[2026] Perfect for cafe time! A roundup of recommended Western songs to listen to at lunchtime

clichémgk

mgk – cliché (Official Music Video)

Machine Gun Kelly, an artist based in the United States, has been a leading figure in the 2000s pop-punk revival, achieving two consecutive No.

1s on the U.S.

charts with his pop-punk direction that began with his 2020 album Tickets To My Downfall.

In May 2025, he released a track with a strong dance-pop flavor.

Accompanied by a music video featuring nostalgic dance scenes reminiscent of boy bands from the late ’90s to early 2000s, the release sparked buzz and drew major attention on social media, with a dance challenge trending on TikTok.

The lyrics express pure feelings for a partner and a longing for an escape, balancing sweetness with a touch of melancholy.

While upbeat, the melody carries a gentle sense of nostalgia—perfect for adding a subtly sweet note to an afternoon café time.

12 to 12sombr

sombr – 12 to 12 (official video)

Somber, who drew global attention with the TikTok viral hits “Back to Friends” and “Undressed,” returns with this track released in July 2025—an upbeat indie rock cut infused with disco elements.

Marking a sharp turn from their previous mellow style, the song stands out with a groovy, danceable sound.

The lyrics blend the exhilaration and bittersweetness of summer romance, delivering a dramatic appeal that resonates with the social media generation.

It’s guitar-driven pop rock that still keeps you moving, perfect for adding a splash of color to a café afternoon.

The music video features Addison Rae, who boasts over 88 million TikTok followers, generating buzz for its visuals as well.

Highly recommended for those who want to surrender to a light rhythm and enjoy a refreshing lunchtime.

RelationshipsHaim

HAIM – Relationships (Official Video)

The three-sister band HAIM released a track in March 2025 that centers on the complex emotions of love.

It vividly portrays the push and pull between affection and the challenges of a relationship—something anyone who’s struggled with romance can relate to.

Their signature blend of ’70s classic rock and ’90s R&B is enhanced with touches of folk and power pop, creating a soothing vibe perfect for a leisurely afternoon in a café.

As a lead single from their fourth album, currently in production, it hints at a new phase in their musical evolution.

Why not let yourself sink into its comfortable sound and give it a listen during a quiet midday break?

All I Can SayKali Uchis

Kali Uchis – All I Can Say

This R&B track from Kali Uchis—who has Colombian roots—comes from her album “Sincerely,” released in May 2025.

It evokes 1950s doo-wop and soul, with harmonies and choral work that exude a retro warmth, wrapping you in a vintage, cinematic atmosphere.

Delivering a message about turning dreams into reality through a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh, it’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon at a café.

Co-created with producer 54 Ultra and others, the song showcases a new side of Kali.

In My YearsMen I Trust

In My Years

Men I Trust, an indie band based in Quebec, Canada, has been gaining popularity for their dreamy sounds that gently color an afternoon café time.

Centered on dream pop and electropop while weaving in lo-fi and jazz elements, their music pairs perfectly with unhurried moments.

Featured on their album Equus Caballus, released in May 2025, this track stands out for its lyrics where nostalgia for the past intersects with a vivid sense of living in the present.

The roughly three-minute song, built on a beautiful chord progression and a soothing drum beat, conveys a calm resolve to look ahead while reflecting on the passage of time.

The grand resonance of the bridge is another highlight, sure to add a touch of drama to a quiet afternoon.

Don’t Remind Me (feat. Anderson .Paak)Amber Mark

Amber Mark – Don’t Remind Me feat. Anderson .Paak (Official Music Video)

After spending her childhood years in countries like India and Germany, Amber Mark pursued a path in music.

She’s a singer-songwriter acclaimed for her refined sound that centers on R&B while incorporating a wide range of genres such as soul, funk, and bossa nova.

This track, taken from her album “Pretty Idea,” released in October 2025, was crafted in collaboration with Anderson .Paak.

Though she longs to forget past loves and memories, everything around her keeps bringing them back—lyrics that portray that bittersweet struggle are layered over a refreshing yacht rock–tinged chord progression with gentle piano and synths.

Amber’s smoky-hued vocals intertwine exquisitely with Anderson’s spiced-up rap, creating a comforting vibe that pairs perfectly with a relaxed afternoon café time.

1965Jessie Murph

Jessie Murph – 1965 (Official Video)

Singer-songwriter Jessie Murph, who rose to prominence on TikTok and crosses genres from country and pop to hip-hop.

Her 2024 debut album, “That Ain’t No Man That’s the Devil,” drew widespread attention, and in July 2025 she delivers her second album, “Sex Hysteria.” The track featured here blends a nostalgic longing for the 1960s with a sardonic take on modern romance.

With a slow tempo and cinematic atmosphere, her distinctive Southern drawl and vintage arrangement create a comforting sense of familiarity.

The provocative, humor-laced lyrics have sparked mixed reactions, but it’s precisely that contrast that adds a jolt to an afternoon café break.

A perfect pick for those who want to savor a slightly grown-up vibe while time flows unhurriedly.