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! 🎵

Hi there, Daniel here, and welcome to the very first edition of New Music Friday, part of Devote Radio's brand-new Pop Culture section.

Each week, I'll be bringing you a round-up of the latest music releases that the team here at Devote are rating, highlighting everything from chart-topping artists and established favourites to emerging talent and hidden finds. Whether you're looking to refresh your playlist or discover your next favourite track, we've got you covered with the latest new tracks landing this week - including the Devote Discovery!

Our favourite emerging artist of the week - this week I recommend Black Lounge!

Courtesy of Aitch - Topic, YouTube

Manchester rapper Aitch brings a fresh twist to a disco classic with RMB (Ring My Bell), reimagining Anita Ward's iconic 1979 hit for a new generation. Blending nostalgic hooks with his signature laid-back flow, the track feels tailor-made for summer playlists, balancing old-school disco energy with a modern UK sound. It's a bold, feel-good release that pays tribute to a song that topped charts on both sides of the Atlantic while giving it a distinctly 2026 identity.

Kodaline return with one of their most personal releases to date in Without You. Written by frontman Steve Garrigan for his wife ahead of their wedding day, the song originally served as both the couple's first dance and part of his wedding speech. That deeply personal story shines through in the track's heartfelt lyrics and emotional delivery, making Without You a touching celebration of love, commitment and the moments that matter most.

🎧 Devote Discovery: Black Lounge 🎧 

Our stand-out new release this week is from Black Lounge and their latest single Roommate. 

One of the most exciting emerging bands on our radar right now, Black Lounge continue their rise with Roommate. The Essex indie-rock quartet have been building a reputation for their energetic, guitar-driven sound, blending the spirit of early 2000s British indie with a modern alt-rock edge. Packed with fuzzy riffs, infectious hooks and plenty of attitude, Roommate is a relatable, tongue-in-cheek take on the frustrations of living with a housemate who pushes every button.

Courtesy of Black Lounge, YouTube

At Devote Radio, we're always on the lookout for artists who bring something fresh to the table, and Black Lounge do exactly that. What really stands out is their ability to combine catchy, sing-along hooks with the raw edge and swagger that made British indie rock such a force in the first place. With a huge chorus, plenty of personality and a feel-good energy that keeps you coming back for another listen, Roommate is exactly the kind of track we love championing through our platform. If you're a fan of bands that blend infectious melodies with authentic indie-rock vibes, Black Lounge are certainly worth adding to your playlist.

Courtesy of Release - Topic, YouTube

Known for crafting some of the most emotionally resonant songs of the past decade, Tom Odell returns with Old Lovers, a collaboration with American indie-folk favourites The Lumineers. The track brings together two acclaimed songwriters, delivering a heartfelt release that is sure to resonate with fans of both artists. 

Courtesy of HYBE LABELS - YouTube

Closing out this week's New Music Friday is ICONIC BY MISTAKE, an eye-catching K-pop collaboration from KATSEYE, LE SSERAFIM and ILLIT. Bringing together three of the genre's most talked-about girl groups, the track delivers a slick blend of confidence, attitude and polished pop production. Packed with memorable hooks and empowering energy, it's the kind of release that reminds listeners why K-pop continues to dominate charts and playlists around the world.

Until next week, enjoy our recommendations and let us know what you think in the comments!

Daniel xox