The Sixteen Best Musical Releases of 2025 (So Far)
Have you examined the Billboard album charts recently? You’ll find some unexpected entries—Sleep Token, Ateez, and Brandon Lake recently appeared in the Top Ten. However, the singles charts show less dynamism. Songs like “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” “Lose Control,” and “Die with a Smile” maintain their popularity. The albums highlighted below haven’t achieved similar chart dominance; Lorde’s singles peaked at Number 36, and Addison Rae’s album experienced a significant drop. Nevertheless, this period brought diverse and enjoyable music, spanning genres and ages, from Sheffield to New Zealand.
Addison Rae, Addison
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Despite initial reservations, Addison Rae’s debut album is surprisingly enjoyable. The initial hesitation stemming from her TikTok fame and less successful earlier singles quickly dissipates. Collaborating with female songwriters from the Max Martin team, Rae creates a distinctive, sometimes jarring sound, drawing inspiration from established artists like Lana Del Rey and Charli XCX. This makes her album one of the year’s most captivating pop releases.
Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts, Talkin’ to the Trees
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Rock’s most cantankerous legend continues to release a prolific amount of music—old, new, and unfinished. For his latest album, the 79-year-old Young has assembled a new band that blends his various musical styles. The result is a diverse collection, ranging from melancholic to intensely critical, demonstrating Young’s enduring passion for music.
Pulp, More
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While the Oasis reunion has dominated headlines, Pulp’s first album in 24 years is arguably a more significant event. Jarvis Cocker’s sharp observations on societal issues resonate deeply, even more so now. More features string arrangements, disco elements, and Cocker’s distinctive vocals, maintaining the wit and uncertainty of his earlier work. The album’s themes of love and time’s passage are particularly relevant given the band’s long hiatus.
McKinley Dixon, Magic, Alive!
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McKinley Dixon’s fifth album is ambitious and over-the-top, featuring numerous collaborators and complex arrangements. However, its expansive scope and narrative—centering on three children grieving a friend’s death and attempting to resurrect them—is compelling. The album’s blend of jazz, rock, and hip-hop elements creates a multifaceted listening experience.
HAIM, I Quit
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HAIM’s new album explores themes of independence and singledom, showcasing the sisters’ individual growth and musical exploration. It’s a diverse collection that blends various sounds, from shoegaze to dance-pop, resulting in an energetic and celebratory, rather than melancholic, break-up album.
Lorde, Virgin
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While not Lorde’s best, Virgin offers a substantial amount of musical depth. This album, released twelve years after her breakthrough, sees Lorde return to the maximalist sound and emotional intensity of her previous works. The album tackles anxiety, gender identity, and body image with powerful, rhythmic music.
Craig Finn, Always Been
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The Hold Steady frontman’s latest solo album is a collaborative effort with Adam Granduciel. The album tells the story of a former minister searching for purpose, with Granduciel’s production expanding on the Hold Steady’s sound while preserving Finn’s poignant storytelling abilities.
Jensen McRae, I Don’t Know How But They Found Me!
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Jensen McRae’s second album showcases her remarkable talent. While comparisons to other female singer-songwriters are inevitable, McRae’s blend of folk, pop, and electronic elements creates a distinct sound. The album’s lyrics explore themes of heartbreak with honesty and humor.
Galactic with Irma Thomas, Audience with the Queen
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Galactic’s collaboration with Irma Thomas transcends expectations. While a traditional New Orleans sound could have been expected, this album features new compositions with a contemporary edge and socially conscious lyrics. Thomas’s powerful vocals remain a highlight.
Momma, Welcome to My Blue Sky
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Momma’s fourth album solidifies their position in indie rock. The album draws inspiration from 90s grunge and shoegaze, creating an infectious and nostalgic sound, despite the band’s youth.
Sault, X
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The enigmatic British soul collective’s latest release, X, is another surprise release with deep grooves, stellar musicianship, and a blend of jazz-funk, 80s influences, and unexpected genre elements.
The War and Treaty, Plus One
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The War and Treaty’s powerful music is matched by their inspiring personal story. Their latest album leans towards country, showcasing their soulful harmonies and honest storytelling. Contributions from other notable artists enhance the album’s richness.
The Lumineers, Automatic
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The Lumineers’ new album incorporates electronic elements while retaining the intensity of their earlier hits. Despite receiving limited press, the band’s continued stadium-level success indicates ongoing appeal.
Sharon Van Etten & the Attachment Theory, Sharon Van Etten & the Attachment Theory
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Sharon Van Etten’s collaborative album with her band showcases a new, groove-oriented sound, experimenting with different musical styles and pushing creative boundaries.
Kip Moore, Solitary Tracks
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Kip Moore’s independent album reflects his personal journey, inspired by punk rock. The album is a deeply personal collection of songs, showcasing Moore’s creative evolution.
Michigander, Michigander
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Jason Singer’s debut full-length album blends power-pop, emo, and yacht rock influences. The upbeat songs explore complex emotions in a catchy and relatable manner.
What are your thoughts on this year’s musical releases?