Summary of Western Music Releases [May 2025]

Don’t Cry, Put Your Head On My ShoulderTom Odell

Tom Odell – Don’t Cry, Put Your Head On My Shoulder (Official Music Video)

The new song released in May 2025 by British singer-songwriter Tom Odell is a truly exquisite ballad that resonates deep within the heart.

Its delicate, piano-centered arrangement is layered with his warm vocals, and the lyrics—centering on gentle comfort for those in sorrow—are profoundly moving.

Carefully crafted over a nine-month production period, the piece is positioned as the second single from the album “A Wonderful Life.” The music video, featuring his wife Georgie, has also drawn attention.

It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night—a masterpiece especially recommended for those facing life’s hardships or seeking emotional support.

BOYS WITH THE CHARACTERISTICS OF WOLVESUnknown Mortal Orchestra

Unknown Mortal Orchestra – BOYS WITH THE CHARACTERISTICS OF WOLVES

Unknown Mortal Orchestra is a psychedelic rock band originally from New Zealand and now based in Portland, Oregon, USA.

Formed in 2009 by Ruban Nielson, they released this track in May 2025—a dark tune marked by a heavy, Black Sabbath–esque riff and taut, tension-filled drumming.

It’s the lead single from the EP “CURSE,” slated for release on June 18, and part of a body of work inspired by Italian horror films from the 1970s and 1980s.

Showcasing distinctly metal-leaning elements that set it apart from UMO’s past output, it’s a must-listen for anyone into psych rock or heavy sounds.

TokyoWIM

WIM – Tokyo (Visualizer)

Wimm, a promising solo artist from Thailand who continues to be based there, made the shift to a solo career in 2024 after his time as a member of HYBS.

Released in May 2025 as part of his album “Snacks & Wine,” this track captivates with a sophisticated sound that fuses electronic pop and indie rock.

The lyrics, inspired by Tokyo’s night skyline and cityscapes, depict both the loneliness and hope of urban life, while the arrangement—where shimmering synthesizers intertwine with delicate guitar arpeggios—is superb.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to while walking through the city at night.

CPRWet Leg

Wet Leg – CPR (Official Video)

Since their 2021 debut, Wet Leg—the female duo from the Isle of Wight—have achieved global breakout success with their irony-laced, humor-packed post-punk.

This track opens their second album, “Moisturizer,” slated for release in July 2025, and portrays the perils of romance with the striking lyric, “Is this love, or suicide?” It also features a playful touch: a tempo set to 115 BPM, matching the recommended rhythm for real-life CPR.

Although Rhian Teasdale once described herself as “allergic to love songs,” this piece—born from a new romantic experience—showcases their musical growth.

It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone who wants to look back on past relationships while moving forward.

HollywoodYG

YG – HOLLYWOOD (feat. Shoreline Mafia) [Official Music Video]

This track, released in May 2025 as a collaboration between veteran Compton rapper YG and Shoreline Mafia, sharply portrays the vanity and hypocrisy lurking behind Hollywood’s glamour.

The sound—driven by a heavy bassline and contemporary beats—carries on the lineage of West Coast hip-hop he established from his landmark album My Krazy Life through I Got Issues, while signaling a fresh evolution.

It’s a song poised for a viral moment on TikTok, and one that will especially resonate with adult listeners familiar with the realities of the music industry.

ZombiYungblud

YUNGBLUD – Zombie (Official Music Video)

Hailing from Doncaster, UK, singer-songwriter and rock star YUNGBLUD is hugely popular in Japan as well.

Released in May 2025, this track is an introspective ballad themed around emotional numbness and apathy in contemporary society, marking a new direction distinct from his previously energetic punk-rock style.

Its blend of minimal synth textures and emotive vocals carries a powerful message that reflects the dulling of feelings caused by the “information overload” of the digital age.

The song is the third single from the album ‘Idols,’ scheduled for release on June 20, and its music video—featuring Oscar-nominated actress Florence Pugh—has also drawn attention.

It’s a perfect recommendation for anyone feeling worn out by daily life or looking for a quiet, reflective night.

Better DaysYellowcard

Yellowcard – Better Days (Official Music Video)

This track is the lead single from the Florida-born pop-punk favorites Yellowcard—known for featuring a violinist—and comes from their first full-length album in about nine years, where they sing candidly about themes like gratitude, forgiveness, and hope.

Produced and drummed by Blink-182’s Travis Barker, it brilliantly fuses the band’s matured musicianship with fresh creativity.

It’s also the title track of the self-titled album slated for release in October 2025, and its unique music video—featuring the members dressed as characters from 1980s films—has been generating buzz.

It’s a song I highly recommend for anyone feeling worn out by life or ready to make a fresh start.