Check out buzz’s picks for the top 10 new music releases of the past week, updated weekly. The list consists of the best songs, albums, EPs and music videos from all genres of music. Feel free to let us know if we missed anything.
“5 Dollar Pony Rides” — Mac Miller
“5 Dollar Pony Rides,” the posthumous single off of Mac Miller’s upcoming album “Balloonerism,” has finally had an official release. The soul-filled hip-hop track is a smooth hint of what’s to come on Jan. 17, when the rest of the album will be put out to the public. Though the album was recorded over 10 years ago, the track has aged well, providing a groovy beat and a hopeful intro to the upcoming record.
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“Your New Favorite Song” — Wallows
An exclusive track from a vinyl variant of the band’s 2024 album “Model,” “Your New Favorite Song” is a soft-spoken single, peacefully reminiscing on a past relationship. The backing horns bring a unique sound to the song as it slowly blossoms to a brighter and more confident melody. The band will tour “Model” and other past hits throughout 2025.
“Perverts” — Ethel Cain
Ethel Cain’s fourth studio album, “Perverts,” is a haunting, entrancing project that explores somber themes such as religion and trauma. The sounds of the album are eerily sinister — a misshapen combination of distorted vocals, bleak walls of sound and sprawling instrumental passages. It’s not an easy listen, and there’s nothing to sing along to; instead, this album invites the listener to examine its themes and the meaning of each song.
“Orlando in Love” — Japanese Breakfast
Along with the announcement of its new album, “For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women),” Japanese Breakfast has released its newest single, “Orlando in Love.” A lulling melody and lead singer Michelle Zauner’s glossy vocals create a delicate, velvety track reminiscent of their 2021 album “Jubilee.” The single is a promising glimpse of the new album set to release on March 21.
“T&A” — Blondshell
“T&A” is the newest single from Blondshell, who has also announced the release of her second album, “If You Asked For a Picture,” coming May 2. It’s energetic and fast-paced — the captivating rhythm is met with Blondshell’s fierce vocals and a grungy guitar melody. It’s angsty, moody and self-destructive, giving the song that distinct Blondshell vibe.
“IT girl” — JADE
JADE’s newest club single candidly talks about her experiences in the spotlight and the result of being an “IT girl,” whether good or bad. “IT girl” is the latest in a long line of sparkly pop singles, such as “Fantasy” and “Angel Of My Dreams.” Synth-pop sounds and a bass-heavy beat are reflected heavily on the track, creating a forceful but mesmerizing song.
“Pass the Salt” — Joy Crookes ft. Vince Staples
Joy Crookes and Vince Staples have teamed up to create a compelling, genre-blending song that combines R&B, soul and pop. The song starts with a captivating hook before spiraling into Crookes’ distinctive vocals, each verse unique in its sound and delivery. Staples’ verse adds a gritty edge to the track, making it a well-rounded and dynamic single.
“Hypnotized” — Anyma, Ellie Goulding
After going viral for his series of shows at the Las Vegas Sphere venue, DJ Anyma has released “Hypnotized (feat. Ellie Goulding).” Goulding, who has been largely vacant from the music world after a string of hits in the 2010s, sees a return to form with this poppy track. With lyrics about spiraling and losing control, the song brings the robotic-themed visuals of Anyma’s live shows to mind.
“Same Old Song” — The Lumineers
Despite its somewhat sad message, “Same Old Song” brings the feel-good instrumental work and vocals of The Lumineers back in full force. The single comes ahead of the band’s upcoming fifth studio album, “Automatic,” set to release Feb. 14. The track was accompanied by a music video showing the group performing in front of a series of seemingly AI-generated snapshot videos.
“Scissors” — Julia Michaels, Maren Morris
Julia Michaels and Maren Morris make a fitting collaboration with “Scissors,” a poppy track about cutting ties when necessary. The duo spoke with Rolling Stone about creating a song representing a breakup that ends in “apathy and lightheartedness” rather than heartbreak. The single’s quirky and colorful music video echoes this sentiment while being slightly threatening.
