Here is our New & Notable for May 2025, which covers releases from April 25 to May 22. There are many great releases – some from well-known artists and some from artists that are not as well-known…yet. But they are all superb, so get ready for some rewarding listening. Continue sending emails to us at utrsubmissions@gmail.com.

ALBUMS & EPs

The Agonist – Leslie Jordan

Leslie Jordan brings us a brilliant Americana album with lyrics based on her grandfather’s poems. Brutally honest stuff as he abandoned his family and struggled with alcoholism. It is all laid bare here. While this is a different direction musically for her, she perfectly executes it, and this style of music gave her the freedom to tell his story. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

All That You Love – Christa Wells

Christa Wells’ All That You Love is a tender three-song EP that feels less like a set of songs and more like a whispered conversation under moonlight. Rooted in folk storytelling, each track explores deep and enduring love through intimate, natural imagery—moonlight, rivers, cicadas, oak trees—woven together by Wells’ intuitive songwriting and gentle voice. With elegant restraint and poetic clarity, she creates a sacred space where love is not fleeting, but grounded, weathered, and lasting. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK] [BANDCAMP]

Butterfly – Isabelle Thom

With a sweet and yet dynamic sound, this is a beautiful album from Minnesota-based singer-songwriter Isabelle Thom. Her warm vocals and lyrics that are both devotional and personal have created something memorable.  [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

 Eyes Renewed – Graham Jones

Eyes Renewed by Graham Jones is a tender folk album that blends personal storytelling with quiet faith, asking God for a fresh perspective that transforms life’s troubles into reasons for gratitude. Centered around beautiful acoustic guitar and accented by indie pop and Americana guest touches, it’s a humble, poetic reflection on finding hope in the hard things. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

Psalms – Paul Demer

On Psalms, Paul Demer offers a calm yet stirring collection of songs that blend direct scripture, traditional hymns, and modern interpretations. With gentle vocals, country-tinged textures like slide guitar and banjo, and heartfelt duets with artist In Earnest, the album creates a spiritual experience that feels both modern and timeless. You have yet to hear the psalms like this. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

Deep Water – Cosmic Cathedral

If you have ever wondered what it would sound like if Phil Keaggy and Neal Morse played together, wonder no more. Take some classic Neal Morse progressive music and mix it with amazing guitar work from Phil Keaggy, add some Chester Thompson on drums and Byron House on bass, and you have a sonic recipe for great music. If this whets your musical appetite, you’ll savor this record. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

Hide & Seek – BELOVED

After a string of singles, it’s nice to get this debut album from David Cho doing music as Beloved. It’s playful pop with a laid-back energy that’s different from the worship music he does as Beloved Worship. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

Trustfall  – Stephen Stanley

In just his second release, this Georgia-based artist shares songs dripping in maturity of sound and lyric. Rich, textured vocals and instrumentation deliver a sense of emotional urgency and authenticity rarely experienced. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

Borderlands – Raphah

“Raphah” comes from the Hebrew phrase “Be Still”, and this EP will help you to do that. Ambient, ethereal, and moving, the instrumental music does more than sit in the background- it invites you to a place of rest. Great for times of reading, studying, or rest. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK] [BANDCAMP]

SINGLES

“Miracle Service” – Andy Squyres

It’s not often a new song brings you spiritually to your knees. This is a whimsical yet heart-rending cry to return to the God we first loved amidst the carnage and apathy of the world. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

“Far Country” – Ellie Holcomb

An invitation to return home to our long-awaited future home by marvelous Americana singer Holcomb. Solid toe-tapping beat backs passionate, yearning lyrics. An instant classic. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

“Fences” – Andrew Ripp

An intriguing, building beat urges us to let go of our claims of our rights and offer love instead of grudges. Challenging and engaging and heart-evaluating stuff in this tune. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

“Weird People” – Andy Gullahorn

Andy has a way of turning a phrase with wit and irony that makes us take an honest look at ourselves and the world. He is still at it, and we appreciate it. New album coming soon. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

“Cicada” – Drakeford

Inspiration comes from a wild array of places. Who knew that all those chirping bugs last year would inspire a beautiful and meaningful song about growing and risk-taking? [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

“Never Let Go” – Dawson Shorman and Eliza King

A relaxed and ambient track that perfectly pairs the artists’ vocal tones with sonic production, all the while inviting you to feel Christ’s embrace. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

“backseat drive” – Strings And Heart

A smart, punchy summer anthem that carries tones reminiscent of the Beatles. Once you press play, you won’t be able to stop moving to this talented and refreshing group. [SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

MORE NEW MUSIC WE RECOMMEND

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Albums/EPs

Singles