#IMPicks: The Best of Q1 2025

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2025 has got off to a cracking start (musically anyway), and we have been provided with some great songs and albums. From somber hip-hop from the archives to pop ready to get you grooving this summer, there is plenty to choose from. Our writers have made their decisions and decided on their top 5s from Q1.

Esme Watson (Journalist)

Best Singles

5: Lucy Dacus – Ankles

Lucy tells the all-too-familiar story of wanting what you can’t have, laying it all out on the table, and letting everything you dream of spill out. There is such a romantic vulnerability in Lucy’s songwriting. Although this track is admittedly a little more on the nose than usual, her passion and admiration for her muse shine through. In addition, wokring with producer Blake Mills, who worked with bandmate Phoebe Bridgers on her ‘Punisher’ album, has worked in her favour to perfect her sound.

4: Julien Baker & TORRES – Dirt

If cowboys wrote songs about sapphic love, it would sound something like this. This heart-wrenching acoustic ballad tells the tale of climbing a mountain of personal growth just to fall back down again, insisting that what once built you up only now makes you feel cursed. In addition to its beautifully deep storytelling, TORRES and Julien’s voices weave in and out of each other with ease and mutual understanding.

Buy here.

3: Chappell Roan – The Giver

Back and better than ever, Chappell Roan finally released the risqué track she debuted on her SNL appearance. ‘The Giver’ calls out those country boys who claim they know how to treat a woman right and puts them in their place, broadly letting said women know that she ‘gets the job done’. Pushing the tale of the Midwest Princess, it was only right to release a country bop, alongside an incredible marketing campaign by the incredibly talented Creative Director Ramisha Sattar. This track makes hard work fun.

Pre-order here.

2: Rachel Chinouriri – Can we talk about Isaac?

If there’s one thing Rachel Chinouriri can always deliver, it’s a dance-evoking beat and fresh pop vocals. Demonstrated perfectly in this catchy serenade to her boyfriend, ‘Can we talk about Isaac?’ does what everyone in love wants to do, to tell the person just how much you love them. Vulnerability wrapped in a blanket of drumbeats makes Rachel’s sound unique to her; this track is no different.

1: HAIM – Relationships

Lucky for us, this seems to be the standard of hits that the sisters will continue to drop this year, with sassy vulnerability and unapologetic regret. It appears that all that heartbreak was worth it for this buzzing tune. Admittedly, there is nothing that says HAIM is back more than breaking up with your boyfriend, writing the hit of the summer, and having Drew Starkey star as your new love interest in the music video. It truly is a HAIM girl summer.

Best Albums

5: Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet (Deluxe)

‘Short n’ Sweet‘ was undeniably one of the best albums of last year, so when Miss Sabrina Carpenter added five new tracks, there was no doubt it would just get better and better. While having a Dolly Parton feature is every girl’s dream, it was Sabrina’s award-winning boldness that carried the deluxe even further. For instance, tracks like ‘15 Minutes’ showcase her many talents, while the unguarded ‘Couldn’t Make It Any Harder’ lays her heart out on her sleeve. Although the integrity of the project remains the same, its narrative allows you to explore deeper into the world she created.

Buy here.

4: Ethel Cain – Perverts

Although not what fans were expecting to follow after the fate of Ethel Cain in the incomparable ‘Preacher’s Daughter’, this dark and ambient body of work pulls listeners headfirst into the dirt and darkness. While it is an project that requires a certain state of mind to really immerse yourself in its eerie folklore, that in no way takes away from its sheer intensity to make you want to decipher its intermittent silences. Moreover, it feels like the upside world of the unwilling embrace that the preacher’s daughter fell into. Staying close to the battle between sex and religion, ‘Perverts’ doesn’t tiptoe around the taboo, it encourages it.

3: chloe moriondo – oyster

Chloe has such a way of creating worlds filled to the brim with atmosphere. In this case, ‘oyster’ captures the feeling of being trapped and doing all you can to break through to the other side. ‘siren calling’ retells the story of a first relationship and how the catharsis of writing this album has helped her understand who she is outside of a romantic relationship. While a clear narrative flows through each track, Chloe prioritises their use of their many talents, with songs ranging from hyperpop to solemn ballads. All her creativity flows together and shines through those walls she begins to break down.

