20 New Songs to Listen to This Week From EMJAY to Vita

EMJAY_

Courtesy of the artist.

This is our weekly compilation of bite-sized reviews of newly released songs by our talented music writers. Discover new favorites, read nuanced criticism of the week’s hottest releases, and much more. Who knows, you might walk out of this with a new fave or two. Some of the featured artists include EMJAY, Vita, and Six Sex. Follow our playlist featuring these tracks and more on Spotify or Apple Music.


EMJAY – “Bellaka”

EMJAY turns up the heat with “Bellaka,” a seductive pop standout that captures her in full popstar form. Opening with a groovy, spicy intro, the track immediately sets a magnetic tone before unfolding into a lush, rhythm-driven soundscape where EMJAY’s silky vocals glide effortlessly over vibrant pop production. The result is a song that feels both playful and provocative, radiating confidence with every line. Built on a sensual pulse and irresistible melodies, “Bellaka” leans into EMJAY’s most charismatic qualities: her ability to blend attitude, allure, and emotional nuance into a performance that feels intimate yet electrifying. Her vocal delivery is smooth and inviting, pulling listeners into the song’s flirtatious atmosphere while maintaining a polished pop sheen. With its bold energy and undeniable groove, “Bellaka” stands as one of the most captivating moments from Confesiones De Las Que Me Voy A Arrepentir, showcasing EJAY’s star power and her instinct for crafting music that feels both seductive and unforgettable.– Natasha Melina Argudo


Vita- “VITA’S HOUSE”

Vita’s House is the first solo project by Brazilian artist Vita, who was previously one half of the duo known as Irmãs de Pau. Championing the LGBTQ+ and Brazilian funk scenes, her first single is the homonym “Vita’s House,” a feature with MC Britney, in which heavy electronic beats help dive into the colorful world of self-indulgence and exuberance, embracing every facet of sexuality with utmost comfort and joy. Because that’s what “Vita’s House” is supposed to be, a place where anyone can be anything and enjoy anything, allowing themselves the chance to be true to who they are for, at least, almost four minutes. – Júlia Henn


Six Sex- “Ultra Terrorific Fantasy x Not ur mom”

Six Sex has fleshed out a universe of supercharged libidos and hard-thumping beats with a string of hits that established her as a “hot and perfect girl” who enjoys “espresso martinis, fashion week in Milan.” But with her explosive new double-single, “Ultra Terrorific Fantasy x Not ur mom,” Argentina’s queen of perreo rave is setting the record straight on all the things that she is not. “No soy tu pornstar,” she moans repeatedly on the first track, as a pounding, increasingly erratic beat from producer Qiri shatters the illusion of gratuitous sexuality, slapping fans back into Six Sex’s reality of meticulously administered provocation. The companion track is even more explicit: “Aunque me chupaste las tetas, yo no soy tú mamá,” she spits over a campy disco bass line, affirming her power with the confidence of a diva who’s just blessed us with one of the hardest bars of the year. These narrative corrections are echoed throughout a dazzling music video from Lean Vazquez and Ana Massera, splicing racy evocations of tentacle porn and the Garden of Eden with references to horror films like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Cuando Acecha la Maldad. The subtext is all about control, and whether our pleasure turns to pain is for Six Sex to decide. —Richard Villegas


Gabby Black- “KNOCK KNOCK”

Gabby Black is back with a situationship anthem. The emerging Puerto Rican singer-songwriter released her newest alternative R&B-tinged “KNOCK KNOCK,” a bold Spanglish offering for those dealing with people who can’t commit. With electronic elements and a pulsing melodic bass, the heart-on-her-sleeve alt-pop artist sings witty lines like, “Poco hombre pa’ tanto ego,” putting her past lover in their place one last time (hopefully). Co-written by Danimac and produced by Pipe Bernal, “KNOCK KNOCK” gives a glimpse at what Black’s new music is all about, following her last single, “Holding Me Back.” So add her now to your playlist if you’re interested in listening to more moody, dark pop with sentimental lyrics. We know we will. – Jeanette Hernandez


Angie K – “Sweatin’”

