5. tony njoku – all our knives are always sharp (deluxe)

a gorgeous and sonically varied body of work that combines modern classical compositions (and stunning string sections), with hip-hop, dub, r&b and electronic soundscapes. tony njoku has created one of the most stunning pieces of music this year, and might be even higher on the list if i had discovered him earlier in the year. review | the album

4. caroline – caroline 2

this album feels so pure. the acoustic guitar melodies, the subtle and off-kilter drumming at times, the gentle and emotive singing culminate to this incredibly powerful listening experience. hearing them perform it live was a real joy, and the more i listen to it, the more enamoured i am by level of detail, and by the beauty in the compositions. review | the album

3. keiyaa – hooke’s law

keiyaa’s sophomore album was well worth the wait, with lush and soulful singing, as well as eclectic electronic soundscapes that are piercing and bring an emphatic energy to this immersive and eclectic body of work. there are some truly stunning moments on this album, and it’s one i have had on repeat since it came out. it’s just so good. review | the album

2. mike – showbiz!

at this point it feels like mike can do no wrong. every solo album he’s put out has been exemplary of his talents, and he just seems to be getting better and better. the murky, soulful beats, combined with his incredible lyricism, something that seems to get sharper with each and every release, make for a highly enjoyable and fun listen. it’s probably my most played album of the year, as i just keep returning to it time and time again. mike is on a generational run at the moment, and showbiz! further cements his legacy as one of the most exciting artists making music today. review | the album

1. flur – plunge

plunge is an album that has the ability to stop time for me. i am completely transfixed each and every time i put this album on. the gentle yet eclectic polyrhythmic compositions are just spellbinding. the london-based jazz trio have crafted a stunning piece of music that is adventurous and colourful, with stunning harp and saxophone melodies, as well as subtle but phenomenal drumming and percussion, inviting the listener for deep reflection and meditation. it’s rare that an album can have me this transfixed, but flur manage to do this so effortlessly, making this my favourite listening experience of the year. review | the album

that’s it! thanks to all of the artists releasing music this year, it means the world being able to listen to your ideas and sounds. and to a bigger and better 2026!

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