Last year was another great year for music! However, this list was difficult to compile, all things considered. My number one album of the year was very difficult to narrow down, but I am quite confident in this year’s list.
- Bon Iver: “SABLE ; fABLE”
Album cover // Jagjaguwar
This album was just phenomenal. Maybe I’m biased with this pick because Bon Iver is one of my personal favorite artists, but this album is an emotional journey from front to back. Lyrically, it’s Justin Vernon’s most mature, most reflective work. Simply put, “SABLE ; fABLE” is a beautiful album.
- Hayley Williams: “Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party”
This was the last album I listened to in 2025, and I’m glad I got around to it because this one is quite good. Hayley Williams has always been one of my favorite singers and songwriters. The diversity in sound on this record and Williams’ artistry shine through, making this my second best album of 2025.
- Clipse: “Let God Sort Em Out”
Album cover // Clipse
A fantastic hip hop album with some of the best written lyrics this year. I think a lot of people would have billed this as the top album of last year. I love the production on this album. Pusha T and Malice are stellar on this record, and the collaborations are excellent as well.
- dodie: “Not for Lack of Trying”
Album cover // Doddleoddle, Decca, Universal Music Group
This album, emotionally, has a lot of range. From funny to downright devastating, the listener goes through the range of emotions on this one. The stripped-back production on this album was also a treat and really emphasized the emotions. Very underrated album.
- Laufey: “In a Matter of Time”
Album cover // Vingalf, AWAL
Laufey’s newest record once again blends pop and jazz in a very tasteful way. The hooks on this album are incredible, and the melodies are top notch. The instrumentation on this album too is gorgeous.
- Mac Miller: “Balloonerism”
Album cover // Warner
Another posthumous release from Mac Miller, who passed away back in 2018. This album is very emotional, which seems to be a theme within this list. The record is haunting in its production, and Miller’s lyrics really drive the emotion home.
- Big Thief: “Double Infinity”
Album cover // 4AD
I changed my mind on this album – I actually really like it. I still think it’s the floor of what Big Thief is capable of, but this is still a damn good record. The wispy instrumentation and Adrianne Lenker’s lyricism carry the album and it is yet another strong effort from the band.
- Lady Gaga: “Mayhem”
Album cover // Streamline, Interscope
Okay, I also changed my mind with this one. I think I went a liiiiiiitle overboard by declaring this album as a 10/10, but I still think this is a very solid and very enjoyable pop album with some of the most fun and catchy pop hits of 2025. “Die with a Smile” is still fantastic.
- Mac Demarco: “Guitar”
Album cover // Mac’s Record Label
A return to form for Mac Demarco. This album brings back memories of his previous records and shows that he’s still got that dog in him.
- Tyler, The Creator: “DON’T TAP THE GLASS”
Album cover // Columbia
This one is just pure fun. Tyler, The Creator follows up the heartfelt “Chromakopia” with an album that is full of songs you’re meant to dance to.
