{
  "id": 2305709,
  "title": "Sam Smith, Stella Lefty, Weezer & More: New Music Friday Guide",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/21/sam-smith-stella-lefty-weezer-more-new-music-friday-guide",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-21T04:53:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Billboard",
    "slug": "billboard",
    "url": "https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/sam-smith-stella-lefty-weezer-new-music-friday-guide-1236320433/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "This week's New Music Friday guide features a diverse lineup of new releases across various genres. Sam Smith has released their fifth album, Hazel Eyes, showcasing their impressive vocal range. The album opens with \"Constant Companion,\" where Smith starts in their deeper register before softening into a more familiar tone. Weezer, marking their 20th album, titled it \"Weezer (Gold Album)\" and released a power-pop-rock masterpiece, co-produced by Klas Ahlund and Kenneth Blume. The album is full of energy and anthems, with Rivers Cuomo's distinctive vocals leading the way. Jorja Smith's third album, What Are The Odds, is full of high-energy tracks, with \"Alive\" featuring Nigerian artist Wizkid. The album balances upbeat dance floor beats with slower, more introspective songs. Brandon Flowers, frontman of The Killers, released his first solo album in 11 years, Thrasher. Drawing inspiration from his father's record collection and country-western tunes, Flowers creates a mentally challenging yet emotionally powerful album. Brennan Wedl, signed to ANTI- Records, released her self-titled debut album blending punk, garage-rock, and country with rootsy magic. Her voice brings to mind Lucinda Williams, while her lyrics showcase a unique fusion of styles.",
  "summary": "Check out the must-hear releases of the week.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}