The state of British rock in 2022

After the pandemic has disrupted the last few years of music, 2022 is set to be a strong year for British rock. With the return of Glastonbury and other festivals hitting full swing, there’s plenty of opportunity for legendary moments. On top of all this, many major UK bands are planning albums in 2022 as well. Below, we explore the British bands that will define 2022. 

Arctic Monkeys

Arctic Monkeys have been fairly quiet since releasing Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino but they are set to be one of the key British acts in 2022. The Sheffield group have announced a live European tour, plus they’re all set to headline Reading and Leeds in the summer. This is in support of a new album that should be arriving in 2022. As one of the highest profile British acts across any genre, a strong return for Alex Turner and co should leave British rock in an extremely healthy position. Arctic Monkeys vinyl is one of the most popular purchases for British rock fans, and their return should herald an exciting year. 

Wolf Alice

Wolf Alice have been one of the fastest rising British rock bands of recent years, and 2022 is set to be another huge year. After reaching number one with their 2021 album, Blue Weekend, the London band are now set to reach headliner status. With a UK and Ireland tour upcoming and a slate of festival appearances in the works, Wolf Alice are still on the rise.

Bring Me the Horizon

Elsewhere, there are other established British rock favourites who are still at the peak of their powers. Bring Me the Horizon are a key example. With a number one album in 2021, the Sheffield band are still a beloved act despite forming back in 2004.

Newcomers

There are plenty of newcomers arriving to bolster the British rock scene in 2022 as well. The Lathums managed to score a number one album with their first release, How Beautiful Life Can be. Meanwhile, fellow newcomers The Snuts, were able to follow up with similar success. With this sort of talent on the horizon, British rock looks in strong hands. 

2022 should be a big year for British rock. With the Arctic Monkeys set to headline the festival season, and successful newcomers emerging, it’s a hugely exciting time for the genre.