April 21, 2025 Music Roundup: Major Releases, Festival Lineups, and Industry News

The week of April 21, 2025, brings a significant influx of news from across the global music landscape, featuring major album drops, anticipated project announcements, vibrant festival updates, extensive tour plans, and notable industry developments. From critically acclaimed artists releasing new material to iconic bands reuniting and digital milestones being achieved, the industry continues its dynamic evolution. This report compiles the key headlines shaping the conversation this week.

This Week’s Album Releases

The new music landscape is enriched this week with several notable album releases. The enigmatic collective SAULT delivers new material, continuing their prolific output and genre-bending sound. Post-rock and indie folk stalwarts Beirut also unveil a new full-length project, offering their distinctive blend of instrumental and vocal textures. Singer-songwriters Julien Baker and TORRES present a collaborative effort, an anticipated release that merges their respective powerful and introspective styles.

Upcoming Projects Announced

Looking ahead, the music world anticipates a slate of new recordings following recent announcements. Public Enemy’s legendary frontman, Chuck D, is set to release a solo album titled “Radio Armageddon,” signaling a continued engagement with impactful social commentary through music. Rising artist Avery Friedman will debut with an album titled “New Thing,” marking a significant step in their career. Quickly, Quickly has announced their project “I Heard That Noise,” promising their unique sonic explorations. Fans of Fontaines D.C. can look forward to a deluxe edition of their acclaimed album “Romance,” offering expanded content. Rap superstar Young Thug is preparing to release his new album, “Uy Scuti.” Additionally, global icon Drake has confirmed a new solo album is on the horizon, further fueling anticipation among his massive fanbase.

Key New Tracks Released

Several new singles and tracks have emerged or been highlighted this week, providing a taste of current and upcoming music. Fib released the track “You Ruined Everything,” adding to their catalog. MarMar shared their new single “You’re My One.” The track “Harmony” by Grumpy, featuring contributions from Claire Rousay and Pink Must, showcases an intriguing collaboration. JayWood presented the track “UNTITLED (Swirl),” demonstrating their evolving sound. From the upcoming King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard LP “Phantom Island,” the track “Deadstick” was released, offering a preview of their latest project.

Festival Circuit Updates

The 2025 festival season is taking shape with significant lineup additions and new event announcements. Germany’s Reeperbahn Festival 2025 has announced 50 new acts joining its roster, including acclaimed groups like Dry Cleaning and Blondshell, broadening the festival’s diverse offering. A new destination festival, Rock the Tides, has been announced to take place in Mexico, headlined by rock legends Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe, promising a major event for hard rock enthusiasts. The LadyLand Festival 2025 will feature headline performances from prominent artists Cardi B and FKA twigs, highlighting a diverse blend of hip-hop and experimental pop. The esteemed Newport Jazz Fest 2025 has revealed a compelling lineup that includes Janelle Monáe, The Roots, De La Soul, Cymande, and Jorja Smith, showcasing a rich tapestry of jazz, soul, hip-hop, and R&B talent.

Tour and Live Music News

Touring activity continues to rebound and generate excitement. Iconic shock rocker Alice Cooper is reportedly reuniting with his original band members, marking their first collaborative album in 51 years – a significant event for long-time fans and hinting at potential future live performances together. Indie rock act Illuminati Hotties has announced plans for an upcoming tour alongside news of a new EP. Alternative rock band Tripping Daisy has announced their first North American tour in 26 years, during which they plan to perform their album “I Am an Electric Firecracker” in its entirety, a nostalgic treat for fans of their ’90s output.

Industry and Other Notable News

Beyond releases and tours, several other developments are making headlines this week. NPR’s Tiny Desk series is expanding its reach by launching a dedicated radio program, bringing its intimate performance format to a wider audience. In concerning news, Joseph Seiders, drummer for the band The New Pornographers, has been arrested on child pornography charges. This development is subject to ongoing legal proceedings. The music community also mourns the passing of Les Binks, former drummer for the legendary heavy metal band Judas Priest, who died at the age of 73. In a testament to enduring hits, Van Halen’s classic track “Jump” has surpassed the milestone of one billion streams on the Spotify platform, demonstrating the song’s lasting global appeal.

Conclusion:
This snapshot from April 21, 2025, underscores the constant flux within the music industry, driven by creative output, live performances, and significant cultural milestones, alongside challenging moments within the community.