Buy here.

2: Lucy Dacus – Forever Is A Feeling

Lucy is one of my favourite lyricists, and this whole album just solidifies this for me. This release allows you to enter a space of unarmed softness and the fear and acceptance that comes with allowing change. Dusted with a raw familiarity of Lucy’s storytelling, it brings a whole new myriad of tales to add to her collection, whether it be new affirmations of who she is allowing herself to be or sweet reminiscences of a life she once led. ‘Forever Is A Feeling’ is the perfect title for this album, existing within your past, your present, and taking those moments along with you in your future.

Buy here.

1: ROLE MODEL – Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye)

To no surprise, ROLE MODEL’s deluxe version of his sensational album ‘Kansas Anymore’ joins my list. ‘Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye)’ takes all the beauty of adolescent desperation and instead carries it further into a world of acceptance. Undeniably, Tucker was able to lay even more of himself out in his writing. With only four new tracks, this album becomes something new entirely. From feeling like a diva when listening to ‘Sally, When The Wine Runs Out’ to grieving a relationship you had nothing to do with on ‘Some Protector’, the part that stuck with me the most is his admitting that although cathartic, through it all, his feelings will always exist and will always be valid. Truthfully, something we should all allow ourselves to accept in our own lives.

Pre-order here.

Priyanka Kotak (Journalist)

Best Singles

5: Lucius – Gold Rush

I only discovered Lucius this year and can’t believe what I’ve been missing! The band described this song as “…energy and grit: guitars wailing, heavy backbeat, dynamic vocals that flip from verse to chorus – mellow to strong…” and they nailed it. If this track is indicative of their new album, I couldn’t be more excited.

Buy here.

4: L.A. Exes – Love Bomb

L.A. Exes never fail to deliver 60s vibes and gorgeous vocal harmonies. This track is delightfully Beach Boys-esque in its background vocal arrangements. It is also musically thrilling: full of tempo changes, unexpected chord turns, and an outstanding bass line.

3: Vulfmon, Jacob Jeffries, & Harrison Whitford – Dawn

This trio continues to make magic together – Beatles magic, that is (White Album lovers will really appreciate the outro on this song). This time, there is some ELO thrown in the mix, too. The melody and harmonies are delectable, but the standout feature? The slide guitar riff, which instantly reminded me how much I love George Harrison.

2: The Darkness – Walking Through Fire

This is my favourite single from ‘Dreams on Toast‘. The guitar solo styling instantly took me back to their debut album, ‘Permission to Land‘ (one of my all-time favourite records). The lyrics embody everything I love about The Darkness – witty and tongue-in-cheek. It’s impossible not to laugh at the brutally honest line: “We never stopped making hit albums / It’s just that no one buys them anymore.”.

1: Dawes – I Love L.A.

Dawes’ cover of Randy Newman’s ‘I Love L.A.‘ was released in response to the devastating LA wildfires, with proceeds going to MusiCares to support affected musicians. Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith, who both lost their homes and recording studio (along with years of collected gear), performed this tribute at the Grammys, joined by Sheryl Crow, Brittany Howard, Brad Paisley, John Legend, and St. Vincent.

Buy here.

Best Albums

5: Vulfpeck – Clarity of Cal

This album is pure joy in musical form. It feels more gospel-inspired than previous Vulfpeck releases, which only enhances its uplifting nature. As always with this band, the musicianship is mind-blowing. My favourite track is the closer, which features an 80s-style rocking guitar solo and a hilarious imitation of Michael McDonald’s vocals. As a Doobie Brothers fan, I was all in!

Buy here.

4: Dan Wilson – good night, deervale, moorpark, tujunga (EP)

Best known for his band Semisonic and his prolific songwriting (including Adele’s Someone Like You), Dan Wilson is branching out with his first instrumental-only album, ‘good night, los angeles‘. This EP offers a taste of what’s to come. Wilson describes these songs as ‘late-night improvised lullabies’, and they certainly sound that way – soothing and intimate. One of my favourite elements is how you can hear every little creak of the piano, adding to its comforting ambiance.

