Picking 10 of the best albums of the year is not only difficult but highly subjective. As the adage says, “One person’s meat is another person’s poison.” It took quite some time to select only 10 albums from the available choices. Lots of inner debate took place – me arguing with myself about the merits of one album over another album.
In the end, it’s one person’s opinion. So it’s not like this list is engraved in stone. It’s simply a personal list of albums I found charming and that I listened to again and again. And please note that the albums are listed in no particular order. It was hard enough to pick 10, much less assign arbitrary degrees of excellence.
Check out some of our other writers’ favorites here: Editor’s Pick: Favorite Albums of 2025 and here: 45 RPM (Reasons to Purchase Music) for 2025
Vote for your own favorites here: Vote for Your Favorite Albums of 2025
West Texas Exiles – 8000 Days
The West Texas Exiles, a collective from different parts of western Texas, have now made Austin their creative base. Their album, recorded at Studio 601, channels the city’s storied musical legacy, echoing the wild, spine-tingling energy that once defined Austin’s scene. Their music brings freshness to familiar ground, offering a vibrant take on the region’s classic sound. https://www.westtexasexiles.com/
Ethel Cain – Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You
Ethel Cain’s latest project is a deep, immersive journey into somber and atmospheric territory. Building on the experimental textures of her previous work, she intensifies the ambient and minimalist elements, creating a stark and beautiful soundscape. Her voice remains unmatched—smooth and pure—while the guitars shine through the darkness with striking clarity. This album stands as another bold achievement in her growing catalog. https://www.daughtersofcain.com/
Joshua Ray Walker – Tropicana
Describing his new release as “country with a tropical twist,” Joshua Ray Walker summons up suggestions of Jimmy Buffett and George Strait. The result is a heartfelt and personal collection, blending playful storytelling with his signature expressive vocals. Walker’s ability to bring his characters to life is as compelling as ever. https://www.joshuaraywalker.com/
Grey DeLisle & Friends – It’s All Her Fault: A Tribute to Cindy Walker
Grey DeLisle, celebrated for both her musical and voice acting talents, leads a group of female country artists in honoring the legendary Cindy Walker. Motivated by a desire to preserve Walker’s childhood home, the album’s proceeds support restoration efforts. The record features standout performances, including Amythyst Kiah’s raw acoustic take on “Goin’ Away Party,” Mandy Barnett’s lively “Dream Baby,” and Gail Davies’ emotional “Warm Red Wine.” https://www.greydelislegriffin.com/
Amanda Shires – Nobody’s Girl
Amanda Shires’ latest work is a candid reflection on her personal journey, exploring themes of self-discovery and emotional honesty. While the lyrics are unflinching, the album’s true innovation lies in its musical structure. Almost all the songs on the album are satisfying; then the record takes an unexpected turn with “Lose It for Awhile,” showcasing Shires’ growth as both a songwriter and composer. https://amandashiresmusic.com/
S.G. Goodman – Planting by the Signs
S.G. Goodman draws deeply from her rural Kentucky upbringing, painting vivid portraits of small-town life and spiritual searching. Her songs are filled with surreal imagery and existential musings, delivered in a conversational baritone. The music is deceptively simple, driven by steady rhythms and unexpected twists, as Goodman contemplates mortality, faith, and the everyday mysteries of her world. https://www.sggoodman.net/
Molly Tuttle – So Long Little Miss Sunshine
After earning acclaim with her bluegrass band, Molly Tuttle pivots to a more pop-country sound on this solo effort, enlisting Nashville’s top session musicians. The album sparkles with catchy love songs, energetic rockers, and pointed social commentary. Tuttle’s songwriting remains sharp, and her bluegrass roots still show through, anchoring her new direction and perhaps hinting at more to come. https://www.mollytuttlemusic.com/
Hailey Whitters – Corn Queen
Proud of her Midwestern heritage, Hailey Whitters embraces her “Corn Queen” persona with humor and authenticity. Her album overflows with playful nods to her rural background, blending wit and vulnerability. Whitters isn’t afraid to poke fun at herself and her listeners, using clever wordplay and bold imagery to explore the complexities of love and identity. https://haileywhitters.com/
The Devil Makes Three – Spirits
Returning after a long break, The Devil Makes Three delivers a powerful collection that weaves together Americana, blues, and folk. The album is a meditation on grief, resilience, and the human condition, with each song telling a vivid story. The title track, in particular, captures the profound feeling of sadness and the struggle to find peace amid haunting memories. https://www.thedevilmakesthree.com/
Neko Case – Neon Grey Midnight Green
Neko Case’s eighth studio album marks her debut as a self-producer and features the lush arrangements of the PlainsSong Chamber Orchestra. The entire company recorded together. The album blends classical and pop elements, creating a rich tapestry of sound. Case’s voice remains as impressively mobile as ever, conveying deep emotion through every note in this personal and ambitious project. https://nekocase.com/