Editors' Picks

One of my favourite artists, Amber Mark, just released a new song called “Sweet Serotonin”. While I’m excited about this new track, my all-time favourite by her is still her performance of “Most Men” on “A COLORS SHOW”. It’s truly something special. Amber has already achieved so much musically, and if this latest release is any sign, there’s plenty more to come.

The artist April recently released a full album, and among its highlights is the track “Axe To Grind”. While I’m focusing on this one song, I’d highly recommend giving the entire album a listen — it’s worth your time.

On July 11th, Justin Bieber released his latest album, Swag. I wanted to share a quick appreciation for the track “Daisies” — a song that had me wanting to sing along and learn the melody faster than almost anything I’ve heard.

This incredible lineup of artists has come together on a new track called “Mind Loaded.” Blood Orange is the main creative force here, and as always, he finds inventive ways to bring collaborators into his world. As a group, this collective feels remarkably versatile. Their musicality seems to resonate across different styles and sensibilities, which speaks volumes about their own artistic brilliance.

The Black Keys have just released a new track called “On Repeat” — and yes, I’ve already taken the title literally. I’ve had it looping just to see if something hidden clicks into place.

There was a certain poetry in watching Richard Ashcroft take the stage before Oasis this past Saturday. It served as a reminder of when the two forces last shared a bill back in 1997 at Earls Court, during the height of the Britpop era. Nearly three decades later, Ashcroft returned as the perfect support act for Oasis’s much-anticipated UK stadium tour, and not just for reasons of nostalgia.

It finally happened. Oasis, together again in Manchester, and somehow, they sounded better than ever.

After a series of breakups and reunions, Wednesday is back with big news: a new album is on the way. In the meantime, they've gifted us two new tracks — one of them being Elderberry Wine. It’s a pretty song, to the point of almost feeling indulgent. But there’s something in the gently twanging guitars and Katy’s tender vocals that makes it undeniably captivating.

Hayden Pedigo is an artist worth appreciating, not just as a musician, but as a character. Besides being a Gucci model and once mockingly running for city council, he has a flair for the eccentric. One of his music videos parodies those awkward old DVD guitar tutorials. And when he’s not dressed like an exaggerated cartoon cowboy, he exudes a nerdy, clumsy charm, a kind of cowboy-ish Michael Cera.

There’s nothing particularly unusual or strikingly different about Sinister Grift compared to Panda Bear’s previous releases. And yet, I’ve found myself returning to this album several times, even after I had all the notes I needed for this piece. I mention this because, despite my love for Animal Collective, Panda Bear’s solo work has always been something of a hard pill for me.

Published in 2004, Madvillainy quickly became one of the most anticipated and revered albums in underground rap history. Its legend only grew after early demos leaked ahead of the official release, igniting a wave of speculation and anxiety among fans. With two of the most iconic figures in underground hip-hop at the helm—Madlib and MF DOOM—the album’s mythos has only deepened over the years.

For years, fans—and Bruce himself—have whispered about the existence of unreleased material. Hopes ran especially high after the first installment of Tracks in 1988, which featured a staggering 66 songs: B-sides, alternate takes, and long-shelved recordings. Thirty-five years later, Tracks II has finally arrived, and it’s even bigger, boasting 82 tracks. But this time, the difference is striking—not just scattered outtakes, but entire unreleased albums finally seeing the light of day.

The group aespa has released a new track titled “Dirty Work.”

I was not so sure how to begin this review. Do It Afraid, Yaya Bey’s latest release, spans 18 tracks, and each one feels so distinct that any sweeping generalization—any tidy opener—seems bound to miss the point.

Oorutaichi remains one of the most singular, unpredictable, and joyously strange musical propositions I’ve ever encountered. He’s innovative not just as a composer, but also as a singer, producer, and sound designer. And yet, despite all that, you’d be hard-pressed to find much media coverage on him. Which is why I’m taking full advantage of this beautiful space here at Music Talkers to offer a broad overview of his discography, suggest how and why you should dive in, and share a quick update on his most recent work.