3: Ludovico Einaudi – The Summer Portraits

I have adored Einaudi’s compositions for years, and this new album did not disappoint. Listening to it evokes a feeling of pure serenity, staying true to everything I love about his music – a minimalistic approach, tender piano playing, and evocative string arrangements. The highlight for me is ‘Pathos‘, which feels like a long-lost sibling to his iconic piece, ‘Experience‘.

Buy here.

2: Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet (Deluxe)

This wouldn’t be my usual go-to, but after being inundated with audio clips from this album on TikTok for months and seeing the buzz around her tour, I finally gave in – and I’m so glad I did. This is simply a perfect pop album, which comes as no surprise given the involvement of heavy hitters like Jack Antonoff and Amy Allen. Nearly every song has been stuck in my head, and the bonus tracks, especially ‘Busy Woman‘ and ‘15 Minutes‘, felt far too strong to be relegated to bonus track status.

1: The Darkness – Dreams on Toast

The silliest Darkness album yet (but that is its charm), has something for everyone. Hilarious and witty, it channels A Night At The Opera-era Queen on ‘Hot on My Tail‘ and ‘The Longest Kiss‘ (a massive compliment, considering that album’s legendary status). ‘Mortal Dread‘ carries strong AC/DC vibes, while ‘I Hate Myself‘ leans into a Status Quo feel. There’s even a country flair on ‘Hot on My Tail‘ and ‘Cold Hearted Woman‘ – the latter being especially fun in its lyrical wordplay. As a sucker for a ballad, I was thrilled with ‘Don’t Need Sunshine‘, which somehow manages to be both deeply sincere and playfully trivial while remaining wonderfully melodic. My favourite track is ‘The Battle for Gadget Land‘ – the riff is killer. The punk chorus instantly reminded me of early Weezer (which I love), and it even features an electric lute solo!

Buy here.

Thomas Atkinson (Journalist/Editor-in-Chief)

Best Singles

5: Mac Miller – Funny Papers

This posthumous album is very concise and consistent in its message, with this tale being the standout. It’s very mellow and dreary-sounding piano-led sound allows you to focus on Mac’s words and the story. Here, he describes reading a newspaper and seeing the story of a man dying and a child being born. Having looked at these stories, it leads to questions about his own morality and life. The song’s title is obviously ironic, but it makes for an insightful topic to look deeper into the tales described. Mac Miller was a poet, and unlike the famous joke, he and his audience certainly did know it.

4: FKA twigs – Keep It, Hold It

The new album from the Cheltenham-born singer showcased the futuristic and confessional nature of her sound. With ‘Keep It, Hold It‘ we get its peak moment as the tranquil production from the piano and orchestra, alongside twigs’ calming delivery builds up nicely. Then we switch as the beat kicks in, as does the more melancholic delivery from the lead. The song’s message of loneliness and over-critique and carrying on regardless is certainly one I can relate to, and I’m sure others can, as well. The honesty of this artist is one of her qualities that grabs the listener’s attention, and this track fits that narrative.

3: Ezra Collective FT. Sasha Keable – Body Language

This release immediately grabbed my attention as I wanted to see how this sensational vocalist matched up against the jazz quintet. Fortunately, my expectations were met and then some. The Latin influence on the 5-piece’ usual sound brings something to dance all night too. Sasha is vocally on point as usual, proving why she was picked for this year’s Purple List. I always want more from Ezra Collective, but for now, this will do the job.

Buy here.

2: Joy Crookes FT. Kano – Mathematics

I cannot wait for the new record from this fantastic singer, but for now we have some great singles to tease us. One of them sees a collaboration with Kano, and it makes for a great look into a declining relationship. There is no joy in this track, but Crookes hits those high notes superbly and showcases that feeling of being ‘pretty, but I’m miserable’. The feature is short and sweet, and that piano sets the tone expertly. This song may be full of misery, but it gives listeners some great and true-to-life music.

