Aggressive road bikes are still available, but it seems from the explosion of gravel bikes that the cyclists want something a bit more relaxed.
https://www.cyclingnews.com/features...aping-cycling/
I use my road bike only when I want to prioritize speed over comfort (keeping up with groups, etc) or when I want to leave it somewhere (it's my cheapest bike), and my gravel bike for everything else. It's just the better all rounder for my fat ass.