Tag: Stray Kids

2025 felt like a year where music refused to sit still. Every week brought a new sound, a new story, a new artist stepping into their moment. The team at THP HQ went through the annual ritual of debating, defending, and passionately campaigning for our faves, and it wasn’t easy narrowing this beast of a year down to just fifty albums. But we did it… just about. So grab your headphones, a snack, and maybe some tissues; here are The Honey POP’s Top 50 Albums of 2025!

That’s Showbiz, Baby! – JADE

Jade had us waiting for a hot minute for this album, but wow, was it worth it. That’s Showbiz Baby! is easily one of the most exciting pop releases we’ve had in years; it’s pure pop perfection from beginning to end. Every step of the journey has felt unmistakably and unapologetically Jade. She made an unforgettable entrance with ‘Angel Of My Dreams,’ a moment so defining it earned her first-ever BRIT Award for Pop Act earlier this year. It left everyone wondering what her sound would be after such an eclectic debut. The answer? Bold, in-your-face, and absolutely brilliant. Her debut record is stacked with standouts, from the confident, main-character strut of ‘IT Girl’ to the fiery sass of ‘FUFN.’

And just when we thought she couldn’t top it, Jade closed the year by dropping That’s Showbiz Baby! The Encore, adding eight new tracks, including the stunningly dramatic ‘Church’ and her fierce take on Madonna’s ‘Frozen.’ The deluxe edition doesn’t just elevate the album; it extends the pop excellence she’s already delivered. Jade isn’t simply following trends… she is the trend. With this record, she cements her place as the newest it girl, carving out her space in pop history. And honestly? We’re fully strapped in for the ride. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Angel Of My Dreams,’ ‘It Girl,’ and ‘Church’

Golden Hour Pt 3: In Your Fantasy – ATEEZ

Honestly, these men really are making all our fantasies come true with every new piece of content they release. The third installment of the Golden Hour series gave us a softer yet more mature side of ATEEZ in the best way possible, showing how the group can do anything they put their minds to. From the moment we heard the R&B and hip-hop mixture of ‘Lemon Drop,’ we knew this album was going to be completely different from what we’ve seen before in the best way. Most of all, we’d say that’s reflected in the solo songs we got from each ATEEZ member, where we can see all their talent shine in their own unique styles. From Hongjoong’s hype beats in ‘NO1’ to Jongho’s stunning vocals in ‘To Be Your Light’, it’s safe to say that, in Captain’s words, they’re “getting in our heads,” with this album. – Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Now This House Ain’t A Home,’ ‘Lemon Drop’ and ‘In Your Fantasy’

NO LABELS: Part 01 – YEONJUN

Yeonjun’s NO LABELS: PART 01 is easily in the running for the best debut album of 2025. Although, in line with its concept, perhaps we shouldn’t give it any titles? Regardless, across the six tracks, Yeonjun fully realizes a very succinct vision, whilst also proving that he’s capable of doing any genre or style he sets his mind to. Where he could’ve turned out a perfect pop album (which we also would’ve loved), Yeonjun defied expectations by releasing an album far grittier, bolder, and more daring than anticipated.

None of these facets of Yeonjun came as a surprise to MOAs, but they are more crystal clear than ever before. From the derisive nonchalance of ‘Do It’ to the earnest sensuality of ‘Let Me Tell You (with Daniela of KATSEYE),’ NO LABELS: PART 01 is both concise and eclectic. Is it too soon to predict NO LABELS: PART 02 will be on this list in 2026? – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Coma,’ ‘Do It,’ and ‘Nothin’ ‘Bout Me’

So Close To What – Tate McRae

From a career-defining single run (seriously, probably our favorite rollout ever) to new songs that make her one of the pop princesses of the year, Tate McRae’s So Close To What has to be talked about when discussing the music that we’ve loved in 2025. This album is a masterpiece from top to bottom! Not only does it have bops that make us feel confident and let our hair loose, but it also includes some of the deepest stories that Tate has told through her tracks. So Close To What has been our favorite era with her, making it even more fun with a world tour full of amazing performances and making her even more worthy of the superstar status. It’s a perfect pop album in our books!

