Must-Hear Albums This Week: Top 9 Picks

Bassyonni

Published: February 27, 2026 7:20 PM ET

As the music streaming landscape grows, discovering noteworthy releases can be daunting. Every week, El-Balad highlights the top new albums for listeners. This week features nine compelling records from a diverse array of artists.

Must-Hear Albums This Week: Top 9 Picks

Gorillaz – The Mountain
Bruno Mars – The Romantic
Paul McCartney – Man on the Run
BLACKPINK – DEADLINE
Mitski – Nothing’s About to Happen to Me
Iron & Wine – Hen’s Teeth
The Dream Machine – Fort Perch Rock
Maria BC – Marathon
Rosie Carney – Doomsday… Don’t Leave Me Here

1. Gorillaz – The Mountain

Gorillaz tackles themes of grief in their new album, “The Mountain.” Following recent losses, members Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett traveled to India for inspiration. Their experiences there profoundly affected the album’s creative direction.

2. Bruno Mars – The Romantic

Bruno Mars returns after a decade with “The Romantic.” This album showcases his range, from upbeat disco-pop tracks to emotionally charged ballads. It reflects his artistic freedom and personal style.

3. Paul McCartney – Man on the Run

This soundtrack album revisits Paul McCartney’s collaboration with Wings. Featuring remastered classics like “Mull of Kintyre” and previously unreleased tracks, it appeals to both die-hard fans and casual listeners.

4. BLACKPINK – DEADLINE

BLACKPINK is back with their third mini-album, “DEADLINE.” The project highlights their evolution within K-Pop, showcasing a vibrant and dynamic sound, particularly in the single “JUMP.”

5. Mitski – Nothing’s About to Happen to Me

Mitski’s latest work sees her embrace her indie roots. “Nothing’s About to Happen to Me” explores solitude through raw, powerful songwriting while retaining her signature sound.

6. Iron & Wine – Hen’s Teeth

Iron & Wine’s “Hen’s Teeth” emerged from a creative resurgence for Sam Beam. The album symbolizes an unexpected gift, blending jazz and folk influences, featuring collaborations with his daughter, Arden Beam.

7. The Dream Machine – Fort Perch Rock

This Scouse band presents “Fort Perch Rock,” a vibrant alt-pop journey. With gripping themes and an engaging sound, the album aims to captivate its audience from start to finish.

8. Maria BC – Marathon

Maria BC explores nostalgia and existential themes in “Marathon.” This atmospheric album contrasts acoustic softness with energetic life, reflecting deep personal connections to its title.

9. Rosie Carney – Doomsday… Don’t Leave Me Here

Irish singer Rosie Carney releases “Doomsday… Don’t Leave Me Here,” infused with emotional intensity. Partnering with The 1975’s bassist for this album, it captures a nuanced balance between despair and hope.

These nine albums represent a vibrant cross-section of today’s music scene, offering fresh perspectives and sounds worth exploring on streaming platforms.