1: Lady Gaga – Abracadabra

The new album is definitely an honourable mention, and her work with Gesaffelstein worked nicely, but this single is my fave. This just felt like peak Gaga, whether it be the banging industrial beat, the catchy lyrics, or that euphoric chorus. It feels like it has been a while since the Lady delivered such a monster pop hit, but this new era has delivered that and then some. This track is perfect for a sweaty underground nightclub.

Best Albums

5: Tarju Le’Sano – Digbeth Kids

The debut EP from one of Birmingham’s ones to get to know, this EP was a real in-house effort. Whether combining with fellow members of the 93:00 Collective or friends, this project was a real showcase of his upbringing and the community he has built. His words, flows, and versatility as both a singer and rapper made for an enjoyable listen and the start of something special. This musician is someone to add to your music catalogue.

4: Nao – Jupiter

Having loved this artist’s voice and being hyped for a new album, I was pleased to say that ‘Jupiter‘ delivered. Songs like ‘Wildflowers‘ and ‘Happy People‘ provide uplifting and catchy tales of love and finding oneself. The record brings together R’n’B, pop, neo-soul, and other sounds to follow this artist’s journey into her thirties. A sequel in a sense to ‘Saturn‘, this singer may be on a new path, but musically, she is just as great, if not better.

Buy here.

3: The Weeknd – Hurry Up Tomorrow

The final ‘Weeknd’ record, as Abel Tesfaye begins his new musical journey, he ended his previous alter-ego on a high. This album feels like a movie taking you on a 1 hour, 24 minute journey of the singer spiraling, losing himself, and then finding his artistic voice again. Bringing a great collection of guests from Lana Del Rey to Giorgio Moroder, everything is placed where it needs to be. While I am intrigued to see what the film this LP will soundtrack looks like, as a goodbye to one of R’n’B and pop’s most interesting characters, this is one of the best projects from this singer.

Buy here.

2: Mac Miller – Ballonerism

While I am always a tad skeptical about posthumous albums, Mac Miller’s records have been handled with care. Recorded in 2014, it is an insightful look at the man as he questions his life, use of drugs, relationships, and other topics. The soulful and jazzy production allows the words to stand out, whilst leaving you feeling like you’re floating through Mac’s thoughts. Reflecting on this record after his tragic passing brings a sense of sadness, but this is a great addition to this artist’s canon.

Buy here.

1: FKA twigs – EUSEXUA

There was much anticipation around this 3rd studio album, and I can say this is a fantastic record. Blending club sounds with twigs’ angelic delivery and confessional lyrics, this discusses feelings of loneliness and making connections. The title track is a great introduction to the record, ‘Room of Fools‘ brings people together on the dancefloor, and ‘Striptease‘ provides this erratic, seductive moment. This LP takes you on a journey of human relationships over techno and industrial sounds. Together with Koreless, this performer continues her hot streak.

Buy here.

Malika (Musician/Journalist/Consultant)

Best Singles

5: Rema – Baby (Is it a Crime)

This might be the best flip involving a sample since Burna Boy sampled Toni Braxton on ‘Last Last‘. It can be incredibly hard for an artist to follow up after a release as successful as ‘Calm Down‘, but this one has been going viral since it dropped in early February. I think this one absolutely has the potential to carry into summer, and it deserves to.

4: Ethan Taylor – Flick

This came on randomly after my Leon Thomas deep dive ended. Something about this song was so easy listening. The beat was smooth & sexy and didn’t feel out of place with what I had been listening to that day. I’d never heard of Ethan before, but that didn’t matter. This wouldn’t feel out of place on a Ty Dolla $ign or PARTYNEXTDOOR project. I love how he let the beat play at the end, it was very 90’s, very R’n’B of him. Even my friends were like, ‘Who is this? Send this to me!’. They were shocked he was a relatively unknown artist.

3: Little Simz – Free

Really excited about the new Little Simz era, with her next album dropping on the 6th of June. I’m interested to hear what she sounds like post Inflo, not to focus on the elephant in the room regarding what has been happening between them (You can Google if you’d like). ‘Free‘ sounds very Simz but different in a good way. I used to really hate change, but now I’m excited by it and look at it as an opportunity to grow. Whilst this may be the end of the iconic Little Simz x Inflo/SAULT/ Cleo Sol era, sometimes new is just what is needed to get us to the next level. 

