BY: Alexis Eichelberger

Who said rock and roll is dead? In 2020, it’s making a huge comeback. Some of our favorite groups whose formative years happened decades ago are returning to the mainstream with new music, tour dates and more.

Here are five rock groups making big moves this year:

Rage Against the Machine

After an eight-year hiatus, the political metal group is having a major moment. Rage Against the Machine announced in November 2019 that it’s embarking on its first full-length world tour in two decades. It will take them to some of the biggest stages in the world from late March into September. The group is slated to headline both weekends at Coachella in April and will appear at other festivals, including Reading and Leeds and Lollapalooza Berlin. 

Tool

Last year, the progressive rock band known for its otherworldly soundscapes released its first new music in 13 years. The title track for the long-awaited album, Fear Inoculum, earned the group a Grammy nomination, along with “7empest” which scored Tool the award for Best Metal Performance in January. The group is currently in the midst of a North American tour, which will include a headlining performance at Bonnaroo in June.

Red Hot Chili Peppers

One of our favorite 90’s California rock groups made headlines in January when it confirmed that legendary guitarist John Frusciante would be returning to the band once again. In that same interview, drummer Chad Smith also confirmed that the Red Hot Chili Peppers would release a new album this year. There’s no release date yet, but we’ve got plenty to look forward to from them in 2020, including Frusciante’s first performances with the group in 13 years.

Foo Fighters

Though the Foo Fighters we know and love have been around, 2020 is lining up to be a big year for them. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the group’s debut album, and to celebrate, they’re embarking on a special anniversary tour. Dave Grohl also recently confirmed that the group’s 10th studio album is complete and will be out before the official anniversary, which falls on July 4.

Pearl Jam

Seven years after it released its last album, Pearl Jam is back this year with new music. In January, the group announced its 11th album. Gigaton drops on March 27, 2020, and will be accompanied by tours throughout Europe and North America. Two singles have already charted on the Billboard Hot Rock Songs chart, with “Dance of the Clairvoyants,” peaking at number 3.