{"id":747,"date":"2025-12-25T15:28:37","date_gmt":"2025-12-25T15:28:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/2025\/12\/best-albums-of-2025\/"},"modified":"2025-12-25T15:28:37","modified_gmt":"2025-12-25T15:28:37","slug":"best-albums-of-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/2025\/12\/best-albums-of-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Albums of 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Consumer interests flipped on its head this year. Apple Music revealed that their top five streamed songs of 2025 were all songs released in 2024. So the hits weren\u2019t in abundance like they once were. In exchange, the focus on a potent body of work made a comeback. It\u2019s now up to the consumer to find the hit in your tracklist, or several. And while you\u2019re at it, you got to stand out in some shape or form. For pure music-heads, this couldn\u2019t be more of a win.<\/p>\n

The commercial decline in rap supported that thought. Like in every decade, the new guard are taking over, as rage became the new torchbearer from trap music. The underground ecosystem in the UK had a feast, from the likes of Rico Ace, EsDeeKid and Fakemink blowing up overnight. Legendary rap groups saw a hearty return to the mic (Clipse, De La Soul). Pop continued to become more niche and imaginative. Breakthrough artists of the decade proved they weren\u2019t a flash in the pan. And above all, there\u2019s more range than genre labels to hand out.<\/p>\n

So much range that this list could\u2019ve even been a top 100. Instead, it\u2019s a lean 50 choices for the Best Albums of 2025. Whizz through the first batch and get further thoughts for our top 30 picks below.<\/p>\n

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50\u201331<\/h1>\n
\n
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50. Knucks \u2014 A Fine African Man<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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49. AJ Tracey \u2014 Don\u2019t Die Before You\u2019re Dead<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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48. Curren$y & Harry Fraud \u2014 Never Catch Us<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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47. Strandz \u2014 Diaspora Dance Music<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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46. Deftones \u2014 private music<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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45. Saba \u2014 From the Private Collection of Saba and No I.D.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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44. 5EB \u2014 ##MOTIONMUZIK<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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43. G Perico \u2014 LA Gangster: Gangsta Grillz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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42. OHGEESY \u2014 Paid N Full<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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41. Odeal \u2014 The Fall That Saved Us<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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40. Nemzzz \u2014 Rent\u2019s Due (Deluxe)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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39. Kofi Stone \u2014 All the Flowers Have Bloomed<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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38. Gunna \u2014 The Last Wun<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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37. Larry June, 2 Chainz & The Alchemist \u2014 Life Is Beautiful<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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36. Rimzee \u2014 The Archives Deluxe<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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35. Central Cee \u2014 Can\u2019t Rush Greatness<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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34. Che \u2014Rest in Bass<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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33. McKinley Dixon \u2014 Magic, Alive!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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32. Wolf Alice \u2014 The Clearing<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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31. SPELLING \u2014 Portraits of My Heart<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n
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30. JID, God Does Like Ugly<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Dreamville \/ Interscope<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Eight years on from his debut, JID\u2019s developed a consistent, no-nonsense catalogue. God Does Like Ugly<\/em> <\/strong>continues to showcase his lyricism, which remains one of the best around, rather than upgrading JID\u2019s calibre for crafting a groundbreaking album. The opening six-track run is one of the strongest openings this year, going head to head with esteemed rappers such as Vince Staples, Pusha T and Malice. It\u2019s no new chapter, but a worthwhile page in the Book of JID.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cGlory\u201d, \u201cCommunity\u201d, \u201cVCRs\u201d, \u201cOf Blue\u201d, \u201cSk8\u201d<\/p>\n

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29. Little Simz, Lotus<\/em><\/h1>\n
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AWAL<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Coming off her highly-acclaimed SIMBI<\/em> and No Thank You <\/em>albums, Lotus<\/em> signifies strength and rebirth for the consistent Little Simz. While Lotus<\/em> is not new sonic territory for Simz, the \u2018new chapter\u2019 comes largely from the album\u2019s content. Opening cuts \u201cThief\u201d and \u201cFlood\u201d openly call out ex-collaborator Inflo, whom Simz is suing for unpaid loans. With the two severing ties indefinitely, it\u2019s Miles Clinton James who leads production this time. Personnel change or not, Lotus <\/em>shows Little Simz can still make quality albums. She\u2019s as candid as ever, divulging themes of trust, friendship and her creative habits. It\u2019s another impressive addition to her esteemed catalogue, and continues to mark her as one of the most consistent active rappers. Cough that money up, Inflo.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cThief\u201d, \u201cLotus\u201d, \u201cPeace\u201d, \u201cBlue\u201d, \u201cLonely\u201d<\/p>\n

