It is December 1st, and as tradition goes, it's time for our team to reflect on the albums that made an impression on us this year.
This is a list of essential albums that we as fans and listeners think you should give a chance before the end of the year, and whether you like it or not - entirely up to you. Starting today, we will also post a video on social media, highlighting one or two albums a day until Christmas. There is no rank of the records simply because it feels weird and it’s not something we do.
Albums and conceptually created bodies of work are important, especially in today's day and age, because it allows for a focus, uninterruped listening. A skill that fades away because of social media and the society we live in, so we believe it's important to preserve it. There’s a lot of music being released out there, and with the recent rise of AI that amount has multiplied exponentially. It is that overabundance of content a trigger point why many people go back to following human curators, radio hosts, blogs, and newsletters, and if anything - that feels like a great pushback. Certainly one that we, as a team, root for.
If you're curious on what we picked the years before, here are the links on:
- Albums of 2024 (part 1 and part 2)
- Albums of 2023
You can follow our playlist (available on all platforms), updated daily here.
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100 essential albums of 2025
Prepare for a smooth blend of soul, jazz, R&B, instrumental hip hop, rap, electronic, chill, and a few unexpected gems along the way. Albums that moved us and we hope to preserve for generations ahead. This list serves as a way to document things, so they don't get lost in the ocean of endless information.
If you're on TikTok or Instagram, you can follow the audio commentary (and support us in our fight vs the algorithm).
Day 1 (December 1st)
Rival Consoles - Landscape from Memory
/ Jul 4th / Erased Tapes Records
The sound design on Landscape from Memory carries an almost futuristic sheen, as though Rival Consoles is working with tools not yet invented or acquired from outer space. There is a bit of bias as I write this ashe is among my favorite producers, so be prepared for some ultimate glazing over the next few words.
When God said let there be light, Rival Consoles was the electrician. As a multidisciplinary artist, the British producer brings a uniquely nuanced relationship with technology to his work - something that shines on Landscape from Memory where he operates as if he’s like a sonic Ironman. The music feels like materials, bending, distorting, shimmering, colourful shards of glass and metal. Something that is also noticeable throughout the project is that there is a lot more presence of intricate rhythm sections. This, paired with his distinctive soundscape creates a dynamic interplay that pushes the project into richer, more immersive territory. One of the memorable moments here is "Jupiter" - a track characterized by both diversity and the ability to surprise listeners. Starting with a minute-long, synth-heavy build-up, I loved the switch and the four-on-the-floor energy he introduces later on, which reminded me of Bonobo's work. Throughout this projects, synths are given a voice and it’s almost as if Rival has created a new language through his tasteful arrangements.
Read our full interview with Rival Consoles, if you want to know more about Ryan.
Words by Lu
Cuezy. - DEPARTURE TO UTOPIA
Sep 26th / Vibe Jams
DEPARTURE TO UTOPIA is a real-life example of how skillful German producer Cuezy. is at sonic world-building. A 16-track journey that pulls you out of the everyday and drops you straight into a hyper-real, synth-soaked simulation. Blending future beats, soulful textures, and nostalgic echoes from the golden age of SoundCloud, the album unfolds like a cinematic universe where every track feels essential to the trip.
Give it your full attention and it will give you something rare in return - an unforgettable experience that lingers long after the final note.
Read the full album review of Cuezy.'s DEPARTURE TO UTOPIA.
Words by Ivo
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