Hi there, Daniel here, and welcome to the latest edition of New Music Friday, part of Devote Radio's Pop Culture section.
Every Friday, we round up some of the biggest new releases, hidden gems and must-hear tracks landing across the music world. Whether you're into rock, pop, dance or singer-songwriter anthems, there's always something new waiting to be discovered.
This week sees Brandon Flowers make a welcome return with his latest solo single Paradise, while Kelly Clarkson, Kim Petras, MEDUZA & Khalid, Lukas Graham and Mike Posner all deliver fresh releases worth adding to your playlist. So, let's dive into this week's picks.
Brandon Flowers – Paradise
Brandon Flowers continues the rollout of his upcoming third solo album, Thrasher, with Paradise, the follow-up to lead single Plans. The Killers frontman has embraced a warmer, Americana-inspired sound for the record, with sessions recorded in Nashville alongside a host of renowned musicians.
While Plans introduced listeners to this new musical direction, Paradise builds on it beautifully. Rich instrumentation, heartfelt lyrics and Flowers' unmistakable vocals combine to create a track that feels both intimate and cinematic. It's another reminder of his songwriting ability away from The Killers and leaves plenty to look forward to when Thrasher arrives next month.
My Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Kelly Clarkson – I'd Be Lyin'
Kelly Clarkson returns with I'd Be Lyin', a heartfelt pop ballad that puts her powerhouse vocals front and centre. The track explores the difficulty of moving on from a relationship, with Clarkson delivering the emotion and honesty that have become a trademark throughout her career.
There's no questioning the vocal performance here—it's polished, powerful and undeniably Kelly Clarkson. However, while the song is well-produced and lyrically sincere, it doesn't quite have the standout hook or instant impact of some of her strongest releases. It's a solid addition to her catalogue rather than an immediate favourite.
My Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Kim Petras – Pop Sound
Kim Petras turns the energy all the way up with Pop Sound, a bold, high-tempo dance-pop anthem packed with infectious hooks and glossy production. Staying true to her signature style, the track blends pulsating electronic beats with playful lyrics, creating a song that feels tailor-made for late-night playlists and summer festivals.
While Pop Sound isn't a huge departure from what fans have come to expect, that's part of its appeal. It's confident, fun and unapologetically pop from start to finish, proving once again that Kim Petras knows exactly how to craft an irresistible dancefloor hit.
My Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Lukas Graham – Good Times
Lukas Graham returns with Good Times, an uplifting pop track that celebrates making the most of life's moments with the people who matter most. Blending warm melodies with the band's signature storytelling, the song carries an optimistic message without feeling overly sentimental.
It's an easy, feel-good listen that leans into Lukas Graham's strengths. While it may not break new ground musically, Good Times has a catchy chorus, plenty of heart and the kind of laid-back summer vibe that's likely to resonate with fans.
My Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
MEDUZA & Khalid – Weekend
MEDUZA teams up with Khalid on Weekend, combining euphoric dance production with Khalid's effortlessly smooth vocals to create one of this week's standout releases. The Italian trio deliver a polished electronic backdrop, while Khalid adds warmth and emotion, striking the perfect balance between club anthem and radio-friendly pop.
From the first listen, Weekend feels like a track destined for repeat plays. The production is slick, the chorus is instantly memorable, and Khalid's vocal performance elevates the song even further. It's a collaboration that plays to the strengths of both artists and, for me, is one of the strongest releases of the week.
My Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mike Posner – Crazy Rainbow
Mike Posner takes a different approach with Crazy Rainbow, delivering an atmospheric electronic track built around layered production, ambient textures and subtle vocal elements. Rather than focusing on a conventional pop structure, the song creates a relaxed, almost cinematic mood that feels more suited to late-night listening than mainstream radio.
It's certainly an interesting direction, but one that didn't quite connect with me. While the production has moments of creativity, the track never really builds into anything memorable and ultimately feels like it lacks a clear identity. It's an experimental listen, but not one I'd be rushing back to.
My Verdict: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
Another Friday, another fantastic batch of new music to get stuck into. This week's standout for me has to be MEDUZA & Khalid's Weekend, a flawless collaboration that earns a well-deserved five-star rating, while Brandon Flowers continues to build excitement for his upcoming solo album with another excellent release. Kelly Clarkson, Kim Petras and Lukas Graham also deliver tracks that are well worth adding to your playlist, even if Mike Posner's experimental offering didn't quite hit the same heights.
If you're looking to discover your next favourite song, you'll be able to hear many of this week's biggest new releases featured across our programming here on Devote Radio, alongside the biggest hits, fresh discoveries and the music you love.
Thanks for reading this week's edition of New Music Friday. Be sure to check back next Friday for another round-up of the hottest new releases, and don't forget to let us know which track has been on repeat for you this week.
Happy listening! 🎵
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