On November 14, 2025, legendary rock band Cheap Trick released their 21st studio album, All Washed Up, marking a major milestone in their long and illustrious career. The album was the product of a year-long recording process that began earlier in 2025, and it comes at a time when many veteran bands are content to release greatest-hits compilations or retrospectives. In contrast, Cheap Trick’s decision to release fresh music highlights their ongoing commitment to artistic relevance and their refusal to rest on their legacy.
The album title, All Washed Up, may have initially suggested that the band was considering the idea of retiring or winding down. However, this release speaks volumes about their refusal to fade away quietly. Instead of retreating into nostalgic hits, Cheap Trick continues to challenge themselves and their audience, proving that they are still capable of pushing creative boundaries. The announcement of the album’s title and release came shortly after the debut of the lead single, “Twelve Gates,” which was released in August 2025 and offered fans a glimpse into the direction of the new material.
Cheap Trick has been known for their dynamic approach to rock music over the years, blending power-pop melodies with hard rock sensibilities and a touch of quirky charm. This album stays true to their roots, yet All Washed Up demonstrates the band’s ability to evolve with the times, incorporating more contemporary sounds while maintaining their signature energy and style. The music showcases their timeless ability to craft catchy hooks, memorable guitar riffs, and infectious choruses, with a modern twist that brings a fresh feel to their classic sound.
While many bands that have been around for as long as Cheap Trick may find themselves relying on their back catalog for tours and new projects, this release underscores the band’s dedication to growth and artistic innovation. All Washed Up is a celebration of their past accomplishments but also an example of how they continue to evolve. The fact that they are still releasing new music and experimenting with their sound, rather than turning solely to nostalgia, speaks to their enduring passion for the art of rock music.
For long-time fans of Cheap Trick, All Washed Up offers a satisfying blend of the familiar and the new. The album’s mix of classic Cheap Trick sounds—fast-paced rockers, catchy melodies, and upbeat tempos—along with fresh, contemporary influences shows that the band has not lost its touch. For newer listeners, it serves as an introduction to the timeless charm and excitement that has kept Cheap Trick relevant for decades.
As one of the few bands from the classic rock era still creating new material, Cheap Trick’s All Washed Up stands as a reminder that they are far from being “washed up.” Instead, it is a powerful statement about their ongoing relevance and their ability to adapt, innovate, and continue making music that resonates with both old and new generations of fans. Cheap Trick is showing that even after more than four decades in the industry, they are still going strong, continuing to make their mark on the ever-evolving rock music landscape.