It’s that time of year again when we have to listen to the same dozen or so songs over and over and OVER again – and we’re simply fed up with it, so we’re here to provide an alternative approach to the Christmas playlist.
There are literally thousands of Christmas songs out there and more are recorded each year, so why on Earth is it always a case of thawing out Mariah, Micky Bubble and all the other ones we’ve heard a thousand times before?
We’re not saying they’re bad tunes, of course not (‘Last Christmas’ is a banger and we all know it) but there is such a thing as overplaying your favourite songs. That’s why we’ve decided to mix up the monotony of festive music and give your ears some different options for a change.
And we don’t just mean we’re going to play that Darkness one – that’s part of the mainstream whether you like it or not. Without further ado, here is a very big list of genuinely good alternative Christmas songs for you to whack on this year. We’ve even created a Spotify playlist for you to listen along.
The best alternative Christmas songs ever
We recommend a short five-second crossfade, by the way. Ready to get started?…
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1. ‘Must Be Santa’ – Bob Dylan
Since everyone is gripped with Bob Dylan fever ahead of the new biopic starring Timothée Chalamet, where better to start than with Zimmy himself and his possibly the most unserious song ever? A poet, to be sure, but he didn’t write this one: he just had fun with his own polka-style cover of it back in 2009.
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2. ‘Christmas in Hollis’ – RUN DMC
From rampant accordion riffs to RUN DMC’s festive classic,‘Christmas in Hollis’ features in the likes of Die Hard, The US Office and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, but it’s always criminally overlooked when it comes to actually getting play time on the big day. We’re here to change that – get it on, learn the lyrics, head bob.
3. ‘Merry Christmas (Wherever You Are)’ – Lower Than Atlantis
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In at number three, we’ve got the little-known festive thrasher by popular 2010s rock band, Lower Than Atlantis. They might not be together anymore (though there are rumours of a comeback on the cards…) but this tune is a banger and it goes perfectly with footage of Santa on a drunken night out.
4. ‘Little Saint Nick’ – Best Coast
From one rocky number to another, if there’s one thing we like more than The Beach Boys’ Christmas song it’s this bluesy cover by Best Coast. The LA duo manage to capture the same cruisey Californian vibes but the distorted guitar makes it feel a bit more British somehow. Love.
A brand-new pick from one of the world’s best bands and most prolific producers; we’re talking about Jack Antonoff’s Bleachers, who have just dropped one of our favourite Christmas songs in years. You can hear their fingerprints all over the heavily layered sound and the lyrics are, well… just listen.
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6. ‘Only You’ – Yazoo
Fading perfectly back into the 80s sonics that influences so much of their sound and countless other contemporary artists, the jury is out on whether this counts as a Christmas song – it’s kind of like East 17 – but it features at the end of The Office Christmas special and has been a core memory ever since.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4g5MeonGYM
7. ‘christmas time’ – piri and Tommy Villiers
Another super fresh pick, the garage and electronic lovers often get overlooked when it comes to the festive period but not on our watch. This lo-fi UKG banger is perfect for getting a little boogie on in the kitchen and since this pair are from Manchester, they get extra love from us.
8. ‘All You’re Dreaming Of’ – Liam Gallagher
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Speaking of Mancs and non-traditional Christmas songs, Liam Gallagher‘s 2022 release caught everyone by surprise. Demonstrating his softer side and keeping that voice reigned in without taking away from its familiar whine, it’s an absolutely beautiful little ballad.
9. ‘Merry Christmas’ – Willie J Healey
Sticking with the softer sounds for a spell, Oxford singer-songwriter Willie J Healey might sound like some Americana-infused folk artist and you’d be right in thinking so, but he also does lots more including more indie and psychedelic tracks. But for now, you can start with his seasonal number.
10. ‘Christmas Was Better In The 80s’ – The Futureheads
We don’t know for sure because we weren’t born but all we’ll say is that a lot of our favourite festive classics are from this period, so make of that what you will – all we know is that in terms of alternative Christmas songs, this is right up there.
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11. ‘Red River Rock’ – Metronomy
Folky-sounding artists and now folky-sounding titles: ‘Red River Rock’ by Metronomy picks the energy back up and while it may be another cover, there’s something very cool about hearing an old ’50s track reimagined with modern guitars and keys. Give it a whirl.
