Are you a fan of the 80s rock era, with bands like Van Halen, Whitesnake, and Deep Purple? Do you long to hear the same old-school, powerful tones from the drums, guitars, and vocals that you loved in the 80s, but in a contemporary setting? In this article, we will explore modern rock bands that capture the essence of 80s rock, combining classic sounds with modern flair. From The Darkness to Steel Panther, we will dive into why these bands are the perfect choice for those who miss the 80s rock sound in the 21st century.
Rekindling the 80s Rock Feeling
If you are on the hunt for 21st-century rock bands that capture the classic old-school sound reminiscent of 80s icons like Van Halen, Whitesnake, and Deep Purple, here are some recommendations:
The Darkness
Glam Rock Style: Known for their catchy melodies and powerful guitar riffs, The Darkness combines the classic 80s rock vibe with high-pitched vocals.Wolfmother
Classic Rock Vibes: This Australian rock band blends classic rock influences with modern flair. Wolfmother’s sound features heavy guitar riffs and a retro vibe reminiscent of bands like Deep Purple.Airbourne
AC/DC Classics: Airbourne delivers hard-hitting rock with a classic sound, including energetic guitar solos and driving rhythms, often compared to AC/DC.Steel Panther
Parody with Authentic Sounds: While Steel Panther is a parody band, they pay homage to 80s glam metal and hard rock, combining humor with authentic sounds.Rival Sons
Blues Rock Blend: This band incorporates a blend of blues rock and classic rock influences, characterized by strong vocals and vintage instrumentation.H.E.R.O.
Classic Rock Spirit: Focused on melodic hooks and solid guitar work, H.E.R.O. channels the spirit of classic rock.The Struts
Glam Rock Aesthetic: They have a glam rock aesthetic and sound that draws heavily from the 70s and 80s, combining catchy choruses with flamboyant performances.Greta Van Fleet
Led Zeppelin Influence: Often compared to Led Zeppelin, their sound features classic rock elements, including powerful vocals and guitar-driven arrangements.The Pretty Reckless
Classic Rock Flair: While they have a more modern edge, their music often features classic rock influences, particularly in their guitar work and vocal style.Dead Daisies
SuperGroup Sound: This supergroup features members from various classic rock bands, delivering a sound that pays homage to the 70s and 80s rock era.These bands capture the essence of classic rock while bringing their own contemporary flair, making them great options for fans of the genre.
Alternative Options
If you are looking for more traditional 80s rock sounds, consider these bands that might not fit the same genre but still offer a powerful, old-school feeling:
Los Bastardos Finlandeses
Los Bastardos Finlandeses aren’t playing the music in an ironic way. With a more aggressive sound akin to Motorhead, they offer a heavy, authentic rock experience. Some notable albums include:
Entertainment Don’t Come Cheap (2015) Art Of War (2019) Red Eye Station (2007)Restoration to Yesteryear
These bands and artists, whether in their own right or through their enduring influence, bring back the nostalgic feel of 80s rock, allowing you to enjoy the classic sounds in the modern era.