[2026] A roundup of the best UK bands, featuring many up-and-coming acts!

Hey DudeKula Shaker

Kula Shaker – Hey Dude

A track marked by rhythmic cutting and a somewhat ritualistic vocal line.

It’s one of the band’s signature songs and appears on their 1996 debut album.

The vocalist, Crispian Mills, is also known for his deep interest in Indian music.

Their unique style, reminiscent of George Harrison’s solo work, is recommended not only for rock fans but also for prog enthusiasts.

RelaxFrankie Goes To Hollywood

Frankie Goes to Hollywood – Relax (original version)

Frankie Goes to Hollywood, who shot straight to number one on the UK charts with their debut single “Relax,” continued to release powerful, distinctive hits afterward.

This song has been used in commercials and films, so some of you may have heard it, but the band’s musical style is undeniably compelling.

Here I Go AgainWhitesnake

Whitesnake – Here I Go Again ’87 (Official Music Video)

This is a band formed mainly by vocalist David, who left Deep Purple.

They first released this song in the UK in 1982, but it didn’t become a hit.

When it was released again in 1987, perhaps thanks to the heavy metal boom in the United States, it reached No.

1 and achieved great success.

Sky Highjigsaw

Sky High / Jigsaw / Lyrics. Actually a heartbreak song: 'Blown it all sky high' ... to blow it up into the sky [shatter it into pieces].

It’s a song released in 1975 by the British band Jigsaw.

It was created as the theme song for the film Sky High starring Jimmy Wang, which was released in the same year.

In 1982, it was also used in a commercial for the Toyota LiteAce Wagon.

Last Train HomeLostprophets

LOSTPROPHETS – Last Train Home

Lostprophets are a six-piece band from Wales.

Since forming in 1997, they gained popularity for their wide-ranging sound from alternative metal to nu metal.

Following their 2000 debut album, Thefakesoundofprogress, they lit up the UK charts, with signature songs like Last Train Home and Rooftops reaching the Top 10.

Their prowess was widely recognized, including six Kerrang! Awards.

The album Liberation Transmission, released in June 2006, hit No.

1 on the UK Albums Chart.

They have also been highly regarded in Japan, with emotive melodies and a heavy sound as their appeal.

They’re a band I’d highly recommend to anyone interested in UK rock.

Sliding DoorsBoston Manor

Boston Manor – Sliding Doors (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

Boston Manor, formed in 2013 in Blackpool, England, captivates with a distinctive sound that blends alternative rock, grunge, and pop punk.

They debuted with the album “Be Nothing.” in 2016 and drew attention for their intense live performances.

Steadily building their career, they were nominated for Best Newcomer at the Kerrang! Awards in 2018.

Their songs, which weave themes of youth anxiety and social critique into the lyrics, resonate with people living in the modern era.

Actively pursuing international activities—including appearances on the Vans Warped Tour—Boston Manor is a recommended band for those drawn to down-to-earth lyrics and a powerful sound.

Bitter Sweet SymphonyThe Verve

The Verve – Bitter Sweet Symphony

This song, which became a major hit for The Verve, won the Best British Album at the Brit Awards.

The intro feels classical, then naturally transitions into a rock style, giving the piece a cohesive, fully realized quality.