“10 must-listen tracks for the week, including new David Byrne”
September is starting off with a bang in the music world, with a plethora of new releases lined up for music enthusiasts. From iconic artists like David Byrne and Joni Mitchell to comebacks from Rob Thomas and Faithless, this month is packed with exciting new music that promises to captivate and inspire listeners.
One of the most anticipated releases of the week is David Byrne’s latest album, “Where Is the Sky?,” set to drop on September 5, 2025, on Matador Records. Following the success of his 2018 “American Utopia” project, which featured groundbreaking concerts and even made its way to Broadway, Byrne collaborates with the New York-based ensemble Ghost Train Orchestra on his ninth solo outing. The album includes guest appearances from the likes of St. Vincent, Hayley Williams from Paramore, and Tom Skinner from The Smile, all produced by Kid Harpoon, a Grammy Award-winning collaborator of Harry Styles. This 12-song collection clocks in at a modest but impactful 37 and a half minutes, showcasing Byrne’s ability to push boundaries and reinvent his sound.
Faithless returns with their album “Champion Sound,” marking their first release since the passing of frontman Maxi Jazz. Featuring his final recorded vocals on the single “Forever Free,” the album sees the band teaming up with Bebe Rexha, Suli Breaks, and LSK to deliver a powerful musical statement. Canadian singer-rapper grandson makes a statement of his own with “Inertia,” his third full-length album that delivers socially and politically charged lyrics over dynamic beats. Ivy pays tribute to their late bandmate Adam Schlesinger with “Traces of You,” their first album in 15 years, highlighting his contributions to their sound.
Joni Mitchell’s latest box set, “Joni’s Jazz,” delves into her extensive jazz-inspired material, featuring 61 tracks, many of which have never been released before. Monsta X keeps the K-pop fire burning with “The X,” their latest mini-album and first full group release in four years. Meanwhile, Mike Reid and Joe Henry team up for “Life & Time,” a 12-song collection that showcases their songwriting prowess and unique musical sensibilities. British alt-pop trio Saint Etienne rounds out the list with “International,” which they claim will be their final album, featuring top-tier collaborations with artists like Orbital, the Chemical Brothers, and Erasure’s Vince Clark.
With a diverse range of genres and styles, the new music releases of September promise to offer something for everyone. From iconic artists making a comeback to up-and-coming stars pushing the boundaries of their craft, this month’s offerings are sure to resonate with music fans of all stripes. So grab your headphones and get ready to dive into a world of new sounds and fresh perspectives, as these albums hit the airwaves and make their mark on the musical landscape.