The deluxe, SO CLOSE TO WHAT???, is also incredible. The five songs Tate has added to her Miss Possessive universe show a lot of growth, not only in her lyrics and mission for these tracks, but also in her production. We feel like this deluxe is Tate’s best music yet. It’s so hard to choose our favorites! –
María Solano

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Miss possessive,’ ‘bloodonmyhands (feat. Flo Milli), and ‘No I’m not in love’

Beautiful Chaos – KATSEYE

Is it too soon to say that KATSEYE are well on their way to being the world’s biggest girl group? Because it certainly seems like they’re heading that way! The girls had their first comeback this year, first with ‘Gnarly,’  and then with their BEAUTIFUL CHAOS EP. Each and every song on this album has had a stand-out moment, not least ‘Gabriela,’ which earned KATSEYE their first GRAMMY nomination! The most underrated is the b-side ‘Mean Girls,’ which sees KATSEYE channel their girl-power energy in a less ferocious way than is typical for them. But, speaking of ferocious, it was ‘Gnarly’ that probably brought the girls the most notoriety; it was instantly divisive upon release, but it feels pretty safe to say it’s won over even the harshest of critics now. To anyone who still isn’t on board, haven’t you considered that boba tea is ‘Gnarly?’ – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Gnarly,’ ‘M.I.A,’ and ‘Gabriela’

UXLXVE – XLOV

XLOV is by far one of the most exciting up-and-coming groups around. And they lived up to that hype with UXLXVE, their first mini-album. In each of the six tracks, you get the sense that XLOV really understands their audience, a feat which many more established artists still grapple with. UXLXVE switches seamlessly between soft melodies, euphoric pop, and sensual R&B. We always love a K-Pop group that is so hands-on in the creative process, and that’s exactly what XLOV is. Their leader, Wumuti, is heavily involved in songwriting and production, and all the members contribute in one way or another, from their concept to their styling and beyond. And look, we wouldn’t admit to being totally obsessed with a song about rizz of all things if we could avoid it. But, just like Taemin got us with ‘The Rizzness,’ XLOV’s ‘Rizz’ is just that undeniably good. – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Rizz,’ ‘Scent,’ and ‘Biii:-P’

TUNNEL VISION – ITZY

The debate over whether to include Girls Will Be Girls or TUNNEL VISION as one of the best albums of 2025 could go on forever. It goes to show just how many incredible songs ITZY have delivered this year. Ultimately, the concept, the experimentation, and the cohesiveness in TUNNEL VISION make it the epitome of what ITZY are capable of. Starting with an intro track as gripping as ‘FOCUS,’ we knew TUNNEL VISION would be one of those mini-albums that leave a mark in ITZY’s career. ‘TUNNEL VISION’ is confident, assertive, empowering, and speaks to ITZY’s journey and restless ambition.

But ‘TUNNEL VISION’ is far from the only standout on this release; songs like ‘DYT’ elevate ideas from previous releases, and ‘8-BEAT HEART’ showcases ITZY’s unique, cheeky, fun yet experimental side. Yet songs like ‘Nocturne’ show a sweeter, yet more profound, side, without losing the sound that makes them so special. TUNNEL VISION showcases everything we love about ITZY, takes it to a whole new level, and opens the doors even further for what they can achieve as a group – and we’re here for every part of it. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘TUNNEL VISION,’ ‘DYT,’ and ‘8-BIT HEART’

Magic Man II – Jackson Wang

Magic Man II is by far one of the best albums we’ve heard this year. It’s pure, unfiltered art in the form of 11 songs that narrate the process of overcoming hard times by allowing yourself to feel your feelings and process them in a healthy way. Jackson mentioned multiple times throughout the year how taking a year off and enjoying his time with friends and family helped create all the songs present in MM II, and it shows for sure. From opening with ‘High Alone’ to closing with ‘Made Me A Man,’ we are taken on this journey of self-reflection that resonates deeply with anyone who’s been through hard moments.

