19 New Songs You Need to Hear Today

1. The New Pornographers – “Ballad of the Last Payphone”
Originally released on a limited 7″ via A.C. Newman’s Substack, this dreamy track is now available on streaming platforms. Inspired by Raymond Carver’s short story Fat, it tells the tale of someone inexplicably drawn to the last remaining payphone in NYC, now on display at the Museum of the City of New York. A.C. Newman notes the fascination is clear to him, even if the narrator is unsure why.

2. Car Seat Headrest – “CCF (I’m Gonna Stay With You)”
Following their epic 11-minute rock opera single “Gethsemane,” Car Seat Headrest return with another long-form release. “CCF” clocks in at a slightly more digestible eight minutes and continues the band’s exploration of ambitious, theatrical rock.

3. Obongjayar – “Sweet Danger”
The Nigerian-born, UK-based artist returns with a new single from his upcoming album Paradise Now, set for release on May 30 via September Recordings. “Sweet Danger” is a powerful, genre-blending track that reinforces Obongjayar’s reputation for pushing sonic boundaries.

4. Common Holly – “Aegean Blue”
Montreal’s Common Holly breaks her silence with her first new album since 2019, Anything Glass, due June 13. The lead single “Aegean Blue” is described as a moment of reevaluation and a pursuit of meaning, aligning with the album’s central themes. The sound is introspective, ethereal, and emotionally resonant.

5. Rodeo Boys – “Sam’s Song”
This grungy punk anthem is the latest offering from Rodeo Boys’ forthcoming album Junior. With raw energy and crunchy guitars, “Sam’s Song” continues the band’s streak of memorable punk singles.

6. Midnight – “Cleveland Metal”
Midnight pays homage to their hometown with this blazing track from their upcoming album Steel, Rust, and Disgust, out May 23 via Metal Blade. True to its title, “Cleveland Metal” is a ferocious slab of blackened speed metal.

7. Dazy – “Pay No Mind (To the Signs)”
Dazy leans into the ’90s with a heavy Madchester influence on “Pay No Mind (To the Signs).” It’s a hazy, groove-driven track that revives the spirit of an era without sounding like a retread.

8. Reba Meyers (Code Orange) – “Got Your Hold On Me”
Code Orange’s Reba Meyers steps out with a solo project, offering a dark, gothy single that showcases her moody, brooding side. Details of her solo album remain under wraps, but this track is an intriguing preview.

9. The Chain – “Useless”
Australian hardcore band The Chain launch their new album cycle with “Useless,” a pummeling, aggressive track full of raw energy. Their LP Blind The World drops May 9 via Triple B/Last Ride Records.

10. Rachel Bobbitt – “Furthest Limb”
A lush and emotional track about miscommunication and the unspoken complexities in relationships. Rachel Bobbitt’s voice remains steady amid a swirl of synths and acoustic guitar, perfectly capturing the tension between clarity and confusion.

11. Elle Barbara – “Hitler, Satan & Associates LLP”
This psychedelic avant-pop track by Montreal artist Elle Barbara (formerly known as Jef Barbara) blends free jazz with absurdist lyricism. It’s the first single from her upcoming album Word On The Street, out June 27.

12. William Tyler – “Anima Hotel”
The latest single from Tyler’s first album in six years, Time Indefinite, “Anima Hotel” is a gorgeous, atmospheric piece, drenched in feeling and instrumental nuance.

13. Thor & Friends – “Anne Sexton’s Monocle”
From their upcoming album Heathen Spirituals (May 16), this track is built on an unusual 10-note percussion pattern played in odd time signatures. Inspired by a museum artifact, it’s a fascinating blend of literary reference and experimental sound.

14. Girl and Girl – “Okay”
This infectious indie rock track from Australian band Girl and Girl is all about finding acceptance in life’s middle ground. “It’s okay to just be okay,” says frontman Kai James—and this song is a testament to that sentiment.

15. Allo Darlin’ – “Tricky Questions”
After a nine-year hiatus, UK indie pop darlings Allo Darlin’ return with “Tricky Questions.” It’s a warmly welcomed comeback with the breezy charm they’ve always been loved for.

16. Sparks – “Drowned in a Sea of Tears”
Sparks unveil another track from their upcoming album MAD!, arriving May 23. As always, the Mael brothers offer a uniquely theatrical and thought-provoking musical journey.

17. S.G. Goodman – “Fire Sign”
Following her acclaimed 2022 album Teeth Marks, S.G. Goodman is back with “Fire Sign,” a rich and emotional new track that continues her blend of Americana and introspective songwriting.

18. Frànçois & The Atlas Mountains – “Le Fil” (ft. Cassandra Jenkins)
Parisian outfit Frànçois & The Atlas Mountains reimagine their recent album track “Le Fil” with guest vocals from Cassandra Jenkins—who sings in French. It’s a gentle, poetic reinterpretation that adds even more depth.

19. Aesop Rock – “Checkers”
Aesop Rock returns with “Checkers,” the first single from his newly announced album Black Hole Superette. It’s a typically surreal and complex track, full of his signature lyrical intricacy and mind-bending beats.