Editorial Picks: May 2026

The Editorial’s top releases of May 2026 and the artists behind them

As we move into the summer months, music releases start to change. Songs become brighter, the energy shifts upbeat and release schedules begin to fill up as artists gear up for bigger releases. May brought a strong selection of singles from artists well into album campaigns, alongside others who seem to be laying the foundations for larger releases later in the year. Here are our favourite releases from the month of May:

Kwn – Touch Myself

Ahead of her highly anticipated second tape, Kwn returns with Touch Myself, delivering exactly the kind of record her fans have been waiting for. After giving fans a new sound and perspective on love and relationships with the previous release, hopeless romantic. kwn seems to have returned to the sound she is best known for. Continuing to perfect her blend of nostalgic yet forward-thinking R&B, drawing on classic 90s influences through familiar drum patterns and sounds, smooth nylon guitar melodies and songwriting that feels bold, sexy and memorable. Kwn's knack for a bridge is once again on display, continuing the movement of UK R&B acts who are bringing bridges back to R&B music. Overall, it's a confident and polished release that further cements her position at the forefront of today's R&B landscape.

FLO – Therapy At The Club

R&B's tenacious trio continue the rollout for their second studio album with Therapy At The Club, the project's title track and second official single following the viral success of Leak It. First teased during the group's Tiny Desk performance earlier this year, the record showcases a different side to FLO. Trading the dance heavy, R&B and Pop sound of Leak It for a sweeping ballad, the trio lean into themes of growth, healing and new beginnings. Whilst staying close to the theme of sisterhood which has remained a huge pillar in FLO's identity since their inception. Their harmonies also remain as sharp as ever, while the song's reflective tone offers an intriguing glimpse into a new direction of the upcoming album, which arrives in June.

Amie Blu – trees for the woods

Following the release of her debut album when all is said and done in 2025, Amie Blu makes her first return with trees for the woods. The long-awaited single retains the singer-songwriter's signature sound of folk and indie influences while introducing a more uptempo energy than much of her previous work. Across acoustic instrumentation and thoughtful lyricism, Amie continues to explore themes of heartbreak, reflection and personal growth with an honesty that has become synonymous with her music. Her distinctive vocal delivery remains at the centre of the track, making for a welcome return from one of the UK's most compelling artists.

CARI – Crashing Out!

Fresh from her recent collaboration with US R&B artist Ambre, CARI returns with Crashing Out!, a record that further expands the alternative sound she has steadily been carving out for herself. Built around acoustic instrumentation and grunge-inspired textures, the track is elevated by the inclusion of saxophone contributions from Venna, adding depth to its organic, atmospheric production. CARI's poetic songwriting takes centre stage throughout the verses before giving way to a catchy, more upbeat chorus. It's familiar, yet still exciting. Crashing Out! feels like another step forward for CARI and leaves plenty of anticipation for what promises to be a busy second half of the year.

Check out all the latest releases in our monthly playlists on Spotify at The Warehouse Editorial.