Alex G has just released a new song called “June Guitar” — a warm, breezy preview of his upcoming album Headlights, which drops in just 17 days. With only a few hours left in June and a beautiful early summer night unfolding, it feels like the perfect time to give this track a listen while it still fits the mood.

The artist Absolutely has just released a new two-track single called “I Just Don’t Know You Yet,” and I have to say—I don’t think I’ve ever heard anything quite like it. It feels like pieces from different genres have been woven together to create something truly unique and beautiful in its own right. Let’s dive in.

Most of the time, when I'm chasing down new talents or stories to write about here, I do so without a clear agenda. There’s rarely a fixed expectation—just the hope that something will unsettle me in the right way. Occasionally, the figures I bring here are being praised to the heavens by critics I respect, written up in places with a lot of reach. And yet, even when their work doesn’t quite stir me, I still feel compelled to present them. Because being a music critic, if it means anything at all, is about listening in good faith—for that elusive frequency that might vibrate someone else’s soul if heard with the correct disposition of the heart, even if that song doesn't resonate with me personally.

Bellah Mae has released a fiery new track titled “Sting”, featured as part of a two-piece single alongside “Bad Day To Be My Ex.” Listening to “Sting” reminds me that music, at its core, is about having fun — and Bellah Mae sounds like she already knows that. She knows how to write a catchy top line, and she knows you’re going to like it. Honestly, she doesn’t need this review — but I’m writing it anyway.

GRAMMY-winning rock duo Twenty One Pilots are back—and they’re bringing the heat. Today, the band dropped “The Contract,” the explosive first single from their upcoming album Breach, due September 2025 via Fueled By Ramen. Alongside the new track, they’ve also announced THE CLANCY TOUR: BREACH 2025, a sprawling North American headline tour that kicks off September 18 in Cincinnati, OH.

The band Airbourne has released a new track called “GUTSY.” This is a big moment for the group, as it marks their first release in six years. The track is full of energy and reminds me a bit of AC/DC. I have to admit, I don’t listen to rock very often. That either makes me the worst or the best person to be writing about this particular song. In any case, let’s talk about “GUTSY”.

Cate Le Bon has released a song called “Heaven Is No Feeling.” I had never listened to her before, but I’m glad this track introduced me to her world. From the first few seconds, the music feels otherworldly—like stepping into someone else’s dream.

I’m checking in on Alexander Stewart and his latest release, “Here Again.” He’s one of those artists I return to every now and then—just to see what’s happening in the pop scene. If you’re not familiar, Alexander is the Canadian singer-songwriter behind streaming hits like “blame’s on me” and “I wish you cheated.”

While fans await the release of their upcoming album Double Infinity, Big Thief has offered a taste of what’s to come with a new single titled “Incomprehensible.” As someone who’s spent a lot of time immersed in Big Thief’s music, I’m always struck by their ability to evoke nostalgia for songs I’ve never heard before. Their sound choices consistently blend into a melancholic, beautiful soundscape that feels both timeless and freshly personal.

Alfa Mist returns with a new two-track single, featuring “Avoid The Drones” and “9 Months,” and it’s everything fans have come to expect — understated, emotional, and deeply musical.

Addison Rae, one of today’s rising pop queens, has just released a new track titled “Fame is a Gun,” and it’s no surprise that it hits the mark. The sounds blend so seamlessly that the song feels like it always existed—like a pop artifact pulled from the future. There’s a cold, assertive edge to it that’s captivating. At first listen, it reminded me of classic Linkin Park reimagined into a sleek, four-on-the-floor pop anthem. Regardless of comparisons, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this track, and I believe Addison deserves to keep climbing the charts.

As the days get longer and the mood gets lighter, Zac Brown Band is stepping in with a track that feels tailor-made for summer’s easy pace. The GRAMMY-winning group announced that their new single, “I Ain’t Worried About It,” arrives Friday, June 6 — and we managed to catch an early listen.

Aminé has recently dropped a new track called “Feels So Good,” and once again, I’m hyped.

