20 New Songs to Listen to This Week From Gabriel Dinero to Manny Moura

09.05.25 at 11:40

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 Gabriel Dinero, Manny Moura, and Ysa C with Lil Cake. Follow our playlist featuring these tracks and more on Spotify or Apple Music.

Gabriel Dinero - “anhedonia”

Only weeks after dropping his ojos bonitos EP back in July, London-based Guatemalan artist Gabriel Dinero is ready to treat us with yet another new project, a follow-up EP titled cara ajena, set to drop in November. First single “anhedonia” is a tasty slice of bedroom pop iced with Dinero’s sweet R&B-flavored vocals that explore the eponymous symptom of depression that renders people unable to experience pleasure. Surrounded by a swirl of trippy phased-out guitars, he tackles routine as an evil that drains him and chips away at the joy of life, and even on romance, and the soul in his voice lets us know he refuses to surrender to it. – Cheky

Manny Moura - “Lemons and Limerance”

For her latest release, Brazilian-born artist Manny Moura plays around with a popular saying to create “Lemons and Limerence.” Instead of suggesting her audience make lemonade out of lemons, Moura opts for limerence as the final result. The word choice makes perfect sense with the persona that the singer-songwriter has built around herself up to this point. Limerence means an unrequited and obsessive infatuation, which aligns with themes present in Moura’s previous releases that often talk about the pains of not being the chosen one by the ones your heart points to. Heartbreak has become the central theme around which the artist dances, leading all of her audience to join in the circle and sing out the pains of heartache present in her lyrics, while hand in hand with her. – Júlia Henn

Ysa C, Lil Cake - “Úsame”

The Afro-Colombian artist Ysa C teamed up with the Argentinean artist Lil Cake on “Úsame.” The sun-kissed Afrobeats track is intertwined with pop and reggaeton layers, laying out a rhythmic Caribbean soundscape for the two artists to sing over. Through Ysa C’s captivating vocals, she creates a sweet, safe space for her loved ones to feel seen. In response, Lil Cake croons verses of reassurance, matching Ysa C’s aura of gentleness and empathy. “Úsame is special because it truly represents both of us, and it carries this message of comfort, of telling someone, ‘I’m here for you, you’re not alone,’” Ysa C said about working with Lil Cake. – Jeanette Hernandez

Kendo Kaponi, Omar Courtz - "BUTI CALL"

Kendo Kaponi’s much-anticipated return is imminent, and his fans couldn’t be happier. Last month saw the release of the single “ESO ES POR MÍ,” and this week he drops “BUTI CALL” alongside fan favorite Omar Courtz. Here, they go down the tried and true perreo route — one that Ousi is very familiar with, earning his stripes the last few years by becoming one of the more dominant new voices in the genre. Kendo’s brash delivery continues intact from his heyday, and hearing him go off here makes it very clear that his upcoming album, Apocalipto, will showcase all the attitude and grit that’s earned him acclaim. — Juan J. Arroyo

Monsieur Periné - “Aguaráchate”

Sadness beware! The instructions for happiness have arrived, and they involve an underwater violin player, lollipop-centered choreography, and anthropomorphic fish people. At least according to the authentic and captivating perspective of Colombian duo Monsieur Periné. And if their guide to being happy is as good as the bright and inviting sound of their newest single “Aguaráchate,” then count us in. Classical instruments combine with an inescapable and inviting beat that carries verses praising simple things like waking up late or closing your eyes and feeling the bass in your body. It builds up into a chorus that invites everyone to “Aguarachar” themselves, throw it down, and turn into a fish. Similar to the humorous and incredibly stylized music video, the track feels like something original and warm, worth experiencing over and over. Luckily for us, the artists know that and the track ends with the question “Again?” So replay it, enjoy the precious little moments, and know that the instructions are clear: Be happy! – La Morra Lisa

Late Again - “Chick’n Tenders”

Brazilian-born, New York-based artist Late Again unveils his latest project Clearly It’s All Staged, and with it serves up the bittersweet focus track “Chick’n Tenders.” A tongue-in-cheek dream-pop ballad for the modern age of love and dating, the track drifts through the soft absurdity of heartbreak. One where the line between craving connection and craving comfort blurs. Fluttering synths and hushed harmonies carry his lyrical honesty that dances between emotional hunger and literal appetite, all folding existential ache into something digestible and oddly edible. Much like the late-night longing that quietly unravels into the simple comfort of something we’ve all at some point desired to reach for at 2 a.m. Sometimes it’s a phone, sometimes it’s just chicken tenders. Either way, the single plays like a quiet joke you laughingly smile at, right before it all starts to sink in and sting. — Jeanette Diaz

Milo J - “Bajo De La Piel”

With an extraordinary three albums and an arsenal of loosies under his belt, rapper-singer Milo J is still exploring the realms of his musical identity. Milo J isn’t locked into one specific sound. At only 18 years old, he has a grasp on the range of his musicality, confidently blending different soundscapes originating from multiple Latin American scenes, and this track is no different. “Bajo De La Piel” is a refreshing take on his usual Argentinian trap for its ambitious production. There are so many elements present that it’s easy to get lost in the different textures woven in the background, such as the warped synth progressions that follow a traditional mandolin. It all comes off as traditional in its use of instrumentation while being vividly progressive. What gives the track the extra edge is Milo’s lyrical performance. His words pay homage to the values and experiences of the rapper’s familial circle, but the passion in his performance and gain in his voice double down to get his message across. – Alan Baez

