🎶 Top 20 California Albums of 2025
1. Kali Uchis – Sincerely,
A deeply personal album reflecting on motherhood and loss, Uchis delivers a soulful journey through grief and healing.
2. Deafheaven – Lonely People with Power
Returning to their black metal roots, Deafheaven’s latest is both ferocious and emotionally resonant, marking a significant evolution in their sound.
3. Ray Vaughn – The Good, The Bad, The Dollar Menu
Genre: Hip-Hop
Long Beach’s own Ray Vaughn showcases his lyrical prowess in this mixtape, blending introspective tracks with West Coast vibes.
4. Dave Cornblum – The Adventure of Plasma Man (Complete Trilogy)
A visionary sci-fi rock opera, Cornblum’s trilogy combines narrative depth with innovative visuals, marking a significant achievement in conceptual music.
5. Ty Segall – Possession
Segall returns with raw energy, delivering a garage rock album that captures the essence of California’s underground scene.
6. Spellling – Portrait of My Heart
An experimental pop journey, Spellling’s latest features collaborations that enrich her already unique soundscape.
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7. Ken Carson – More Chaos
Carson’s high-energy trap beats and aggressive lyrics make this album a standout in the genre.
8. Shannon & the Clams – Year of the Spider
Blending doo-wop and garage rock, this album offers emotionally charged lyrics with vintage instrumentation.
9. Los Angeles Rising – Various Artists
A benefit compilation featuring unreleased tracks from notable artists, supporting wildfire relief efforts in California.
10. L.A. Recovers – Various Artists
Curated by Ty Segall, this vinyl-only release includes exclusive covers by Los Angeles artists, aiding wildfire recovery.
11. Deerhoof – Noble and Godlike in Ruin
Continuing their experimental journey, Deerhoof delivers an album that’s both chaotic and harmonious.
12. Seafood Sam – Standing on Giant Shoulders
Blending 70s soul with modern hip-hop, Seafood Sam creates a lush and nostalgic soundscape.
13. Derek Simpson – Sunflower
A mellow indie rock album with introspective lyrics and smooth melodies, showcasing Simpson’s growth as an artist.
14. Zikomo – Funky Town
Producer Zikomo brings infectious grooves and funky beats in this dance-worthy album.
15. Tijuana Panthers – Halfway to Eighty
The band continues their surf rock legacy with catchy riffs and laid-back vibes in their latest release.
16. Jensen McRae – I Don’t Know How But They Found Me!
McRae’s second album marks the arrival of a major talent, incorporating folk, pop, and electronic elements.
17. Viagra Boys – Viagr Aboys
Capturing a matured yet satirical punk energy, this album continues the band’s outstanding streak.
18. Dope Lemon – Golden Wolf
Favoring chilled psychedelic jams, Dope Lemon’s latest is highlighted by a standout Yamasuki cover.
19. Spiritbox – Tsunami Sea
Affirming Courtney LaPlante’s vocal prowess, this metalcore outing offers sonic variety and depth.
20. Darkside – Nothing
Delivering mesmerizing experimental electronica, Darkside’s album is a testament to their innovative sound.