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28. Afrosurrealist, BUYBRITISH<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Self-released<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sometimes, that \u201cRap is a young man\u2019s game\u201d stereotype is hard to deny. 19-year-old Afrosurrealist proves precisely why. BUYBRITISH<\/em> is the South London producer\u2019s debut album, uniting the UK underground scene with the likes of Chefbkay, Tay Jordan, Ceebo, N4T, Zino Vinci and EHSI all contributing dexterous performances. It\u2019s also producers\u2019 permit galore, with Afrosurrealist assisted by .nathan., BexBlu, Jim Legxacy and others. BUYBRITISH<\/em> goes here & there without breaking stride, melting a library of samples to tailor the rappers in play, nailing whatever style\u2019s attempted. It\u2019s a rich, London canvas, anchored by a talented group of young Black British artists with one shared goal. You can only stand up and give a round of applause for such successful curation.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cintro (harlem heat)\u201d, \u201cwunblud\u201d, \u201ca day in the life\u201d, \u201cthe valleys are peak\u201d, \u201cboys don\u2019t cry\u201d<\/p>\n

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27. Dexter in the Newsagent, Time Flies<\/em><\/h1>\n
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RULESTHEWORLD<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Every so often you hear a project that sounds like a warm embrace. Dexter in the Newsagent\u2019s debut mixtape radiates that sensation, a 12-track sonic companion honeycombed in sweet melodies, nimble production, and heartfelt songwriting. From the \u201900s tinge of \u201cEighteen\u201d to the nocturnal bounce of \u201cTonight\u201d, Time Flies<\/em> is like a friend you can rely on to be a good listener no matter where your mind is at.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cSpecial\u201d, \u201cEighteen\u201d, \u201cTonight\u201d, \u201cStranger to Love\u201d, \u201cTake Care\u201d<\/p>\n

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26. PinkPantheress, Fancy That<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Warner<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Three projects in, PinkPantheress has proven she wasn\u2019t a fad \u2014 if it was ever still in doubt, that is. Her knack for pop hitmaking is undeniable now and she continued to prove so on Fancy That<\/em>. The 8-song project builds even stronger towers around her signature fusions of UK garage, jungle, R&B and \u201900s pop. It\u2019s beyond nostalgia bait at this point, Pink is the 2020s most innovative popstar.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cIllegal\u201d, \u201cRomeo\u201d, \u201cGirl Like Me\u201d, \u201cStateside\u201d<\/p>\n

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25. Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist, Alfredo 2<\/em><\/h1>\n
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ESGN \/ ALC<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist charge their batteries for a consistent, congruent sequel. Alfredo 2 <\/em>comes together cleaner than its predecessor, with The Alchemist opting for mellow beats as the background for Gibbs\u2019 streams of conscious raps & threats towards Akademiks\u2019 man melons. Thematically, it takes a Japanese-inspired motif on board, which adds to the project\u2019s passive worldbuilding. The result is an extremely cohesive album with no real lulls.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cEnsalada\u201d, \u201c1995\u201d, \u201cI Still Love H.E.R.\u201d, \u201cLavish Habits\u201d, \u201cLemon Pepper Steppers\u201d<\/p>\n

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24. Mac Miller, Balloonerism<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Mac Miller\u2019s Estate \/ Warner<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lost art is given full disclosure on what\u2019s potentially Mac Miller\u2019s last album. Balloonerism<\/em> is a special, tragic odyssey that makes you both mourn and celebrate the life of a generational rapper, artist and being. Recorded and shelved in 2014, Balloonerism\u2019<\/em>s official release commemorates Mac Miller\u2019s forward-thinking artistry\u2014as it doesn\u2019t sound dated one bit, even eleven years later. Death, innocence & childhood and existentialism mark some of Mac\u2019s best writing. Hard to grasp at first, the brilliance and beauty of Balloonerism<\/em> becomes apparent with more listens to be one of his best albums. It\u2019s haunting at its core, eccentric at its peaks.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cFunny Papers\u201d, \u201cDJ\u2019s Chord Organ\u201d, \u201cRick\u2019s Piano\u201d, \u201cManakins\u201d <\/p>\n

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23. Armand Hammer & The Alchemist, Mercy<\/strong><\/em><\/h1>\n
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Backwoodz Studioz<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

\u201cGrandmaster Flash gave me a job\u201d, Billy Woods proclaims on \u201cLaraaji\u201d, the opening track to Armand Hammer\u2019s second collaborative album with The Alchemist. That\u2019s what Woods does \u2014 say the most profound line in just five words. As usual, Armand Hammer\u2019s work is a challenging listen both lyrically and sonically, but once it clicks you\u2019re met with some of the most forward-thinking material hip hop has to offer. Mercy<\/em> once again brings the A-game of Woods, ELUCID and Al, drawing on their encyclopedia ether as usual. Whether that\u2019s naming a song after a Pakistani city (\u201cPeshawar\u201d), or vividly depicting genocide in Palestine as a \u201cdollhouse of horrors\u201d (\u201cu know my body\u201d), Mercy<\/em> never hesitates to ask the larger questions \u2014 even if there isn\u2019t any clear-cut answers.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cLaraaji\u201d, \u201cMoonbow\u201d, \u201cCalifornia Games\u201d, \u201cSuper Nintendo\u201d, \u201cLongjohns\u201d<\/p>\n

