Music released on June 27, 2025

This week’s edition of New Music Friday brings with it a significant release from one of the most renowned artists of the 21st century. Today, music enthusiasts can expect a plethora of exciting releases ranging from top singles to EPs and albums.

One of the notable highlights of this week is the release of Lorde’s latest album, “Virgin.” After a four-year hiatus following her last studio album, “Solar Power,” Lorde, now at 28, showcases a shift in her musical style on this album. Drawing inspiration from her friend Charli XCX, Lorde embodies the essence of contemporary pop music with bold production techniques and catchy beats. While “Virgin” may not necessarily break new ground in terms of innovation, it reflects a natural progression for the artist at this point in her career.

Lorde’s evolution from the teenage sensation who launched her career with “Pure Heroine” is evident on “Virgin,” where she delves into themes of identity and self-expression. In tracks like “Hammer,” she embraces her fluidity by singing, “Some days I’m a woman, some days I’m a man,” unapologetically navigating the complexities of gender identity. The music video for “Man of the Year” further exemplifies her willingness to confront societal norms by visually portraying her struggles with gender expression.

Throughout “Virgin,” Lorde combines her signature sound with modern pop elements, as seen in the track “Shapeshifter.” Here, she explores themes of vulnerability and self-acceptance, delivering a powerful crescendo of beats and instrumentation. Working with producer Jim E. Stack, known for his collaborations with Bon Iver, adds a unique touch to the album’s overall sound.

This album serves as a testament to Lorde’s personal growth and acceptance of imperfection, reminding listeners that it is okay not to have everything figured out, especially in one’s twenties. “Virgin” is a testament to the artist’s willingness to showcase her authenticity and vulnerability, transcending the confines of traditional songwriting tropes.

Lorde’s candidness and introspection on “Virgin” mark a new chapter in her musical journey, showing a willingness to express herself freely without the pressure to conform to expectations of perfection. While the album may not be a groundbreaking creative endeavor, it serves as a poignant reflection of Lorde’s self-exploration and evolution as an artist.

In addition to Lorde’s album, this week’s New Music Friday features a diverse array of releases from artists such as Bardo, The Beths, Blonde Redhead, Durand Jones & The Indications, Frankie Cosmos, Smut, Reneé Rapp, and Why Bonnie. Each artist brings a unique sound and perspective to the music landscape, ensuring that there is something for every listener to enjoy.

As the music industry continues to evolve, New Music Friday remains a platform for artists to showcase their latest work and connect with audiences worldwide. Whether it’s a highly anticipated album release or a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, each week brings with it a sense of excitement and discovery for music enthusiasts everywhere.