This month in music - January New Releases

New Music in January 2026: 5 Albums You Need on Your Radar

The new year is kicking off with an exciting range of albums across genres — from indie and post-punk to pop and singer-songwriter fare. Whether you’re updating your vinyl wish list or planning your CD collection for 2026, here are five standout albums arriving in the UK this January.

1. Reflections - Blue

Release Date: 9 January 2026
Boy-band favourites Blue return with their seventh studio album Reflections, a mix of polished pop and reflective songwriting that celebrates their evolution since the early 2000s. Fans have already heard singles like “One Last Time” ahead of the full release.

Buy Reflections by Blue on CD

2. Secret Love - Dry Cleaning

Release Date: 9 January 2026
Post-punk act Dry Cleaning drop their third album Secret Love, produced by Cate Le Bon. Expect their signature clever lyrics and sharp rhythms elevated with fresh sonic textures following their acclaimed earlier work.

Buy Secret Love by Dry Cleaning

3. The Demise of Planet X - Sleaford Mods

Release Date: 16 January 2026
Veteran UK duo Sleaford Mods return with The Demise of Planet X, their 13th studio record. Known for their raw, uncompromising sound and social commentary, this release promises to capture the rage and humour that has defined their career.

Buy The Demise of Planet X by Sleaford Mods

4. locket - Madison Beer

Release Date: 16 January 2026
Pop artist Madison Beer marks the new year with her third studio album locket. Already teased with singles reflecting personal growth and emotional depth, this project looks set to be one of January’s breakout pop moments.

Buy locket by Madison Beer

5. How Did I Get Here? - Louis Tomlinson

Release Date: 23 January 2026
Former One Direction member Louis Tomlinson releases his third solo album How Did I Get Here?, blending guitar-driven pop with introspective songwriting. With singles like “Lemonade” already out, fans have been gearing up for this confident step forward.

Buy How Did I Get Here by Louis Tomlinson

🎵 Quick Picks: Other January Releases to Watch

January’s music calendar is busier than ever - here are a few more noteworthy releases and projects to keep an eye on:

• Steph Strings - Feel Alive (9 January) - Debut album with strong folk-pop storytelling vibes.

• Various rock, metal, and indie albums also pepper the month’s lineup with releases from artists across genres.