Personally, we’ve listened to ‘GBAD’ more times than we’d like to admit for its message about protecting our peace even if it makes us a villain in someone else’s story, and cried listening to Jackson’s beautiful tribute to his parents in songs like ‘Dear’ and ‘Sophy Ricky.’ And we can’t finish this without mentioning how ‘Made Me A Man’ was the perfect closer to the album, reinforcing what Jackson has been saying since the beginning: everything that happens to us, good or bad, makes us who we are, we just have to accept that and make the best of it. – Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘GBAD,’ ‘Sophy Ricky’ and ‘Made Me A Man’

Breach – Twenty One Pilots

As a direct follow-up to their 2024 album, Clancy, Twenty One Pilots released one album to tie up the lore and storylines they had been building up for over a decade. And just like Clancy last year, Breach has unsurprisingly made it into our top albums of the year! Breach is first and foremost an album that celebrates the universe Twenty One Pilots have created with every aspect of their art: from the music, to the lyrics, to the music videos. The end of Clancy announced the comeback of Blurryface, and Breach sees how they go face-to-face with this infamous character, precisely a decade after the release of Blurryface.

Breach has even more layers than the usual Twenty One Pilots release, as it includes, in the most genius and satisfying way, references to some of their most iconic and meaningful songs. From tracks like ‘City Walls, ‘ which follow Twenty One Pilots’ signature sound, to songs like ‘Days Lie Dormant,’ which offer a new element to their discography. Even as Breach reminisces on Twenty One Pilots’ journey as artists, it also expands their horizons as musicians and brings something new and refreshing to the table. Twenty One Pilots’ entire career comes down to this album, and it is a beyond-impressive one. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘City Walls,’ ‘The Contract,’ and ‘Downstairs’

Man’s Best Friend – Sabrina Carpenter

Call men out on their cr*p and face your problems head-on, but make it cute: the recipe for success, according to Miss Sabrina Carpenter. And let’s face it, it’s working wonders for her (and us), and Man’s Best Friend is proof of it. We can’t count how many times we’ve screamed the lyrics to ‘Manchild’ in our cars or laughed while listening to ‘Nobody’s Son’ because it reminded us of someone, but that’s the magic of Sabrina’s music: it makes serious situations lighter with her cheeky lyrics and unique voice. In our opinion, it’s only further up from here for this pop princess, and we can only hope to be along for the ride with her! – Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Manchild,’ ‘Nobody’s Son’ and ‘Never Getting Laid’

K-Pop Demon Hunters Soundtrack

Now, how could we write about our top 50 albums without including the soundtrack of the year? K-Pop Demon Hunters not only smashed it in terms of movie records, but its soundtrack album was quite the success, too. From the lightning-fast energy of anthems like ‘Golden’ and ‘How It’s Done’ to the sleek swagger of villain-boy-band bops like ‘Soda Pop’ and ‘Your Idol,’  the album takes you on a wild ride between hero-team high drama and devilish-charm chaos.

Then, when tracks like ‘What It Sounds Like’ drop for the stirring score, you feel that emotional weight, like battle scars made beautiful by music. Whether you’re rooting for the supernatural girl-group heroes or vibing with the darker side, the soundtrack never asks you to pick sides, it just demands you dance, feel, and get swept up. K-Pop Demon Hunters doesn’t just soundtrack a story; it gives you a full-on K-Pop fantasy world you might never want to leave. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s Song Picks: ‘How It’s Done’, ‘Soda Pop’, and ‘Golden’

Wishbone – Conan Gray

Conan Gray only needs a guitar and his lyrics to create one of the best albums of the year. After the release of Found Heaven last year, a new Conan Gray album wasn’t in our bingo card for 2025. Yet, Wishbone arrived in our lives to take over all of our playlists. For this album, Conan went back to his roots and stripped the creation down to just him and a few trusted producers. The result was a raw album full of vulnerability and some of his best songwriting as he tells an introspective story of a failed love. And no one does that quite like Conan Gray.