Dei V - “El Del Flavor”

Puerto Rican sensation Dei V sets the stage for his highly anticipated third album and sold-out three-night debut at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico this October with the release of his explosive new single, “El Del Flavor.” Blending bass-heavy reggaeton with gritty Latine trap, the track drips with desire and swagger, pairing steamy lyricism with hard-hitting beats to create an irresistible, after-hours vibe. Dei V dives into themes of lust and infatuation with fearless storytelling and provocative imagery, cementing his place as one of el movimiento’s most daring and innovative voices. The music video brings that intensity to life, opening with Dei V stepping onto a party bus overflowing with energy and women before erupting into a chaotic, strobe-lit night ride. In a bold visual twist, the flooded bus pays homage to his signature underwater tagline, placing him literally and figuratively in his element. “El Del Flavor” is pure, unapologetic fire. — Natasha Melina Argudo

Mora Lucay - “Contacto”

It’s been five years since Chilean singer-songwriter Mora Lucay released Bestia, her ukulele-fueled and guest-filled breakthrough LP. But as she teases the arrival of her new project, Bajo Siete Llaves, the Valparaíso native’s sound has evolved into sensual electro-acoustic territory, also tapping the port city’s famed bohemia for cinematic bursts of theater and modern dance. Following her existential duet with the Brazilian singer ÀIYÉ on “Una Vez,” Lucay writhes back to center stage on “Contacto,” a celebration of the magical people that awaken dormant aspects of our spirit. As she attempts to capture a rainbow of new emotions, from the jubilant to the awkward and sensorial, the song’s layered guitar and digital beats are designed to envelop your heart and, in the process, get your hips swaying. — Richard Villegas

Fiebre - “Arriba (mediopicky remix)”

María Fernanda Bertero, aka Fiebre, had already raised the temperature with her seductive linkup with Chloé Silva, but thanks to this remix, it’s reaching a new level of horniness. Brimming with mediopicky’s brand of playful and distorted sounds, this rework takes the late-night innuendo of the original and makes it sound filthier yet more sophisticated. Bertero and Silva’s vocals capture the mood with ease, inhabiting the feeling of anticipation for ecstasy, and delivering them into an avant-dance vessel. Few times do we encounter such an excellent pairing between artists and remixer that transform a song into something so special. — Marcos Hassan

Lucrecia Dalt - “no death no danger”

A Danger to Ourselves, Lucrecia Dalt’s new album, includes her latest single “no death no danger.” David Sylvian’s work co-producing and mixing this song, as well as the rest of the album, helps Dalt excel in achieving his vision of creating a cinematic work that reflects her inner world in relation to human connection. On “no death no danger,” a whole dynamic universe is created from sparse percussion, deep bass lines, and the growl of distorted slide guitars, as Dalt (backed by vocals from collaborator Eliana Joy) sings/speaks mysterious lyrics inspired by Southwest U.S. landscapes like she’s hidden behind us in a smoke-filled room. – Cheky

Valentim Frateschi - “Mau Contato (feat. Sophia Chablau)”

Brazilian artist Valentim Frateschi yearns to showcase exactly who he is through his music, and his debut album, Estreito, is a beautiful attempt at it. Filled with whispery confessions and interesting musings, this release is an amalgamation of all of Frateschi’s musical influences, embracing jazz, MPB, and even rock music. For the track “Mau Contato,” the singer-songwriter really leans into the heavier aspects of both jazz and rock, creating a sonic atmosphere that’s both hypnotic and dizzying. Amidst menacing instrumentals, his voice harmonizes with that of Sophia Chablau, a fellow artist he has known since childhood and shares his artistic vision. In the end, “Mau Contato” has delicate vocals drowned by heavy, jazzy instrumentals, which helps in identifying the motif of the song: the bitterness of heartbreak by illustrating the world falling apart around oneself. – Júlia Henn

COASTCITY & Bebo Dumont - “CARRUSEL”

Puerto Rican duo Coastcity is back with their newest collaboration “CARRUSEL,” featuring their compatriot Bebo Dumont. The alternative R&B track features colorful synths, gentle brass elements, and a soft drum beat with their signature Caribbean flair. Together, the boricua artists croon about the ups and downs of a relationship, using a carousel to describe the turbulent sentiment. Overall, “CARRUSEL” is a heartfelt song that describes the feeling of knowing someone’s not your person but still itching to make love happen. It’s for the couples who will risk their heart trying to work it out one more time, regardless of whether the carousel’s final stop will be up or down. – Jeanette Hernandez

SEYE & Álex Ubago - “La Casualidad”

