The Best New Albums Dropping This Week: A Music Lover’s Guide

Okay, let’s start with a big one. Addison Rae’s debut album, Addison, is finally here, and it’s got everyone buzzing. If you’ve been following her journey from TikTok star to pop sensation, you know she’s been cooking something special. I popped this on during a late-night drive, and let me tell you, tracks like “Headphones On” and “Diet Pepsi” are pure, feel-good pop magic. Co-written with heavy-hitters like Luka Closer and Elvira Anderfjärd, this album’s got that glossy, addictive vibe that makes you wanna roll the windows down and sing along. It’s bold, it’s fun, and it’s got heart—perfect for anyone who loves a pop record that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Britpop fans, this one’s for you. Pulp is back with More, their first album in 23 years, and it feels like they never left. Jarvis Cocker’s signature wit and storytelling shine through, tackling aging and maturity with a tenderness that hits deep. I was sipping tea, flipping through old vinyls, when I put this on, and it was like catching up with an old friend who’s grown wiser but hasn’t lost their spark. Tracks like the ones teased on NPR’s All Songs Considered feel like a love letter to their ‘90s heyday, but with a fresh, reflective edge. If you grew up on Different Class, this one’s gonna feel like coming home.

Little Simz is out here proving why she’s a Mercury Prize winner with Lotus, her sixth studio album. This record is a genre-defying masterpiece, blending hip-hop with soulful introspection and sharp lyricism. I listened to this one while journaling, and it felt like Simz was speaking straight to my soul—her themes of transformation and self-empowerment are so raw and real. NPR called it a “scoff at the concept of genre,” and I couldn’t agree more. It’s the kind of album that makes you stop and think, then hit replay to catch every lyric you missed. If you’re into music that challenges and inspires, this is a must.

For those who like their music loud and unapologetic, Turnstile’s Never Enough is your vibe. This Baltimore hardcore band is ready to take over arenas, and this fourth album is proof. I blasted this while working out, and the energy is unreal—think sweaty mosh pits and anthems for teenage rebellion. NPR’s Izzi Bavis nailed it when they said this one’s “destined for teenager bedrooms across America.” It’s raw, it’s intense, and it’s got that perfect mix of chaos and melody that makes you wanna scream along. If you’re craving something to shake you awake, this is it.

Welsh pop icon MARINA is back with Princess of Power, her sixth album and her first as an independent artist. This one’s got that dreamy, alchemist vibe she’s known for, with tracks that feel like they could soundtrack a coming-of-age movie. I was folding laundry (glamorous, I know) when I put this on, and it turned a mundane Sunday into something cinematic. It’s got that mix of catchy hooks and introspective lyrics that makes MARINA so special. If you loved Electra Heart, this one’s gonna be a treat.

There’s so much good stuff this week, I couldn’t not shout out a few more:





Brian Eno & Beatie Wolfe – Lateral / Luminal: Two ambient gems that feel like a cosmic journey. Perfect for late-night stargazing or chilling with a book.



Lil Wayne – Tha Carter VI: The rap legend’s back with the sixth chapter of his iconic series. It’s bold, it’s brash, and it’s everything you’d expect from Weezy.



The Ting Tings – Home: Their first album in seven years, this one’s got that quirky, danceable energy we’ve missed. Great for a spontaneous kitchen dance party.



Cynthia Erivo – I Forgive You: The Emmy, Grammy, and Tony winner delivers a soulful, emotional record that’s as powerful as her voice. I got chills listening to this one.



King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – Phantom Island: These Aussie rockers keep reinventing themselves, and this one’s a psychedelic trip worth taking.

Look, I get it—there’s a ton of music out there, and it’s hard to keep up. But these albums? They’re not just background noise. They’re stories, emotions, and moments captured in sound. Whether it’s Addison Rae’s unapologetic pop joy, Pulp’s nostalgic reflection, or Little Simz’s lyrical depth, these records are proof that music still has the power to connect us. I’ve been spinning these all week, and each one’s carved out a little space in my heart—whether I’m dancing, reflecting, or just vibing.

So, grab your headphones, your speaker, or heck, your old-school vinyl setup, and dive into these albums. Let me know in the comments which one’s your favorite or if there’s another new release I should check out. And if you’re as obsessed with new music as I am, follow along for weekly roundups to keep your playlist fresh. Happy listening!

Got a favorite track from these albums? Drop it below, and let’s talk music!