Over the past month or so, tons of new music has graced my ears. Here are some of my recent favorites, in no particular order, that I think might stand out to you as well!
Japanese Breakfast – For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)
A lugubrious reintroduction for the beloved indie pop and rock band full of poignant lyricism and galvanic experimentation. The Michelle Zauner fronted project returns for their fourth and most reflective effort to date.
Elements of what made their past records like Jubilee and Soft Sounds from Another Planet so great are here in strides, along with a stronger emphasis on electric guitars, lush production and Zauner’s poetic and nuanced writing. A breeze of a listen with a lot to chew on.
Tracks to try: “Mega Circuit,” “Honey Water,” “Picture Window”
Bon Iver & Danielle Haim – “If Only I Could Wait”
Bon Iver’s long-awaited fifth studio album has slowly become one of my most anticipated releases of the year. Promising singles like “Everything Is Peaceful Love” and “Walk Home” have kept me excited, but “If Only I Could Wait” has me wondering if we’re in for another masterpiece.
Cementing itself as one of my favorite songs of the year so far, this track has everything I love about Bon Iver. From the subtle yet entrancing electronic production to front man Justin Vernon’s stellar vocal layering, it moves me every time. Lead HAIM sister Danielle is just the cherry on top of this beautiful track that I hope hasn’t set my expectations too high for fABLE. I shouldn’t worry though.
Bartees Strange – Horror
One of my personal favorites in the current indie rock scene returns for his third album, this time taking inspiration from horror films and expanding his musical palette as much as possible. Part of me still prefers the immediacy and rawness of Strange’s previous work, yet Horror keeps you on your toes its entire runtime with daring shifts and intriguing motives.
Tracks to try: “Wants Needs,” “Lovers,” “Norf Gun”
Rebecca Black – Salvation
The viral “Friday” girl isn’t just a meme anymore, she’s a full-fledged artist. Rebecca Black has been killing it in the alt-pop scene for years now and Salvation might be her best showing yet.
While on the brief side, this record doesn’t waste your time with daring electro and hyperpop bangers full of revving production and memorable songwriting. Black continues to show the makings of a true popstar.
Tracks to try: “Do You Even Think About Me?,” “Salvation,” “TRUST!”
Jane Remover – “Dancing with your eyes closed”
Queen of the underground Jane Remover only continues to experiment and outdo herself and this new track is no different. From the more digicore and pop leanings of Frailty to the shoegaze opus Census Designated, who knows what this new album will really sound like.
“Dancing with your eyes closed” is truly a sign of greatness though. Moving more towards what she was doing on her beloved debut Frailty with even more charisma, bite and danceability, this track is another contender for my favorite song of the year so far and a solid sign for what’s to come on Jane’s third outing.
clipping. – Dead Channel Sky
The Daveed Diggs fronted experimental hip-hop trio return for their first album in nearly five years. This time the group homed in on a more EDM and breakbeat inspired sound and the results are nothing short of inventive and immaculate.
Tracks to try: “Ask What Happened,” “Dominator,” “Keep Pushing”
Kyle M – The Real Me
Yes, the M does stand for Mooney. Comedian and SNL alum Kyle Mooney makes his musical debut on this hilarious yet quaint little record. It might not work for everyone but if you’re a fan of Mooney’s comedic style at all, I don’t doubt you’ll find something to love about this.
Tracks to try: “California Summer,” “Digital Society,” “The Real Me”
Lady Gaga – MAYHEM
Gaga makes her long-awaited return with style, sheen and poise on this futuristic throwback and grandiose party of a record. Honestly I don’t think I need to say much else, you know this diva.
Tracks to try: “Shadow of a Man,” “Killah,” “How Bad Do U Want Me”
Faves Playlist: 2025 (Spotify)
