The Sixteen Outstanding Music Releases of 2025

Have you examined the Billboard album charts lately? Recent weeks have shown surprising entries from Sleep Token, Ateez, and Brandon Lake in the top ten. However, the singles charts remain relatively stagnant, with persistent hits like “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” “Lose Control,” and “Die with a Smile” dominating. The albums listed below haven’t achieved that level of widespread popularity; even Lorde’s pre-album singles peaked at number 36, and Addison Rae’s album experienced a significant drop in chart position.

Despite this, the first half of 2025 has provided a wide variety of exceptional music; from psychedelic hip-hop to folk, encompassing artists of various ages and origins.

Addison Rae’s Debut Album

Why do I enjoy Addison Rae’s debut album so much? Any reservations about listening to a record from a TikTok star quickly fade. Collaborating with two female producers from the Max Martin team, Rae creates a distinctive, sometimes surprisingly unconventional sound, blending influences from Lana Del Rey, Madonna, and Charli XCX, making her one of the year’s most enjoyable pop artists.

Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts’ “Talkin’ to the Trees”

Rock’s most cantankerous legend continues to release a steady stream of music. For his latest album, the 79-year-old Young has assembled a new band that skillfully combines elements of Crazy Horse’s energy with his folk style. This album offers a varied collection of Neil Young’s signature sounds; reflective in some tracks, scathing in others, and always politically charged. While not among his best works, it’s commendable that he continues creating music.

Pulp’s “More”

While the Oasis reunion grabbed headlines, Pulp’s first new album in 24 years is equally significant. Jarvis Cocker’s witty, cynical commentary on sex and class resonates more deeply coming from a seasoned artist than from younger performers. “More” features prominent string arrangements and disco influences, alongside Cocker’s distinctive vocals, while his lyrical wit remains sharp. The album’s theme touches upon the passage of time and the experiences of life.

McKinley Dixon’s “Magic, Alive!”

McKinley Dixon’s fifth album is ambitious and multifaceted; some may find it excessive. However, the album’s expansive scope is undeniable. Across eleven tracks, Dixon narrates a story of three children mourning a friend and attempting to revive him using magic. By blending jazz, rock, and classic hip-hop styles, the album unfolds like a series of interconnected short stories, demonstrating hip-hop’s versatility.

HAIM’s “I Quit”

HAIM’s album opens with a playful ambiguity about departure, only to immediately reverse course. The overarching theme is the sisters’ single status and exploration of independence. It’s a breakup album that avoids being solely melancholic, venturing into various styles, from shoegaze to dance-pop, and ending with a vibrant closer. While not surpassing their previous work, it’s a solid release.

Lorde’s “Virgin”

While not Lorde’s best, “Virgin” is a worthwhile addition to her discography. A decade after her debut, the album returns to the maximalist sound and emotionally raw approach of her 2017 work, tackling anxiety, gender identity, and body image with pulsing beats. It’s a testament to her ongoing evolution.

Craig Finn’s “Always Been”

The Hold Steady frontman collaborates with Adam Granduciel of The War on Drugs on his sixth solo album, creating a poignant and heartfelt collection of songs. “Always Been” tells the story of a former minister traveling the country, a tale that is told over the course of the album. Granduciel expands the Hold Steady’s sound into a broader soundscape, while Finn crafts a compelling narrative.

Jensen McRae’s “I Don’t Know How But They Found Me!”

This stunning sophomore album showcases the emergence of a significant new talent. McRae’s blend of folk, pop, and electronic elements creates a unique sound. The songs offer insightful observations about recovering from a relationship while incorporating both anger and humor.

Galactic with Irma Thomas’ “Audience with the Queen”

Galactic, known for their New Orleans funk, collaborates with 84-year-old Irma Thomas. The album features mostly original compositions with a blend of traditional and modern sounds, addressing social justice themes. Thomas’s vocals still possess great power, although showing the mark of time.

Momma’s “Welcome to My Blue Sky”

Momma’s fourth album solidifies their status as leading indie-rock artists. The album’s grunge-inspired sound, reminiscent of other all-female bands, is infectious. The lyrics largely focus on touring experiences, yet still evoke nostalgia for a past era.

Sault’s “X”

The enigmatic British soul collective continues their pattern of surprise releases. “X” is yet another stealth drop; rich in musicality and atmospheric soundscapes, drawing from various musical influences. The album showcases their consistent quality.

The War and Treaty’s “Plus One”

The War and Treaty’s compelling personal story adds weight to their powerful vocals. The album is a rich mix of soul, gospel, and country influences, demonstrating their expanding creative boundaries.

The Lumineers’ “Automatic”

The Lumineers’ latest release incorporates electronic elements and returns to the intensity of their earlier hits. The album’s success demonstrates their continued popularity, contributing to their stadium-sized tours.

Sharon Van Etten & the Attachment Theory’s self-titled album

This collaborative album with Van Etten’s band showcases a more groove-oriented sound. While not abandoning her past, the album explores new vocal styles and musical avenues, showcasing artistic growth.

Kip Moore’s “Solitary Tracks”

Kip Moore’s sixth album takes a more independent direction, reflecting his personal journey. Inspired by punk rock, it’s a deeply personal and introspective collection.

Michigander’s self-titled album

Jason Singer’s debut album combines power-pop, emo, and yacht-rock elements, resulting in upbeat and catchy songs dealing with complex emotions.