Summary of Western Music Releases [May 2025]

Hemingwaygirl in red

girl in red – Hemingway (Official Video)

girl in red, a Norwegian singer-songwriter who enjoys global popularity.

This track was released by her on Columbia Records in May 2025, and it’s a deeply personal and emotional work themed around recovery from addiction.

With a mid-tempo rhythm and delicate guitar sounds, it’s an indie-pop gem that layers her inner struggles and journey of growth.

It’s likely to resonate especially with those grappling with mental health and self-acceptance.

drainsmary in the junkyard

mary in the junkyard – drains (official video)

The London-based indie rock trio Mary in the Junkyard are releasing a fantastic new track in May 2025.

Though the members come from classical music backgrounds, this release showcases their unique sound, which they describe as “rock of anger, tears, and chaos.” The song, themed around the unseen sides of the city, features noisy guitars and energetic drums, with Clari Freeman-Taylor’s vocals—where serenity and rawness intersect—leaving a strong impression.

They’re currently on tour supporting Wet Leg, and they’re a rising act worth keeping an eye on.

clichémgk

mgk – cliché (Official Music Video)

In recent years, MGK—Machine Gun Kelly—who has achieved global success as a pop-punk rocker, dropped a summery, upbeat track in May 2025 that fuses dance-pop and pop-rock.

The music video, featuring dance scenes reminiscent of late-’90s to early-2000s boy bands and striking rain-soaked performances, has also become a hot topic, offering a nostalgic yet modern appeal.

Right after its release, a dance challenge took off on TikTok, drawing major attention especially from younger listeners, and the song achieved commercial success by hitting No.

1 on the U.S.

iTunes chart.

It’s a catchy track perfect for summer drives and parties with friends!

Paid In Full (feat. Big Zuu, Wax, Ets & D7)AJ Tracey

AJ Tracey – Paid In Full (feat. Big Zuu, Wax, Ets & D7)

A landmark track by esteemed UK rapper AJ Tracey, marking his first reunion with old friends in roughly a decade.

Over a beat that boldly samples White Town’s 1997 hit, members of the grime crew My Team Paid layer razor-sharp flows.

The project is an ambitious return to roots for an artist who has traversed UK drill, trap, and pop.

Released as the lead single from his album Don’t Die Before You’re Dead, slated for release in June.

Recommended for those who want to enjoy a fusion of nostalgic grime sounds and contemporary production, or explore the history of the UK hip-hop scene.

In addition, a tie-in with Sky/Now TV’s cooking show Seriously Rich Flavours has been confirmed, drawing attention to his activities beyond music.

Killed to Death by PiracyAlestorm

ALESTORM – Killed to Death by Piracy (Official Video) | Napalm Records

The new song by Scotland-based Alestorm is a passionate track that embodies their distinctive pirate-themed folk metal sound.

Sharp guitar riffs and powerful gang vocals are complemented by melodies woven from folk instruments like accordion and tin whistle, drawing listeners into a swashbuckling pirate world.

The track will appear on their album “The Thunderfist Chronicles,” slated for release in June 2025, showcasing their sound further refined under the seasoned guidance of longtime producer Lasse Lammert.

Following the commercial success of their previous album “Seventh Rum of a Seventh Rum,” which reached No.

7 on the German album chart, this song captures the very essence of the band.

It’s recommended not only for metal fans but also for anyone seeking music brimming with humor and a spirit of adventure.

Same MouthAlessi Rose

Alessi Rose – Same Mouth (visual + lyrics)

Alessi Rose, a rising singer-songwriter from Derbyshire, UK, has unveiled a new release.

Capturing the feeling of self-abandonment within a contradictory relationship, the track is a cinematic indie-pop piece that evokes 2000s teen movies.

Warm vocals, delicate storytelling, and a guitar-centered sound come together in perfect harmony.

Serving as the lead single from her EP “Voyeur,” slated for release in July 2025, her momentum continues to build as she’s set to join Tate McRae’s North American tour.

With candid, self-exploratory lyrics and a relatable melody, it’s the perfect song for those moments when you want to look inward.

Alleys of My MindCarpetman, Black Soil

Carpetman, Black Soil – Alleys of My Mind

The Ukrainian sibling duo, Carpetman and Black Soil, unveiled a captivating musical work in May 2025.

Melancholic yet refined, the piece stands out with introspective lyrics that feel like a journey through the maze of the heart, poised to resonate with a broad audience beyond the boundaries of alternative pop.

The crystalline vocals riding over soulful melodies, perfectly balanced with the production, deeply connect with listeners’ emotions.

It has sparked a major response on social media as well, going viral with numerous user-made cover videos.

Whether for a calm night drive or a quiet moment of self-reflection, this track is sure to strike a chord.