With a new album on the way, Nashville’s Angie K’s latest single presents a fiery energy drenched in Southern style. “Sweatin” is the turning point for a new chapter in Angie K’s book. Following the roaring start from her previous single, “Low Key Love Song,” the track builds on Angie’s traditional storytelling with mixed lyricism. The two are palette cleaners from Angie’s short, but punchy EP released last year, and “Sweatin” is the initial introduction for a much sweeter sound. One that’s confident in its blending of textures and melodic songwriting. Built on sensational guitar licks with a steady, upbeat tempo, its sunny, dreamy chords paint an image of the Big Country, and of its vivid landscapes and burning passion. – Alan Baez


Zell- “el infierno en persona” 

A record scratch is the only warning before the irreverent synths of Argentine rebel Zell blast open the story of Zelly, an alter ego that names his upcoming EP and brings out a dark and impulsive side of him. In “el infierno en persona,” Zell sings, “the angel killed the devil on my shoulder” over a thumping, energetic track that honors his trap roots while showcasing an inspiring vision towards modernity and a willingness to break rules. And while insinuating that we are either on Zelly’s side or going to hell, this character also pushes him to recognize that some of the worst decisions and behaviours take place when ego is put first. But in any case— and as this track makes it almost impossible not to—we must dance through it. – La Morra Lisa


DECEITS – “Please, Wake Up” 

For those ready to dive into their gothic devotion, Los Angeles duo DECEITS share their latest anthemic post-punk single “Please, Wake Up.” Driven by a pulsing bassline and swinging drum rhythm, the track conjures the melancholic urgency of classic post-punk while buoyant guitars and synths give its emotional current a more modern edge. Through frontman Kevin Moreno’s lyricism, the song unfolds like a desperate plea for recognition from someone who has grown emotionally unreachable. Its echoing refrains eventually land like both a prayer and a breaking point, capturing the deep ache of loving someone who no longer sees you the same way. The accompanying video places the isolated duo against the stark desert winds of Palm Springs, mirroring and amplifying the song’s sense of desolate longing. With this release, DECEITS once again transform heartbreak into something cathartic, letting darker emotions move from the body to the dancefloor where they briefly burn off in the fragile space between devotion and despair. — Jeanette Diaz


Irreversible Entanglements – “Juntos Vencemos (feat. Helado Negro)”

Free jazz collective Irreversible Entanglements continue their sonically and socially revolutionary music flowing with a track that evokes primal joy and movement. With a wind instrument sounding like a call to arms and multilayered percussion that commands you to move, the ensemble adorns its minimalism with chanting led by Roberto Carlos Lange, aka Helado Negro, bringing subdued power to the fore. The result is a melodic call to arms that feels gentle without sacrificing momentum, with claps and hoots in the background that make it a song that sounds both completely familiar yet unique in its inventiveness.  — Marcos Hassan


Wendy Luna – “Pikete al Día (feat. El Propio)”

Last summer, Wendy Lunda was included in Remezcla’s list of rising artists we recommend people check out if they loved DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS. Luna’s take on salsa was both fresh and stirring, with lyrics that also celebrated Puerto Rico, such as in her previous single “Donde yo nací.” This week, she releases her debut EP, El Callejón de los Locos, and it features six tracks that channel the classic emotional storytelling of the best salsa of the past with the intensity and heart of a new generation aiming to keep the music alive. Luna’s passion for music is the best evidence yet that this Caribbean sound is in great hands for the future. — Juan J. Arroyo


TURIAN BOY, Cabiria- “jardín privado”

Spanish artist and producer Álex Vidal has been previewing his upcoming musical project as TURIAN BOY since last year, and he has now shared his third single together with previous collaborator, Barcelona’s Cabiria. “jardín privado” is a deliciously textural electronic pop jam where Vidal meticulously collages electronic and acoustic sounds to create a dynamic aural experience. Paired with Cabiria’s soft vocals and simple melodies, the song is reminiscent of Morr Music’s emotionally-charged catalogue, as she opens a window to her private garden for us to take a peek at her inner self. – Cheky


