20 New Songs to Listen to This Week From Junior Zamora to La Cruz

09.26.25 at 00:18

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 Junior Zamora, La Cruz, and Julieta Venegas. Follow our playlist featuring these tracks and more on Spotify or Apple Music.

Junior Zamora, Rafa Pabön - “RICO”

Junior Zamora is back with “RICO,” a steamy new track that sets the tone for a summer in Cali, Colombia — sweaty, sensual, and made for dancing close. Incorporating Afrosound, a sultry mix of Afrobeat and R&B, “RICO” is a taste of what’s to come on Zamora’s upcoming EP, a project designed for late nights, slow dances, and mysterious encounters. The song captures the energy of a city where the heat never lets up, and neither does the rhythm. Think fogged-up windows, bodies moving in sync, and that electric moment when two people start to vibe. That’s exactly what Zamora channels here. In the video, he steps into the role of his alter ego “Jay,” hosting the party at the “Jayhouse.” It’s all dim lights, sweaty walls, and a story of two strangers getting lost in the night. Even as he evolves artistically and steps outside his old neighborhood, Zamora keeps his roots front and center, turning the heat up, but staying true to who he is. “RICO” isn’t just a song, it’s a summer mood. – Natasha Melina Argudo

La Cruz - “Arequipe”

“Arequipe,” also known as dulce de leche or cajeta in other regions, is a luscious, decadent, and addictive dessert spread, as well as the title for the newest single from Venezuelan artist La Cruz. It’s a new track that captures the same tempting qualities of the caramel-like sauce with its playful lyrics and fresh sound that still feels right at home within the reggaeton genre. With a sensual and confident delivery, La Cruz sings about wanting to have a wild night and being upfront with the other person without worrying much about tomorrow. Both lyrically and in the smoldering music video, La Cruz unapologetically dives into the rush of a fleeting encounter unleashed by chemistry, desire and perreo, so be careful where you play this one because it is sure to bring the heat up in every dancefloor, VIP section, or backseat it reaches with its memorable sound and universal message: If life gives you “Arequipe,” spread it up! – La Morra Lisa

Julieta Venegas - “Eres Para Mí (Sinfónico En Vivo)”

Celebrating almost 30 years of pushing the boundaries of Latine rock, Julieta Venegas’ latest is an homage to a vibrant and consistently evolving career. Accompanied by the La Orquesta De Baja California, Sinfónico En Tijuana is made up of eight reimagined tracks that breathe a new layer of life into an already emotional and spirited string of career highs. “Eres para mi” is a standout amongst the ensemble, recontextualizing the interpersonal relationship Venegas shares with her fans through her music. Accompanied by classics like “Me Voy” and “Limón y Sal,” the track is prominent for its sticky reimagining of the originally softer song and incredibly funk-injected instrumental. It showcases Venegas’ lively nature and genuine connection to Tijuana through shared joy. – Alan Baez

MAGNA - “deja de hablar”

MAGNA’s latest release, “deja de hablar” is a slow, sensual tune that utilizes electronic music in a subtle enough way to make the track enjoyable, but still seductive. The precise rhythm flows through the song in waves that hit the right notes to create a sonic atmosphere favorable for a steaming romance. The artist’s almost whispery tone contributes to the aforementioned seductive vibes that must carry into MAGNA’s upcoming album, Vivo Para Recordar, scheduled to come out in the first semester of 2026. If “deja de hablar” is anything to go by, we can expect a fun album filled with romantic lyrics and steamy beats. – Júlia Henn

Fransia - “A Veces”

As the countdown to the release of Fransia’s fourth album Fuentes Secretas continues, the Argentine artist gives us “A Veces,” a reflection on duality we can dance to. With a production that wears its ‘80s pop inspiration on its sleeve, complete with bouncing arpeggiated synths, “A Veces” dazzles with its gorgeous melodies and a vocal delivery from Fransia that mirrors her complicated, honest lyrics about inner struggle with the dark side. All of these elements come together to create an experience that’s absolutely ecstatic in the face of uncertainty and senselessness, with love in the center as the beacon of light that illuminates even the darkest corner. – Cheky