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22. Ceebo, Blair Babies<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Liberation<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

How do you solve problems that you never caused? On Blair Babies<\/em>, Ceebo examines how Black British Gen Z are the lost tribe of a mishandled, neglected generation. Blair Babies<\/em> covers that trifecta of Ceebo\u2019s identity, continuing to reflect on the concept of environment like his 2024 EP LAMBETHNOTLA<\/em> but through a different scope. Despite the political focus, Ceebo still prioritises making a competent song, bringing addictive flows on \u201cjook\u201d, melodic moments on \u201cbuzzball summer\u201d, and rapping like the overpriced rent\u2019s due on \u201c018\u201d. It\u2019s a zeitgeist project from a rapidly-developing rapper breaking through ceiling after ceiling.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cjook\u201d, \u201cpentecost of living\u201d, \u201cbuzzball summer\u201d, \u201cblair babies\u201d, \u201chow many training days\u201d, \u201c018\u201d, \u201cthe gospel (as according to tony blair)\u201d, \u201cwhere\u2019s it @\u201d<\/p>\n

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21. Svn4vr, Amen<\/em><\/h1>\n
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icsu<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Out of his three 2025 projects, March\u2019s Amen<\/em> is the young singer-songwriter\u2019s most developed offering. Pronounced \u201cseven forever\u201d, Svn4vr is the most cryptic artist to emerge out the UK this year. At the time of writing, he\u2019s entirely anonymous, represented digitally through High School Musical\u2019s Corbin Bleu. But who needs to know who he is when the music is what matters? Lo-fi bedroom aesthetics submerge Amen<\/em>, characterised further by acoustic backings, sweet sung vocals, and evangelical writing. He meanders through nostalgic thoughts, touching on childhood memories, loss and loneliness all within 20 minutes. It\u2019s highly effective as a listener, making you evoke the emotions alongside him, enough to make you think \u201cYou\u2019re not alone, I\u2019m here too.\u201d For an artist this premature in his career, Amen<\/em> and Svn are gracefully ready-made.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201ccall ur bredrins coz the rapture might happen tomorrow at 7:30am\u201d, \u201cbreathing through the walls\u201d, \u201chypocrite\u201d, \u201csaviour complex\u201d, \u201chigh school musical 4\u201d<\/p>\n

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20. Bad Bunny, Deb\u00ed Tirar M\u00e1s Fotos<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/h1>\n
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Rimas Entertainment \/ Warner<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The biggest artists in the world typically double down on whatever\u2019s brought them success. At this stage in his career, Bad Bunny\u2019s earned the creative license to be bolder. He grabs that with two hands on his sixth solo album. Deb\u00ed Tirar M\u00e1s Fotos<\/em> is a love letter to traditional Puerto Rico, drawing on a rich tapestry of salsa, bomba, reggaeton, plena, and much more to pay full homage without an ounce of dilution. He\u2019s adamant on preserving its heritage, calling out the gentrification and political decisions affecting his homeland. Bad Bunny could\u2019ve leaned into English-speaking music on Deb\u00ed Tirar M\u00e1s Fotos<\/em>, but instead he sticks to his Spanish tongue and asks more from the average listener. It\u2019s a bold decision, and a reminder that home is truly where the heart is.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cPERFuMITO NUEVO\u201d, \u201cKETU TeCR\u00c9\u201d, \u201cEoO\u201d, \u201cVeLD\u00c1\u201d, \u201cBAILE INoLVIDABLE\u201d<\/p>\n

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19. YT, OI!<\/em><\/h1>\n
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G2G<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

YT follows up his breakthrough hit with a buzzer-beater tape. OI!<\/em> continues to do what YT knows best \u2014 colourful production contrasted with arid Auto-Tune vocals, and flexes that make you wanna get your money up, not your funny up. It\u2019s yet another indication of the surging UK underground, at which YT is certainly at the helm of.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cBlack & Tan\u201d, \u201cDiamonds\u201d, \u201cGirls Trip\u201d, \u201cPut Your Hands Up\u201d, \u201cPrada or Celine\u201d, \u201cArena\u201d<\/p>\n

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18. Olivia Dean, The Art of Loving<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Polydor \/ Capitol<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Five years ago, Olivia Dean\u2019s song \u201cWhat Am I Gonna Do on Sundays?\u201d occupied #40 on our Best Songs of 2020<\/em><\/a> list. Just two years ago, her previous album, Dive<\/em>, made our Best Albums of 2023<\/a> <\/em>picks. So I\u2019ve been routing for Olivia Dean as both a listener and a writer. Five years later, Olivia Dean is the biggest artist to blow up in 2025. It\u2019s satisfying to see someone blow up that you saw potential in, and Olivia Dean fully deserves it. While her previous work maintained more character, The Art of Loving<\/em> replaces that with expertly-woven pop prowess. It\u2019s no surprise that she had not just one, but five hits simultaneously blowing up on TikTok and beyond. Her tender, granular take on songwriting makes you wonder what demon broke her heart this bad. As the album name suggests, Olivia Dean\u2019s vitally bringing yearning back to the mainstream. <\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cMan I Need\u201d, \u201cA Couple Minutes\u201d, \u201cNice to Each Other\u201d, \u201cSo Easy (To Fall in Love)\u201d, \u201cLady Lady\u201d, \u201cClose Up\u201d<\/p>\n