Moreno X4, Little Homie – “Maniaque”

Drilla Corridos trailblazer Moreno X4 raises the stakes with his explosive new single”Maniaque” featuring Roc Nation’s rising drill force Little Homie. Fueled by hard-hitting production and a gripping blend of corridos storytelling and drill intensity, the track delivers a charged, high-energy anthem that highlights Moreno X4’s commanding style and evolving artistry. The collaboration marks a pivotal moment in his ascent, as Little Homie’s sharp delivery amplifies the record’s raw edge and crossover appeal. At its core, “Maniaque” embodies the fearless spirit driving the emerging Drilla Corridos movement, melding regional influences with the urgency of global urban sounds. Moreno X4 leans into his signature grit and melodic instincts, creating a record that feels both rebellious and forward-thinking. The chemistry between both artists fuels the track’s relentless momentum, positioning “Maniaque” as a bold statement of intent and another defining step in Moreno X4’s rapidly growing presence in el movimiento’s landscape. – Natasha Melina Argudo


Lafetah- “Maracujá Doce”

The expectations for Brazilian singer Lafetah’s upcoming new album have been raised with the release of the artist’s new single, “Maracujá Doce.” The track is named after an immensely popular fruit in the tropical country: the sweet passion fruit. Known for its sweetness, the fruit doesn’t have any of the sourness of its original variety. The delicate lyrics, written by Lafetah’s friend Mariana Cavanellas during their teenage years, use the best qualities of the passion fruit to describe the subtleties of first love, the way life becomes that much sweeter when such innocent and easy tenderness finds its way. Lafetah’s unique voice serves as an instrument to these feelings and creates a beautiful song that allows everyone to melt into its poetry. – Júlia Henn


Casi- “Murciélago”

The shapeshifting Colombian alt-rock band Casi has unveiled a new album titled Si el Tiburón se Come el Cable, a patchwork of seemingly mundane urban tales that together create the stirring portrait of a bustling and often unforgiving Bogotá. Singer-songwriter Juan Antonio Carulla—known for leading the music criticism platform, El Enemigo—salutes the tireless hustle of recyclers known as cartoneros on “¡Ay, Ratón!,” while “Estás Pintao’” pokes fun at snooty hipsters in the trendy Chapinero district. The final single is “Murciélago,” a propulsive, nocturnal song about delivery motorcyclists zooming around Bogotá clad in black plastic capes, enduring a perpetual state of rainfall in order to make ends meet. Weaving hip-hop drums with chord progressions indebted to alterlatino giants like Caifanes and Aterciopelados, the song, and the album at large, is the kind of ubiquitous hometown anthem primed for stadium glory. — Richard Villegas


The Warning- “Kerosene”

After releasing their last collaboration, “Love to Be Loved” with Carín León, The Warning is back with their signature sound on “Kerosene.” From the get-go, the Mexican trio has had their hit formula figured out—a strong bassline, fast-paced drums, and the vocalist Daniela’s high-pitched vocals. Put it all together, and you get another radio-ready and catchy rock banger like “Kerosene,” which at the same time plants a proud Mexican flag on your local mainstream rock programming, which is a win for alternative Latinas everywhere. As far as the video goes, The Warning features nostalgic Y2K elements like a bedazzled iPod nano, a fur cardigan, and streetwear sunglasses, adding a playful, girly pop touch to the song’s cinematic action-like visuals. What else can we say? We love seeing Latinas thrive in white male-dominated rock spaces and having fun while at it. – Jeanette Hernandez


Leo Rizzi – "Choque"

Following an already well-constructed string of singles, the anticipation for Leo Rizzi’s forthcoming sophomore project continues to build with the radical “Choque.” There’s a brief moment of serenity at the start of “Choque.” A moment of intention that grabs your attention before being bombarded with a string of melodic grooves. A moment that sets the tone not musically, but intuitively, before being immediately met with subtle, rising textures in the instrumental. For just a second, Rizzi speaks clearly, with no sound at all. This energy is immediately transferred through the instrumentation. Following the excellent “Puro,” “Choque” continues to demonstrate Rizzi’s growth in songwriting and love for layered instrumentals. “Choque” is not flashy, but is epic on a smaller scale, exploring the concept of faith while keeping fluid and abstract in its lyricism, and focusing higher-quality in the production standard. – Alan Baez


