The Current The Best Albums of 2025
Dec 19, 2025
Musicians Shad, an award-winning Canadian rapper known for his insightful commentary, and Talia Schlanger, a CBC broadcaster and musician, dive into their top album picks of 2025. They discuss the eclectic sounds of Kękę Trinata and the unique artistry of Rosalía's Lux. Talia highlights Sia Gray's innovative musical collage, while Shad praises the intimacy of The Weather Station’s Humanhood. They explore how live music shapes their perspectives and how their own artistry influences their listening habits.
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Memorability As A Selection Filter
- Shad chooses albums that feel memorable, striking, and that cling to him through the year.
- Memorability and surprise are his primary filters for what becomes part of his year.
Singularity Over Sameness
- Talia values albums that could only be made by that artist and feel singular.
- She resists algorithmic sameness and prizes music that sounds like nothing else.
Rosalía's Lux As A Vocal-First Journey
- Talia describes Rosalía's Lux as a spiritual, multilingual work with the London Symphony Orchestra.
- She highlights how Rosalía lets her voice remain the primary instrument across lush, avant-garde arrangements.