RAG Music
Lovely Western music

Summary of Western music releases [April 2025]

The Western music scene in April 2025 delivers an unprecedentedly diverse listening experience.

From a powerful track by the UK’s I See Orange that revives the spirit of ’90s grunge for today, to a soul-soothing R&B collaboration between America’s Leon Thomas and Halle Bailey, and on to refined house sounds woven by cutting-edge producers from Scotland and the UK.

These moving melodies, transcending genre boundaries, are sure to open a new door in your heart.

Western music release roundup [April 2025] (71–80)

HOROSCOPEJon Bellion

It’s a remarkable masterpiece, memorable for its grand sound that begins with a quiet piano melody and gradually layers in synthesizers and saxophone.

This track by American multi-artist Jon Bellion, featuring Pharrell Williams, was released in April 2025 as the lead single from his album “Father Figure,” scheduled for release in June 2025.

Blending a heartfelt message of love and gratitude to his wife with Jon’s uniquely creative sound design that fuses R&B, hip-hop, and indie rock, the song achieves a beautiful harmony—perfect for anyone who wants to feel the bonds and love of family in the present moment.

Hate How You LookJosh Ross

Josh Ross – Hate How You Look (Lyric Video)
Hate How You LookJosh Ross

This is an emotional song that poignantly sings about the complex feelings after a breakup, told from the perspective of someone watching their ex—radiant in a red dress and seeming to have a great time.

Canadian country singer-songwriter Josh Ross’s signature powerful, husky voice brilliantly conveys the mix of lingering attachment and regret.

Released in April 2025, the track stands out with a contemporary country-rock sound woven from steel guitar and heartland pop melodies.

A proven talent, he has earned numerous accolades, including the JUNO Award for Country Album of the Year for his EP “Complicated” and the CCMA Single of the Year for “Trouble.” Recommended for anyone nursing the pain of heartbreak or moved by bittersweet love songs.

LilacKatatonia

KATATONIA – Lilac (Official Video) | Napalm Records
LilacKatatonia

Sweden’s pride, the melancholic metal band KATATONIA, unveiled a powerful new song in April 2025.

It’s their first track under a new lineup following the departure of founding member Anders Nyström, with new guitarists Nico Elgstrand and Sebastian Svalland joining the fold.

The piece masterfully intertwines Jonas Renkse’s crystalline vocals, a hypnotic groove, hefty riffs, and progressive elements.

Serving as a lead single for the album “Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State,” slated for release in June of the same year, it not only carries a wistful melodic sensibility but also hints at a fresh musical direction.

This track comes recommended not only for metal listeners but also for any music fans drawn to pensive melodies and a satisfying rhythmic flow.

MICHIGAN (feat. BIG SEAN)KOTA The Friend

KOTA The Friend “MICHIGAN” feat. BIG SEAN (Official Video)
MICHIGAN (feat. BIG SEAN)KOTA The Friend

The first collaboration between Brooklyn-born independent rapper Kota the Friend and Detroit’s own Big Sean arrives in April 2025 as the lead single from the album “No Rap on Sunday.” The track is an expansive piece that showcases the allure of Michigan from the two rappers’ distinct perspectives.

With a melodic vibe, lyrics steeped in deep hometown love, and deft back-and-forth interplay, this is a must-listen for hip-hop fans.

The music video features iconic local locations like Ford Field and Lake Michigan, further enriching the song’s world.

Off The Meter (ft.Playboi Carti & Destroy Lonely)Ken Carson

Ken Carson – Off The Meter (ft.Playboi Carti & Destroy Lonely)
Off The Meter (ft.Playboi Carti & Destroy Lonely)Ken Carson

Ken Carson—whose otherworldly beat-making has been the talk of the town—unites souls on a track with Atlanta trap heavyweights Playboi Carti and Destroy Lonely.

Marking their first collaboration as labelmates, this ambitious cut fuses nostalgic, 8-bit video game-style digital textures with modern trap rhythms.

Released in April 2025 as a key track from the album “More Chaos,” it bursts with the self-assured individuality of all three artists.

If you’re captivated by Ken Carson’s music and want a glimpse of hip-hop’s future, this is a must-hear.

Man Of The YearKhantrast

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.

DeadstickKing Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – Deadstick (Official Video)
DeadstickKing Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard

You’re guaranteed to be swept away by a vast sonic world, where a grand soundscape unfolds in collaboration with an orchestra! On this track, Australian psychedelic rock band King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard teams up with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, brilliantly fusing elements of symphonic rock and progressive pop.

The sonic feast woven from frontman Stu Mackenzie’s vocals, the horn section, and bluesy guitar riffs is pure top-tier entertainment.

As a lead single from their upcoming album “Phantom Island,” slated for release in June 2025, the track is set to be performed live with orchestras across the United States—stoking even greater anticipation.

Perfect for those moments when you want to surrender yourself to an epic musical journey.