Irany- “Bandera Roja”

Proudly and honorably representing the fresh face of Regional Mexican music and with the beautiful instrumentation that always accompanies her powerful voice, Mexicali-born talent Irany presents her newest track. “Bandera Roja” is an anthem for those who, despite seeing the alerts as they come up, overstayed their time in a relationship waiting for the best version of a person who was not willing to reach it. Yes, she’s talking about the dreaded red flags. Over a fiery accordion that perfectly captures the heartbreak, virtuously played by Irany herself, she potently celebrates “Karma might take its time, but it always arrives” as a requinto laments in the background. In the stunning music video, we see Irany shredding that accordion up, burning a massive red flag, and a display of memorable outfits that modernize the roots of the genre, while respecting it and pushing it forward. An icon, diva, legend, and star, we bow our chrome-covered sombrero to. – La Morra Lisa


Margaritas Podridas – “Quema Los Recuerdos”

Sonora, Mexico’s Margaritas Podridas just released their new album Metales Pesados, and on it sits the searing focus track “Quema Los Recuerdos.” At its core, the song carries an emotional volatility that mirrors its distortion-soaked sonic architecture. Serrated fuzz guitars, restless drums, and deep grunge basslines crash together in waves, creating an abrasive and visceral collision where garage-punk momentum meets shoegaze haze. Frontwoman Caro’s vocals cut straight through the noise with a haunting intensity that rapidly curdles nostalgic memories into a fury-fueled desire to see them burned away entirely. Overall, the track’s unrelenting urgency transforms evocative destruction into combustible release. But don’t get it twisted, there’s no sentimental loss in this act of letting go. This is a reclamatory, fiery, and necessary purge if you’ve ever heard one. The latest offering catches the band at their most confident, expanding the weight of their sound without sacrificing the raw DIY spirit that has long defined them as one of Mexico’s rising alternative forces. — Jeanette Diaz


Yai y Toly, Natan & Shander – “Despacio”

Yai y Toly are widely considered by diehard fans of reggaeton to be one of the most important and unheralded producers of the genre, with a career stretching back decades. Their contributions are still felt today, even in albums such as DtMF. And this week they’re aiming to put their name back in the conversation with “Despacio.” The track features Colombian duo Natan & Shander—brothers in real life—with a perreo that transports listeners to the vintage heyday of the genre, thanks to Yai y Toly’s ear and talents. The song is just the first in what they aim to be a return to form, and a reminder to fans that they’re still in the game. — Juan J. Arroyo


Lucas Santtana – “Ver Meu Povo Se Abraçar (feat. Chico César)”

Producer, guitarist, and singer Lucas Santtana chose Brasiliano as the title for his latest album to celebrate the language and culture unique to Brazil, and this track encapsulates exactly what he means. “Ver Meu Povo Se Abraçar” features an accordion providing melodic riffs and musical motives that propel this tropical experimental pop track. Electronic drums, squealing sirens, and sound effects provide a festive, devil-may-care atmosphere that listeners will get lost in, while Chico César’s vocals give the track a warmness that feels joyful and contagious. “Ver Meu Povo Se Abraçar” delivers the perfect balance between the past, present, and future of Brazilian music. — Marcos Hassan


BB ASUL- “Tabaco Para Armar”

Argentina’s Isabela Terán, aka BB ASUL, is ready to follow up her standout 2023 album PURA, and we’re getting a first taste in the form of “Tabaco Para Armar.” Produced by Dante Saulino and featuring a vintage-style Melon Manga-directed music video set in a cemetery, “Tabaco Para Armar” gives instant anthem vibes with its pop-rock aesthetics and BB ASUL’s versatile vocals, bringing us into her world with her heartfelt lyrics about still caring for people who have wronged her in the past. Once the distorted guitars and thunderous drumming kick in the first chorus, we’re pushed over the edge of this rocking bop. – Cheky

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