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17. Oklou, Choke Enough<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Because Music \/ True Panther<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The French singer\u2019s debut album is a dreamland of bedroom pop, putting you right in the clouds for 35 minutes. All self-produced along with repeat collaborator Casey MQ, Choke Enough<\/em> is addictive in the most nimble of ways. Hints of electronica swarm Oklou\u2019s misty vocals, reaching peaks on the title track and the standout \u201cHarvest Sky\u201d. There\u2019s appeal in being understated, and Choke Enough<\/em> achieves that expertly.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201charvest sky\u201d, \u201ctake me by the hand\u201d, \u201cblade bird\u201d, \u201cwant to wanna come back\u201d, \u201cobvious\u201d<\/p>\n

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16. De La Soul, Cabin in the Sky<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Mass Appeal<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The penultimate album in Nas\u2019 Legend Has It\u2026<\/em> series was a massive one. There\u2019s little bigger flex than bringing back De La Soul for their first album in nine years. It\u2019s even more sincere given the passing of Trugoy the Dove, aka Dave, in 2023, as well as the digital publication of their entire catalogue after settling a long-term dispute with their ex-label. DJ Premier and Pete Rock lend their hand in production, with guest appearances handed to Q-Tip, Common, Black Thought, Nas and Slick Rick. With all that in mind, Cabin in the Sky<\/em> doesn\u2019t crack under the pressure. It\u2019s your usual high-dose of feel-good De La, self-examinations, and odes to a better life. It all but shuts the conversation on the most consistent hip hop group of all time; from 1989 all the way to 2025, De La Soul are not just elder statements of rap, they\u2019re wizards.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cCruel Summers Bring FIRE LIFE!!\u201d, \u201cBelieve (In Him)\u201d, \u201cDifferent World\u201d, \u201cGood Health\u201d, \u201cEN EFF\u201d<\/p>\n

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15. SINN6R, #FEDERAL<\/em><\/h1>\n
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XV \/ Lizzy<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Out his two 2025 tapes, SINN6R\u2019s #FEDERAL<\/em> is the one that feels most like a national movement. His maximalist beats combine the best of rage and trap, plus a British accent that adds the unique sense of clarity that\u2019s missing from this lane. A few collaborations with TeeboFG, Rico Ace and Ledbyher scatter the 10-song tracklist, but it\u2019s still SINN6R\u2019s knack for flows and slick one-liners that mark him as a pivotal piece to the UK underground movement. We\u2019re certainly staying federal in 2026.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cRunner\u201d, \u201cPersonally\u201d, \u201cLabel Dinner\u201d, \u201cMe & You\u201d, \u201cChilli\u201d<\/p>\n

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14. Rochelle Jordan, Through the Wall<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Empire<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

And the best danceable album of the year goes to Rochelle Jordan. It\u2019s no competition. Through the Wall<\/em> is a nonstop club experience, moving and grooving with no care in the world. Rochelle expertly blends traditional R&B into the experience, whether that\u2019s the Neptunes-coded \u201cGet It Off\u201d or the Aaliyah tones of \u201cEyes Shut\u201d. At its hour length, Through the Wall<\/em> doesn\u2019t lose steam, making for one of the most cohesive albums of 2025. Wholly nocturnal, it\u2019s Rochelle Jordan\u2019s club and we\u2019re all moving to her tempo.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cThe Boy\u201d, \u201cLadida\u201d, \u201cEyes Shut\u201d, \u201cSum\u201d, \u201cGet It Off\u201d<\/p>\n

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13. Men I Trust, Equus Caballus<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Self-released<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If Oklou\u2019s Choke Enough<\/em> is nimble, Men I Trust\u2019s Equus Caballus<\/em> is delicate. Lead vocalist Emma Proulx has a calming tone that\u2019s tough to replicate, utilising it throughout the band\u2019s sixth album, and second of 2025. It\u2019s like you\u2019re taking scenic roadtrips in the countryside, sometimes during the day but some also at night. With Equus Caballus<\/em>, there\u2019s just enough components in play to give you the substance to enjoy but also the space to imagine.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cTo Ease You\u201d, \u201cWhere I Sit\u201d, \u201cBillie Toppy (2025)\u201d, \u201cCome Back Down\u201d, \u201cHard to See\u201d<\/p>\n

