Words by Katherine Cardinale

The first quarter of 2026 has already come and gone, and with it some fantastic music releases. From highly anticipated releases like Charli xcx’s Wuthering Heights, which was released in collaboration with the movie sharing the same namesake to indie gems like Cece Coakley’s latest EP, Pleasant Attack, I’ve compiled some of my personal favorites down below that I haven’t already reviewed for the publication. I hope you’re able to find your latest musical obsession or even rediscover an artist you used to love!

Death in the Business of Whaling by Searows

Released: January 23, 2026

Favorite Song: Photograph of a Cyclone

Searows is back and better than ever with the release of his highly anticipated sophomore album, Death in the Business of Whaling. The record is a sonic shift from his previous releases, featuring more production than ever before. It is emotional, heartfelt, and deep. I have a VIP ticket to see Searows next week and I’m excited to see these new songs come to life onstage.

Fleeting by Sarah Kinsley

Released: February 13, 2026

Favorite Song: After All (with Paris Paloma)

Sarah Kinsley is a rising voice in the alt pop world, and after listening to her latest EP, Fleeting, it’s easy to see why. Fleeting represents all of Sarah’s personal and musical growth as an artist since the release of her debut album, Escaper, in 2024. It features her signature haunting vocals over an 80’s-inspired sound; these two things come together to create the unique Sarah Kinsley listening experience.

Wuthering Heights by Charli xcx

Released: February 13, 2026

Favorite Song: Eyes of the World featuring Sky Ferreira

Wuthering Heights is a 12-track soundtrack record for the Emerald Fennel film adaptation, which came out in January of this year. The album combines gothic themes, experimental pop, and emotional, raw lyrics together to accurately reflect the aesthetics and direction of the film it accompanies. For the creation of this record, Charli worked with Sky Ferreira, John Cale, and frequent collaborator Finn Keane. It is her second soundtrack album.

Everywhere Isn’t Texas by August Ponthier

Released: February 13, 2026

Favorite Song: Betty

Brooklyn-based but Texas at heart artist August Ponthier released their debut album, Everywhere Isn’t Texas following the release of three EPs that were put out by Interscope Records. An independent artist once again, Ponthier has spent the past two years putting together a powerful debut album that reflects their journey to finding themselves both musically and personally.

Nothing’s About to Happen to Me by Mitski

Released: February 27, 2026

Favorite Song: Rules

Mitski’s eighth studio album has once again solidified the artist’s place within the music scene, featuring new, country-infused twangs and tinges of experimental rock over Mitski’s signature poetic lyrics. It marks a sonic departure from the orchestral influences that shone through in her last record, The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We, whose success opened Mitski to an audience larger than ever before.

Pleasant Attack by Cece Coakley

Released: March 6, 2026

Favorite Song: Marionette

The self-declared “hummus queen of Tennessee” Cece Coakley has returned with her latest EP, and it’s a stunning follow-up to all of her previous releases. The Nashville-based artist combines folk, country, and pop influences to create her own unique sound. Her relatable songwriting has attracted fans all over the country, and she’s currently on tour in support of Pleasant Attack now!