The title says it all: Wishbone refers to the way someone always gets the biggest piece of a wishbone. Kicking off the album with ‘Actor,’ the song already announces where the story would end, and yet tracks like ‘This Song’ make us feel every ounce of love that was once there. Songs like ‘Nauseous’ are where Conan shines as a songwriter, opening up about himself through his music, being raw and vulnerable. Still, his use of imagery and metaphor reaches its peak in ‘Eleven Eleven.’ Conan has always been an incredible storyteller, and through this album, he showed even more growth as an artist, and yes, these songs will haunt us forever now. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Actor,’ ‘Vodka Cranberry,’ and ‘Eleven Eleven’

ORDER Chaos ORDER – Calum Hood

5 Seconds of Summer has given us so much this year, but one thing that they never lack is incredible music. As we reflect on our favorite albums of 2025, we have to mention the masterpiece by our beloved Calum: ORDER chaos ORDER.

If we were to describe this album in one word, we would use vulnerability. Mr. Calum Hood has always left us speechless with the way his music is both relatable and unique, and ORDER chaos ORDER is a rollercoaster of emotions. This project is for those who love to be connected with their deepest feelings, but also for the dreamers. Our favorite thing from this incredible album is the lyricism. Calum does a lot of introspection throughout these tracks, thinking about the “what ifs” and the “what could’ve beens” while giving us the feeling of living in a permanent summer sunset.

We’re so thankful for living in the same timeline as this genius, and we are so proud of Calum for allowing us to explore this solo musical journey!

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Streetwise,’ ‘Dark Circles,’ ‘Sunsetter’

Sidequest – Michael Clifford

Speaking of 5SOS and their 10/10 run this year, we obviously have to mention the coolness of Michael Clifford! His solo album, SIDEQUEST, gives us super fun aesthetics and a taste of pop-punk blending that has sparkled in Michael’s style since he started sharing his music with us. Eclectic colors, fuzzy shapes, and video game screens are the visual standouts of this era, but he also wanted to share how mature he has become and push his producing abilities for this release. Michael wanted to combine his alternative music lover personality with his newest electronic inspirations to make SIDEQUEST as authentic as possible. And we think he has covered all of his wishes with this release!

He has collaborated with some amazing artists for some of the tracks, but SIDEQUEST is a purely Michael Clifford creation. From writing all the lyrics to mastering the record, Michael has poured his entire soul in his solo adventure. We’re so happy that our 2025 has been blessed by his great songs!

THP’s Song Picks: ‘give me a break! (feat. waterparks)’ because we will always be PARXSOS truthers, ‘cool,’ ‘enough’

Caligo Pt.1 – PLAVE

PLAVE’s Caligo Pt.1 slinks onto your playlist like moonlight on water, moody, stylish, and full of surprises. From the rock-fuelled punch of opener ‘Dash’ to the silky R&B glow of ‘Island,’ the record shows off the group’s range without ever tipping into over-ambition. Tracks like ‘Chroma Drift’ bring retro city-pop warmth with airy saxophone lines and smooth grooves, while ‘12:32 (A to T)’ offers a quiet, tender moment that feels like a whispered late-night promise.