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12. Mariah the Scientist, Hearts Sold Separately<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Buckles Laboratories \/ Epic<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Atlanta, Georgia singer is back to her best. On Hearts Sold Separately<\/em>, Mariah the Scientist conquers what it means to be an R&B artist with crossover appeal. Firstly, it\u2019s the way the album\u2019s packaged. The green toy soldier on the pink cover symbolises \u201cthe war on love\u201d. In simpler interpretation, it screams \u201cYou tuff, right?\u201d It sells you the album before pressing play, while Mariah\u2019s previous two albums didn\u2019t feel like they had an identity. She continues her habit of 10-track albums, but the refined songwriting ensures every song hits. Opening song \u201cSacrifice\u201d is a dreamy career highlight and tonesetter. \u201cIs it a Crime\u201d and \u201cBurning Blue\u201d are the predestined hits. \u201cRainy Days\u201d scratches that traditional 90s R&B itch. It\u2019s all finally there, and it should only get better from here.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cSacrifice\u201d, \u201cBurning Blue\u201d, \u201cIs It a Crime\u201d, \u201cEternal Flame\u201d, \u201cRainy Days\u201d<\/p>\n

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11. Amber Mark, Pretty Idea<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Big Family \/ PMR \/ Interscope<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Looking for R&B\u2019s album of the year? Here it is. Pretty Idea<\/em> is irresistibly silky exploration of puppy love with a mature soundscape. Amber Mark and her team handle the task with such competence, its artistic callbacks shimmering rather than standing sheepishly. Whether it\u2019s the Amy Winehouse tinge of \u201cSweet Serotonin\u201d or the Usher interpolations on \u201cToo Much\u201d, it\u2019s appropriate influences that create standout songs rather than a tribute act fighting to discover themselves. The singer\u2019s evolved vastly since 2022\u2019s Three Dimensions Deep<\/em>, upping her hooks, vocals and production game to deliver songs that could easily blow up on socials if given the right upload by the right influencer. It\u2019s classic, contemporary R&B with all the flavours of great love songs.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cCherry Reds\u201d, \u201cLet Me Love You\u201d, \u201cToo Much\u201d, \u201cDon\u2019t Remind Me\u201d, \u201cooo\u201d, \u201cDifferent Places\u201d<\/p>\n

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10. Chance the Rapper, Star Line<\/em><\/h1>\n
\"\"
Self-released<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Six years on from The Big Day<\/em>, Chance the Rapper\u2019s Star Line<\/em> is exactly how to rebound from a career low. Thematic and familial, it\u2019s a well-connected album laced with a heartfelt purpose: personal and communal messages, featuring his best raps, memorable songwriting, and an undeniable warmth for the listener. It features some of the finest social commentary of the year \u2014 Black plight, incarceration, the American healthcare system are finely explored just a few songs in. \u201cLetters\u201d is a fantastic exploration into the operation of the Church, one of many that bring forth all-timer Chance raps. It\u2019s also a pristinely-produced album, rich in its composition while remaining a balanced force in a majority of the tracklist. It\u2019s a grand comeback, and it knows it is.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cNo More Old Men\u201d, \u201cThe N***o Problem\u201d, \u201cBack to the Go\u201d, \u201cRide\u201d, \u201cLetters\u201d<\/p>\n

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9. Blood Orange, Essex Honey<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Domino \/ RCA<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

On his first Blood Orange release in six years, Dev Hynes feels more human than alien. His return comes with featherweight production but a heavy heart, shaped by the loss of his mother in 2023 and reflections on his East London roots. Essex Honey<\/em> uses its contributors sparsely, granting the likes of Lorde a mere couple lines on album standout \u201cMind Loaded\u201d. Caroline Polachek\u2019s multiple appearances feel like a distant friend from the past helping Hynes narrate the tough times. It\u2019s well curated just as much as it\u2019s a deeply personal Blood Orange album.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cMind Loaded\u201d, \u201cThe Field\u201d, \u201cVivid Light\u201d, \u201cSomewhere in Between\u201d, \u201cThe Train (King\u2019s Cross)\u201d<\/p>\n

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8. Earl Sweatshirt, Live Laugh Love<\/em><\/h1>\n
\"\"
Tan Cressida \/ Warner<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

\u201cThe message couldn\u2019t be missed\u201d, Earl states on \u201cForge\u201d. And it couldn\u2019t be more true. Live Laugh Love<\/em> offers upgraded clarity on Earl\u2019s light at the end of the tunnel. As usual, Earl\u2019s one of the best rappers when it comes to saying more with less. His raps are still constructed masterfully, describing feelings so vividly that personify exactly why hip hop is a peak artform. Closing track \u201cExhaust\u201d is an all-timer Earl cut, featuring beautiful production and his most comfortable flow. From a #FreeEarl campaign during his Odd Future era, to a liberated way of expressing his thoughts that still sound sporadic. They\u2019re just more positive now.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cTOURMALINE\u201d, \u201cexhaust\u201d, \u201cHeavy Metal aka ejecto seato!\u201d, \u201cGamma (need the <3)\u201d, \u201cStatic\u201d, \u201cCRISCO\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

