AP's selection of the best albums of 2025: Bad Bunny, Rosalía, Hayley Williams, Dijon, Addison Rae, and others

NEW YORK The Associated Press has unveiled its selection of the years top ten albums, presented without ranking and with guidance for potential listeners, echoing the style of the outlets updated music reviews. Each selection also comes with extra recommendations for curious fans.

Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party, Hayley Williams

Hayley Williams steps into the spotlight this year with her boldest solo effort yet. Following her earlier ventures, Petals for Armor (2020) and Flowers for Vases / Descansos (2021), this album showcases her most candid and adventurous work to date. Spanning 90s alternative (Brotherly Hate), indie rock (Mirtazapine), and trip-hop-pop (Ice In My OJ), it radiates a sense of liberation from public expectation.

For fans of: personal freedom, introspection, quirky '90s nostalgia
Similar listening: Alex Gs Headlights, No Joys Bugland, Smerzs Big City Life

Addison, Addison Rae

From TikTok dancer to pop sensation, Addison Rae delivers a debut that fuses contemporary pop with inventive twists. Tracks range from trip-hop influenced Headphones On to Madonna-inspired Aquamarine, anchored by the infectious Fame Is a Gun, exploring desire and ambition.

For fans of: pop culture icons, bold reinventions, catchy anthems
Similar listening: PinkPantheress Fancy That, Perfume Genius Glory, CMATs Euro-Country

Lux, Rosala

Rosalas fourth studio album, Lux, arrives as a daring fusion of classical training and avant-garde experimentation. Featuring multiple operatic segments and 13 languages, the album challenges listeners to engage deeply, blending the sacred with the unexpected.

For fans of: eclectic artistry, vocal virtuosity, mystical themes
Similar listening: Los Thuthanakas Los Thuthanaka, Ayas Hexed!

Deb Tirar Ms Fotos, Bad Bunny

Bad Bunnys latest album is a vibrant homage to Puerto Rico, intertwining reggaetn, salsa, bomba, plena, and msica jbara. His performances highlight both folk traditions and urban rhythms, creating a celebration of heritage and innovation.

For fans of: island vibes, cultural richness, reggaetn evolution
Similar listening: Karol Gs Tropicoqueta, Rauw Alejandros Cosa Nuestra: Captulo 0

Baby, Dijon

Dijon, known for his production work with Bon Iver and Justin Bieber, presents a dreamy, surrealistic take on R&B and pop. Baby layers intricate compositions that feel like a whimsical exploration of sound and emotion.

For fans of: experimental grooves, lush soundscapes, introspective music
Similar listening: Leon Thomas Mutt Deluxe: Heel, Nourished by Times The Passionate Ones

Bleeds, Wednesday

North Carolinas Wednesday continues their rise in indie rock with Bleeds, sharpening their signature alt-country and folk-infused sound. Karly Hartzmans lyrics remain sharp, accompanied by expressive guitars and dynamic arrangements.

For fans of: indie storytelling, raw vocals, alternative country
Similar listening: Geeses Getting Killed, Sharp Pins Radio DDR

Never Enough, Turnstile

Baltimore hardcore punk band Turnstile expands their sound in Never Enough, incorporating 80s-inspired rock textures alongside high-energy punk. The album retains intensity while embracing broader sonic landscapes.

For fans of: punk rock, energetic performances, genre-blending
Similar listening: They Are Gutting a Body of Waters Lotto, The Tubs Cotton Crown

Let God Sort Em Out, Clipse

After 16 years, Clipse returns with an album produced by Pharrell Williams and featuring Kendrick Lamar and Tyler, the Creator. Let God Sort Em Out showcases skillful flows, combining seasoned voices with contemporary production for one of the years standout rap records.

For fans of: refined lyricism, collaborative rap, polished beats
Similar listening: Earl Sweatshirts Live Laugh Love, Billy Woods Golliwog

Snipe Hunter, Tyler Childers

Tyler Childers continues to defy mainstream country conventions with Snipe Hunter, a mix of rollicking, thoughtful, and occasionally humorous tracks. The album navigates between traditional country elements and philosophical reflection.

For fans of: adventurous country, storytelling, wit
Similar listening: Charley Crocketts Lonesome Drifter, Julien Baker and Torres Send a Prayer My Way

The BPM, Sudan Archives

Sudan Archives blends club, pop, and soul in The BPM, drawing from Chicago house and Detroit techno. The album is kinetic and danceable, centering on rhythm and the joy of movement.

For fans of: infectious beats, vibrant performances, danceable music
Similar listening: Rochelle Jordans Through the Wall, Amaaraes Black Star, Blood Oranges Essex Honey

Author: Logan Reeves