This summer was a great one for music, from established stars to promising newcomers. But some may not realize this, as a lot of the biggest pop stars released little to no new material. That’s why I’m here to recount the most important album releases that you may have missed this summer.
Annahstasia – “Tether”
California singer-songwriter Annahstasia displayed undeniable passion and promise with her debut “Tether.” Vocals that carry the weight and emotion that evokes Tracy Chapman, lush instrumentals, and pristine production define the sound of the album. Standout tracks such as “Villain,” “Silk & Velvet,” and “Overflow” showcase Annahstasia’s ability to take the listener on an emotional journey with simple and affective lyricism that is greatly heightened by her vocal tonality. I can’t recommend this project enough, especially if you are a fan of contemporary folk (i.e. Adrianne Lenker, Mitski, Phoebe Bridgers). Annahstasia has a hauntingly beautiful voice and a very promising career ahead of her.
Miley Cyrus – “Something Beautiful”
Miley Cyrus being on any type of top five list of mine is something I could have never predicted going into the summer; but hey, it’s 2025 and stranger things have happened. Cyrus’ musical career has spanned almost 20 years now and from those years we’ve seen nearly every side she has to offer, from squeaky-clean Disney star to raunchy provocateur. Regardless of the era, her discography has been shaky. On “Something Beautiful,” Cyrus sounds the most inspired she has ever sounded in her career, homing in on an exciting production style for the whole project. The opening two tracks, “Prelude” and “Something Beautiful,” are great at experimenting with putting Cyrus’ vocals in front of a more edgy psychedelic soundscape. The rest of the album displays Cyrus’ ability to write catchy pop tunes with good vocal performances with tracks like “Easy Lover” and “End of the World” as well as captivating pop ballads like “Golden Burning Sun” and “Pretend You’re God.”
Quadeca – “Vanisher, Horizon Scraper”
While not quite making a splash in the mainstream, Quadeca’s newest project “Vanisher, Horizon Scraper” has already amassed a cult-like following among listeners and critics alike and for good reason. The self-produced project is the most cinematic album I’ve heard this year thanks to lush folk instrumentation blended with electronic elements like automation and distortion. Not lacking in lyricism, Quadeca delivers a heartwarming ballad with “MONDAY” and a heart-wrenching call to reality with “FORGONE.” The musical journey that this album delivers is unmatched by anything else from this year and is worth all the praise and attention.
PinkPantheress – “Fancy That”
PinkPantheress’ rise to pop’s “it girl” has been fascinating and exciting to watch as someone who has been following since her first batch of singles in 2021. The reception to every project and single she has put out in the last two years or so has shown the public’s desire for the unique fusion of house and bubbly pop that she brings to the mainstream. She perfects her sound on “Fancy That,” where her UK House influence is undeniable in the production and allows her catchy vocal hooks to strike a chord in your ear twice as hard. Standout tracks like “Illegal,” “Stateside” and “Nice to Know You” are amongst some of the best in her career and makes this album a must-listen if you have enjoyed any of her previous singles.
Clipse – “Let God Sort Em Out”
Summer was no stranger to some great hip-hop releases, such as those from Tyler, the Creator, Freddie Gibbs and JID. But one that stood out as the most important release of the summer was “Let God Sort Em Out” by Clipse. Clipse is a legendary hip-hop duo featuring brothers Pusha T and Malice, with a legacy too large to fit into this one article. “Let God Sort Em Out” marks their first album after a 16-year hiatus and is entirely produced by Pharell Williams like all their previous projects. What makes this album feel so important to me and many hip-hop fans is the one-of-a-kind lyricism and boastful energy that only this duo can deliver. Hearing that again in 2025 really shines a light on the grit and authenticity that has been missing
from a lot of mainstream hip-hop releases. And if Pusha T, Malice and Pharell isn’t enough star power for you, the album boasts stellar features from Tyler, The Creator, Nas and Kendrick Lamar, making it an absolute must-listen for any hip-hop fan.