7. The Weeknd, Hurry Up Tomorrow<\/em><\/h1>\n
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XO \/ Republic<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Weeknd fulfils the definition of an odyssey on the boldest album of his career. Hurry Up Tomorrow <\/em>is a rich experience that combines the emotion of After Hours<\/a><\/em> with the energy of Dawn FM<\/a><\/em>, and the despair of Trilogy<\/em>. Conceptualised as a popstar performing his final show, Abel reckons with late-stage doubt while transcending over to something else. Rarely do we see a popstar conceptualise their work to such a level, distinctly completing the narrative of \u201cThe Weeknd\u201d character. <\/p>\n

At a sizeable 84 minutes, Hurry Up Tomorrow<\/em> drops no duds amongst its 22 tracks. Perhaps not every song feels necessary, but it\u2019s also tough working out what to chop. Utilising every genre he\u2019s dabbled or developed over the years, it purposely covers the Canadian\u2019s career to bring it full circle, drawing several parallels to past songs along the way. The sequencing is one of the best in recent memory, and for an album of its stature of the last few decades. Its slick transitions are instrumental in this mission, but the moods of the album are finely distributed, going synth-pop on \u201cWake Me Up\u201d and \u201cOpen Hearts\u201d, to sample-heavy R&B on \u201cNiagara Falls\u201d and \u201cEnjoy the Show\u201d. The final songs hint at the death of The Weeknd, & a rebirth for what\u2019s next.<\/p>\n

It may be the nail in the coffin for \u201cThe Weeknd\u201d but it\u2019s a seed sprouting for Abel Tesfaye.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cThe Abyss\u201d, \u201cTimeless\u201d, \u201cTake Me Back to LA\u201d, \u201cBaptized in Fear\u201d, \u201cCry for Me\u201d, \u201cEnjoy the Show\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

6. billy woods, GOLLIWOG<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Backwoodz Studioz<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Heavy is the pen when it comes to a Billy Woods album. He paints abstract tapestries that give you a rich glimmer into the largely anonymous private rapper\u2019s life. Haunting and better yet, frightening, GOLLIWOG<\/em> is the greatest horrorcore album of recent memory. Titled after the racist minstrel doll, Woods explores a plethora of nightmares that aren\u2019t dreams but reality shaping our crooked world. \u201cBLK XMAS\u201d describes an impoverished family stealing from evicted neighbours during the holiday season. He mocks billionaires\u2019 greedy dreams of inhabiting Mars on \u201cCorinthians\u201d. \u201cWaterproof Mascara\u201d is the most frightening track of all, built around a weeping woman\u2019s crying as Woods reflects on domestic abuse his mother endured through the eyes of a young child. It\u2019s the heaviest hip hop song of not just the year, but perhaps the decade thus far \u2014 so heavy that most may find it unlistenable. That\u2019s the stomach-churning effect of GOLLIWOG<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Woods enlists an array of producers to soundtrack his stories, from The Alchemist, Conductor Williams, El-P, Kenny Segal, Preservation and more \u2014 atypical for Woods\u2019 workflow, who usually locks in with one producer for his albums. Every track feels like a new trap door, submerged into Woods\u2019 bleak, parlous reality of fear, distrust, systemic injustice, history and trauma.<\/p>\n

On \u201cPitchforks & Halos\u201d, Woods plainly states: \u201cRight up to the last second, idiots really thought I was just rhyming.\u201d And he\u2019s right. He\u2019s not just rhyming, he\u2019s talking some shit<\/em>. Woods has mastered the art of vague specificity, leaving you thick crumbs rather than spoonfeeding the listener. At the end of GOLLIWOG<\/em>, you still have to think for yourself. Good luck with that.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cWaterproof Mascara\u201d, \u201cCounterclockwise\u201d, \u201cA Doll Fulla Pins\u201d, \u201cBLK XMAS\u201d, \u201cCorinthians\u201d, \u201cGolgotha\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

5. EsDeeKid, Rebel<\/em><\/h1>\n
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XV \/ Lizzy<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A quiet storm was brewing in the UK underground this year. In January, I heard \u201cPalaces\u201d by a Scouse rapper called EsDeeKid while searching for new British music. I thought it was a bop, so it got added to the likes. Twelve month later, he\u2019s become the fastest-growing rapper of 2025. At the start, it was merely my job to stay tuned into the UK underground. What no one could have estimated is not the rise of a young Scouse rapper, but the explosion of a young Scouse rapper. We\u2019ve had Aystar, we\u2019ve had Hazey, and more recently had Mazza L20 and Kasst 8. But it\u2019s always been an acquired taste, or a flash in the pan.<\/p>\n