Diego Lorenzini & Princesa Alba - “Lo Siento (Diego's Version)”

With a luscious strumming of chords riding a feel-good folk pop melody, Chilean singer-songwriter and illustrator Diego Lorenzini reimagined Princesa Alba’s 2021 track “Lo Siento.” Originally on the chilena’s album besitos, cuídate, “Lo Siento (Diego’s Version)” switches out the OG’s synth pop-rock vibe for an uplifting melody. What doesn’t change is the heartfelt lyrics penned by both artists, which describe a messy post-breakup situation. By doing this, the duo shows how one song can mold into distinctive genres in the hands of talented songwriters. It also sparks a different narrative, giving a second POV to Princesa Alba’s story. “Lo Siento (Diego’s Version)” is part of Lorenzini’s upcoming album, Y!? – Jeanette Hernandez

Tony Molina - “Violets of Dawn”

For most of his solo career, San Francisco’s Tony Molina has been exploring the limits of lo-fi, guitar-based, punk-powered power pop, and, with On This Day — his forthcoming 21-song collection — might be his most profound statement yet. As proof, there’s “Violets of Dawn,” a song that features jangling arpeggiated guitars adorning an upbeat rhythm while Molina delivers some of his most melodic turns on the mic. The results are rocking yet tunefuk, with a gentle character and a tiny bit of darkness lurking in the background. Songs like “Violet of Dawn” prove that Molina is one of the most essential songwriters of our time. — Marcos Hassan

Javiera Electra - “Lágrima del Sol”

On Oct. 10, Chilean singer-songwriter Javiera Electra will unveil her hotly anticipated debut album, Helíade, a sprawling epic of love, death, and personal transformation rooted in the Greek myth of the Heliades, the tragic daughters of the sun god, Helios. The final teaser for the album arrives with “Lágrima del Sol,” Electra’s most grandiose musical statement to date, loaded with the most intimate storytelling from her harrowing process of becoming. Built on a combo of rustic-meets-ornate, the song opens on chamber strings and Electra’s acoustic guitar, eventually exploding in a flurry of charango, horns, and cumbia percussion that carry her self-affirming cries of “no te apagues” into the high heavens. — Richard Villegas

CLVB TRΛSH - “Toy”

Los Angeles-based (anonymous) collective CLVB TRΛSH crash the scene with their debut EP V. A snarling, synth-laced nod to the grimy glamour of 2000s indie sleaze, the focus track “Toy” thrashes with electroclash defiance fueled by smirking chaos and icy control. Vocoder-drenched vocals buzz like payphone confessions of unfiltered affection, layered over wiry synths and a dancefloor-ready beat that together become equal parts stylish and self-destructive. It’s a gritty, Tumblr-dusted love letter to an era when mystery was part of the mythos and leaking your own music (which they did, by the way) was how shared ZIP files and USB drives flipped music scenes into secret clubs. Speaking of, they’re refusing to reveal their names or identities, keeping the focus on the project itself and letting the static do the talking. And it’s already sounding like the start of something delightfully nostalgic and recklessly magnetic. — Jeanette Diaz

Drú - “Asesina”

Puerto Rican alt-R&B crooner Drú has long preferred to toil at his own groove, dropping half a dozen singles every year, with each one making you feel they’d be mainstream hits if they weren’t so under the radar. His talent is obvious to anyone who listens to the way he plays with sound, cadence, and catchy lyricism, and this week, he takes his most earnest step into the spotlight with “Asesina.” The jazzy neo-soul bop arrives with his biggest push yet, including a music video that’s crammed with vibes and Caribbean aesthetic. Previous great tracks like “Vidas Pasadas” and “Sassy” held court for the low-key artist, but hopefully this is the year he starts owning his gifts and introducing himself to a waiting audience. — Juan J. Arroyo