2: Sexyy Red & Bruno Mars – Fat Juicy & Wet

Ok, so full transparency, I don’t get Sexxy Red. In general, not the biggest fan of how much Black women are hypersexualised in the music business. However, you cannot deny the chorus from Bruno, or the West Coast beat, clearly trying to ride the DJ Mustard/Kendrick/Not Like Us sound. Even this rollout for Bruno, which started with the release of ‘Die With A Smile’ with Lady Gaga, followed by ‘APT.’ with ROSÉ, and then this with Sexyy, AND having all 3 ladies in the video.

Now I acknowledge that this was the least successful of the songs, and initially, I did think this 3-pack rollout was the label getting us ready for a Bruno 2025. Things appear to have gone quiet in the Bruno camp again, so maybe he just wanted to pop out quickly, support the girls, and go back into hiding. Either way, despite this not being the best song out there, it is in my ‘On Repeat’ playlist, and more than anything, this rollout has been a marketing dream. 

Buy here.

1: Leon Thomas FT. Chris Brown – MUTT (CB Remix)

I am officially on the Leon Thomas train. I liked some of his releases recently, but this remix has me in a choke hold, and I’ve been in a rabbit hole ever since. My friends had been talking about this artist for a while, and he has so many great songs. ‘MUTT‘ alone is one of them. I think Chris Brown has mastered something many artists from his era haven’t: he knows how to make a REALLY great song. This includes getting the best writers and producers, picking the right songs, and who to collaborate with. He has found a way to do this consistently throughout his career without making it feel forced or clout-chasey. A great song before the remix, this just takes it to another level for them both.

Best Albums

3: Lady Gaga – MAYHEM

No one judge me, but my favourite Lady Gaga songs are ‘Just Dance’, ‘ARTPOP’, and ‘Million Reasons’. Take from that what you will. I, of course, acknowledge that there are some hits in between, but I loved the opener on this album ‘Disease’. ‘Abracadabra‘ felt a bit Tik-Toky but not the type I hate. It sounds like it could exist on the ‘ARTPOP‘ album.

I think we are in a time where hyperpop that would once have been super cool and innovative can come across as slightly gimmicky. Had Lady Gaga come out in 2025, I’m not sure society would have given her the grace to allow her to become the pop icon she has become. This record is dynamic and takes the listener on a sonic journey, further highlighting that a good mix will either enhance or ruin a song (up-and-coming artists, please take note). This album sounds amazing, a real balance of sound and songs. It is a little like if Britney Spears and Charli xcx had a baby, but in a good way.

Buy here.

2: Tate McRae – So Close To What

Tate McRae, much like Sabrina Carpenter, has been around a while, and it seems like she is getting her moment with this release. I haven’t followed her full journey, but when I heard her performance of ‘Dear god’ on SNL, co-written by Julia Michaels, I was in. Personally, I prefer the live version to the album version, but the chorus sounds like Julia in the best way.

Production and songwriting across the album from the UK’s Lostboy, and the prolific Ryan Tedder, the collaborations seem to be working. It’s looking and sounding like the machine has got behind her to give this artist the 2025 that Sabrina Carpenter had last year. 

Buy here.

1: Ariana Grande – eternal sunshine deluxe: brighter days ahead

When this album first dropped back in March 2024, I’ll be honest, I didn’t understand it. It didn’t seem to have the obvious ‘hit singles’ of her previous eras. The obvious move away from R’n’B-influenced pop seemed like a familiar move used by some White artists, whereby they use Black culture to build or enhance their brand, then deviate away from it once they reach optimum success. I felt like we could see this starting to happen with the ‘Positions’ project.

I didn’t love ‘the boy is mine‘ refix at first. It felt like a poor attempt to keep that thread of pop & R’n’B in her project without the essence of R’n’B. The pen of Victoria Monét felt missing.