12. ‘I Wish It Christmas Today’ – Julian Casablancas
Do you like The Strokes or, more specifically, their frontman’s iconic vocal style? Well, in that case, you’ll love Julian’s solo seasonal outing, delivered in that instantly recognisable garage rock style. The bells, the drums, the guitar, the laid-back bravado – all pure perfection.
13. ‘Christmas Is Going to the Dogs’ – Eels
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You can’t follow up JB with any old tripe – you’ve got to match that kind of cool with an equally influential artist and we still feel Eels are possibly one of the most underrated bands on the planet. Created for the 2000 Grinch movie, who else can say they featured in some of the best kids film franchises ever? The other one is Shrek, by the way…
14. Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town – Bruce Springsteen
We’re allowing ourselves another cover mainly because this is without a doubt the best version and by that, we mean this specific live recording. Brucey can do it all and we don’t care if you think this is particularly alternative, it’s going on the list and that’s final.
15. ‘Krampus’ – The Lathums
From a grumpy green Christmas grouch to the name given to Germany’s very creepy Christmas character, but don’t worry, this track by Wigan‘s finest is marginally less miserable and the upbeat instrumentation makes us want to do a jig every year without fail.
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16. ‘How to Make Gravy’ – Paul Kelly
Swap the slightly more cynical for a sincere export from a country on the other side of the world – not to mention one of the most superbly simplistic song titles ever – and you’ve got both a recipe and a personal favourite. It’s become a bit of an anthem over in Australia and we want to make it one here too.
17. ‘Winter Song’ – Sam Fender
Now, if you want a real alternative take on what we’re dubbing an alternative Christmas tune, we’d turn your attention to one of Sam Fender‘s most sombre songs and a truly emotional journey. We didn’t promise they’d all be super cheerful, we only guarantee they’re good.
18. ‘This Must Be Christmas’ – Kodaline
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Remember these guys? They had a really successful period in the 2010s and lead singer Steve Garrigan’s moving tones are still as good then as they are now. They also happen to have a beautiful Christmas that we’d encourage you to give a listen. Consider it one your mum won’t moan about.
19. ‘Christmas Eve (Soul Purpose)’ – Blossoms
Even closer to home now and another indie band who are flying super high at the moment. The first of two Blossoms selections on this list, it still blows us away how well the Stockport boys can shift their sound so much whilst still sounding unmistakably like themselves. They never miss.
20. ‘Christmas Trees In Rain’ – APRE
Kent-based alt-pop duo APRE are still making a name for themselves it’s fair to say, but when we first came across them, we were not expecting to come across one of the loveliest alternative Christmas songs and get it in repeat every year – and yet here we are.
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21. Christmas (I Won’t Be Alone) – The Lottery Winners
Returning to Greater Manchester once again, we’ve got Leigh’s very own The Lottery Winners who have had a dynamite couple of years and do heartfelt emotional indie rock as good as anyone, so it’s no surprise their Christmas track is no different. Love these guys.
22. ‘Miss Christmas’ – Circa Waves
For another familiar North West entry, we turn to Merseyside and indie specialists Circa Waves, who never disappoint no matter what genre they turn their hand to. ‘Miss Christmas’ is a super happy listen and there’s plenty of heart behind it as always with these lads.
23. ‘It’s Going To Be A Cold Winter’ – Blossoms
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Back to the Blossoms once again and one of their other Christmas songs from a few years back – this one definitely has to be on your alternative playlist. Yes, their covers of countless classics are great but we applaud anyone trying to enter something into the catalogue rather than just imitate it.
24. ‘Home Alone, Too’ – The Staves
If you’ve never heard this delightful trio from Watford before then consider this the perfect introduction because their cleverly titled ‘Home Alone, Too’ deserves to be diversifying everyone’s festive playlists and their voices are truly some of the most beautiful noises you’ll ever hear.
25. ‘Late Night Phone Call’ – Reverend and the Makers
Keeping current, we’re going with one that we believe was absolutely ROBBED of a well-deserved Christmas number one. Not only is it a belter of tune but it’s helped raise money for Samaritans all winter. Jon McClure truly is the pride of Sheffield. Reyt on that man is.
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26. ‘This Christmas’ – Donny Hathaway
Serving as another great transition moment, ‘This Christmas’ by Donny Hathaway might truly be one of the best songs this holiday has ever resulted in but, for some reason, it’s still criminally underplayed most years. Not that alternative per se, it just needs to be on more people’s playlists, so here it is.
