Top 20 Albums of the Last Five Years, Ranked: 2020-2025

Many of the standout albums from the first half of the 2020s share a common theme. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic can be seen throughout the majority of these records. Like so many others around the world, prominent musicians found themselves in extended periods of lockdown, unable to tour or collaborate easily with their bandmates.

The pandemic significantly affected the recording and release of many of these albums. For example, AC/DC’s album “Power Up” was completed but left on the shelf for over two years due to the crisis. The uncertainty of whether it would ever be released was evident, as engineer Mike Fraser admitted feeling unsure about its future.

Beyond the logistical challenges, the emotional toll of the pandemic is reflected in the lyrics of many of these albums. Bonnie Raitt’s album “Just Like That…” from 2022 explores themes of loss, particularly mourning the passing of friends like fellow musician John Prine, who succumbed to COVID-19 in 2020.

Moreover, several albums on this list mark the triumphant return of artists after prolonged absences. The Cure’s “Songs of a Lost World” was their first new album in 16 years, while the Rolling Stones released “Hackney Diamonds,” their first collection of all-new material in 18 years. Not to be outdone, Peter Gabriel took 21 years between his album “Up” and the 2023 release of “I/O.” Fans of Tears for Fears and the Black Crowes also had to wait patiently for new music, with lengthy gaps between albums that were ultimately well-received.

Ranked by the UCR staff, here are the top 20 Rock Albums of the Half-Decade from 2020 to 2025. These albums capture the essence of the era, reflecting the challenges, losses, and triumphs of the time. Each record tells a unique story, showcasing the resilience and creativity of artists navigating unprecedented circumstances.