Summary of Western music releases [April 2025]

The artist is absentJenny Hval

Jenny Hval – The artist is absent (89 second rewrite) [Official Video]

Norwegian artist Jenny Hval, who has pursued a singular musical identity while traversing a wide range of genres from shoegaze to art pop, returns with a track where her alluring vocals glide comfortably over a buoyant breakbeat.

The song was inspired by her experience of becoming interested in perfume as a substitute for live music lost during the pandemic.

Released as the second single from her forthcoming album “Iris Silver Mist,” due out on 4AD in May 2025, it comes in two versions: the standard track and an extended mix titled “89 seconds rewrite.” A music video directed by Jenny Berger Myhre is also out now, showcasing a piece that blends experimental flair with an irresistibly catchy pop sensibility.

Man Of The YearKhantrast

Khantrast – Man of the Year

Kantrast, a rapper-producer making his mark on the American hip-hop scene, has long depicted the immigrant experience and street culture in works like his album “Landed In Brooklyn.” In March 2025, he released an ambitious new track.

Fusing soulful lyrics with a New York drill sound that channels the pulse of the streets, the piece is a bold collaboration with producer Steezefield.

It showcases the full breadth of his strengths, which have earned high praise on albums like “Valedictorian” and “East Side Bop.” It’s a must-listen for music fans interested in cultural diversity and the exploration of identity.

Crawl to Me (feat. Stool Sample)Kyle Gordon

Kyle Gordon – Crawl to Me (feat. Stool Sample) [Official World Premiere]

Kyle Gordon is a skilled comedian and singer based in New York.

This work, a parody of early-2000s nu metal, features heavy guitar riffs and powerful vocals.

A strong collaboration featuring Stool Sample creates a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh.

Included on the album “Kyle Gordon Is Wonderful,” released by BMG in April 2025, the track is generating major buzz on social media.

Its lyrics, which explore inner conflict and turmoil, together with an energetic performance, brilliantly recreate the atmosphere of 2000s nu metal, making it an irresistible song for fans of the genre.

Heavens Above (My Angel)Lefty Gunplay & JasonMartin

Lefty Gunplay & JasonMartin – Heavens Above (My Angel) (Official Video)

A collaboration track by rappers Lefty Gunplay and Jason Martin, who embody American street culture, was released in March 2025.

Over a horn section that evokes a West Coast vibe and a punchy bassline, their energetic flows and polished rapping blend in perfect balance.

Lefty Gunplay, who drew attention after appearing on Kendrick Lamar’s album GNX, has steadily cemented his place in the scene, including a No.

2 peak on the Billboard Hot 100.

On this track as well, he captivates with storytelling rooted in real-life experiences and a distinctive sound.

It’s a must-listen not only for West Coast hip-hop fans but also for listeners seeking a fusion of gritty, real-world lyricism and groovy beats.

Love Is WarMemphis May Fire

Memphis May Fire – Love Is War (Official Music Video)

This track will sweep you away with the fusion of powerful guitar riffs and melody-rich songwriting, showcasing the authentic sound of American metalcore band Memphis May Fire.

As the closing piece on the album “Shapeshifter,” it perfectly balances heavy sonics with emotional vocals, resulting in a production sure to captivate metalcore fans.

Featured on the album “Shapeshifter,” slated for release in March 2025, the song stays true to the band’s signature metalcore foundation while effectively incorporating more melodic elements.

It stands as a culmination of their influences—from Underoath to Killswitch Engage—and is recommended not only for those who love intense music, but also for listeners seeking a more melodious track.

CoolMichael Clifford

Michael Clifford – cool (Official Music Video)

Michael Clifford, guitarist of the globally popular pop-rock band 5 Seconds of Summer, will release his first solo work in April 2025.

Hailing from Australia, his new project marks a fresh musical challenge that sets itself apart from his work with the band.

The track reflects influences from a diverse range of artists, including Green Day, Bring Me The Horizon, and twenty one pilots, featuring powerful guitar sounds and a catchy melody.

The music video visually expresses his new musical direction, and its early preview on TikTok drew enthusiastic anticipation from many fans.

With its energetic sound, this song encourages those who are determined to follow their own path.

Something BeautifulMiley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus – Something Beautiful (Official Video)

American singer-songwriter Miley Cyrus has released a new track that marks a bold challenge built around the concept of unique pop opera.

Beginning as a soulful love song and then evolving into an experimental rock sound, the piece is an ambitious track inspired by Pink Floyd’s classic album The Wall.

Slated for inclusion on the album Something Beautiful, scheduled for release in May 2025, the song will be accompanied by a musical film of the same name due out in June of the same year.

The film features supermodel Naomi Campbell and is directed by Miley herself.

Paired with ethereal visuals, the musical world it creates makes this a perfect piece for listeners seeking a fantastical experience.