[2026] A roundup of classic UK rock songs: from the latest tracks to timeless staples!

Ad Astra (Feat. ‪Graham Coxon‬)Ash

ASH – Ad Astra (Feat. @grahamcoxon) (Official Video)

Ash, the rock band from Northern Ireland.

Since forming in 1992, they’ve explored a wide range of sounds from Britpop to pop-punk, and in October 2025 they’re releasing their ninth studio album, Ad Astra.

The title track features Blur’s guitarist Graham Coxon, whose distinctive guitar work and vocals add depth to the piece.

With a soundscape that evokes cosmic grandeur and emotionally charged guitars driving the track, it marks a new frontier for a band with over 30 years of career behind them.

Highly recommended if you’re craving a straight-ahead rock sound.

Which One Do You Want?Ash

ASH – Which One Do You Want? (Official Video)

Ash, the Northern Irish rock band that blazed through the Britpop scene of the 1990s and still commands a devoted following—having hit No.

1 in the UK with their 2001 classic Free All Angels—have just released this pop number ahead of their album Ad Astra, due out in October 2025.

The track is a confident piece the drummer calls “the perfect pop song,” a long-shelved idea that didn’t fit past records but has finally found its form.

Over shimmering, floaty, hope-filled guitars, you’ll find a poignant melody that sings of longing.

It also boasts a star-studded lineup with Blur’s Graham Coxon contributing guitar and vocals, and it’s the perfect song for when you want to lighten your mood.

PorcupineSparks

Porcupine

Sparks, the brotherly duo active since 1971.

While it’s easy to focus on their idiosyncratic performances unlike those of typical bands, they’re also well-versed across all genres and consistently release highly original songs.

In May 2025, they reached No.

2 on the UK charts with their album MAD!, and now they’re extending that momentum with a new EP, MADDER!.

The track here is its lead single.

It’s a quintessential Sparks killer tune, unfolding from an organ-led verse into a heavy guitar-powered chorus.

The lyrics—about being irresistibly drawn to a woman as prickly as a hedgehog—offer a delightfully twisted take on affection.

If you love dramatic pop, be sure to check it out!

Hold On TightElectric Light Orchestra

Electric Light Orchestra – Hold On Tight (Official Video)

It is included on the 1981 album “Time.” They are a trio that began activity in 1970.

They gained popularity for their unique musical style, incorporating full orchestral arrangements into a rock sound and using synthesizers.

Since phrases from this song have been used on television, I think many people have heard it.

(Wish I Could Fly Like) SupermanThe Kinks

The Kinks – (Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman [Official Audio]

When you hear “the most quintessentially British band,” which group comes to mind? The Kinks are a defining act of the UK rock scene, and today we’re spotlighting their distinctive foray into disco rock.

This track is a thrilling number that cheekily answers the record label’s request for “a song that works in clubs,” filtered through the band’s own wit.

Its driving four-on-the-floor beat intertwined with crisp, choppy rock guitar riffs practically forces your hips to move.

Delve into the lyrics and you’ll find the protagonist’s grumblings as he wavers between hero-worship and harsh reality—exactly the kind of irony that showcases Ray Davies at his best.

Released as a single in January 1979, it reached No.

41 on the U.S.

charts.

It’s perfect for dancing at a party while savoring the deeper message beneath the groove.

Not Like The RestGIRLBAND!

GIRLBAND! – Not Like The Rest (Official Music Video)

Girlband, a band currently drawing attention on the UK rock scene.

Hailing from Nottingham, they deliver indie punk that combines the punch reminiscent of riot grrrl with a pop sensibility.

Among their releases, the one you should definitely hear is their debut single, released in February 2024.

It channels feelings of alienation in a small town and the struggle to find one’s true self, sung over a powerful sound.

The catchy, sing-along chorus is also striking.

The music video featuring actor Bella Ramsey has become a hot topic as well.

It’s an anthem that lifts up anyone who’s ever felt out of place or longed to embrace who they are.

Hippie SunshineKasabian

Kasabian – Hippie Sunshine (Official Visualiser)

Kasabian, one of the bands that define the UK rock scene, command overwhelming popularity, with seven of their eight albums to date hitting No.

1 on the UK charts.

Even after a change in frontman, they continue to evolve, and they’ve now released a lead single from their forthcoming album Act III, due in September 2025.

As songwriter Sergio Pizzorno puts it, the record reflects his rediscovered love for the guitar, blending fuzz-drenched, hard-hitting riffs with a psychedelic groove.

Lyrically, it explores a contemporary mindset that seeks escape from reality through fleeting pleasures, while hinting at the emptiness that lies beneath.

The band has also announced the largest show of their career, and this track delivers a powerful sound that embodies that momentum.