Weekly Roundup: BTS Comebacks, GNR World Tours & Megadeth Returns
What a week it's been for music fans around the globe. Whether you're into K-pop, classic rock, or full-on thrash metal, the last week of January 2026 has delivered some absolutely massive announcements. From BTS reuniting for their first world tour in years to Guns N' Roses hitting the road again with brand new music, there's a lot to unpack.
Grab a cuppa and let's dive into the biggest international music news of the week.
BTS Announces the Arirang World Tour for 2026-2027
Let's start with what might be the biggest news of the year so far. BTS is officially back together, and they're going global.
The K-pop superstars have announced their 5th studio album, dropping on March 20, 2026. This is their first full group album in nearly four years, and fans (ARMY, we see you) have been waiting patiently. The album features 14 tracks, with all seven members contributing their own creative input and musical expressions. According to BIGHIT MUSIC, the album contains "honest stories that BTS wants to share with ARMY" , basically a massive thank you for sticking with them.
But that's not all. The Arirang World Tour kicks off on April 9, 2026, in Goyang, South Korea, and will continue well into 2027. North American dates are already confirmed for August 2026, including stops in Baltimore (August 10–11), Arlington (August 15–16), Chicago (August 27–28), and Los Angeles.
With 79 dates planned across the globe, this is shaping up to be one of the biggest tours of the decade. Pre-orders for the album opened on January 16, so if you haven't grabbed yours yet, now's the time.
Guns N' Roses Hit the Road Again (With New Music!)
If you thought Axl, Slash, and Duff were done surprising us, think again.
Guns N' Roses have officially announced their 2026 World Tour, and they're not just playing the hits : they're bringing fresh material to the stage. The band dropped two brand new singles this month: "Nothin'" and "Atlas". Both tracks have that unmistakable GNR swagger, blending Slash's iconic riffs with Axl's signature vocal delivery.
The world tour will see them hitting arenas and stadiums across Europe, North America, South America, and beyond. While exact dates are still being finalised for some regions, early announcements have already sent fans scrambling for tickets.
For UK fans, this is especially exciting. There's been plenty of speculation about Download Festival appearances and standalone stadium shows. Keep your eyes peeled : we'll update you as soon as dates drop.
If you're planning to catch them live, you'll want to look the part. Check out the official Guns N' Roses merch at Rock Universe and rep the band properly.
Megadeth Returns with a Self-Titled Album
In thrash metal news, Megadeth have dropped a bombshell of their own.
The legendary band, led by Dave Mustaine, has released their new self-titled album : simply called Megadeth. After decades of iconic releases like Rust in Peace, Countdown to Extinction, and Dystopia, going self-titled feels like a bold statement. It's as if they're saying, "This is who we are, distilled."
Early reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans praising the album's return to classic thrash roots while still pushing the band's sound forward. Tracks like the opening ripper and the mid-album epic have already become fan favourites.
For those who've been following Megadeth since the 80s (or discovered them through a mate's old cassette collection), this album feels like a celebration of everything the band stands for. Heavy riffs, technical precision, and lyrics that make you think.
More Metal Tours You Need to Know About
It's not just the legacy acts making waves this week. The metal and rock touring circuit is absolutely stacked for 2026.
Lorna Shore
Deathcore giants Lorna Shore continue their meteoric rise with another round of tour dates. After their breakthrough over the past few years, the band has become one of the most talked-about acts in heavy music. Expect intense performances, Will Ramos's insane vocal range, and pits that go absolutely mental.
Behemoth
Polish blackened death metal legends Behemoth are also hitting the road. Nergal and the boys never disappoint when it comes to stage production and sheer sonic brutality. If you've never seen them live, 2026 might be your year.
Rob Zombie & Marilyn Manson Co-Headliner
Here's one that's got everyone talking. Rob Zombie and Marilyn Manson are teaming up for a co-headlining tour. Two of the most theatrical, visually stunning performers in rock history sharing a bill? It's going to be a spectacle.
Both artists are known for their over-the-top stage shows, so expect pyro, elaborate costumes, and setlists packed with bangers. Whether you're a Hellbilly Deluxe fan or you grew up on Antichrist Superstar, this tour is a must-see.
System of a Down & Queens of the Stone Age Spring Tour
And if that wasn't enough, System of a Down and Queens of the Stone Age have announced a joint spring tour.
SOAD have been relatively quiet on the new music front, but their live shows remain absolutely legendary. Songs like "Chop Suey!", "Toxicity", and "B.Y.O.B." hit just as hard today as they did when they first dropped. Serj Tankian's voice, Daron Malakian's riffs : it's a combination that never gets old.
Pairing them with QOTSA is a stroke of genius. Josh Homme and company bring a completely different energy : groovy, heavy, and impossibly cool. Together, these two bands create a lineup that appeals to rock fans of all stripes.
Tour dates are expected to cover major cities across North America and Europe, with festival appearances likely as well. If these two are playing anywhere near you, do whatever it takes to get tickets.
Time to Refresh Your Merch Collection
With all these tours on the horizon, there's never been a better time to update your wardrobe.
Whether you're repping Guns N' Roses at a stadium show, throwing on your favourite Megadeth tee for the album release, or gearing up for a summer of festivals, having the right merch matters. And let's be honest : there's nothing worse than showing up to a gig in a dodgy bootleg.
At Rock Universe, we stock official rock and metal merchandise from all your favourite bands. From classic designs to the latest tour gear, we've got you covered.
👉 Browse official rock merch at Rock Universe
What's Next?
January 2026 is wrapping up with a bang, but the year is just getting started. We're expecting more tour announcements, surprise album drops, and plenty of festival lineups to dissect in the coming weeks.
Make sure you're following Rock Universe for all the latest music news, merch drops, and insider tips on how to score tickets to the hottest shows.
Got thoughts on this week's news? Excited for a particular tour? Drop us a message : we love hearing from fellow music fans.
Until next week, keep it loud. 🤘