Even the laid-back hip-hop charm of ‘RIZZ’ adds a cheeky swagger, proving PLAVE aren’t afraid to play with tone and texture. Caligo Pt. 1 is a polished, genre-hopping mini-album that shows PLAVE knows exactly how to set a mood, whether you’re craving a punch, a slow groove, or a dreamy escape. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Chroma Drift,’ ‘Island,’ and ‘Dash’

fe304: FORWARD – NMIXX

If there’s one group we could easily add both releases of the year to the list, it would hands down be NMIXX. With the release of Blue Valentine later in the year, they made history and established themselves as the force they were always meant to be. And while Blue Valentine is the first full-length album of a lifetime and would also deserve a place in our list, it is difficult to compete against the absolute jaw-dropping masterpiece that is their Fe304: FORWARD mini-album.

Starting the era with ‘High Horse,’ we knew NMIXX weren’t here to play, as they showcased their contemporary dancing skills and their beyond-powerful vocals. ‘High Horse’ is the most unique, special, and mind-blowing release of K-Pop, not only this year. And the best song of the year could only be followed by a show-stopping title track like ‘KNOW ABOUT ME,’ which highlighted their harmonies and synergy. It doesn’t stop there, though, because every song in Fe304: FORWARD is a unique piece that showcases NMIXX’s restless love for experimenting with music, vocals, and pushing their sound beyond any barrier, leading us to K-Pop excellence in songs like ‘Papillon.’ From track 1 with ‘High Horse’ to track 6 with ‘Ocean,’ FE304: FORWARD is a masterclass in not only what K-Pop can and should be, but also in what music is all about. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘High Horse,’ ‘KNOW ABOUT ME,’ and ‘Papillon’

People Watching – Sam Fender

Sam Fender scored a hat-trick with his third studio album, People Watching. We’ve been fans of Sam for a long time, and we’re still taken by surprise every time he releases something new, and he’s somehow managed to get even better! In People Watching, Sam, once again, delves into the personal and political. And not the kind of grand, sweeping political gesturing many celebrities make, but deeply felt, nuanced commentaries on social class, capitalism, and more. This has been a keystone in Sam’s discography from the start, but it’s rare not to see this fade away once an artist reaches the levels of success that Sam has. The intricate nature of Sam’s lyricism is only amplified by the stadium-level production he puts behind it. The duality shouldn’t work, but for the third album in a row, Sam Fender has proved he’s one of the few who can make it happen. – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘People Watching,’ ‘Chin Up,’ and ‘Remember My Name’

The Star Chapter: Together – TOMORROW X TOGETHER

TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s latest full-length album, The Star Chapter: TOGETHER, feels like a kaleidoscope of sounds and emotions, all tied together by the group’s unmistakable energy and ambition. From the vibrant, ‘80s-tinged synth-pop of opener ‘Upside Down Kiss’ to the soaring, yearning melodies of lead single ‘Beautiful Strangers,’ the album draws you in with lush production and hooks that linger.

The solo songs, from the carefree falsetto glide of ‘Sunday Driver’ to the raw emotional surge of ‘Take My Half,’ let each member shine in their own lane while still feeling connected to the group’s wider universe. When tracks like ‘Bird of Night’ drift in on soft piano and gentle vocals, or when ‘Dance With You’ pulses with sultry rhythm and playful groove, TXT shows they’re unafraid to explore new moods and musical corners. The Star Chapter: TOGETHER doesn’t just showcase growth, it delivers a full-on emotional ride, blending confidence, vulnerability, and that signature “we’re all in this together” spirit that makes it impossible not to hit replay. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Beautiful Strangers,’ ‘Ghost Girl,’ and ‘Song of the Stars’

Love & Hyperbole – Alessia Cara

With the release of ‘Dead Man’ as the lead single of Alessia Cara’s new album last summer, Love & Hyperbole was an album that had been among our most anticipated of 2025. And ten months after its release, it has remained one of the year’s most memorable albums. Songs like ‘Subside’ and ‘Fire’ find their way back into our minds constantly. Alessia Cara’s pen has never failed, but Love & Hyperbole reveals a side of her that is even more mature, profound, and introspective, while showcasing her unique, striking vocals. From ‘Dead Man,’ she dipped her toes into a more jazzy, darker side, and it set the tone for the entirety of the album.

