With seven months still left in 2026, let’s take a look at the most anticipated rock and metal albums that are coming out later this year.
The 2020s are racing by and we’ve already assessed this decade’s best songs and best albums all the way through last year. When the dust settles on 2026, we’ll absolutely have some more to add to each of those lists. That will likely include some selections from what you’ll encounter below and we’ve only just begun to peer into the summer and fall release schedule, which includes new records by Anthrax, Motionless in White, Beartooth, President, Evanescence and more.
READ MORE: The 51 Best Rock + Metal Albums of 2026
We know there’s loads of album announcements every week, so if you’re struggling to keep up, keep scrolling below and catch up on the most anticipated records you can’t afford to miss later this year!
The Most Anticipated Rock + Metal Albums of 2026
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.
Gallery Credit: Loudwire Staff
Stay Up to Date With All the New Releases Each Week
Loudwire’s 2026 Hard Rock + Metal Album Release Calendar has your week-by-week list of all the new releases headed your way.
Check back every Friday and see what albums just dropped for you to check out or click/tap here.
Want more from the 2020s? Check out our list of the 25 Best Rock + Metal Albums of the 2020s (So Far) directly below!
The 25 Best Rock + Metal Albums of the 2020s (So Far)
There’s no arguing that it’s been a great decade for rock and metal. These 25 2020s albums prove it!
Contributions by Jordan Blum (JB), Rob Carroll (RC), Chad Childers (CC), Joe DiVita (JD), Bryan Rolli (BR) and Lauryn Schaffner (LS).
Gallery Credit: Loudwire Staff
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