27. ‘Make Someone Happy’ – Bill Nighy
Now, you’d be forgiven for seeing this name and jumping to the conclusion that we’ve thrown in the legendary British actor’s fantastic cover from Love Actually, but what if we told you he’s got another corker from the animated film Arthur Christmas? Well, you could decide for yourself which you prefer.
28. ‘Someday at Christmas’ – Stevie Wonder
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Swinging back around to soulful and more old-school vibes, Stevie Wonder – like James Brown, Donny Hathaway and many other peers – also has a whole plethora of Christmas songs to get stuck into and while this one might not be the most ‘alternative’, you won’t hear many other people playing it.
29. ‘Donna and Blitzen’ – Badly Drawn Boy
Fancy more Greater Manchester references? Well, this little number is another one taken from a movie soundtrack and if you’re an About A Boy fan you’ll know two things: one, how integral music is to the film and two, how good the soundtrack is from start to finish.
30. ‘Christmas Rappin” – Kurtis Blow
Not only one of the best alternative Christmas songs ever but undoubtedly one of the coolest Top of the Pops performances that ever was. Kurtis Blow might not have had the most legendary rap career in history but we never let a holiday season pass without playing this absolute bop.
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31. ‘8 Days of Christmas‘ – Destiny’s Child
From old-school hip-hop to an R’n’B Christmas classic courtesy of Beyonce Knowles, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams. Should have known they were all destined for greatness the second this came out. See what we did there?…
32. ‘Give Love on Christmas Day’ – PJ Morton
Another smooth one for you from a similar wheelhouse as Donny, Steve, James and the like. We found this one quite recently and are just obsessed with the synths and keys that make if feel like a feel like a funk song ready to burst into action whilst still remaining chill throughout. Originally by The Jackson 5.
33. ‘X-M@$’ – Corey Taylor
Are we trying to give you musical whiplash? Maybe, but we will die on the hill that this irreverent, raucous and unapologetic track by Slipknot’s Corey Taylor is one of the best alternative Christmas songs ever. Crude humour, swearing and an intentionally low-budget music video – what more could you want?
34. ‘Mistress For Christmas’ – AC/DC
Since the guitars have arrived we might as well keep the going. If ‘Hell’s Bells’ is the year-round nod to what’s coming in December then ‘Mistress for Christmas’ is the rock and roll main event. Still blows us away how this one isn’t more popular but we’re fighting the good fight over here. Great visualiser too.
35. ‘Christmas Is Here’ – Buckcherry
US rock and country go hand-in-hand so there’s no surprise we also managed to sneak Buckcherry on here too. It might feel like a throwback to even hear that name much less on a list of Christmas songs but trust us, it’s got a really good feel and it’s not their only one if you’re down for more.
36. ‘When I Get Home For Christmas’ – Snow Patrol
Let’s cross back over the Atlantic for something more familiar, shall we? Snow Patrol’s Christmas song felt pretty well-known to us and maybe that’s because we’re fans, but we’ve definitely played this to some people for first the time this year. Great guitar tones and a wonderful voice as always. Happy sad.
37. ‘The Season’s Upon Us’ – Dropkick Murphys
‘More Irish’ did we hear you say? Well, how about a US-formed Celtic punk bank? Yeah, you heard us right and there’s not a chance this doesn’t fit the brief of alternative Christmas songs. It also happens to be one of our favourites and has that real merry sing-song in a pub atmosphere to it.
38. ‘Grandma Got Run over by a Reindeer’ – Elmo & Patsy
How about a retro barnstormer and still one of the most ridiculous Christmas songs to ever be released? We’ll be honest, we have very little knowledge of Elmo and Patsy and couldn’t tell you a thing about the rest of the discography, but what we can tell you is this still makes us laugh even as adults.
39. ‘Wintering’ – The 1975
But the newbies are just as good as these alternative takes on festive tracks, you know, and while it was never marketed as such, The 1975‘s is definitely about Christmas. Talking about his mum’s bad back, driving home for the holidays and inane family details – all sounds far too relatable.
40. ‘Christmas Shoppers’ Paradise’ – Carter The Unstoppable Sex Machine
Don’t ask us about the artist’s name: we never question these things – we just ask ourselves whether or not it’s a good Christmas tune and, surprise surprise, it is. They were actually pretty popular back in the day and have those familiar 80s indie vibes. Think Pulp, New Order, Pet Shop Boys and more.