However, as the campaign went on, I found myself going back to the project. The live version of the album was released, and I’m ALWAYS going to check out a live vocal performance from Ariana. Her vocals are always stunning (live or otherwise), and I began to listen to this LP with a different lens. If you have read any of my columns here, you will know that I am an advocate that both things can be true. Maybe early on in her career, she was using Black culture and her Mariah Carey-adjacent vocal ability. Maybe Ariana is in her White Lady era. I’m not here to judge or gatekeep because artists are and should be allowed to grow and experiment. It would just be great if there were a thread for some of these projects. That being said, both things can be true. When I remove all my cynicism and take this deluxe for what it is, it truly is a beautiful body of work.

Buy here.

Jane Sophia (Composer/Journalist)

Best Singles

5: Etaoin – everblue

Etaoin’s gorgeous lyrics become simultaneously melancholy and loving when set against the gentle accompaniment. This song is a dream to listen to and take in on a surface level, but look deeper, and it becomes even more meaningful. It embodies sadness and fear at the same time as joy and comfort. Overall, it provides a feeling of soft strength.

4: Dove Cameron – Too Much

With her latest single, Cameron has moved into a more commercialised style when compared to ‘Alchemical: Volume 1’. If you imagine early Lady Gaga, you wouldn’t be far off the song. With this, it is fun and catchy, while highlighting a great message on being yourself.

3: EMELINE – take it

Of the singles released by EMELINE this quarter, ‘take it‘ is my personal favourite (although no discredit to new york). The song mixes the singer’s signature style and bold lyrics with more commercial, staccato-led backing. On top of this, we can see trends from the disco/summer vibes of the last few years, but integrated in this artist’s own way. While this style is good for easy listening, I can see this becoming a bit of a club classic.

2: Cloudy June – if jesus saw what we did last night

Stylistically similar to the previous album ‘Crazy Woman’, Cloudy June’s 2025 single highlights her as an up-and-coming artist. This earworm has bold messaging, blatantly empowering female sexuality with clever lyric writing. When compared with her previous work, the single is typically her, while slightly more refined and less stylised.

1: Beth McCarthy – Hot and Stupid

Relatable and stylistically solid in the pop-rock genre, McCarthy has released a fun crowd-pleaser with ‘Hot and Stupid‘. The single has been released in time for her tour of the same name this May. Alongside referencing Chappell Roan with the line ‘red wine drunk feeling,’ the artist even gets risqué with the chorus.

Best Albums

5: Tors – Never Give Up

The new Tors album holds some gorgeous harmonies backed with strong accompaniment and good variety. Upbeat, positive, relaxing, and thought-provoking, the three-piece band has embodied their nature-based style in music. As an inspirational trio, they inspire others to “Never give up on chasing the kind of dreams that keep you up at night.”.

Buy here.

4: Ellise – PRETTY EVIL

Mixing longer legato sections with harsher moments and lyrics, Ellise shows off her distinctive voice and style. Cohesive as a whole album, each song transfers to the next nicely, but with enough variation to keep interest. The lyrical storytelling is done in an interesting way throughout.

3: Serena Sun – For a Moment or Two

As a growing presence on social media, singer Serena Sun combines easy listening with dreamy feelings and gentle earworms. As a small artist, she is documenting her process and progress with a nicely mixed and balanced acoustic style. Particularly popular is the song ‘Running with the Bulls‘ for its stance on mental health. In her words, ‘just enjoy the ride’.

Buy here.

2: DEZI – La Medicina

DEZI’s usual rock/pop/R&B style in rage contrasts with the more traditional popular style on ‘La Medicina‘. This is a wonderfully multilingual example of writing, done seamlessly. Continuing this, both ‘Flowers Are Blooming in Antarctica‘ and ‘Go What Goes‘ utilise an interesting backing style under gentle vocals you can sink into.

1: Dorothy – THE WAY

On the new album ‘THE WAY‘, Dorothy remains true to her heavy rock styling with bold, strong vocals. It is a compilation of singles from last year alongside new songs like ‘UNHOLY WATER‘, which is a personal favourite for the imagery and message. Collaborating with Slash on ‘TOMBSTONE TOWN‘, the singer is firmly setting herself as a popular rock icon.

