The Most Underrated Albums of 2025

2025 has been a strange  year for music. There is no real defined sound and there was no obvious song of the summer. It got me thinking about the best music of the year, or rather: the music we are not talking about enough. Here is my roundup of the 5 most underrated albums of the year…thus far. 

Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party by Hayley Williams

I’ve never been a huge Paramore fan, so when I listened to the newest Hayley Williams album because TikTok told me to, imagine my surprise when I realized the album is not just good, but incredible. An exploration of grief, longing, and resilience, Williams balances her sadness with moments of joy. The album is unfiltered, and the closing track, “Parachute”, might be the best song to come out of 2025. This is also the first project released independently by Williams under her own label, Post Atlantic, seemingly a nod to her former label, Atlantic Records. I have deep admiration for Williams, and encourage anyone going through a breakup to listen to this record. 

Who’s the Clown by Audrey Hobert

A new voice on the scene, Audrey Hobert first made her name working as a writer besides close friend and collaborator, Gracie Abrams. Now with her debut, Hobert weaves an intricate tale on self worth, expression, and brings to it her unique style. Her music feels like a stream of consciousness—a run on sentence in the best way possible. It is the portrait of a young woman navigating early fame and a sense of self through the pop lens, flipping the script on the traditional pop song with clever wordplay. The standout? “Phoebe”, an instant masterpiece. 

Sincerely by Kali Uchis

The first track I heard from this record was “ILYSMIH.” Immediately captivated, I immersed myself in the world of Kali Uchis. The album name feels fitting. Sincerely, is a declaration of letters past and present—a reminder that through tough times, ever greater memories reside on the other side. It is a dreamy and cohesive pop lullaby.

SABLE, fABLE by Bon Iver

Imagine Bon Iver with all of his talents times ten. SABLE, fABLE takes on the best lyricism and sound that has solidified Iver as an alternative icon, with a newer more expansive sound that feels fresh for the artist. My favorites include “AWARDS SEASON” and “If Only I Could Wait,” featuring Danielle Haim. 

Addison by Addison Rae 

While Addison Rae’s debut album is definitely not considered underrated amongst the gays, it does seem like she has gone unnoticed by the general public. Rae is far more talented and interesting than she is given credit. Her debut work, Addison, transports listeners to a different world—a contemporary take on the early 2000s. It is both sensual and soothing, and Rae deserves a higher spot on the totem pole of pop girls. She is clearly hungry for success in this field, and this album warrants it. “Fame is a Gun” should’ve been the song of the summer.

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