41. ‘A Great Big Sled’ – The Killers
Well of course we were going to whack The Killers on here! Our adopted Yankee rockers are no strangers to Yuletide music, especially with their religious backgrounds, and it was a real toss-up between this and ‘Don’t Shoot Me Santa’, but we think this one just edges it.
42. ‘All I Want For Christmas Is New Year’s Day’ – The Hurts
Ok, not long to go until the end and we’re really in the pocket of alternative Christmas songs now. The Hurts remain one of the very coolest UK bands ever; the music, the clothes, the overall aesthetic: we love it all and we also happen to think they wrote one a personal favourite Xmas track of ours.
43. ‘Christmastime’ – The Smashing Pumpkins
Billy bloody Corgan. We’ll never emotionally get past what that oh-so-distinct voice does to us so we’ve simply stopped trying. This one is a real gentle affair from the genre-bending alt-rock veterans and doesn’t rely on sleigh bells to remind you it’s a Christmas tune.
44. ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas’ – Phoebe Bridgers
Ok, we’ve been keeping a secret from you: we love depressing music and even if it’s not an innately sad song, getting someone like Phoebe Bridgers to sing can have that effect and it also makes it 10x better in our opinion. She has loads of Christmas songs so feel free to opt into the melancholy with us.
45. ‘Santa Stole My Girlfriend’ – The Maine
Not all sad songs necessarily sound sad though and for some reason, this bloke playing a lovely acoustic riff as he talks about his girl cheating with ‘Saint Nick’ always sounds oddly cheery. Some excellent folky guitar playing and good music to sway and click your fingers to. Their best Christmas song by far.
46. ‘Maybe This Christmas’ – Ron Sexsmith
Speaking of acoustic guitars and a bloke singing, is there a more reliable vehicle for plain old songwriting? Sometimes we don’t need things dressed up, we just want to hear a person pouring their heart and soul into a song and this nod from our team member Oli has gone straight into our rotation.
47. ‘That Was The Worst Christmas Ever!’ – Sufjan Stevens
Again, we’re not ones to shy away from the admittedly miserable parts about Christmas and people who manage to turn that into art are heroes as far as we’re concerned. Just like Phoebe, Sufjan Stevens is great at making the sad sound serene and if you need to find a quiet corner this year, whack this on.
48. ‘Christmas Lights’ – Coldplay
Drawing towards a close now and while it may have become more popular in recent years we feel, the eternal Coldplay haters keep this lovely Christmas track just outside of most people’s playlists. For the last time: just like Nickelback, you’re allowed to like whatever you want and WE LOVE COLDPLAY.
49. ‘River’ – Joni Mitchell
In a similar vein, our team member Emily will be over the moon to hear that we agree with the statement that ‘River’ by Joni Mitchell might just be “the greatest Christmas song ever written” and deserves to be celebrated just as much as the holiday. Gorgeous, heartbreaking, legendary.
50. ‘Wrap Myself in Paper’ – Magnus Carlsson
And last but not least, after all that back-to-back run of quiet sad songs, we’re finishing with a ridiculous Europop track that may have initially been suggested as a joke but we’ve genuinely grown to inexplicably love. Consider this the palate cleanser and reminder to keep the party going.
If this doesn’t get you ready for a night of carefree dancing on NYE in a few days, nothing will.
Honourable mention
‘I Believe In Christmas’ – Tweenies
Because why the hell not? Just for sh**s and gigs at the end of the day.
No longer on Spotify, sadly, but get this on and watch the little ones – and all former toddlers, a.k.a. adults who still remember it (us) – go nuts.
Once again, you can find Audio North‘s entire Alternative Xmas playlist HERE if you want to stick it on for some festive variety this year.
Featured Images — Bleachers (via IG)/Sad Factory Records/YouTube (screenshot)
Audio
10 of the biggest and best gigs coming to Manchester | 2026
Thomas Melia
Manchester has some fantastic live music lined up for next year, and we’ve rounded up 10 of the biggest live gigs and concerts coming in 2026.
This city is synonymous with having some of the best gigs around, so it will come as no surprise that 2026 is shaping up to be another jam-packed year of live music and unforgettable performances.
Whether your dream gig has to contain some jazz scatting, acoustic guitars or heavy EDM hits, this list has got most music bases covered.
So allow us to present to you 10 of the biggest live gigs and some of the concerts we’re most excited for in the New Year at Audio North, with acts and artists across a variety of genres.
