Two notable music acts, Alex G and Leevy, have recently shared new songs that reflect personal experiences and cultural roots, capturing attention across diverse audiences. Alex G surprised fans by releasing two new tracks on his personal YouTube channel after a six-year hiatus from that platform. The songs, “Good Green Friend” and “In the Yard,” showcase his signature DIY approach despite being signed to a major label, RCA. “Good Green Friend” was originally recorded during the sessions for his 2025 album Headlights but was left off the final tracklist. The song deals with a moment of joy experienced after taking a break from smoking weed, a theme Alex G revealed during a live performance in New York. The second track, “In the Yard,” appears to be a standalone release with no additional background information provided.
Currently on tour through May 2026, including performances at Kilby Block Party, Alex G is also expanding his creative pursuits by composing an original score for the upcoming film Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma, directed by Jane Schoenbrun. This marks his third collaboration with Schoenbrun following previous soundtracks for We’re All Going to the World’s Fair and I Saw the TV Glow.
Meanwhile, Irish band Leevy is set to release their debut album, Baile Mhúirne (The Soldiers March the Paps of Anú), this week. Frontman Amhlaoibh McSweeney reflects on the band’s journey and musical identity shaped by their roots in Muskery Gaeltacht, a strong Irish-speaking cultural region. He credits early feedback on his singing style as pivotal in developing his authentic voice. Growing up playing both punk rock and traditional folk music with his current bandmates, Amhlaoibh emphasizes how these influences blend in their work today.
Leevy’s album features songs performed live over the past two years, allowing them to refine their sound before recording. Amhlaoibh stresses the importance of creating a cohesive album rather than focusing solely on short viral clips, highlighting the value of artistic longevity and meaningful storytelling. The band incorporates both English and Irish languages in their music, including tracks like “Niamh Chinn Óir” and “Croisín,” reflecting their bilingual background.
The band has also gained exposure through appearances on RTÉ 1 Television’s An Ghig Mhór, where they prepared for a significant gig under mentorship from Rónán Ó Snodaigh of Kíla. Upcoming live shows include performances at Cyprus Avenue, Levis in Ballydehob, and The Briery Gap in Macroom throughout May.
Both Alex G and Leevy demonstrate how personal narratives and cultural heritage continue to inspire new music releases in 2026. Their songs explore themes ranging from introspective moments of change to celebrating linguistic traditions, resonating with listeners seeking authenticity and connection in contemporary music.
