The Best Songs of August 2025 // New Music Friday!

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"The Subway" by Chappell Roan

The long-awaited official release of "The Subway" is finally here and it is absolutely the best song that Chappell has released thus far. There's so much emotion packed into every lyric. The song is deeply heartfelt and unflinchingly honest as Chappell recalls the kind of specific, intimate details of a love that got away. All of the memories still linger, almost as if she is haunted by them. After performing the song live for the past year, I'm so happy the studio version of it is finally out!

"Ice In My OJ" by Hayley Williams

Earlier this month Hayley Williams surprise released a seventeen standalone singles, which she later compiled into an official album titled Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party. It's already a very strong contender for my favorite album of the year so far, I'm continuously discovering new aspects of it that I love each time I listen to it. "Ice In My OJ" was one of my initial favorites, I love the edge and unapologetic attitude it radiates as the album's opening track. This also marks Hayley's first release as an independent artist and this entire project feels representative of the start of an exciting new chapter for her. 

"House Tour" by Sabrina Carpenter

"House Tour" is a standout moment from Sabrina Carpenter's latest album, Man's Best Friend, a glittering pop anthem that radiates her signature playful confidence. Her charm and personality shines throughout the entire album, as always, but the theatricality and cheekiness of this song in particular is such a highlight of the album.

"Sunset Tower" by Conan Gray

I genuinely cannot get enough of Wishbone, Conan Gray's latest album. It feels like the most honest, unfiltered version of him we've ever heard, like he's finally made the album he was always meant to create. There’s a sense of emotional clarity that runs through every single song in such a striking way. The songwriting, the production,  and the storytelling is all so intentional and beautifully layered. Every track feels like a page torn from a diary, but crafted with the kind of precision that only Conan could pull off. "Sunset Tower" is one of the many standouts for me. It's cinematic and deeply emotional in all the best ways. 

"Garden" by Halsey

Halsey's debut album BADLANDS was released ten years ago this month and to celebrate this milestone, they released a deluxe expanded edition of the album featuring previously unreleased tracks and alternate versions of the classics. "Garden" is a gem from her early catalog, a rarity that gives an even deeper glimpse into the musical universe of this album and her state of mind when creating it over a decade ago. I remember listening to the leaked demo version years ago and love that it finally had an official release. 

Check out my ten year anniversary review of BADLANDS by Halsey! 

"Times Square Jesus" by The Favors

The storytelling behind "Times Square Jesus" is among the most evocative and truly beautiful that Finneas and Ashe have released so far with their new band, The Favors. The timeless sound and innate artistic chemistry they share with their collaborators is undeniable. It shines through in every release, but there's something especially powerful about this track. The delicate, conversational approach they took with the songwriting, paired with their stunning harmonies, makes this among the biggest highlights of their careers thus far. They just keep getting better and better and I can't wait to hear the rest of the album soon!

"Empty House" by Nat & Alex Wolff

"Empty House" by Nat & Alex Wolff has such a dreamy and nostalgic sound that is so emotionally rich. I love the direction they're going with this sound, it feels like a natural evolution of their artistry while still holding onto the intimacy that's always made their music so special. The bassline is especially striking, grounding the track with a groove that's both hypnotic and heartfelt. It's easily one of their best performances to date, and I'm so excited to see where they take this project next.

"Man I Need" by Olivia Dean

"Man I Need" by Olivia Dean is a sweet and romantic song that radiates clarity, confidence, and emotional warmth. The whimsical, soulful production adds a timeless charm that makes it instantly memorable.

"Snow White" by Laufey

"Snow White" is the kind of song that I think many women will see a piece of themselves in, and the feelings that are so rarely spoken about but universally felt. The instrumental carries this distinct sense of whimsy that's become such a signature of Laufey's music, the grand, sweeping elements are so stunning. It is such a beautiful and emotionally rich song that is such a stand-out from her latest album A Matter of Time.

"Everybody Scream" by Florence + The Machine

Ahead of her upcoming Halloween release, Florence + the Machine unveiled the powerful lead single "Everybody Scream", which is a haunting, theatrical anthem that sets the tone for what's shaping up to be one of her most personal and evocative records to date.

"Standard Size Knife" by Mitch Rowland

"Standard Size Knife", the second single off Mitch Rowland's sophomore album Whistling Pie, is easily one of my favorite tracks he's released yet. It's a striking example of how he's continuing to refine his folk-rock sound and introspective lyricism while expanding his sonic palette in bold, unexpected ways.

"Paparazzi - triple j Like A Version" by Thornhill

I always love discovering new artists through triple j's Like A Version cover series on YouTube, it's one of my favorite ways to see familiar songs reimagined in completely unexpected ways. One of my favorite recent finds is the Australian metal band Thornhill, who delivered a bold and electrifying take on the Lady Gaga's classic "Paparazzi". Their cover is such a cool reinterpretation of the original; dark, theatrical, and full of edge, while still honoring the pop brilliance of Gaga's songwriting.

"Always On My Mind" by Been Stellar

Been Stellar has been one of my favorite discoveries over the past couple of years, especially after getting the chance to see them live at Shadow of the City last year. Their latest single, "Always On My Mind", feels like such an exciting step forward as they continue to expand their sound. It's easily one of my favorites I've heard from them yet.

"gossip" by Confidence Man & JADE

"gossip" by Confidence Man and JADE is pure pop chaos in the best way possible! It is fun, bold, and bursting with personality. JADE is such a fun and refreshing voice in pop music right now, she has such a distinctive sound that is so addicting to listen to. 

"Thirst Trap" by Audrey Hobert

"Thirst Trap" is such a fun and refreshing standout from Audrey Hobert's debut album Who's the Clown? She has such a distinctive voice as a songwriter; witty, self-aware, and emotionally sharp in a way that feels instantly relatable.

"My Full Name" by Madison Cunningham

Madison's vocal delivery on "My Full Name" reminds me so much of a modern Joni Mitchell, her performance is so expressive and intimate. The songwriting is also beautifully layered, capturing the ache of a lost love with poetic clarity and emotional nuance. It's a gorgeous example of modern folk storytelling - raw, romantic, and deeply personal.


Thanks for reading! August has once again has slipped away like a moment in time and it's been so exciting to hear all of the new music releases over the past few months. I've loved diving into some of the highlights here, and I'm currently working on even more reviews featuring these artists and many more. Be sure to check back soon for what’s next!

-Melissa ♡



All credit to photo owners - header designed by Melissa Kacar




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