Guns N’ Roses, one of rock’s most iconic bands, recently released two new singles titled “Nothing” and “Atlas.”

These tracks, however, have sparked mixed reactions among fans and critics alike, raising questions about the band’s creative direction more than a decade after their last full album, *Chinese Democracy* (2008).

In a detailed review and reaction video, music commentator Johnny Z, known as the CD Guy, shared his thoughts on these songs and the broader implications for Guns N’ Roses in 2025.

The anticipation for new Guns N’ Roses music has been ongoing for years.

*Chinese Democracy* was released in November 2008 after a famously protracted and troubled production.

Now, in December 2025, the band has released “Nothing” and “Atlas,” which are not exactly new compositions but rather reworked demos from the *Chinese Democracy* era or even earlier.

Johnny Z points out that despite the band’s reunion with original members Duff McKagan and Slash in 2016, they have yet to produce genuinely new material.

Instead, the band has been mining the vault of *Chinese Democracy* leftovers, polishing and releasing tracks that were once considered “holy grails” of that album’s sessions.

This slow drip of rehashed material has left fans wondering if Guns N’ Roses can still innovate or if they are stuck in a creative rut.

Among the two new releases, “Nothing” stands out as the stronger track.

Originally leaked as a rough demo in 2019, “Nothing” features contributions from former drummer Brain alongside Slash and Duff, with some vocals that may be from older recordings of Axl Rose.

Musically, “Nothing” feels like a hybrid between the sound of *Chinese Democracy* and the band’s earlier *Use Your Illusion* era.

It carries a laid-back vibe with a cool, somewhat strange atmosphere that sets it apart.

Johnny Z praises Slash’s guitar solo as one of his best in years, which elevates the song significantly.

While the lyrics may not be groundbreaking, the overall composition and performance make “Nothing” a welcome addition to the Guns N’ Roses catalog and a potential live show highlight.

In contrast, “Atlas,” previously known as “Atlas Shrugged,” fails to impress.

The track was also leaked years ago and features a more disjointed structure and forced feel.

Notably, Queen guitarist Brian May had contributed a solo to one version of this song during the *Chinese Democracy* sessions, but this release features Slash and Duff without May’s involvement.

Johnny Z finds “Atlas” lacking in cohesion and flow, making it a weaker offering compared to “Nothing.” Fans who have followed the demo versions may prefer those earlier leaks, as the official release does not add much new or exciting.

Overall, “Atlas” feels like an afterthought rather than a standout single.

Beyond the individual songs, the reviewer highlights a significant concern: Guns N’ Roses’ apparent reluctance or inability to create new music from scratch.

Despite the band’s undeniable talent—especially Duff and Slash, who have proven their songwriting capabilities outside of Guns N’ Roses—the band continues to rely on decades-old demos.

This approach not only disappoints fans eager for fresh material but also raises questions about the band’s future.

The nostalgia factor can only carry a band so far, and without new creative input, Guns N’ Roses risks becoming a legacy act stuck in the past rather than a living, evolving band.

Johnny Z offers a ranking of the *Chinese Democracy* leftovers that have been officially released over the years, placing “Nothing” at the top as the best of the bunch.

Following are “Hard School,” “Atlas,” “Absurd,” and “The General,” with “The General” ranked lowest due to muddy production that sapped much of its original energy.

This ranking underscores how the quality of these leftover tracks varies, and while some have merit, none have truly revitalized the band’s sound or image.

The review reflects a common sentiment among Guns N’ Roses fans: they are not expecting another *Appetite for Destruction* but do want the band to create music that reflects their current chemistry and talent.

The hope is for the band to move beyond repackaging old demos and start writing new songs that showcase their growth and maturity.

Slash has teased a new album, but skepticism remains high. Fans and critics alike want to see evidence of genuine creative effort rather than recycled material.

The band’s continued success will likely depend on their ability to innovate and produce compelling new music.

The release of “Nothing” and “Atlas” serves as a reminder of Guns N’ Roses’ complex legacy.

While “Nothing” offers a glimpse of what the band can still achieve, “Atlas” exemplifies the pitfalls of relying too heavily on the past.

As Guns N’ Roses moves into 2026, the challenge will be to break free from the shadow of *Chinese Democracy* and deliver fresh, original music that honors their legendary status while embracing the present.

For now, fans can appreciate “Nothing” as a strong addition to the band’s repertoire, but the call for new, original songs remains loud and clear.

The hope is that the band will heed this call and return to the studio with a renewed creative spirit.