Buy here.

Emily Teague (Journalist)

Best Singles

5: Split Chain – I’m Not Dying To Be Here

Split Chain has a sound that takes influence from the late nineties/early 2000s musical movements. My favourite elements of this track are ones I associate with grunge, shoegaze, and nu-metal. I think for a band that has been releasing for almost two years, they have a great sound to build upon. Every release they bring out makes me excited for what’s more to come.

Buy here.

4: DUDESMELL – HYENAS IN THE PRIDELAND

Finding new punk tracks is always something that I enjoy, so when this track was sent to me, it was a great surprise. The sound fits well into what has become the modern interpretation of punk. I was pleased that it wasn’t overly produced, and the raw originality was still there. Some genres suit a bit of an organic edge, and this single is able to achieve that through the clear passion and energy.

3: Luke Spiller – The Ending Is Always The Same

After seeing The Struts last year at Download, I was pleased to see Luke Spiller push a solo career. He’s got an incredible stage presence and performance aspect to him that is reminiscent of classic rock. Often, comparisons to Freddie Mercury are made when discussing him. With this track, however, I simply enjoy listening to it. It’s a fun melody with interesting lyrics and is, overall, a pleasant song.

2: Ezra Furman – Jump Out

I’ve been a fan of Ezra Furman since discovering her track ‘Suck the Blood from My Wound‘ back in 2018. Their storytelling abilities have always impressed me because so much of it comes from the passion and delivery in her voice. She’s a master at conveying powerful meaning through their songs and commanding the listener to sit and listen. 

Buy here.

1: South Arcade – Supermodels

South Arcade has gone from strength to strength since their debut EP ‘2005‘. They’ve mastered a sound that simultaneously reflects early 2000s pop-punk while maintaining modern and fresh nuances. This track delves into themes of fame and the music industry as they continue to reach new heights in their career. Vocalist Harmony Cavelle has a fantastic voice that is distinct and furthers the specific style this band harbours.

Buy here.

Best Albums

5: The Wombats – Oh! The Ocean

The Wombats have consistently been one of my favourite British indie rock bands since ‘A Guide to Love, Loss and Desperation‘ back in 2007. Since I heard the track ‘Can’t Say No‘ on their latest album, I was hooked. They’ve been able to move with the times with grace and ease, maintaining a loyal fanbase. Looking towards the rest of the year, it seems the momentum is continuing. They’ve bagged the Thursday headliner spot at this year’s Y Not? Festival. This is sure to be a brilliant set combining their classic tracks and the latest additions, that are just entertaining and well-created.

Buy here.

4: Spiritbox – Tsunami Sea

In the past few years, Spiritbox has begun to make a huge, lasting impact on the scene. The Canadian group has only been active since 2017, yet from listening to their album, I got a sense of professionalism and an understanding of the genre that comes with years of experience. Vocalist Courtney LaPlante makes this record for me. She’s one of the strongest voices in modern metalcore and has been massively influential in giving more space to women and girls within the scene.

Buy here.

3: Killswitch Engage – This Consequence

This band has gained notoriety for its impact within the soundscape of modern metalcore. Their latest release had all the key factors of metalcore that I enjoy. Drummer Justin Foley is brilliant at playing with both high-speed aggression and power in his tempo. To me, it’s a step along from the trash style of drumming that I love so much. Killswitch Engage also provided vulnerable emotion and meaningful lyrics within this record that are thought-provoking and insightful – a common theme within metalcore that is often overlooked. 

Buy here.

2: Manic Street Preachers – Critical Thinking

Manic Street Preachers are a group so loved and highly regarded by many people. On initial release, I was somewhat apprehensive that maybe the best of their music had been and gone. However, I was pleasantly surprised. They’re still powerhouses in regards to powerful lyricism, with one example being ‘OneManMilitia‘. After bands have been together for a while, it can often be difficult to maintain the level of passion and musicality that got them to fame. Nonetheless, this band still has it.

Buy here.