Released on Valentine’s Day, she created a unique atmosphere in Love & Hyperbole where she explored all the different sides of love – the sense of freedom, the beauty, the heartbreak, and the aftermath. It’s smooth and relaxing, yet all the songs are filled with nuanced emotions in the most cathartic way, including some of her most beautiful songs about love and growth. Alessia has always had a way with music that sets her apart, and no album has showcased her unique vision and way with words quite like Love & Hyperbole. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Subside,’ ‘Clearly,’ and ‘Fire.’

Übermensch – G-Dragon

The king of K-Pop returns with another album full of bangers. Truly, GD is the Übermensch of the industry. Named after Nietzsche’s concept of the new goal for humanity, translated as “beyond-man,” the album definitely reflects the notion of “an individual who transcends themselves,” as G-Dragon himself put it. After 12 years without releasing a full-length album, GD reinvented himself once again and brought us eight insane tracks that just scream “this is what K-Pop is about,” mixing genres, bringing killer collabs, and reminding us why he’s considered one of the best rappers in the industry.

If we had to choose a single lyric to highlight from this album, it would have to be, “prove ‘em all wrong, I’ve got all the receipts,” from ‘Power,’ because there’s nothing quite like feeling like you have the power to do anything, and that’s exactly the feeling this song brings out in us. Also, excuse us while we fangirl over ‘Home Sweet Home,’ where GD brings his Big Bang members, Taeyang and Daesung, along for the ride, and they make it clear that their, “golden days are still alive,” which we couldn’t be happier to hear! – Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Too Bad,’ ‘Power’ and ‘Drama’

Perrie – Perrie

After years of anticipation, our girl Perrie finally dropped her debut self-titled album… and it was worth every second of the wait. From the energetic yet bittersweet debut single ‘Forget About Us’ to the sassy, confident punch of ‘If He Wanted To He Would,’ this record delivers an irresistible mix of belting choruses and catchy hooks that practically beg you to roll the windows down and scream along. When she shifts into heart-tugging ballads like ‘Miss You’ or ‘Same Place Different View,’ her voice, crisp, emotive, and rich, turns heartbreak into something beautifully cathartic.

And then there are the groove-soaked moments like ‘Sand Dancer’ and ‘Pushing Up Daisies,’ proving Perrie is just as magnetic on the dance floor as she is behind a piano ballad. Overall, Perrie plays like the ultimate pop playlist: warm, inviting, and full of personality. It marks the official arrival of a solo star whose shine isn’t going anywhere. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s song picks: ‘Sand Dancer’, ‘Miss You’, and ‘If He Wanted To He Would’

KARMA – Stray Kids

Following world-changing releases like GO LIVE, NOEASY, and 5-STAR, the stakes and expectations were high for Stray Kids’ fourth full-length album, and KARMA met them without breaking a sweat. KARMA is an album that put Stray Kids’ success as a self-produced group in the forefront – it celebrated all sides of their artistry, their journey, their passion for music, their bond as a group, and their connection to fans. Coming right off the biggest K-Pop tour of the year, KARMA is directly inspired by the energy Stray Kids brought to the stage every night, as shown through songs like ‘Half Time.’

We also had hard-hitting songs with Stray Kids’ unique energy and undeniable rap skills, like ‘BLEEP’ and ‘CREED,’ as well as new ventures into EDM with ‘Phoenix’ and pop-punk with ‘In My Head.’ ‘MESS,’ ‘Ghost’ and ‘0801’ showed more vulnerability and introspection, giving KARMA a life on its own. It only makes sense that Stray Kids’ karma would come to fruition with this album, giving them their first MAMA daesang for Album of the Year. But more than anything, KARMA was about ‘CEREMONY’ and celebrating Stray Kids’ success despite adversity and the impact of their music. They were right: that ratio did get them worldwide. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘BLEEP,’ ‘CEREMONY,’ and ‘Phoenix’

