically acclaimed albums like Metal Resistance and Metal Galaxy, the group has not only carved a unique space in metal’s landscape, but also bridged fanbases from both mainstream pop and hardcore metal communities.
Turning Up the Volume on a New Era
Metal Forth marks a bold new sonic evolution for BABYMETAL. As a result of their fearless creativity, the album features collaborations with genre-diverse artists like Spiritbox, Electric Callboy, Tom Morello, and alt-pop icon Poppy.
Most notably, the lead single, “From Me To U,” dropped on April 4, offering a glimpse into a more experimental and emotionally layered direction. In other words, this isn’t just a continuation—it’s a transformation. Expect the record to push limits, blending power metal riffs with futuristic production and genre-hopping vocals that defy categorization.
Where This Sound Lives
Power metal, alternative metal, kawaii metal.
4. My Chemical Romance – Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge Re-Release (Reprise)
How the Sound Was Born
Emerging from New Jersey in 2001, My Chemical Romance became a defining rock band of the 2000s emo and alternative rock scene. Their 2004 album, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, propelled them to mainstream success with hits like “Helena” and “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)”.
Turning Up the Volume on a New Era
The deluxe edition, releasing on June 6, 2025, offers a remastered version of the original tracks along with four rare live recordings from a 2005 BBC session. This reissue provides both nostalgic value and fresh content for fans.
The deluxe packaging is designed to reflect the album’s dark romantic themes, featuring new liner notes, exclusive artwork, and previously unseen behind-the-scenes photos from the original era. It’s a collector’s dream and a heartfelt thank-you to fans who’ve kept the spirit of Three Cheers alive for over two decades.
This reissue isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a reminder of how timeless and transformative this album remains.
Where This Sound Lives
Emo, alternative rock, pop-punk, post-hardcore, and punk rock
3. Volbeat – God Of Angels Trust
How the Sound Was Born
Danish band Volbeat, formed in 2001, is known for their fusion of rockabilly, heavy metal, and hard rock. With a string of successful albums, they’ve carved a niche in the rock scene. God of Angels Trust, set for release on June 6, 2025, marks their ninth studio album and the first since the departure of guitarist Rob Caggiano.
Turning Up the Volume on a New Era
God of Angels Trust was recorded in an intense 13-day studio sprint—capturing an atmosphere of urgency that pulses throughout the album’s runtime. According to frontman Michael Poulsen, the goal was clear: to create an “urgent and immediate” album that packed a punch from the very first track. “It’s a punchy, crunchy album that keeps our core intact while pushing us into new melodic directions,” Poulsen explained in a recent interview.
The album promises to blend the best of Volbeat’s past—chugging riffs, soaring choruses, and unmistakable hooks—with a fresh focus on melody and texture. Early reviews from industry insiders hint at a more emotionally layered sound, while still delivering the gritty energy fans expect. While staying true to their roots, Volbeat isn’t afraid to experiment, integrating subtle nods to punk and classic rock influences beneath their thunderous rhythms.
Where This Sound Lives
Hard rock, heavy metal, with elements of rockabilly and alternative metal
2.Metallica – Load Re-Release (Blackened)
How the Sound Was Born
Metallica is metal band that formed in 1981, and is a cornerstone of thrash metal. Their 1996 album Load showcased a departure from their earlier thrash roots, embracing a more hard rock and blues-influenced sound.
Turning Up the Volume on a New Era
The super deluxe box set, releasing on June 13, 2025, includes a remastered version of the original album, 245 previously unreleased tracks, live recordings, demos, and a 128-page hardcover book. This comprehensive package offers an in-depth look into the band’s mid-90s evolution. Now, Metallica invites fans to revisit this pivotal chapter with the super deluxe box set release of Load, arriving June 13, 2025, via Blackened Recordings. More than just a remaster, this massive collection offers a fully immersive experience that recontextualizes the album in a new light.
Included in the box set is a meticulously remastered version of the original album, offering crystal-clear production that breathes new life into every riff and vocal line. But what truly sets this re-release apart is its depth: 245 previously unreleased tracks ranging from early demos and alternate takes to rare live performances and studio outtakes that showcase the band’s creative process in vivid detail.
Where This Sound Lives
Hard rock, heavy metal, with blues and southern rock influences.
1. Three Days Grace – Alienation
How the Sound Was Born
Three Days Grace is a rock band that formed in 1997 in Ontario. They rose to fame during their self-title and hits like “Animal I Have Become” and “I Hate Everything About You.”
After lead singer Adam Gontier’s departure in 2013. Lead singer of My Darkest Days Matt Walst, took over. Until the unexpected reunion in 2024, when Gontier returned, leading to a dynamic new dual-vocalist lineup. This move has reignited massive fan interest and stirred up excitement for what’s next.
Turning Up the Volume on a New Era
Alienation marks a full-circle moment for the rock band while also featuring singles like “Mayday” and “Apologies.” The album blends the grit of their early post-grunge rock sound with mature lyrics and a modern production. Fans are already praising the chemistry between Matt and Adam, calling it the best of both worlds. The album explores isolation, mental health, and rediscovery—perfectly aligning with the band’s evolution.
Where This Sound Lives
Post-grunge, alternative rock, hard rock, nu-metal.
The End For Now
To sum up, these top five releases are just a taste of what summer 2025 has in store for rock and metal lovers. In other words, the season is only beginning to unleash its full volume—and we’re here for every riff and roar.
From genre-bending experiments to nostalgic re-releases, this lineup not only delivers intensity, but also brings innovation and attitude to the forefront. As a result, summer 2025 is shaping up to be unforgettable for rock and metal fans.
Whether you’re headbanging in the pit or blasting your speakers at home. These albums promise to be your soundtrack for the summer.
Did we miss your favorite upcoming summer rock and metal release? If so, drop a comment and let us know which rock or metal albums you’re most hyped for—after all, this summer is only getting louder, bolder, and better. In addition, with our top five picks leading the charge, there’s no doubt that 2025’s soundtrack is already turning up the heat. In other words, it’s shaping up to be a season you won’t want to miss.
