Best Album Releases of 2025 in Denver
The year 2025 is coming to a close, marking the end of what feels like a fast-paced, eventful period due in part to the global pandemic that started it all. However, for music enthusiasts, time is measured not only in months but in the multitude of releases dropped by talented local artists throughout the year. These releases range from singles to EPs and full-length albums, each contributing to the rich tapestry of sounds that define the music scene.
Some of the standout albums released early in the year earned the prestigious 2025 Best of Denver award, showcasing the city’s vibrant music scene. Following these initial releases, many more albums emerged, captivating listeners and earning a spot on our list of top ten favorite albums of the year. The lineup includes a diverse range of genres, from hip-hop to rock and Afrofusion, reflecting the eclectic musical landscape of the city.
Among the noteworthy albums released in 2025 is Tiny Tomboy’s latest offering, an album that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Notable mentions also go to the collaborative project Notes from the Underground Vol. 2: Denver, a vinyl and CD release that highlights the city’s psych-rock scene through twelve immersive tracks. Additionally, singles and EPs like ego n friends’ “If It Never Ends,” Monica The Great’s “Delusional,” and Malcolm Whyz3’s “THE BOX” further showcase the depth and diversity of local talent in Denver.
Turning our spotlight onto full-length albums, we have compiled a list of our top picks from Denver artists in 2025. Each album offers a unique listening experience that has captured our attention and kept us coming back for more. With a mix of new and established artists, these albums have left a lasting impression on listeners and critics alike, offering a glimpse into the creative spirit of the city’s music scene.
One standout album is TOURIST by Anthony Ruptak, an indie singer-songwriter whose poignant lyrics and emotive vocals resonate deeply with listeners. The album, released on vinyl in the summer, showcases Ruptak’s introspective and reflective songwriting, drawing inspiration from his experiences as a city paramedic. If you’re a fan of bands like Neutral Milk Hotel, Ruptak’s soulful sound is sure to captivate you.
Another album that has garnered attention is Barbara’s sophomore release, SO THIS IS LIVING, which combines indie and psychedelic influences to create a mesmerizing listening experience. The album’s philosophical musings and dreamy soundscapes transport listeners to a world of introspection and self-discovery, making it a standout addition to the local music scene in 2025.
Pushing on Portals by the hip-hop duo calm. is another standout release from 2025, exploring themes of grief, nostalgia, and quantum physics in a conceptual and thought-provoking manner. The duo’s exploration of Denver’s hip-hop roots and philosophical musings makes Pushing on Portals not only a standout hip-hop album but one of the best releases of the year overall.
Rounding out our list is Cheap Perfume’s latest album, Don’t Care. Didn’t Ask, a punk-rock anthem that channels the band’s rebellious spirit and political fervor. With tracks like “It’s Okay (to Punch Nazis)” and “Fauxminism,” Cheap Perfume delivers a high-energy, socially conscious album that resonates with listeners looking for an outlet to express their frustration and defiance.
As we bid farewell to 2025, these albums will continue to echo through the city, leaving a lasting imprint on Denver’s music landscape and inspiring a new generation of artists and listeners. So grab your headphones, tune in, and immerse yourself in the sounds of Denver’s top album releases of 2025.