4EVE is a Thai girl group, and they’ve recently dropped a new track called “LIKE YOU.”

Alessi Rose has released a new track called “Same Mouth,” and it immediately feels like it belongs in the current landscape of well-loved alt-pop and pop-punk. That said, Alessi brings her own spin to the sound. After a few listens, it’s clear you don’t need to reinvent the wheel to create something beautiful. “Same Mouth” feels free-spirited and emotionally open—like letting go of something that’s been holding you back. That feeling really comes through in the chorus and bridge.

GIVĒON has released a new song called “RATHER BE.” I haven’t really listened to him before—or at least, not with full attention. But now that I’m tuning in properly, the first thing that strikes me is: good god, what a voice.

AJ Tracey has just released a new track called “Paid In Full.” I’ve never really dived into his catalog before, but I know he’s collaborated with artists I enjoy, like Giggs and Jorja Smith.

1tbsp has just released a new track called “Isso,” and right from the jump, there's so much to love. It’s been a while since I’ve felt so genuinely puzzled—in the best way—by a piece of music. I don’t fully understand what’s happening in this track, and that’s part of what makes it so exciting. Its uniqueness is undeniable, and there are so many fascinating elements to explore—so let’s dive in.

Aminé has just dropped a new track called “Vacay”, and based on the title alone, I already like the direction it’s headed. The beat is full of energy—it reminds me of something Channel Tres might produce, but with a cleaner, less murky sound. I’ve always loved when rap and hip hop lean into that four-on-the-floor rhythm; it gives the track momentum and makes it instantly danceable.

Dope Lemon recently dropped a really cool track called “She’s All Time”, featured on his latest album Golden Wolf. The song feels effortlessly pure, paired with a fun, bubbly music video that matches its vibe perfectly. I can totally see this one landing on plenty of summer playlists.

Cosima Olu has just released a new song titled “Ocean”—and you should definitely give it a listen. Here are a few quick reasons why:

BADBADNOTGOOD, or BBNG, has just released a new track called “Found A Light”—and it’s packed with beautiful, subtle moments. One of the best parts? The spotlight they’ve given to featured vocalist V.C.R. It’s refreshing to see a band of BBNG’s stature fully credit and elevate the singers they collaborate with. V.C.R might still be considered indie, but she’s already made some waves on her own. Here, though, she truly shines—her voice is top-tier, and it’s easy to understand why BBNG chose to work with her.

Ed Sheeran recently released a new song titled “Old Phone,” the second single from his upcoming album Play, following “Azizam.” I’ve been listening to Ed since he put out “Lego House” and all those other early hits. I’m not going to pretend I discovered him before he got big—I didn’t. But “Old Phone” is yet another great piece from one of the all-time greatest songwriters.

Just recently, Green Day dropped a new track called “Ballyhoo.” I’m writing this review as someone who used to scream the lyrics to “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” and play “Basket Case” covers on my electric guitar. So yes—I’m definitely open to hearing anything Green Day has to offer. They've already earned my lifelong attention.

Following my review of Addison Rae’s “Headphones On,” I’m now turning to Alex Isley and her latest release, “Mic On.” Not to take anything away from either of those tracks, but I guess this week artists really want us to turn things on and put stuff on.

When I look at the cover art for Alex Porat’s new track “Better Than That,” it kind of looks like she’s on her way somewhere—while also striking a fabulous pose. I’m not sure how that image would translate into audio, and since I’ve never heard anything from Alex Porat before, I’m excited to find out.

PinkPantheress recently released a new track titled “Tonight,” and I only just got around to listening. So, although I’m a bit late to the ball—here we go.

Addison Rae has released a new song called “Headphones On.” I am, in fact, wearing headphones, Addison—and I’m ready.

Two artists I will forever love, no matter what anyone says, are T-Pain and Kesha. So when Kesha teamed up with T-Pain for her new track “YIPPEE-KI-YAY,” I knew I had to check it out. I enjoyed both versions—with and without T-Pain—but let’s be real, he never stops delivering vocals, so his version is the one I’ll be playing on repeat.

