Bryan Adams has released his 16th studio album Roll With The Punches, his first via his own independent record label Bad Records. The album is out now on vinyl, CD, 2XCD (including acoustic bonus disc), Deluxe Boxset and digitally. Purchase / Stream here.
To mark the album release Adams has released a video filmed in Iceland for new single ‘Will We Ever Be Friends Again’.
Regarding the release Adams says, “Super excited to not only launch my 16th studio album, but also to launch it on my own label Bad Records! It’s been a minute since we released So Happy It Hurts, and so much has happened in the past couple of years, all of which has been the inspiration for Roll With The Punches. Rock on!”
We at ROCKwell Unscene Magazine had the opportunity of reviewing the album…
- Release & Independence
Roll With The Punches marks Adams’s 16th studio album and his first under his own label, Bad Records, launched in August 2024. This independence granted him full creative control over artwork, production, and distribution. It shows as the album seems less overly produced and a lot more thoughtful. However, I’d say we can use a lot less “love songs” and maybe more of my chosen fave ‘A Little more Understanding’. Just delivering a positive message about being anti-diversionary in our modern age. - Musical Content
The album swings between anthemic rock and soulful balladry, meanwhile I draw comparisons to early Gin Blossoms if I have to pin point anything it sounds like, delivering a dynamic listening experience:- Powerful rockers: “Roll With the Punches,” “How’s That Working For Ya,” “Be The Reason”
- Emotive ballads: “Life Is Beautiful,” “Will We Ever Be Friends Again”
- The title track, a charged opener, sets a tone of resilience, while “A Little More Understanding” delivers a heartfelt plea for empathy in today’s world.
Creative & Thematic Highlights
- Personal Growth Meets Artistic Freedom
This album embodies Adams’s rebirth as an independent artist—free from label constraints and reclaiming control over his legacy. He even re-recorded past hits to regain ownership, drawing parallels to Taylor Swift’s strategy.
The title track echoes this journey: “If you get knocked down, you can get back up and start over”. - Empathy in Modern Times
In “A Little More Understanding,” Adams channels a thoughtful message for turbulent times—not overtly political but urging connection and compassion. It’s honestly my pick for the album this song resonates with me in a Bob Dylan wrote a song sang by Tom Petty so it didn’t sound like warbling garbage.
Final Thoughts
Roll With The Punches successfully blends raw rock energy with reflective depth. Adams’s decision to go independent lends the album authenticity and clarity, emphasizing creative autonomy. From the gritty drive of the title track to the tender vulnerability of the ballads, the album resonates with the timeless voice fans adore.
If you’re into stirring classic‑rock with mature lyricism and emotional range, this album is a compelling must-listen.
ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES TRACK LISTING
- Roll With the Punches
- Make Up Your Mind
- Never Ever Let You Go
- A Little More Understanding
- Life Is Beautiful
- Love Is Stronger Than Hate
- How’s That Workin’ For Ya?
- Two Arms To Hold You
- Be The Reason
- Will We Ever Be Friends Again