PJ Sin Suela, Rainao - “FAVORiTE”

PJ Sin Suela links up with genre-bending artist RaiNao for “FAVORiTE,” a fiery new track that blends perreo with Puerto Rican pride. What started as a writing session full of jokes and bars turned into a powerful line, “We started in Jayuya and ended up in Lares,” a nod to the island’s revolutionary roots. From there, “FAVORiTE” was born, part party anthem, part cultural tribute. The song fuses reggaeton, house, and drum and bass into something fresh, fun, and proudly Boricua. “We always wanted to create something like this. A fun, party track with perreo, but with our own touch — something that represents Puerto Rico,” says PJ Sin Suela. It’s not their first time working together; fans might remember their socially charged collab “Es La Hora.” But this one leans into the joy of resistance. The video, directed by Edgar Cruz Robles, is just as bold. RaiNao becomes Mariana Bracetti, the revolutionary who sewed Puerto Rico’s first flag, while PJ Sin Suela steps into the shoes of Ramón Emeterio Betances, the doctor-turned-liberator. Set in a gritty warehouse, they throw a party that feels more like a revolution. – Natasha Melina Argudo

Conexión Divina - “UNA OPORTUNIDAD”

It takes a lot to turn melancholy into beauty and a sliver of hope, but Conexión Divina has just what it takes and masterfully displays it in “Una Oportunidad.” On the third single in their new chapter, an understated yet passionate mixture of their voices asks for “a chance to show what being loved feels like” while understanding that the other person might not feel the same and choose someone else. A solemn wind instrument opens the path for an emotional guitar that accompanies the hauntingly beautiful lamentation until it builds up into a stunning instrumental breakdown of string arrangements. Adding a choir is where this outstanding Mexican trio mimics heartbroken angels. Promising to keep a lover’s heart from harm and throwing a couple strays to Rauw and Rosalía, Conexión Divina showcase their vision and abilities in this track that feels ideal to listen to around a sparkling campfire with your friends, while you lean on each other, and throw your ex’s pictures and letters into the flames. – La Morra Lisa

LOS SUPERDEDORES - “Te Hace Mal”

Transforming traditional yearning through a progressive lens, Los Angeles duo LOS SUPERDEDORES is reinventing multiple genres into one with “Te Hace Mal.” LOS SUPERDEDORES is the ragtag team-up between Pepe Gonzales and Aldo Ramirez, with their sound playing on traditional corrido elements while combining with a hodgepodge of different instrumental elements. Despite releasing their debut EP this past summer, the L.A. duo is far from taking a break this year or getting stagnant. ME MAMAS was a handful of singles with the purpose of showcasing a broad array of influences from pop to hip-hop, but the range of influences often ran too wild, where the group’s identity got lost in the commotion. “Te Hace Mal” sees the two finding clarity and focusing those influences into one pivotal sound, and the wild nature of their song structure works in their favor this time around. – Alan Baez

Ayô Tupinambá - “Ô Baixin”

With “Ô Baixin,” Ayô Tupinambá showcases the emotional depth of her composition and her voice. This love song finds its true nature in samba, with all the percussion and easy smiles that come with it. The track feels nostalgic in a way that reflects the history of the genre in Brazil, finding inspiration in samba music from decades prior to the present. “Ô Baixin” is a demonstration of the most delicate parts of being in love, particularly using a pet name that illustrates the height difference between both parties, since “baixin” means “shorty” in this context, but more affectionate than its English counterpart. From that point on, the artist opts for confessing all the ways in which her short partner makes her life better, sweeter, and more lovely. – Júlia Henn

Sophia Chablau & Felipe Vaqueiro - “Viciado Em Carinho”