Enter EsDeeKid, dropping his debut album Rebel<\/em> in the summer of 2025. And then came the floodgates. Produced entirely by producer of the year Wraith9, the duo created a winning framework by combining jerk, rage and trap with EsDee\u2019s thick Scouse accent, melodic flows and knack for a killer hook. Brief runtimes, a key lyrical framework to each song, a masked identity and Timoth\u00e9e Chalamet conspiracies were the cherries on top for Rebel<\/em> churning out five viral hits in unison. The biggest secret to the addictive recipe? His verses are like mini-hooks. Once he finds a flow he doesn\u2019t tap out of it. It creates irresistible cadences, where even Charlotte from Nebraska can find the appeal in such abrasive rap songs. Wraith9\u2019s beats are super skeletal, but man those bones are tough. He proves all you need is one killer melody, another distinctive element to all 11 songs.<\/p>\n

Credit also has to go to Rico Ace, whose four guest appearances are vital to hits like \u201cLV Sandals\u201d, \u201cPhantom\u201d and \u201cCali Man\u201d. Their partnership is the best in the scene right now, and we\u2019re patiently waiting for his solo breakthrough in 2026. For now, it\u2019s Rebel<\/em> on the tip of everyone\u2019s tongue.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201c4 Raws\u201d, \u201cLV Sandals\u201d, \u201cCali Man\u201d, \u201cMist\u201d, \u201cPanic\u201d, \u201cTartan\u201d, \u201cPrague\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

4. Playboi Carti, MUSIC<\/em><\/h1>\n
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AWGE \/ Interscope<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I wonder how it feels when an artist\u2019s sound takes over the game, but they\u2019ve already moved onto something different. That\u2019s Playboi Carti and his plainly-titled MUSIC<\/em>. The pioneer of rage now has multiple clones, and yet they can\u2019t seem to do it as well as Carti can. While rage inhabits the core of rage, MUSIC<\/em> fuses Southern hip hop to create yet another subgenre that has you wondering \u201cWhat the hell is this?\u201d Over 30 tracks, Carti channels Atlanta mixtape energy backed up by its composition, sound effects and ad-libbing by DJ Swamp Izzo. It\u2019s a fine reminder that this album\u2019s sound may be new-gen, but is still deeply rooted in the fundamentals of hip hop.<\/p>\n

There is appeal in the imperfection of MUSIC<\/em> \u2014 just like how the best of classic Southern rap mixtapes possess. He dares to test the listener and be downright ridiculous. There\u2019s abrasive chaos in the opener \u201cPOP OUT\u201d and the insaner \u201cOPM BABI\u201d. Future goes to space on \u201cTRIM\u201d, the choir of \u201cCRUSH\u201d are compulsive, \u201cLIKE WEEZY\u201d and \u201cCOCAINE NOISE\u201d use samples masterfully. It makes Whole Lotta Red<\/a><\/em> feel like redundant child\u2019s play.<\/p>\n

Carti continues to back up the hype with forward-thinking production and vocal performances, taking multiple risks from the sonics down to the format. It leads to an entertaining album, one that stands out in the landscape of monotonous rap, while incorporating authentic hip hop roots. It\u2019s a feast of trap and hyper-rap that Carti popularised, and there\u2019s few that can replicate it.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cHBA\u201d, \u201cTRIM\u201d, \u201cCRUSH\u201d, \u201cLIKE WEEZY\u201d, \u201cCOCAINE NOSE\u201d, \u201cRADAR\u201d, \u201cDIFFERENT DAY\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

3. Rosal\u00eda, LUX<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Columbi<\/em>a<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What makes one holy? Rosali\u00e1 dives headfirst into the analysis, from multiple angles. LUX <\/em> (Latin for Light<\/em>) is the year\u2019s greatest demonstration of devoting to your craft. In preparation for the album, Rosali\u00e1 studied a total of 14 languages to incorporate into her writing. She uses her background in classical training to her advantage once again, composing sweeping symphonies for the brave \u201cBerghain\u201d or mixing the classical with the contemporary on \u201cLa Rumba Del Perd\u00f3n\u201d. Conceptually, it\u2019s an exploration of the divine feminine, splitting the tracklist into \u2018four movements\u2019, each representing a different female saint. Inspiration\u2019s drawn from Saint Rosalia of Palermo, who ditched arranged marriage to dedicate her life to God as a hermit. And that\u2019s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the rich, historical influences for LUX<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Such substance in the songwriting, concepts and production for a pop artist at this level is hard to come by. At this point, it\u2019s perhaps unfair to even call Rosali\u00e1 a pop artist. That\u2019s all before we even get to the vocal performances, reminding listeners exactly why she\u2019s one of the greatest contemporary vocalists of our time.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s a pattern to the albums landing in the trio of top spots \u2014 a pattern crowned by pure dedication to the craft. LUX<\/em> is not just a great album, but a lifetime accomplishment. It brings back the art of trying, pushing boundaries, experimenting confidently. To pivot so hard from 2022\u2019s MOTOMAMI<\/a><\/em> is not an easy feat. Yet Rosali\u00e1 dares, and succeeds beyond comprehension.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cReliquia\u201d, \u201cBerghain\u201d, \u201cDivinize\u201d, \u201cDe Madrug\u00e1\u201d, \u201cLa Rumba Del Perd\u00f3n\u201d, \u201cSauvignon Blanc\u201d, \u201cDios Es Un Stalker\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