10 of the biggest Manchester gigs in 2026
Mariah the Scientist – Manchester Academy (Wed 14 January)
When Mariah the Scientist last visited the musical capital of the North in 2024, she opted for Gorilla; this time, the US R&B singer-songwriter has chosen Manchester Academy.
She’s added another LP to her discography since, titled Hearts Sold Separately, it features the standout track ‘Burning Blue’, which has become her most successful single to date.
Ms Scientist is playing this venue’s biggest stage, playing out to over 2,000 fans will be ready to sing along to all her impressive hits, like ‘Is It a Crime’: her collaboration with Kali Uchis, and many others that have made her one of our artists to watch in 2026.
Off the back of their Co-op Live gig earlier in December, English folk-rockers Mumford & Sons are the gift that keeps on giving as they’re heading back to the city in February for a more intimate show.
Playing at Albert Hall in Manchester city centre, these London lads will be celebrating the release of their newest musical addition, Prizefighter, popping up in smaller venues across the UK for a one-of-a-kind album launch gig.
The celebrations don’t stop there as the trio will soon surpass a huge milestone with their hit ‘Little Lion Man’ close to one billion streams, a feat most artists dream of achieving – Tickets HERE.
Raye – Co-op Live (Tues 17 and Wed 18 February)
One of our leading vocalists, Raye, is stopping off at Co-op Live twice / Credit: Press shot (supplied)
Tooting talent Rachel Keen, widely recognised by her artist moniker Raye, is taking over Co-op Live for two nights of magical music, but as the title of the shows preface, This Tour May Contain New Music.
Her songs are addictive and distinctive, like the EDM/rap-fusion of ‘Escapism.’, or the big band-inspired ‘Where Is My Husband?’ – this South London star knows how to craft a pop hit.
Her career started in the Dance/EDM genre, where she contributed vocals and writing skills to a number of records. In previous shows, she usually merges these songs into a stripped-back showcase.
Unfortunately, general on-sale tickets have sold out, but you can still try and find premium seats for both dates HERE.
Lily Allen – AO Arena + Aviva Studios (10 and 11 March + 19 and 20 June)
This storytelling vocalist is returning to 0161 as part of the biggest headline tour of her career and getting ready to sing her latest tracks like ‘Tennis’, ‘Ruminating’ and more.
Allen is getting ready to turn both Aviva Studios and AO Arena into her pop-up ‘P*ssy Palace’ for four nights of ‘Lily Allen Performs West End Girl‘.
The London star announced her arena tour after selling out a string of theatre dates one week prior. We expect these extra dates to be just as exceptional; the only thing we don’t know is “Who’s Madeline?”
Both Aviva Studios dates are sold out, but don’t start ‘Ruminating’ just yet, as there’s plenty for her AO Arena shows HERE.
Basement Jaxx – Aviva Studios (Sat 28 March)
EDM icons Basement Jaxx are also coming to Aviva in 2026 / Credit: Jean-Luc Brouard (via Press Shot)
Felix and Simon – more commonly recognised as electronic act Basement Jaxx – are heading to Aviva Studios, and they’re bringing banger after banger.
Whether you’re ready to groove to ‘Romeo’, dance the night away to ‘Red Alert’ or lose control when ‘Do Your Thing’ blasts out the speakers, this night will be stacked with some huge tunes.
This EDM duo know how to command a crowd, so don’t wait for your friends to ask you, ‘Where’s Your Head At’ – get those tickets booked HERE.
The Scottish star is touring up and down the country, including Wigan, Preston and Blackpool, just to name a few, and has kindly decided to bless Manchester with her bouncy and upbeat tracks.
Get ready to be ‘Dancing At The Edge Of The World’ when soul singer-songwriter Brooke Combe plays out her cathartic tunes at this packed-out Manchester gig hotspot HERE.
Lusaint – Band on the Wall (Tue 14 April)
Local artist Lusaint is coming to Band on the Wall / Credit: The Manc Group
This time, Stretford soul singer Lusaint has chosen to bless Northern Quarter institution Band on the Wall with her next hometown performance.
She’s been slowly adding to her music catalogue since her last Manchester gig, and with the newly-released single ‘Blind’ as well as her latest EP, Apothecary Pt.1, Lusaint is ready to wow crowds with her incredible vocals – Tickets HERE.
Olivia Dean – Co-op Live (Sat 25 and Sun 26 April)
Superstar Olivia Dean is ready for Manchester – are you? / Credit: Jack Davison (via supplied)
2025 was Olivia Dean’s year; four singles charting in the UK Top 10 simultaneously and a number one album in the form of The Art of Loving, she’s unstoppable.