Brazilian artists Sophia Chablau and Felipe Vaqueiro joined forces to create a joint full-length from the ground up, and the result, Handycam, is coming to us as soon as next week. One of the album’s first compositions is “Viciado Em Carinho,” now out as its first single, and it’s a declaration of musical freedom. A psych-rock moment with a lo-fi heart that pushes sonic experimentation, the song is an urgent, 1960s-inspired jam where fuzzed-out elements keep on piling on top of a driving acoustic guitar. Chablau’s voice dances with squiggly guitar lines, telling us she’s so addicted to affection she never wants to be alone. It’s an exhilarating listen that has us instantly hooked. – Cheky

Polo González - “11:11”

Música mexicana singer Polo González is back with his newest single, “11:11.” The new Regional Mexican ballad invites his fans to a more emotional side of the singer. With vulnerable lyrics like “Mi Dios, que me acompaña / Pues largo es el proceso / Amigos tengo pocos / Falsos querían dinero / Mi círculo es pequeño / Y así en paz me siento,” González takes a step back to reflect on the ups and downs of his flourishing career. Highlighting gentle guitar chords, a soothing bass melody, and a touch of brass instruments, the new track creates a sentimental soundscape for González’s croons that takes the listener into his world. “11:11” is part of the singer’s upcoming EP, Nostic. – Jeanette Hernandez

Mengers - “Flavio”

On their new album, Mexico City’s Mengers has turned to more melodic and danceable elements into their angular punk style. However, the title track sees them get noisier than ever. “Flavio” grooves with a broken beat — lively but menacing — while synths and guitars drown in distortion, giving us evil disco as played on broken machines. As the track progresses, it disintegrates into chaos, revealing an uglier yet more enticing quality, like a reflection of our collective psyche in these trying times. Taking its sound to an almost industrial edge, “Flavio” proves once again that Mengers is providing us with some of the exciting rock music this year. — Marcos Hassan

K4 - “Mabel”

Over the years, K4 has embodied many archetypes. In 2019, the album Apoptosis introduced the Argentine provocateur as a bratty trap fiend, while 2021’s self-titled follow-up reimagined him as a politically charged pandemic punk. Now, with the arrival of his third LP, Yo También Les Tengo Miedo, we’re pleased to report that K4 is still very much a weirdo. However, the new era finds him pairing delightfully accessible pop-rock with disquieting confessionals about loneliness and misguided romances. “Mabel” is an album stand out with its ’80s new wave synths and kitschy claps, with darker, self-destructive undertones poking through on the longing hook, “Quiero estar con vos / aunque me duela / aunque nos duela.” From the sardonic death meditations of lead single “3090” to the earnest piano ballad “Piedra Marplatense,” the new record is a startling, triumphant turn of maturity from the Rip Gang’s most confounding member. — Richard Villegas

Juan Campodónico - “Onda Expansiva”

Uruguayan producer and DJ Juan Campodónico ventures into the artist spotlight with his new solo album Todo Esto Tampoco Soy Yo. The feature track “Onda Expansiva” pulses as a fitting center of gravity. What begins as a soft nod to guitar-driven folk quickly erupts into a tango-tinged electronic surge, stitching together the many genres he’s been quietly pioneering behind the booth. Glimmers of his past work with Bajofondo, Campo, and Peyote Asesino flicker between glitchy textures, candombe undertones, and cinematic swells, yet each fragment feeling is reinvented into something newly detonated. More than a retrospective, the track plays like a flash of creative memory set loose to synthesizers and refracted through new light. — Jeanette Diaz

MYRANDAS - “La Habitación”

L.A.-based pop duo MYRANDAS is back with their newest single, “La Habitación.” The group’s last project was their EP, NOS DEJAMOS LLEVAR, which dropped last summer. Tracks like “NECESITO Q ME DISTRAIGAS” and “CUÉNTALE” showed off the power couple’s talent for melding pop with other genres, and “La Habitación” has them returning to the popetón sound that gave them initial success and that they’ve managed to excel at. The song’s fusion of cool and warm sonic textures is captured in the visualizer, which was spontaneously filmed at the 11 Dimensions gallery exhibit in Downtown Los Angeles. — Juan J. Arroyo

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