In the ever-evolving landscape of classic rock, where new sounds constantly emerge and old favorites endure, the week of August 17, 2026, was particularly noteworthy. It was a time when the genre's diverse spectrum was on full display, with each artist bringing their unique flavor to the table. As the deputy editor of Classic Rock magazine, I had the pleasure of curating this week's Tracks of the Week, and I must say, it was a delightful journey through the heart of rock 'n' roll.
One of the standout tracks was Crossbone Skully's 'Thunder Love feat. Phil Collen'. The band, led by Alice Cooper's axe-wielding Tommy Henriksen, delivered a Def Leppard-esque performance that was both powerful and captivating. The collaboration with Phil Collen added a layer of authenticity, and the song's triumph in our Tracks of the Week tournament was well-deserved. It's fascinating to see how modern bands pay homage to their influences while carving out their own path. Personally, I think this track is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic rock, with a modern twist.
Another notable entry was Green Lung's 'Black Magick Radio'. This gothy London rock band took us on a journey through their forthcoming album, 'Necropolitan'. The song's video, with its FM radio-powered kaleidoscope of cultish mischief, was a visual treat. Green Lung's love letter to occult rock was a refreshing take on the genre, and the band's promise to spread its gospel far and wide resonated with me. What makes this particularly fascinating is the band's ability to blend the old and the new, creating a sound that is both familiar and innovative.
Spiders' 'Creature of the Night' was a nostalgic rock 'n' roller that made an appetizing case for their upcoming album, 'Crystal Eyes'. The Swedes' simple but effective verse riff and infectious energy were a breath of fresh air. The song's raw and glitter-laden nature, laced with a touch of Blondie, was a delightful surprise. In my opinion, this track showcases the enduring appeal of rock 'n' roll, with its timeless energy and catchy melodies.
Royal Blood's 'Ten Over Ten' was a heavy and pummeling track, a first release following their 2023 album 'Back to the Water Below'. The band's statement about building up the revs and playing faster and harder than ever was evident in the song's intensity. The album, 'Dead Company', is a testament to their evolution and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of rock music. What many people don't realize is that Royal Blood's success lies in their ability to blend heavy riffs with a light-footed approach, creating a unique and captivating sound.
Castle Rat's 'Dragon' was a heady fusion of Sabbathian sludge and treacly 60s/70s psychedelia, elevated by Riley 'The Rat Queen' Pinkerton's sumptuous pipes. The song's medieval fantasy camp was a refreshing change of pace, and the riffy escapism it offered was just what we needed to banish the last bits of heatwave brain fog. This track is a perfect example of how rock music can transport us to different worlds, offering an escape from the mundane.
Sari Schorr's 'Mr. In the Middle' was a killer blues rock track that put the 'rock' in blues rock. Her powerful vocals and slickened Stevie Ray Vaughan vibes kept on punching out around her, and the tasty guitar solo was a bonus. Sari's ability to blend contemporary blues with a rock edge is impressive, and this song is a testament to her skill. What this really suggests is that the fusion of blues and rock is a powerful combination, capable of creating something truly special.
Battlesnake's 'Mud Apocalypse' was a lo-fi alt rock approach that was surprisingly gentle and folky. However, the song quickly transformed into a ridiculous feast of blood-spurting, skull-crushing, and organ-squelching bravado. The band's ability to blend down-tuned riffs with Queen-glittered twin lead guitars and a level of metal-studded swashbuckling was impressive. This track is a perfect example of how rock music can be both heavy and accessible, appealing to a wide range of listeners.
These Wicked Rivers' 'Sing Another Song (feat. Kezia Gill)' was a dulcet, countrified sway that was a breath of fresh air. The band's country rock 'n' roll, with its Lynyrd Skynyrd rugs and gospelly backnotes, was a heartwarming addition to the week's lineup. The collaboration with Kezia Gill added a layer of sweetness and harmony, making the song even more captivating. This track is a perfect example of how rock music can be both diverse and relatable, appealing to a wide range of listeners.
The Sixsters' 'Can You Believe It' was a day-glo delight, an all-female Ukrainian rock band that had relocated to Essen, Germany, following the 2022 Russian invasion. The band's effervescent mix of punk rock and pop rock was a breath of fresh air, and their fifth album, 'Ghost', was a testament to their resilience and creativity. This track is a perfect example of how music can be a powerful tool for expression and unity, bringing people together in times of turmoil.
In conclusion, the week of August 17, 2026, was a testament to the enduring appeal of classic rock, with its diverse spectrum of sounds and styles. From the Def Leppard-esque Crossbone Skully to the day-glo These Wicked Rivers, each track offered a unique and captivating experience. As an editor, it's my job to highlight these gems and share them with the world, and I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to do so. From my perspective, this week's Tracks of the Week were a celebration of the genre's versatility and its ability to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
