[2026] Great for drives too! A roundup of the latest stylish Western music

HelixNight Tapes

Night Tapes – Helix (Official Video)

Night Tapes is a three-piece dream-pop unit made up of members from the UK and Estonia, bottling the feel of London’s night air in their music.

This song portrays the precarious balance at the start of a romance—wondering whether the person you’re about to meet is a destined partner or a source of confusion.

It sings of the complex truth of love: sometimes the wrong person can lead you to the right place.

Airy synths, grunge-tinged guitars, and beautiful vocals intertwine to create a dreamy yet subtly shadowed sound world.

The track is taken from their debut album, “portals // polarities,” set for release in September 2025.

It’s the kind of song that will gently stay by your side on those nights when your heart flutters at the promise of new encounters, even as a hint of unease lingers.

Mr. CoolKenya Grace

Kenya Grace – Mr. Cool (Official Audio)

Kenya Grace, a South Africa-born, UK-raised artist who wrote, composed, and produced her own track that topped the UK charts in 2023, has surprised the world from her bedroom.

Her new single, released in June 2025, is a pleasantly groovy dance tune that blends her signature drum and bass with the textures of house music.

The song portrays the glittering facade of someone who repeats fleeting relationships, while revealing the loneliness and emptiness hidden beneath.

Another highlight is the sonic evolution—this is the first time she’s brought in an external producer.

It’s a richly layered track that fits both a night out at the club and moments when you want to sink into your thoughts.

All NightMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – All Night (Lyric Video)

The funky sax solo and bouncy groove seem to carry in that carefree summer feeling.

Released in June 2025 by the globally popular band Maroon 5, this track signals a return to the organic funk sound reminiscent of their early days.

It’s the lead single from their eighth album, “Love Is Like,” and Adam Levine’s energetic, beautiful vocals vividly capture the sparkle of a night spent with someone special.

With its back-to-basics sound, it blends seamlessly into settings like a drive or a party with friends, making for the perfect background music.

Guy For ThatPost Malone ft. Luke Combs

Post Malone ft. Luke Combs – Guy For That (Official Music Video) ft. Luke Combs

A superb fusion of country and pop has given birth to a standout track.

This collaboration between Post Malone and Luke Combs portrays the pain of heartbreak and the difficulty of mending it through everyday metaphors.

Centered around acoustic guitar, the melody accentuates the poignant lyrics.

Included on Post Malone’s July 2024 album F-1 Trillion, it offers fresh appeal for country fans as well.

It’s recommended for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or seeks lyrics that resonate deeply.

The collaboration of two major American artists marks a step toward opening new doors in music.

RushmereMumford & Sons

Mumford & Sons – Rushmere

It’s a song with a fantastical and profound worldview.

Scheduled for release in March 2025, it’s the title track of Mumford & Sons’ new album—their first new work in about seven years.

Hailing from the UK, the trio created this record as a three-piece for the first time, portraying memories of the past, self-discovery, and the hardships of life along with its beauty.

While retaining elements of folk rock, the track is characterized by a more personal and sentimental tone.

The lyrics, expressing sensitivity to life’s impermanence and the passage of time, are sure to resonate deeply with people living in contemporary society.

Times Like TheseAddison Rae

Addison Rae – Times Like These (Official Video)

Addison Rae, born in 2000 and hailing from Louisiana in the United States, is active as a social media personality, singer, and actress.

A track from her debut studio album “Addison,” released in June 2025, is rooted in trip-hop, with a dreamy, sensual sound that leaves a strong impression.

Its introspective themes—young people’s anxieties about the future and questions directed inward—are portrayed not pessimistically but affirmatively, sure to resonate with many.

This piece is the 10th track on the 12-song album and was also released as a single.

Moody yet never heavy, its soundscape is perfect for sinking into music in a calm setting or for late-night, meditative moods.

BaddiesAya Nakamura & Joé Dwèt Filé

Aya Nakamura & Joé Dwèt Filé – Baddies (Clip officiel)

This track has been gaining popularity on Instagram Reels and TikTok.

It’s a collaboration between Aya Nakamura and Joé Dwèt Filé, carrying a powerful message about agency in relationships and self-affirmation.

Released in May 2025, its blend of R&B and Afrobeats makes it perfect for summer drives and moments by the beach.

The duo’s back-and-forth captures a modern view of love, making it a must-listen for anyone who values authenticity or wants to take the lead in romance.

Be sure to add it to your playlist!