New Music Friday: 11 Albums You Should Listen to Now
Pitchfork’s weekly roundup spotlights 11 fresh albums across genres, including pop, noise rock, indie folk, and industrial metal. Each record brings a distinct voice, from Tinashe’s nostalgic pop to Godflesh’s final statement. The list offers listeners a curated guide to this week’s standout releas…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Pitchfork’s New Music Friday newsletter delivers a weekly pulse on the most compelling releases across the music spectrum. This week’s lineup features 11 albums that span pop, indie, noise rock, and industrial metal, each offering a unique sonic experience. Below is a detailed look at each record, why it matters, and how it fits into the current musical landscape.
Tinashe – Popstar (Nice Life/Atlantic)
Tinashe’s eighth studio effort, Popstar, is a bold homage to the pop milestones of the past decade. The album blends nostalgic hooks with contemporary production, drawing on the sounds of Metro Boomin, Missy‑T, and Mike Will Made‑It. Tracks like “Heavy Weight” and “I’d Rather Be Alone” showcase her versatility, while the country‑influenced “Nobody Want to Dance Anymore” adds an unexpected twist. The record’s polished sheen and star‑quality songwriting make it a standout for fans of polished pop.
Gilla Band – Pugnello (Rough Trade)
Irish noise‑rock outfit Gilla Band returns with their fourth full‑length, Pugnello. The album deepens the band’s reputation as a genre‑shaping force, delivering twisted, unpredictable tracks that feel like a ship caught in a storm. Despite its chaotic energy, the record invites listeners to dance, proving that noise can be both intense and accessible.
Julia Jacklin – The Gem (4AD)
Australian singer‑songwriter Julia Jacklin’s debut 4AD album, The Gem, is a sonic portrait of a Melbourne pub that served as a refuge during her early years in the city. Recorded in a space above the bar, the album captures Jacklin’s transition between labels and artistic directions. Its gentle, reflective tone offers a comforting listening experience for those seeking introspective folk‑rock.
M83 – I Wrote You a Letter (M83 Recording Inc.)
Anthony Gonzalez’s latest M83 release, I Wrote You a Letter, feels like a quiet reflection on the past. The album is a spiritual successor to 2008’s Saturdays=Youth, featuring lush choirs, saxophones, and string quartets. While it’s more subdued than previous M83 LPs, the record’s expansive synth textures and emotional depth keep fans engaged.
Jules Reidy – Clerestory (Thrill Jockey)
Guitarist Jules Reidy’s double‑sided album, Clerestory, pairs the experimental A‑side, “Shadow Symmetric,” with a more intimate B‑side, “Clerestory Windows.” Collaborating with the JACK Quartet and incorporating a range of instruments, Reidy crafts a full, layered sound that rewards repeated listens.
Bullion – Nearly (Ghostly)
American pop‑rock artist Bullion’s Nearly explores themes of self‑doubt and isolation. The record blends ’80s pop‑R&B production with new‑wave instincts, creating a melancholic yet warm atmosphere. Featuring a collaboration with L Devine, the album offers a fresh take on introspective pop.
Blondshell – Violins (Partisan)
Sabrina Teitelbaum’s third LP as Blondshell, Violins, dives into the paradox of beauty and pain. Working again with producer Yves Rothman, Teitelbaum delivers grungier riffs and larger hooks, culminating in the contemplative closing track “Fur Elise.” The album captures the existential anxiety of her thirties with honesty and nuance.
Protomartyr – Hotel Usona (Domino)
Detroit’s post‑punk stalwarts Protomartyr return with Hotel Usona, a record that eschews their earlier raw energy for sharper, more focused commentary. The album tackles corrupted patriotism, social media distortion, and AI’s selfishness, challenging listeners to engage with its incisive lyrics.
Zukenee – Blunts and Blades (Slaylife)
Atlanta rapper Zukenee’s fifth project, Blunts and Blades, blends laid‑back flows with trap beats from Cade, Desmos, and BNYX. The album’s sparse production and sharp lyricism make it a standout in the post‑rage scene, offering a balance between quality and quantity.
Megiapa – Intentions (International Anthem)
Chicago‑born Megiapa’s debut LP, Intentions, showcases her decade‑long experience in the city’s beat scene. Recorded on a cultural grant and featuring live West Coast instrumentation, the record weaves a quilt of sonic textures that reflect her artistic journey.
Godflesh – Decay (Relapse)
Industrial metal pioneers Godflesh release Decay, their first of two final albums following the band’s announced end. The record, born from the same sessions as 2023’s Purge, delivers a physical, intense conclusion to their 40‑year legacy, featuring a raw, bloodcurdling energy that marks the end of an era.
Key facts
- Tinashe’s nostalgic pop revival
- Gilla Band’s experimental noise rock
- Julia Jacklin’s introspective folk
- Godflesh’s final chapter
- Protomartyr’s sharp social critique
Why it matters
These albums showcase the evolving landscape of modern music, offering listeners fresh perspectives across genres and highlighting the resilience of artists in a rapidly changing industry.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Pitchfork’s New Music Friday valuable?
It curates a diverse selection of new releases, helping listeners discover quality music amid a flood of content.
Are these albums available on all major streaming platforms?
Yes, each record can be streamed on Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Music.
How can I support these artists?
Purchasing through official channels or streaming on platforms that pay royalties helps sustain independent musicians.
Sources
- [1] pitchfork.com — originally reported as “11 Albums Out This Week You Should Listen to Now”
