Summary of Western Music Releases [January 2025]

Happy PeopleNAO

Nao – Happy People (Visualiser)

This is a song released in January 2025 by NAO, a singer-songwriter from the United Kingdom.

It was unveiled as the lead single from her fourth album, Jupiter.

The track is characterized by acoustic guitar and a simple, soulful vocal melody, with an upbeat, pleasant rhythm that blends Afrobeats and pop.

The lyrics emphasize the importance of finding peace and joy through meaningful connections with others.

NAO is set to tour Europe and North America starting in February 2025, and her live performances are something to look forward to.

This song is recommended for moments when you want to feel a bond with someone important or lift your spirits with something positive.

Old Man’s GraceNathan Evans

Old Man’s Grace

A song whose philosophical message resonates deeply.

In this track, released in January 2025, Nathan Evans warmly sings about the profound meaning and value of life.

Hailing from Scotland, he is a singer known for the sea shanty revival.

The song is included on his album “1994,” released in November 2024, and it’s a captivating piece that modernizes traditional maritime work songs.

It’s recommended for times when you feel worn out by life or when you want to offer someone words of encouragement.

It will surely warm the heart and spark new hope.

SMBODETARI

Odetari – SMB (w/ Hongjoong of ATEEZ) [Official Visualizer]

This is a track released in January 2025 by Odetari, a rapper from the United States.

A collaboration with Hongjoong from the K-pop group ATEEZ, the song carries a powerful message centered on self-affirmation and inner strength.

With its catchy melody and energetic beat, it inspires the courage to face the pressures of modern society.

Featured on the album “PHAZONVARIA,” it has also been generating buzz on social media.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the importance of living true to themselves.

The Rain – 10 Years OnOh Wonder

Oh Wonder – The Rain – 10 Years On (Official Audio)

The London-born duo Oh Wonder craft songs filled with fragile, aching beauty—like looking back on a past love while standing in the rain.

Re-recorded in January 2025 to mark their 10th anniversary, this version preserves the warm, original sound of their debut while adding a more mature emotional depth.

It’s a work that reflects the band’s growth and gently accompanies anyone carrying the pain of heartbreak or loss.

Try listening on a rainy day—it’s sure to resonate with your heart.

Shandy in the GraveyardPanchiko

Panchiko – Shandy in the Graveyard (Official Video)

The new song from UK-born PUNCHKO is a stirring track where the afterimages of youth intersect with an adult perspective.

Released in January 2025, it features an immersive sound that blends a distinctive trip-hop vibe with elements of art rock.

Featuring American rapper billy woods, its poetic, introspective lyrics evoke the atmosphere of the late ’90s.

The track is set to appear on the forthcoming album Ginkgo, due in April, and will likely be performed on the Europe and North America tour starting in the spring.

It’s a song that will resonate deeply with anyone who holds a fondness for their formative years.

ParanoidPUP

Pup – Paranoid (Official Video)

The new song from Canadian punk rock band PUP—their first in two years—lays bare self-loathing and distrust of society.

Produced by John Congleton, it features a fast, energetic sound and lyrics laced with humor.

A standout is the 1-minute-45-second breakdown where each member’s personality shines, channeling an eruption of emotion through music.

Starting in January 2025, they’ll support Sum 41 on tour, with UK and European dates to follow in May.

It’s a track that will resonate with anyone grappling with daily anxieties and inner conflict.

DramaREX ORANGE COUNTY

Rex Orange County – Drama (Audio)

Rex Orange County, hailing from the UK, released a new song in December 2024 that expresses a desire to break free from everyday “hassles.” Its characteristically unpretentious lyrics and catchy pop melody feel easygoing, showcasing his genre-defying musicality.

The track appears as a bonus on his fifth album, released in September; initially exclusive to the vinyl edition, it later became available digitally.

It’s an ambitious work that takes on composing about all facets of life, and the mentions of Japanese place names like Tokyo and Kyoto add a friendly touch.

Highly recommended for anyone looking to find relief from stress.