New Music Spotlight: 10 Must-Hear Tracks From the First Half of 2025
CHICAGO — While 2025 has already delivered its fair share of chart-toppers, plenty of gems may have slipped under the radar in the first six months. Music writer David Hersrud recently took a trip back through early 2025’s releases, spotlighting fresh tracks across genres that prove new music definitely doesn’t suck.
Rose City Band – “Radio Song”
From the band’s fifth album Sol Y Sombra, this track blends what’s been described as “space-age country music” into a warm, hypnotic groove. The Portland-based group continues to carve a niche between Americana roots and psychedelic soundscapes, making this a standout for fans of genre-bending artistry (The South Dakota Standard).
The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band – “I’m The Urban Spaceman”
Part of the 20-disc retrospective Still Barking, this Paul McCartney-produced cut blends music hall quirk, jazz, and surreal humor. Written by Neil Innes — often called the “seventh Python” — the track is a reminder of how effortlessly the band infused wit into music.
The Waterboys – “Hoppers on Top”
The Scottish folk-rock veterans return with Life, Death and Dennis Hopper, their 16th studio album. Guest appearances from Bruce Springsteen, Fiona Apple, and Steve Earle add depth to a record that explores the late actor-director’s unconventional life.
Kinky Friedman – “See You Down The Highway”
Featured on the posthumous release The Poet of Motel 6, this song captures the sharp wit and storytelling charm of the Texas icon, whose classics include “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore.”
Larkin Poe – “Easy Love, Pt 1”
The Lovell sisters deliver another scorching roots-rock cut from their eighth album, Bloom. Already festival circuit staples, Rebecca and Megan Lovell have a knack for balancing soulful harmonies with guitar-driven grit.
Annarella and Django – “Megaphone”
Though their album Jouer dropped late last year, it gained attention in early 2025. The Swedish jazz flautist Annarella and Malian ngoni harp master Django create an Afro-groove fusion that’s impossible to ignore.
Sparks – “Do Things My Own Way”
The quirky pop-rock duo of Ron and Russell Mael scored a #2 UK album chart debut with Mad!. This track is a perfect example of why Sparks remain one of the most inventive bands in music — even after 28 albums.
Little Feat – “Dance A Little”
From Strike Up The Band, this song proves the band’s unmatched ability to blend blues, rock, country, jazz, and funk. For newcomers, Hersrud suggests adding Waiting for Columbus to your collection immediately.
I’m With Her – “Ancient Light”
Sarah Jarosz, Aoife O’Donovan, and Sara Watkins open Wild And Clear And Blue with a lush folk arrangement. Often dubbed a “female supergroup,” the trio’s intricate harmonies make this track a serene standout.
Heartworms – “Extraordinary Wings”
UK artist Heartworms steps away from post-punk on her second album Glutton For Punishment, embracing a more experimental style while keeping her fascination with military aviation intact.
Which of these tracks will you be adding to your playlist? Share your favorites with us at ChicagoMusicGuide.com.