The time of the year has finally arrived when music’s biggest streaming platforms release their year in listening stats. Each and every year, the hype around music’s streaming year in review builds more and more. More often than not, music lovers find their recaps accurate while some inevitable surprises make their top spots. This year was full of amazing new music, so I am going to deep dive into my five favorite albums of 2025.
Addison by Addison Rae
Addison Rae’s debut album Addison was my favorite project released this year. According to my Spotify wrapped, I streamed the record fifty seven times. Addison Rae was also crowned my top artist of 2025 with “Fame is a Gun” as my top song. I guess you can say that 2025 was the year of Addison Rae.
When I first heard “Diet Pepsi,” in the summer of 2024, I kept up with everything Addison would do after. Single after single, she never ceased to amaze me. Sonically, visually, and lyrically, everything worked so well. Leading up to the release of the self-titled album, I knew many critics and listeners had their doubts.
From the second I pressed play, the opening track, “New York,” grabbed my full attention with its high energy. Personally, I find it rare to come across a “no-skip” album these days, but I think the record Addison made is quite near perfect. Addison isn’t necessarily a pop album. It has pop elements and so many other influences that you can’t quite label it on things, and that’s why I love it so much.
Earthstar Mountain by Hannah Cohen
Coming in at number two is Earthstar Mountain by the dreamy Hannah Cohen. I’ve been a fan of Hannah’s since her 2019 release Welcome Home. On Earthstar Mountain, Cohen leans heavily into indie folk rock elements. She creates a soft, dreamy soundscape with her dreamy vocals and intimate songwriting that is easy to get lost in. Songs like “Mountain” and “Draggin” remind me of Fleetwood Mac and classic folk rock. I had the privilege of seeing Cohen back in October, and it was one of my favorite shows this year. In case you missed it, check it out here.
Dirty Talk by Michi
Indie, soul artist, Michi, soundtracked my year with her debut album Dirty Talk. I’ve been a fan of Michi since she began releasing singles in 2019, patiently awaiting her debut project. I loved her for her spanglish, indie pop, but on Dirty Talk, she explores a more soulful side to her sound. At the end of 2024, she released “If You Want Me,” the lead single that would set the stage for the rest of the album. The record is warm, full of soul and emotion. Sonically, it’s rooted in Rnb with even some psychedelic elements that I absolutely can’t get enough of. Songs like “Walking Away” and “There’s No Heaven” possess immaculate grooves and dance floor energy. Lyrically, Michi tells the story of heartbreak and heartache beautifully. I can’t wait to see what she does next.
The Clearing by Wolf Alice
Wolf Alice’s The Clearing was heavily in rotation since it dropped in August this year. I think music is lacking a solid group of rock bands. Or there are, and we just aren’t paying attention to them. Wolf Alice is one of the best alt rock bands out right now. The Clearing is alt rock at perfection. It’s gritty and wild while also showcasing a softness reminiscent of classic rock. Songs like “Bloom Baby Bloom,” and “Just Two Girls” are vibrant and bold while softer songs like “Thorns” and “Play It Out” demand your full attention. Lyrically, it’s the best Wolf Alice writing yet. “The Sofa” closes out the record. That track is the epitome of the human experience. Wolf Alice outdid themselves with this one.
Se Amaba Así Buscabulla
Closing out my list is Buscabulla’s second studio album Se Amaba Así. When this album came out in June, it soundtracked my entire summer. Buscabulla branch out in this project, building on their electric sound by incorporating acoustic guitars and flamenco elements. The husband and wife duo give listeners a close look into their relationship with their intimate song writing that feels almost conversational.
What were your favorite albums from 2025?