Teaming up to recapture the sound and charm of the pop ballads that dominated the 2000s, Dominican rising star SEYE and Spanish vet Álex Ubago release “La Casualidad” this week. They both had a hand in songwriting the track, while SEYE took sole producing duties. The song is dedicated to those connections that bloom from the unexpected: crossed paths, chance encounters, or friendships that evolve. Most fans might be familiar with SEYE’s 2023 R&B-adjacent project El Sol de Las 3, but here he and Ubago treat listeners to a vintage sound that’s still as heartfelt as ever. — Juan J. Arroyo

YVONNE - “HACE FRIO (feat. LAUT CURA)”

You know that diffused soft light that can fill a room during a cloudy day? Argentinian artist Yvonne, through a clean and enveloping production, has captured that scene in the form of a song, arriving with perfect timing for the fall season. Calmly stepping over a playful but subdued electric sound, Yvonne’s soothing voice expresses the feeling of missing a former lover, and wanting to reach out to them as “another leap of faith.” Halfway through the track, her voice is joined by Laut Cura, frontman of the Argentinean band Isla de Caras. His delivery and chemistry with Yvonne are evident both in the way their voices complement each other and throughout the elegant and romantic music video. Whether it’s because of the song’s quality and memorable lines like, “It’s cold and I want you to want me as a coat,” or you’re currently going through the exact situation described, there are plenty of reasons to keep an eye on Yvonne. Add this to your being-cozied-up playlist and get a hot cup of tea going. – La Morra Lisa

Tough Front - “Misleader”

LA-based duo Tough Front share their latest single, “Misleader,” a deceptively restrained slow-burn that smolders with the simmering rage of being misunderstood and dismantles the fantasy of the cool girl on its head. Frontwoman Andrea Lopez unravels the familiar ache of being projected onto with seductive control and sharpened bite, threading through lines like “you made that up yourself” that sting with truth. Set against tightly wound guitars and driving percussion, the track is a blistering release fueled by the tension of trying to live up to a fantasy of you built by someone else, only to be the one blamed when falling short. It’s manic pixie dream girl mythology meets punky alt-rock punch, all shaped by emotional clarity and a refusal to wear someone else’s story. “Misleader” is the sound of undoing the impossibly perfect version of yourself that was never yours to begin with, and turning the call out into a velvet-edged cathartic reclamation. — Jeanette Diaz

Melanie Santiler, CIMAFUNK - “ESE BESITO”

“Ese Besito” is the latest from Miami songstress Melanie Santlier, aka Mami Fina, and departs from the usual brand of reggaeton-infused pop for something brimming with positive energy and bounce. The production takes center stage in the song’s presence, provided by the collaboration of Javier Sampedro, DJ Conds, Drumglass, and Yoyi Lagarza, resulting in a sonically sound groove, perfect for Santlier to flow on. “Ese Besito” provides a whimsical playfulness that makes it stand out amongst Santiler’s earlier work. Synergy is the keyword, as the production was a team effort, and Santlier takes full advantage by inviting Cimafunk to join the fiery mix. There’s this positive, communal feeling pushed throughout the track, and Santlier’s vibrant performance brings it full circle. – Alan Baez

BRRAY, DIA, L-O-N - “PUEJ CLARO”

Brray joins forces with on-the-rise artist DIA to deliver “Puej Claro,” a groundbreaking moment in Latine music history. This track is a cultural milestone. As the first single ever produced entirely live on Twitch and officially released through a label, “Puej Claro” captures the electrifying energy of real-time creation and fan-driven collaboration. Infused with a nostalgic nod to reggaeton roots, the track samples the iconic “Baila Morena” by Héctor y Tito, blending it seamlessly with modern perreo and other Latine rhythms. The result is a bold, high-energy anthem that honors tradition while pushing creative boundaries. Brray and DIA’s chemistry, combined with the spontaneity of a live audience, brings an unmatched authenticity to the record. “Puej Claro” is a statement on the future of music and how artists connect with fans in the digital era. — Natasha Melina Argudo

Barbi Recanati - “Lo Robado”

After a string of searing post-punk singles, Argentine rock behemoth Barbi Recanati has unveiled her new album, Único y Nuestro, contrasting the light and darkness of love through gut wrenching shadowplay. One of the album’s emotional peaks comes on “Lo Robado,” a feverish indictment of a former lover ultimately revealed as a thief of joy. “Querés que lo grite en todos lados / Querés escucharlo en todos lados,” she moans, baiting the listener into thinking this is a song about steamy romance, before turning effusive cries of “Nadie es mejor que vos” into an evisceration of egocentricity. Throw in some twanging guitars and a galloping beat, and you have the makings of guaranteed mosh pit fuel. — Richard Villegas

Harmless - “noslomo”

With songs like “noslomo,” singer-songwriter Nacho Cano cements his status as an architect of emotionally resonant songs that thrive in a reverb-heavy production. This dreamy song maintains a melodic consciousness through and through, building a patient web of effects-heavy guitars under which his vocals float in an abstract soundscape that resembles a hallucinatory yet cozy state. The track nods to classics like Cocteau Twins, Slowdive, and My Bloody Valentine, but the bedroom pop intimacy adds a warm and tactile, heartfelt mood. With “noslomo,” Harmless rewrites shoegaze as a genre of intimate feelings, and we’re all the better for it. — Marcos Hassan

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