Ari Lennox has released a new track titled “Soft Girl Era.” At first glance, the cover art led me to expect something in the realm of Ariana Grande—a light, bubbly pop sound. While the track does have fun, airy vocals, it also carries a deep, gritty melodic foundation that caught me off guard in the best way. The production is warm and layered, featuring cowbells, trap claps, heavy bass, and a subtle funk influence that shines through in both the vocals and instrumentation. There are even some unexpected details, like a choir adding richness to the sound—and if you listen closely around 1:50, you can even hear a cat meowing in the background.

As part of her Eternal Sunshine Deluxe album, Ariana Grande has released a track titled “Hampstead.” This review focuses solely on this song, but I highly encourage you to check out the other tracks from the deluxe edition as well—they're great!

Jacob Alon has just released a new song called Don’t Fall Asleep. And to be honest, I almost did—not out of boredom, but because the song is so soothing it naturally invites relaxation. Don’t Fall Asleep is an indie/folk/pop track with a classic set of instruments, complemented by an atmospheric pad that lingers in the background. The guitar plucks through slightly unusual chord progressions, strings add warmth, and the drums propel the song forward like a steady steam locomotive.

The indie rock trio HAIM has just released a new song titled “Relationships.” The track has an innocent, nostalgic feel that reminds me a bit of an old John Mayer love song—not a specific one, but more in the way HAIM phrases their melodies. As a longtime listener, I think this song is a great representation of the band. HAIM often experiments with sounds, song structures, and vocal melodies, yet they always manage to make their music feel familiar and inviting.

Frankie Grande has recently dropped an EDM banger called “Rhythm of Love.” The music video is dark and moody, featuring exactly what the title suggests—rhythm, love, and a whole lot of energy. From the very first beat, the song grabs you with its high-energy production. But what really sets it apart is a major switch-up that completely transforms the track from what you initially expect. The visuals follow suit, shifting from a murky dance club to a gymnastics/disco set, then to a dressing room, and finally, a full-blown theater performance.

The artist Aminé has just released a new song titled “Familiar.” I’ve been a big fan of his since ONEPOINTFIVE and Good For You, and he continues to impress with his ability to create music that’s both fresh and experimental while still making its way into the mainstream. It’s one thing to make something that sounds new—but making something that feels fresh and resonates with a wide audience is extraordinarily difficult.

The magic lantern of television beamed out news, sports, and an endless parade of talking heads dissecting the world in real time. But sometimes, amid the static and the chatter, a giant yellow “M” would materialize, trembling under a graffiti-scrawled “TV.” What followed was a sensory overload—neon-drenched, hyper-saturated, a chaotic broadcast of a revolution led by variegated characters.

Calvin Harris, the mastermind behind some of our favorite EDM anthems, is back with a new track, “SMOKE THE PAIN AWAY.” Right from the start, it’s impossible to predict where this song will go—has Harris pivoted to acoustic folk? Let’s find out.

Just by chance, while scrolling through a Discord community for composers, I came across the Hong Kongese composer, singer, and producer Lam Terence. The video featured a conventionally attractive singer with the usual aesthetics and look of Korean and Chinese pop. However, the person who shared the video wrote:

How would you depict oceanic landscapes with sound?  

Dasha's latest single, "Not At This Party," has officially been released, marking a significant moment in her burgeoning career. The track, which debuted on February 28, 2025, via Warner Records, showcases Dasha's unique blend of pop and country influences.

Alisa Xayalith has released a song called “What The Hell Do We Do Now?,” and the moment I heard it, I couldn’t help but grin. Even on the first listen, it brought me a lot of happiness. I hadn’t heard anything by Alisa before, but after this, I’ll definitely be exploring the rest of her discography.

The artist Alaina Castillo has recently released a new track titled “last night.” I want to start by saying that I really appreciate this song. In my opinion, “last night” is quite similar to “New Light” by John Mayer. That said, it differentiates itself through its production, vocal performance, and the overall mood it creates.

