1. Steel Panther – “Feel the Steel” (2009)
Steel Panther’s “Feel the Steel” is often hailed as the revival of hair metal in the 21st century. Released in 2009, the album blends humor with the quintessential hair metal sound, featuring exaggerated lyrics and virtuosic guitar solos. Tracks like “Death to All But Metal” and “Community Property” showcase the band’s ability to parody and pay homage to the genre simultaneously. This album is a must-listen for both fans of classic hair metal and newcomers to the scene.
2. Crashdïet – “Rest in Sleaze” (2005)
Crashdïet’s debut album “Rest in Sleaze” played a significant role in the resurgence of glam metal in the mid-2000s. The Swedish band combined elements of punk rock with traditional hair metal, creating a raw yet melodic sound. Standout tracks like “Riot in Everyone” and “It’s a Miracle” highlight the band’s energetic style and dedication to the glam metal ethos. Despite the tragic passing of lead vocalist Dave Lepard, the album remains a testament to the band’s impact on the genre.
3. The Darkness – “Permission to Land” (2003)
The Darkness burst onto the scene with their debut album “Permission to Land,” which captured the spirit of ’80s glam metal with a modern twist. With hits like “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” and “Love is Only a Feeling,” the album is a celebration of high-pitched vocals, flamboyant guitar riffs, and tongue-in-cheek lyrics. The band’s theatrical performances and unapologetically nostalgic sound helped rekindle interest in hair metal during the early 2000s.
4. Hardcore Superstar – “Dreamin’ in a Casket” (2007)
Swedish rockers Hardcore Superstar have been a consistent force in the glam metal scene, and “Dreamin’ in a Casket” is a standout album in their discography. Released in 2007, the album merges the swagger of hair metal with a more aggressive hard rock sound. Songs like “Medicate Me” and “Silence for the Peacefully” demonstrate the band’s knack for crafting infectious hooks and powerful riffs. This album solidified Hardcore Superstar’s reputation as leaders of the glam metal revival.
5. Reckless Love – “Animal Attraction” (2011)
Reckless Love’s “Animal Attraction” is a vibrant celebration of glam metal’s glitz and glamour. The Finnish band delivers an album filled with catchy melodies and sing-along choruses, evident in tracks like “Hot” and “Born to Break Your Heart.” Released in 2011, the album captures the essence of ’80s glam metal while adding a modern production polish. Reckless Love’s infectious energy and commitment to the genre make “Animal Attraction” a standout release.
6. Santa Cruz – “Bad Blood Rising” (2017)
Another Finnish band, Santa Cruz, made waves with their 2017 release “Bad Blood Rising.” The album showcases a heavier, more aggressive take on glam metal, with tracks like “River Phoenix” and “Young Blood Rising” highlighting the band’s dynamic sound. Santa Cruz combines powerful vocals and intricate guitar work to create an album that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. “Bad Blood Rising” is a testament to the band’s ability to push the boundaries of the genre while staying true to its roots.
7. Crazy Lixx – “New Religion” (2010)
Crazy Lixx’s “New Religion” is a prime example of modern glam metal done right. Released in 2010, the album features anthemic choruses, blistering guitar solos, and a polished production that harkens back to the genre’s heyday. Songs like “Blame It on Love” and “21 ‘Til I Die” capture the youthful exuberance and rebellious spirit of hair metal. Crazy Lixx’s dedication to the genre and their ability to craft memorable tunes make “New Religion” a must-hear for fans.
8. Wig Wam – “Wig Wamania” (2006)
Norwegian band Wig Wam gained international attention with their 2006 release “Wig Wamania.” The album is a flamboyant homage to the glam metal era, filled with bombastic tracks like “Gonna Get You Someday” and “Bless the Night.” Wig Wam’s theatrical flair and infectious energy have made them a standout act in the modern glam metal scene. “Wig Wamania” is a celebration of the genre’s larger-than-life persona and remains a fan favorite.
9. H.E.A.T – “Address the Nation” (2012)
“Address the Nation” by H.E.A.T is often considered one of the best melodic rock albums of the past decade. Released in 2012, the album features a perfect blend of AOR and glam metal, with soaring vocals and polished production. Tracks like “Living on the Run” and “Heartbreaker” showcase the band’s ability to craft catchy, radio-friendly rock anthems. H.E.A.T’s masterful songwriting and musicianship make “Address the Nation” a standout in the modern glam metal landscape.
10. L.A. Guns – “The Missing Peace” (2017)
L.A. Guns, one of the original bands from the ’80s glam metal scene, returned with a vengeance in 2017 with “The Missing Peace.” The album marked the reunion of founding members Tracii Guns and Phil Lewis, resulting in a fresh yet nostalgic sound. Songs like “Speed” and “The Flood’s the Fault of the Rain” showcase the band’s classic style, complete with gritty vocals and explosive guitar work. “The Missing Peace” is a testament to L.A. Guns’ enduring legacy and their ability to adapt to the modern music climate.
11. Kissin’ Dynamite – “Ecstasy” (2018)
Kissin’ Dynamite’s 2018 release “Ecstasy” is a high-energy album that blends glam metal with elements of modern rock. The German band delivers powerful tracks like “I’ve Got the Fire” and “You’re Not Alone,” characterized by infectious hooks and dynamic arrangements. “Ecstasy” showcases Kissin’ Dynamite’s ability to modernize the glam metal sound while maintaining its core elements. The album is a testament to the band’s talent and their contribution to keeping the genre alive and thriving.