1: ALT BLK ERA – Rave Immortal

This debut album was completely different from what I anticipated. The variation in genres explored and influences pulled from really impressed me during my initial listen. One part of this that really stuck with me was the combination of metal with Drum and Bass. The two genres are so different and come from completely different worlds, yet they’ve been proven to work together successfully on multiple other occasions.

Read here.

Kloe Paton (Deputy Editor/Journalist)

Best Singles

5: Olivia Dean – It Isn’t Perfect But It Might Be

This song might be perfect (excuse the pun). Written for the new Bridget Jones movie, this song has transcended its genesis. It’s taken on a life of its own and has dominated the radio waves. I’m yet to tire of this intimate, truthful, and bluesy single. Olivia Dean is made of special stuff. Some music just feels good; no explanation is necessary. 

4: Savannah Ré – Glory

When R’n’B is done right, nothing is quite like it. Savannah’s voice is a dream to listen to, and is exquisitely displayed on this song that is heavenly and wholesome. I’ve heard love described in many ways, but ‘give me your glory’ is so perfectly put. Three months in, and this is one of the love songs of the year! 

3: HAIM – Relationships

I simply cannot get this song out of my head. It gives me that ‘Days Are Gone’ HAIM feel that I didn’t realise I needed so badly again in my life. The track is honest, unfiltered, and edgy. The sisters are back and better than ever.

2: Bad Bunny – DtMF

This is the feel-good song we all need in our lives. A tribute to his home, Puerto Rico, the international superstar sings about not taking anything for granted in this life. Fans are crying on TikTok to it, dancing to it, and getting married to it. It’s an ode to youth, living in the present, and making sure you capture every moment. I love it.

1: J. Cole – cLOUDs

This is one of the best rap songs I’ve heard in a while, and not just from J. Cole. He is getting back to his old ways here, rapping like he has something to prove. He’s floating on this chilled beat, but delivering bar after bar. As a J. Cole stan, I’m pleased to see him get back ‘in his bag’ like this after a tumultuous 2024.

Best Albums

5: Saba and No ID – From The Private Collection of Saba and No ID

I’ve already detailed my love for this project on my album review here, but to reiterate, this is a moving masterpiece from the production maestro and the young Chicagoan rapper. This is one for the true rap fans seeking a project with substance. It will please anyone who loves a good sample and a couple of triple entendres to boot.

Buy here.

4: FKA twigs – EUSEXUA

This album is a pleasure ride from the moment you press play. Glorifying the female sex, sexual experiences, and basic hedonistic instincts, this is a more dance-inspired FKA twigs than I’m used to hearing, which I can totally get behind.

3: The Weeknd – Hurry Up Tomorrow

One of the most hyped releases of the year, Abel shook up the game with a 22-song beast of a project. He brings you what you expect from The Weeknd, a soundtrack for moody late night drives with ‘Take Me Back To LA’ and ‘Enjoy The Show’. But, it also has some incredibly heart-wrenching moments with ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’ and club bangers like ‘São Paulo’. This diverse project has something for all moods.

2: Mac Miller – Ballonerism

Mac’s so-called ‘lost project’ is a beautiful snapshot of a key turning point in Mac’s life and career in the early 2010s. Introspective, humorous, angelic, and experimental – this is another classic Mac album from the vault that I’m glad gets to see the light of day. I have had ‘5 Dollar Pony Rides’ and ‘Friendly Hallucinations’ on repeat since it dropped. 

1: Larry June, 2 Chainz, and The Alchemist – Life Is Beautiful

When two of the West Coast’s finest, Larry June and The Alchemist, team up, it is always a feast for the ears. June’s laid-back rap style is perfectly complemented by one of the undisputed GOATs of hip hop production. Now the pair tossed some Southern flavour in the form of 2 Chainz, whose raps never fail to engage and entertain me. This album is a quirky, soulful, and super experimental project to savour.

Honourable mentions: Dave East and Ransom ‘The Final Call’, Benny the Butcher and 38 Spesh ‘STABBED & SHOT 2’, and Bad Bunny’s ‘DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS‘.

Read our picks for the best of 2024 here.

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