The artist BANKS is set to release a new album soon, and I’ve been listening to her latest track, Love Is Unkind, from that upcoming project.

Alessia Cara has recently released a groovy and soulful track titled “Slow Motion.” I’ve listened to it a few times now, and I have to say—I’m not getting tired of it. I love how quickly it transitions to the chorus and how it stays within the same sonic space throughout. Sometimes, you don’t need a drastic production shift or a complex bridge. Sometimes, all you need is a steady groove, a few well-placed instruments, and a catchy vocal idea.

The band Cassia has recently released a new track titled “Friends.” I have to be honest—I rarely listen to music for its story or lyrics. Most of the time, I just go along with the melodies and rhythms. However, the story behind Friends actually caught me off guard. If you watch the music video while listening to the song for the first time, you’ll understand what I mean.

The intro to “Raving In The Studio” kicks off with a sample that feels instantly familiar. I won’t spoil the surprise, but the entire song is built around this iconic riff. Listening to it took me back to my younger days when I spent hours immersed in UKF Drum and Bass. I’ve always been torn about the genre—sometimes finding it a bit tacky, but other times absolutely loving it. For me, it all comes down to the song.

Alessi Rose has just released her latest single, “IKYK,” and if you’re not already familiar with her work, now’s the perfect time to dive in. This catchy, high-energy pop track is a natural fit for any playlist and showcases Alessi’s undeniable knack for crafting infectious tunes.

Morgan Wallen's latest single, "Smile," released yesterday, marks an evolution in his musical journey. Co-written by Wallen alongside Rocky Block, John Byron, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak, and Luis Witkiewitz, the track delves into the complexities of a strained relationship, capturing the fleeting joy of a partner's smile, even if it's just for a photograph. 

The Aces have released a catchy modern funk tune titled “Jealous.” Upon hearing it for the first time, I couldn’t help but draw comparisons to Ariana Grande’s “Yes, and?” The comparison isn’t so much about the genre or artistry but rather the melodic space the song inhabits. That said, hats off to The Aces—they’ve crafted a truly enjoyable track.

Cody Frost’s latest release, "BLOODSUCKA", featuring Debbie Gough, comes with an equally striking music video. Unlike abstract visuals, this one straightforwardly complements the track’s story, creating a cohesive and engaging experience.

SAYGRACE has dropped a gem with her latest track, "Stay Down". As a longtime fan of female vocal RnB/Soul, I was immediately drawn in. Think Jhené Aiko, H.E.R, and Cleo Sol—with shades of the greats like Lauryn Hill and Erykah Badu. This track, produced by Andre “Dre” Harris, fits perfectly into the genre’s legacy of smooth, soulful grooves.

Belters Only, the Irish electronic collective, has dropped a fresh track, "AwStopBro". Anchored by an enchanting rhythm, this song captivates with standout elements like its professional production and flawless sound selection. The drums hit with precision, while the synths and samples are irresistibly satisfying—an essential pick for Ibiza-style summer vibes.

Kendrick Lamar just released a new album titled “GNX”. I’m not going to dive too deeply into the songs or break them down in detail—because, honestly, I can’t talk right now. I’m too busy dancing to them. You should put it on immediately.

Okay, this one is a bit different. I’m a big fan of Ariana Grande, so I try not to miss anything she releases. That’s why, right now, I’ll be talking about her latest release, “Popular”, which is part of the soundtrack for the movie Wicked. The new Wicked movie was released just three days ago, along with its soundtrack.

Aminé has recently dropped a new four-track single titled “.mp3s.” In this review, I’ll focus on the opening track, “s2wik.” From the very start, the song feels incredibly fresh and dynamic. As a fan of artists like Kaytranada, PinkPantheress, and Fred Again.., I found the track’s vibe immediately appealing. The beat leans into an industrial sound—perhaps a nod to the fact that the artist performing on it didn’t produce it. Regardless, Aminé ties it all together seamlessly with his compelling vocal delivery.