Freeroad – The Sound of Pure, Feel-Good Heavy Rock

We’re sticking to the fun, feel-good side of metal with Mexico’s Freeroad—a heavy rock/70s revival band on Dying Victims Productions. Formed by ex-members of Mexican speed/heavy metal band Thunderslave, Freeroad’s been around since 2018 and dropped their debut album Do What You Feel in 2023. The album cover’s got this bare-all, carefree guy doing a joyful leap on a “free road” with rocky mountains in the backdrop, totally summing up what the album’s all about. freedom, doing what you feel, and playing music that embodies that vibe.

Drawing from the sounds of UFO, Riot, Praying Mantis, and other 70s/80s legends, Freeroad also channels some newer names in the revival scene like Flight, Freeways, Night, and Hällas. They’re part of this , what I call, "New Wave of 70s Rock Revival", delivering songs that blend NWOBHM influences with heavy rock’s signature swagger. Do What You Feel brings back that energy with one of the best sleeper albums of 2023, thanks to its lively, melodic riffs, slightly hazy and reverbed vocals, and that raw, DIY-style production that feels so rare and refreshing. The solos have a distinct flair next to the riffs, making you feel like you’re listening to early 80s gems like Praying Mantis’s Cheated, but with a modern edge that feels totally natural.

When you play tracks like “Do What You Feel” and “Rock Chaser,” you get hit with bangers that are just plain fun. They have the kind of riffing and solos that feel nostalgic yet fresh, showing Freeroad has nailed the balance of classic and modern. And it’s not just about bringing back the 70s sound for its own sake—it’s about channeling that vibe of good times, spontaneity, and melodic rock hooks that keep you coming back for more. They make you feel like you’re driving down a road with the volume cranked, tapping along to the NWOBHM influences while still hearing something new.

But Freeroad’s style isn’t all straightforward; they mix things up in ways that keep you hooked. Take “Movin’ On,” a faster track than the rest, adding this subtle progression as the album moves along. Or check out “Liar,” which catches you off-guard with jazzy, proggy twists, tempo changes, and this deeply soulful solo you’d never expect from an album like this. It’s a track that blends a surprising amount of genres, sounding so natural while showing off their range without compromising that laid-back, feel-good vibe.

This album wasn’t meant to reinvent the wheel but to bring an album that’s solid, fun, and just pure heavy rock energy. Don’t expect high-pitched or over-the-top vocals—Freeroad sticks to a smooth, confident approach that still packs a punch. This is music for anyone who loves a good throwback but doesn’t want to feel like they’re just hearing something recycled. It’s for those who want some laid-back metal that’s perfect for a road trip or just kicking back and enjoying a drink.

And what a shame it is that more people haven’t heard this album. Do What You Feel is seriously underrated, one of those records that came out quietly but deserves a spotlight. I’ve talked to so many people who don’t know it exists, which blows my mind because it’s packed with some of the best songs and solos of the year. Everyone who loves this brand of rock should give it a spin, and here’s hoping that Freeroad comes over to Europe for a tour, because hearing this live would be a trip worth taking.

Freeroad - "Do What You Feel"

Hey man...Do What You Feel! But I really recommend checking this out, it's super fun.