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Olivia Rodrigo, Charli xcx, Niall Horan and Ariana Grande deliver a mixed batch of recent releases, ranging from sharp social criticism to familiar pop that struggles to stand out.

Olivia Rodrigo — “the cure” (5/10)

Drawn from Rodrigo’s upcoming album, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love, “the cure” recalls the melancholy and introspection of her breakout album, SOUR.

The song sharply contrasts with “drop dead,” the album’s upbeat first single. Rodrigo explores relationship difficulties through powerful writing, but the restrained vocals and sparse track limit the impact. Her breathy, nearly spoken delivery over guitar can feel more like poetry set to music than a fully developed production.

Longtime fans may embrace the return to Rodrigo’s earlier sound. For a broader audience, however, the track offers little to distinguish itself from similarly subdued pop songs.

Charli xcx — “SS26” (9/10)

Charli xcx pairs relentlessly catchy pop with grim observations about modern society on “SS26.”

Electronic melodies and steady beats give the song an upbeat surface, while the lyrics confront hopelessness, looming global problems and misplaced cultural priorities. Charli argues that entertainment, fashion and fame cannot rescue a society that neglects larger crises.

That tension between buoyant production and existential subject matter makes “SS26” both an effective social critique and a must-listen.

Niall Horan — “End of an Era” (8/10)

Context gives Niall Horan’s newest single its considerable emotional weight. “End of an Era” addresses the loss of his former One Direction bandmate Liam Payne through memories, regret and the struggle to let go.

Horan’s somber, strong yet hollow-sounding voice carries beautifully written verses and a moving chorus. Guitar and drums support the song without overwhelming its message.

The track does not rely on unrelenting sorrow to make its point. Its reflective restraint allows Horan to honor his late friend with sincerity.

Ariana Grande — “hate that i made you love me” (6/10)

Ariana Grande’s latest single is smooth, sweet and immediately pleasant, with the polished vocals listeners have come to expect from her.

Her voice moves effortlessly through the song, making it satisfying to hear. Yet that familiarity is also its main weakness: the track blends so comfortably into Grande’s existing catalog that it lacks a defining innovation or fresh inspiration.

Even without breaking new ground, “hate that i made you love me” remains a solid addition to her discography and is worth a listen.