Chaoszine has compiled a roundup of highly anticipated rock and metal albums set for release in 2026, featuring established acts and new projects across genres. The list highlights a packed year for fans, with releases spanning from January to later in the year. Editorial excitement centers on self-titled returns and long-awaited comebacks.
Published on December 27, 2025, Chaoszine's editorial team curated international albums they eagerly await, urging metalheads to budget accordingly for a stacked release calendar.
Kicking off the year, Alter Bridge's self-titled eighth studio album arrives on January 9, 2026, available in CD, limited vinyl, and digital formats. Beyond The Black follows with symphonic metal effort 'Break The Silence' on the same date via Nuclear Blast Records. Kreator's 'Krushers Of The World' drops January 16 through the same label, accompanied by extensive touring. SOEN's seventh album 'Reliance' also lands January 16 via Silver Lining Music, leading into European tours and festivals.
February brings Converge's eleventh record 'Love Is Not Enough' on February 13 through Deathwish Inc., marking a milestone with their signature intensity since 2001's 'Jane Doe'. Clawfinger returns after 18 years with 'Before We All Die' on February 20 via PERCEPTION. Mayhem's black metal 'Liturgy of Death' explores themes of loss and mortality on February 6, while Karnivool's 'In Verses'—born from a decade of experimentation—releases February 6.
March features Angus McSix's epic 'Angus McSix and the All-Seeing Astral Eye' on March 13 via Napalm Records, with a supporting tour. Axel Rudi Pell's 'Ghost Town' follows March 20 through SPV/Steamhammer. Exodus' untitled album emerges March 20, praised by guitarist Gary Holt as 'fucking awesome'.
Later releases include Attila's independent 'Concrete Throne' on April 8, Archspire's intense 'Too Fast To Die' on April 10 (recorded with producer Dave Otero), and John Corabi's solo debut 'New Day' on April 24 via Frontiers Music Srl. Skindred's 'You Got This' caps April 17 via Earache Records.
Bands like Anthrax, Armored Saint, and August Burns Red target spring or early 2026 without firm dates, while others such as Deep Purple, Def Leppard, and Dimmu Borgir confirm work in progress. Quotes from artists underscore momentum: Deep Purple's Roger Glover noted a 'breather' after busy years, and Exodus' Holt expressed pride in their record. This diverse slate promises to shape the rock and metal landscape.
