Check out buzz’s picks for the top 5 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.
“The Great Divide” – Noah Kahan
After the wild success of his last album, “Stick Season,” Noah Kahan is ready to start a new era. “The Great Divide” is the first single and title track of his fourth album, set to release April 24. The song keeps the heartfelt folk sound fans know, but features a fuller production with rock-leaning instrumentation layered over his usual acoustic strumming. With honest lyrics, Kahan reflects on an old relationship that he’s since reanalyzed.
“Dandelion” – Ella Langley
Ella Langley continues building momentum toward her upcoming album, “Dandelion,” with this title track that follows the previous single, “Choosin’ Texas.” The song sticks closely to the classic country sound she’s been shaping for years, with her smooth-toned voice flowing easily over simple drums and twangy guitars. As Langley explained, “Dandelion” uses the flower as a metaphor for being overlooked at first, while actually being more valuable than people assume.
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“POSSESSION” – Melanie Martinez
Alt-pop artist Melanie Martinez is back with “POSSESSION,” her first new single since releasing her album, “PORTALS,” in 2023. The track arrived as a surprise release earlier this week. In the song, Martinez tackles the subject of an emotionally abusive relationship, with lyrics like, “Baby, I’m your possession, handle me like a weapon/ Gaslight me right, tell me ‘Keep quiet’/ I’ll go along.” The song has a haunting quality to it, mirroring its brutally honest lyrics.
“OCTANE” – Don Toliver
Don Toliver has returned with new album, “OCTANE,” leaning fully into a high-energy trap and R&B sound. The 18-track project thrives on frequent synths and heavy bass, creating a glossy, atmospheric feel throughout. On his lead single, “Body,” Toliver samples Justin Timberlake’s popular 2000s hit, “Rock Your Body.”
“I Did This To Myself” – Thundercat, Lil Yachty
“I Did This To Myself” brings together Thundercat’s signature funky basslines with smooth vocals and Lil Yachty’s laid-back rapping style. Produced by collaborator and friend Flying Lotus, the song marks the third single from Thundercat’s upcoming album, “Distracted,” out April 3. The project is set to feature collaborations with artists such as Tame Impala, A$AP Rocky and an unreleased song with the late Mac Miller.