Playing two nights at Co-op Live in Manchester and a SIX-night residency (yep) at The O2 in London, Dean has captured audiences across the country with hits like ‘Nice To Each Other’ and ‘Man I Need’.
Her success is no surprise, being a Brit School graduate and her middle name inspired by R&B royalty Lauryn Hill, now she’s playing out to a combined 47,000 over two nights.
As you can expect, tickets for this one were snapped up pretty quickly, but there are a number of premium tickets for both dates HERE.
If you missed out on your chance to catch Neo-soul hitmaker Olivia Dean, why not check out this class local act at O2 Ritz Manchester instead?
Titled after one of Manchester’s busiest motorways, M60, this indie rock band aren’t just one of our favourite artists right now, they’re Gary Neville’s too.
Their biggest song, ‘I Don’t Mind,’ has amassed over five million streams, and ‘Honey’ is not far off with over one million streams. Give them a listen and catch them live HERE.
Doja Cat – Co-op Live (23 May)
Multi-talented musician Doja Cat knows how to put on a performance, and she’ll be doing just that when she arrives in Manchester with her ‘Tour Ma Vie‘.
Her music pays homage to her pop predecessors like ‘Jealous Type’, an ode to the aesthetics and sounds of 80s music, or her smash hit ‘Say So’, which is heavily inspired by 70s funk and disco.
This indoor Co-op Live date will be a lot drier than her last visit to Manchester took place at Parklife Festival, where the star found herself performing during one of this city’s infamous downpours.
‘Get Into It’ with Doja Cat as there’s an array of tickets available HERE.
The Weeknd – Etihad Stadium (11 June)
The Weeknd is returning to the Etihad / Credit: Sebastian Nagy (supplied)
Initially, The Weeknd had Manc fans contemplating the four-hour journey down to the Big Smoke with his tour dates originally listed for Wembley Stadium in London.
Since the first announcement, the Canadian R&B record-holder surprised Northern fans with a large-scale gig right here in Manchester city centre at the Etihad Stadium next June.
This latest live appearance is labelled as ‘The Weeknd: After Hours Til Dawn Tour’, but it now incorporates his most recent album Hurry Up Tomorrow and features support from Rap act and collaborator Playboi Carti, and you can still get your hands on tickets HERE.
Audio North’s favourite albums of 2025
Danny Jones
It’s that time of the year again: time to round up the best, or at least our favourite albums of 2026 here at Audio North.
We’re ready for your spiky opinions and intense judgement.
For those of you who haven’t been following over the past year or so, members of The Manc, The SheffandThe Hoot have banded together in our love of music to create the one-stop shop for all the best Northern tunage there is, going to as many gigs and chatting with as many artists as possible.
However, we’d never dare limit an audiophile’s listening to one region, so you can expect plenty of globe-trotting, genre-hopping and head-bopping excellence on this list. Without further ado, here is Audio North‘s round-up of the best records of the year for 2025.
Lux by Rosalía – Emily
5/5
I am not a trusted voice in music criticism, nor do I claim to be, so take what this verging-on-30-year-old white girl who only speaks English and has no relationship to religion whatsoever, says with a pinch of salt… but I think this might be one of the best albums of the decade, never mind this year.
When was the last time a genre-bending concept album about feminine spirituality and female saints sung in 14 DIFFERENT languages managed to wiggle its way into the cultural zeitgeist and onto the global charts? Yeah, never.
But that’s exactly what’s happened with Spanish singer Rosalía’s fourth studio album, Lux. It sees the hugely influential musician return to her roots by showcasing her classical training, with touches of flamenco mixed in with contemporary pop and orchestral sound – and to me, it’s exactly where she belongs.
Go on, give it a listen if you haven’t already.
We’re Never Getting Out by Deaf Havana – Danny
4.5/5
Since early adolescence onwards, Deaf Havana have been with me through every major milestone, significant moment and formative part of my life, good, bad, and everything in between, so it only feels fitting that I’d enter my third decade on this planet with one of their records to start me off right.
In fact, not only did they release this in my birthday month, but they also happened to play Manchester not long before the big day. I couldn’t have asked for a better 30th gift, but getting to hear this long-awaited batch of new tunes live and seeing frontman James Veck-Gilodi back at his best felt special.
