Exceptional Albums Released in 2025
Have you examined the Billboard album charts recently? Unexpected entries, like Sleep Token, Ateez, and Brandon Lake, have recently appeared in the top ten. However, the singles charts show a different picture—with songs like “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” “Lose Control,” and “Die with a Smile” maintaining their popularity.
The albums discussed below haven’t achieved similar widespread dominance. Even Lorde’s pre-album singles only reached number 36 at their peak, and Addison Rae’s album experienced a steep decline in chart position. Despite this, the music landscape has been rich this year, showcasing a diverse range of styles, artists, and ages, from psychedelic hip-hop to folk music and representing artists from various locations.
Addison Rae’s Debut Album
Why do I enjoy Addison Rae’s debut album so much? Any initial reservations about listening to an album by a TikTok star quickly dissipate. Collaborating with two female songwriters from the Max Martin team, Rae blends influences from Lana Del Rey, Madonna, and Charli XCX, resulting in a unique and captivating pop sound that makes her album one of the year’s highlights.
Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts: Talkin’ to the Trees
Rock legend Neil Young continues to release a large volume of music. This album, his potentially 48th, features a new backing band that seamlessly blends his various musical styles. The result is a diverse collection, showcasing both wistful and angry tracks, and demonstrates his enduring passion for music.
Pulp: More
While the Oasis reunion has received significant media attention, the release of Pulp’s first album in 24 years is equally noteworthy. Jarvis Cocker’s insightful commentary on sex and class resonates deeply, making this album a significant contribution to the music scene.
McKinley Dixon: Magic, Alive!
McKinley Dixon’s fifth album is ambitious and overflowing with elements. Despite its complexity, the album’s narrative about three children mourning a friend and attempting to resurrect him through magic is compelling. The album showcases a broad range of musical styles and displays the vast potential of hip-hop.
HAIM: I Quit
The HAIM sisters explore themes of independence and singledom on their new album. It’s a dynamic collection that shifts between various musical styles, making it a captivating and multifaceted listening experience. While not surpassing their previous work, it still showcases their musical talent.
Lorde: Virgin
Lorde’s latest album returns to the maximalist sound and emotional depth of her earlier work. Twelve years after her debut, she tackles themes of anxiety, gender, and body image over vibrant beats, marking a significant chapter in her musical journey.
Craig Finn: Always Been
Craig Finn, the frontman of The Hold Steady, collaborates with Adam Granduciel of The War on Drugs for a moving and heartfelt album. This album tells the story of a former minister’s journey across the country. Granduciel’s contributions expand the musical landscape while Finn’s songwriting prowess remains evident.
Jensen McRae: I Don’t Know How But They Found Me!
Jensen McRae’s second album showcases the emergence of a significant musical talent. Drawing comparisons to Tracy Chapman, Joni Mitchell, and Taylor Swift, McRae crafts a unique and exciting blend of folk, pop, and electronic music, resulting in a deeply personal and engaging album.
Galactic with Irma Thomas: Audience with the Queen
Galactic, known for their New Orleans funk, collaborates with Irma Thomas on a unique album featuring mostly original songs. The album blends traditional and modern elements, showcasing the evolution of their sound and Thomas’s enduring talent.
Momma: Welcome to My Blue Sky
Momma’s fourth album solidifies their position in the indie rock scene. This album draws inspiration from 90s grunge and shoegaze but delivers its own unique and irresistible sound.
Sault: X
The enigmatic British soul collective Sault delivers another surprise release with X. Known for their stealth releases, Sault continues to impress with their deep grooves and stellar musicianship, this time incorporating 80s influences and surprising rhythmic elements.
The War and Treaty: Plus One
Michael and Tanya Trotter’s powerful voices and deeply personal story are central to their music. Their fourth album leans into country influences while maintaining their unique blend of soul, gospel, and country sounds. Their harmonies and honesty make this album truly captivating.
The Lumineers: Automatic
The Lumineers return with an album that incorporates electronic elements while retaining the intensity of their earlier hits. Their ability to draw large crowds and headline stadiums demonstrates their ongoing popularity.
Sharon Van Etten & the Attachment Theory: Sharon Van Etten & the Attachment Theory
Sharon Van Etten’s latest project is a collaborative album with her band, showcasing a more groove-oriented sound. It’s a testament to the creative evolution of a veteran artist pushing boundaries.
Kip Moore: Solitary Tracks
Kip Moore’s sixth album, created after pursuing a more independent path, reflects his personal journey. Influenced by punk rock, the album contains a large number of deeply personal songs.
Michigander: Michigander
Jason Singer’s full-length debut album under the Michigander moniker blends power-pop, emo, and yacht-rock elements into upbeat songs exploring complex emotions.