2. Jim Legxacy, Black British Music<\/em><\/h1>\n
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(!) \/ XL<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In the midst of a national search for something new, Jim Legxacy came and became the torchbearer for the new UK soundscape. He\u2019s been doing it for years, even before landing a spot on our Best Albums of 2023<\/a><\/em> with the masterful Homeless N***a Pop Music. <\/em>Now freshly signed with XL (home or ex-home of Adele, Giggs, Jai Paul), Black British Music<\/em> continues to build on Jim\u2019s fusion of alt-pop, emo and hip hop sampling, offering a masterclass in production & melody in 2025. This time round, it\u2019s the real breakthrough, taking Jim\u2019s name beyond the UK & into a global stage.<\/p>\n

True to its namesake, it embodies a plethora of homegrown genres and national references, whether it\u2019s areas in London or interpolations of classic UK songs (Dave, Kojo Funds). The project is oozing with melody, jam-packed with a memorable hook on every track, achieving what\u2019s often an unattainable feat across its 15 tracks. Jim\u2019s boyish vocals are pivotal to all tracks, able to offer upbeat cuts like \u201cd.b.a.b.\u201d and \u201c\u201906 wayne rooney\u201d, while delivering emotional cuts like \u201cbrief\u201d and \u201cissues of trust\u201d. It\u2019s also one of the best-produced projects of the year, brewing all its influences in a melting pot to create something vintage yet fresh.<\/p>\n

Black British Music <\/em>finely showcases Jim Legxacy\u2019s generational talent, providing a rich, unskippable experience with melodies and production on steroids. <\/em>If it\u2019s a legacy Jim\u2019s after, he\u2019s certainly heading in the right direction.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cfather\u201d, \u201ci just banged a snus in canada water\u201d, \u201cnew david bowie\u201d, \u201csos\u201d, \u201c\u201906 wayne rooney\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

1. Clipse, Let God Sort Em Out<\/em><\/h1>\n
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Roc Nation<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was the Year of the Unc in hip hop this year. As a matter of fact, it has been for the majority of the decade. For all the proof collected so far, there was one vital final boss left to pass the test. The two Virginia brothers had an illustrious run in the 2000s, dropping back to back classics in Lord Willin\u2019 <\/em>and Hell Hath No Fury<\/em>. \u201909 saw them bow out gracefully with Till the Casket Drops<\/em>. In the meantime, Push focused on his equally impressive solo career, while Malice stayed quietly active in the Christian hip hop sphere. But when rumbles of a new Clipse album were all but confirmed in 2023, it became the most anticipated hip hop album of the decade.<\/p>\n

The most anticipated rap album of 2025 came through with a completed checklist for rap aficionados. Let<\/em> God Sort Em Out<\/em> reintroduces Clipse to the modern landscape as if they never left, dropping masterful raps on every track over rejuvenated Pharrell beats. It\u2019s as if there was no need to dust off the pen, offering multiple rap verses of the year between them. \u201cThe Birds Don\u2019t Sing\u201d is a tearjerking ode to their late parents. \u201cChains & Whips\u201d qualifies for rap song of the year. \u201cSo Be It\u201d finds Pharrell locked in beyond measure, flipping an 80s Egyptian sample to perfection. \u201cMike Tyson Blow to the Face\u201d is a clever coke-rap anthem, while \u201cInglorious Bastards\u201d take you back to 02\u2019s Lord Willin\u2019<\/em>. Pharrell opens up \u201cE.B.I.T.D.A.\u201d with an impressive rap verse, and Stove G\u2019s contribution to \u201cF.I.C.O.\u201d is a gold-encrusted feature.<\/p>\n

Clipse (and many other rappers) proved that age is just a number in the rap world. Decades on from their debut, Pusha T and Malice are still able to deliver a competent, concise body of work, knowing the magnitude of the task and yet not folding under the pressure one bit. From performing at the Vatican to the immaculate rollout that lasted the entire twelve months, Let God Sort Em Out<\/em> was not just a successful comeback, but a tip of the hat to the entire craft.<\/p>\n

In a highly competitive year for music across all genres, Clipse granted us the best album of 2025 to ensure it\u2019s snowing all year round.<\/p>\n

Best tracks: <\/strong>\u201cChains & Whips\u201d, \u201cSo Be It\u201d, \u201cThe Birds Don\u2019t Sing\u201d, \u201cM.T.B.T.T.F.\u201d, \u201cF.I.C.O.\u201d, \u201cInglorious Bastards\u201d, \u201cAce Trumpets\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Consumer interests flipped on its head this year. Apple Music revealed that their top five streamed songs of 2025 were…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14044,"featured_media":1023,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4,6],"tags":[10,9],"class_list":["post-747","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news","category-rss","tag-culture","tag-hip-hop"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/747","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14044"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=747"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/747\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1023"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=747"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=747"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/westcoastaftershock.com\/wca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=747"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}