They’ve been through many iterations over the years and I’ve loved them all in their own way; their previous two albums definitely felt like a return to form after perhaps somewhat of a blip (for various background reasons), but it still staggers me how Matty and James’ stuff never fails to connect with me more than any other artist, no matter the age, stage or style.
To be completely truthful, I’ll always lean towards their heavier guitar-driven stuff – and they’ll never abandon it – but I guess there’s a comfort in knowing just how challenging a period of life James has gone through, yet he still continues to be the most raw, introspective and eternally honest lyricist.
For my money, the best and most underrated songwriter of a generation. Help hail him if you want it, or don’t; even if not, it feels like he gets to stay mine, or at least for those of us initiated, OURS.
Thanks for everything up until now, and you know what? Sod it, I’ll take the liberty of speaking on behalf of all Deaf fans when I say we’re SO bloody happy you’re back with us, even if ‘The Present Is still feels like* a Foreign Land’.
Would I have called myself a Lily Allen fan six months ago? No. But I have always called myself a fan of a diss track and a good gossip, so when I learned of her divorce album, I consumed it HARD.
West End Girl is a solid pop album, but also a masterclass in knowing your worth, speaking your truth, and serving revenge ice-cold. And bringing the receipts, too.
It’s also a masterclass in music marketing – not only did it drop right before the release of her ex-husband’s biggest project of his career, but her tour posters were then placed directly opposite Stranger Things posters, so her face reflected back over his.
He effectively vanished from his own press tour, and possibly the face of the planet? Has David Harbour gone into witness protection in ‘The Upside Down’? I would.
Love and light, Lily, and thank you for delivering the best.
Before you ask, yes, I have endured a breakup this year and, coincidentally, around the same time as Ms Dean released this absolute masterclass of a sophomore album.
The Art of Loving is a perfect analysis of love in all forms. Her heartfelt yet humoured lyricism explores its constant ups and downs, from delightfully romantic songs like ‘So Easy (To Fall In Love)’to more gut-wrenching, raw confessions like ‘Let Alone The One You Love’.
But perhaps the most prominent theme of love throughout is self-love; Olivia portrays herself as not a victim but a student, and we, as listeners, are reassured that we’re all in the same boat and that if we trust the process, the right sort of love will find us eventually.
It’s no surprise that Olivia Dean is one of the most exciting artists in the world right now, oozing class, charm and impeccable talent – we can’t wait to see her live again and to see what she does next.
A Complicated Woman by Self Esteem – Kris
5/5
Self Esteem has kicked the door off its hinges this year with her third studio album, A Complicated Woman, with standout critical acclaim. The album explores identity, womanhood and burnout against a backdrop of delicious pop-bops and powerfully honest lyrics with a theatricality that few other musicians can muster.
I only properly “discovered” Self Esteem this year, and she has absolutely knocked my musical socks off. I had the joy of watching her sensational performance at Glastonbury, shedding a number of tears at the likes of ‘I Do And I Don’t Care’, ‘In Plain Sight’ and ‘Focus Is Power’.
Her lyrics and her music have a way of mining the depths of your emotions and dragging feelings out of you that you didn’t even know existed. ‘The Deep Blue Okay’ is the perfect closer, reminding us that self-preservation is acceptable and OK.
In a world where there is constant pressure, internally and externally, to be perfect, this whole album reminds us that sometimes being imperfect and trying is what matters. Every day we get to have is big.
Whilst Sheffield-born Self Esteem might be a complicated woman, there is nothing complicated about this album being an absolute knock-out.
I’m usually a pop-punk, obsessed with Oli Sykes kinda girl, but Addison Rae… You are my Queen.
The soundtrack to my summer, Addison Rae brought us all classics like ‘Summer Forever’, ‘Diet Pepsi’, ‘Headphones on’, and the absolute fan favourite ‘Fame Is A Gun’ on the self-titled album, Addison.
She followed me to all my holidays, and the album itself takes you on a journey of what it’s like to be a woman; it’s empowering, showcasing what it’s like to be young, being in love, not wasting time and maybe a little bit of money – it’s a joyful masterpiece.
I fell short of seeing her live in Manchester earlier this year, but it didn’t stop me from scrolling through TikTok the next morning.
Addison, thank you for being the noise of one of my favourite summers – now put your ‘headphones on’ and enjoy.
People Watching by Sam Fender – Lonnie
4/5
People Watching… WHAT an album. Where do I even start? Sam Fender really has knocked it out of the park on this one – Wythenshawe Park, specifically.
It’s raw, emotional, yet still full of energy. I was lucky enough to see Fender for that wonderful day fest in Wythy back in August, where he did this album the utmost justice.
The title track ‘People Watching’ is a full-on banger: high energy and massive sound. It also carries a message that will hit people from all walks of life. Knowing it’s about a late mentor and friend of Sam’s made it land even harder.
‘Rein Me In’ is another standout, touching on self-sabotage in love, which most of us can acknowledge we have done at one time or another. It’s honest, extremely relatable, and hits home without trying too hard; having Clem’s favourite Olivia Dean then hop on it was just the stuff of dreams.
Overall, the album feels incredibly human. Reflective without being boring, emotional without being over the top. It’s the sort of record you stick on and let play, and it’ll hit different ways depending on where your head is. A brilliant album and one of Sam Fender‘s strongest to date.
Hopefully! by Loyle Carner – EmJ
4/5
Hopefully! has been one album I’ve listened to time and time again this year. Loyle Carner (real name Benjamin Coyle Larner) continues to prove why his music connects so deeply with so many people.
From the moment I pressed play on the record, I was met with an immediate sense of comfort. The opening track, ‘feel at home’, begins with a child-like sound of wind chimes before switching into a jungle/breakbeat rhythm – a more experimental direction for Loyle, but one that feels completely natural.
Sonically, the album is interesting. There are moments that lean into a murky, slightly off-kilter sound that will remind many listeners of King Krule and Mac DeMarco – more in mood and atmosphere than direct influence. It shows Ben pushing himself creatively without losing what makes his music feel so personal.
Throughout the album, you can hear the weight in Loyle Carner’s voice. Often sounding like there’s a lump in his throat, his thoughts feel raw, unpolished and imperfect, and that’s exactly what makes the record resonate with me.
Vulnerability has always been at the heart of Loyle’s music, but it feels especially front and centre here. The album flows effortlessly, and it’s one of those records you end up listening to front-to-back without even realising.
Tyler, The Creator’s latest album, DON’T TAP THE GLASS, is another reminder of why his evolution has been so compelling to watch. I’ve been listening to his music since the Odd Future days, and what’s impressive is how he’s managed to grow without losing that edge.
The album is inspired by people’s fear of dancing in public due to social media; it’s an album about letting loose and expressing yourself. Production is layered and interesting, but never distracting, giving Tyler room to say exactly what he wants to say.
‘Sugar On My Tongue’ stands out immediately. It’s the kind of track that grows with every listen and sticks around long after the album ends.
This isn’t Tyler trying to prove anything. It’s an artist fully comfortable in his sound, still pushing himself forward while staying true to where he started.
Hearts Sold Separately by Mariah the Scientist – Thomas
4.5/5
With this project featuring my top song, album and artist of the year, ‘Is It a Crime’ if I didn’t choose this to be my album of the year? Yes. Mariah has resorted to every artist’s favourite era of inspiration, calling back to the 80s for some echoey drums, chimes and synths which dominate this record’s soundscape.
This album’s magnum opus, ‘Burning Blue’, sees her letting down her guard as she finds true love with ‘Eternal Flame’ and ‘Like You Never’ continuing this theme. Fittingly, Ms Scientist uses this album to discuss her expertise in one specific chemical reaction, love.
Roll on January, when I’ll be belting out Hearts Sold Separately for its entire duration when she plays Manchester Academy.
Getting Killed by Geese – Lilly
5/5
As an avid rock fan, I’ve been hungry for an album that flips the genre on its head and finally provides us with a fresh new perspective. Thankfully, Geese DELIVERED this year, and brought out their third wild and weirdly wonderful LP, Getting Killed, which has since gone platinum in my house.
Each song on the album feels like its own religious experience; it’s a perfectly crafted amalgamation of art-rock and post-punk with references to prime funk and soul, conveyed through groovy basslines and sonic shifts.
Cameron Winter’s uniquely brilliant vocal range shines through once again, accompanied by his absurdist lyricism and the band’s overall 70s flair; Getting Killed isn’t just a good rock album in my eyes, it’s a modern-day classic.
With a name like ‘Geese’… It’s hard to forget a band like these lot – and once you hear this album, they’ll be cemented in your brain forever.
Go on, then – how did we do?…
Let us know your favourite albums of 2025 down below, and here’s to what we’re sure will be another brilliant year of music in ’26.
Danny Jones -
24th December 2024 