Zara Larsson getting her flowers is long overdue, but better late than never! A long-time star across Europe, the U.S. is finally starting to take notice, thanks to the virality of Midnight Sun and Zara’s stint supporting Tate McRae on tour. Zara is by far one of pop’s most down-to-earth, relatable stars, whilst still giving us all the glitz and glam we could ever ask for! With Midnight Sun, Zara shows off her duality. The album is full of Eurodance and house-influenced tracks, underneath vocals so strong that she’s nicknamed Beyoncé’s adopted daughter. In the era of TikTok music, Zara Larsson has our vote as an artist who is doing that right, with integrity, and has our recommendation as a must-follow on social media! – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Girl’s Girl,’ ‘Midnight Sun,’ and ‘Blue Moon’

Idols – YUNGBLUD

YUNGBLUD is another artist who we’re thrilled to see finally getting their dues stateside! Idols kind of does what it says on the tin, full of references to the artists who inspire YUNGBLUD. From the offset of ‘Hello Heaven, Hello,’ YUNGBLUD is taking you on a journey, throughout musical styles but also seemingly through his own psyche, though YUNGBLUD himself has said this album came from the heart rather than the head. Since the very onset of his career, YUNGBLUD has toyed with genres with a very on-brand anarchic sensibility. Idols is no different, gifting us with stadium rock anthems featuring the London Philharmonic Orchestra. “Tell me, do you wanna feel alive?” Then listen to Idols. – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Hello Heaven, Hello,’ ‘Zombie,’ and ‘Lovesick Lullaby’

Knees Up – Olly Murs

Olly Murs’ new album Knees Up feels like a full-on invitation to the ultimate party; cheeky, upbeat, and unmistakably him. From the high-energy opener ‘Save Me’ to the ska-tinged swagger of ‘Bonkers,’ the record bursts with big hooks, big horns, and that playful charm fans always fall for. But there’s still plenty of heart woven in. Tracks like ‘Love = Madness’ and ‘Honest’ slip effortlessly between the pop bangers, giving space to his softer, more vulnerable side without dimming the party lights.

When he slows things down, whether it’s a tender ballad or a mellow groove, his vocals shine with that signature warmth and sincerity. In fact, this might be the closest we’ve ever gotten to Olly’s true live sound. So many of these songs carry the “big band” energy his concerts are known for, and it gives the whole record that full-bodied, feel-good lift. Knees Up isn’t here to reinvent the wheel; it’s here to remind you exactly why Olly Murs became the soundtrack to summer nights and late-night drives in the first place. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Save Me’, ‘Run This Town,’ and ‘Honest‘

Detox – ONE OK ROCK

You can always trust that ONE OK ROCK to deliver an album that will leave its mark on our entire year. Their eleventh album, DETOX, came out back in February and has remained in our top albums of the year. After the release of Luxury Disease in 2022, ONE OK ROCK collaborated with the legendary producer Rob Cavallo to create magic once again. The main single, ‘Dystopia,’ says it all: DETOX questions the world, sees the ugliness, but also serves as a break and a necessary cathartic disconnect from the real world. While DETOX has some good pop bangers like ‘Tropical Therapy,’ it also saw ONE OK ROCK going back to their roots: it’s their heaviest album in years.

It opens with a track like ‘NASTY’ that hits hard just in the right way, and they collaborated with Paledusk and CHICO CARLITO in one of their heaviest tracks yet, ‘C.U.R.I.O.S.I.T.Y.’ And still, it has its vulnerable and beautiful moments like ‘Tiny Pieces’ and even more so ‘This Can’t Be Us’ that push their musicality and Taka’s vocals even more. DETOX is an album that manages to package everything that makes ONE OK ROCK so special and unique, all their experimentation and experience with different genres, into 11 flawless tracks. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Nasty,’ ‘Party’s Over,’ and ‘This Can’t Be Us’

Hometown – BamBam

BamBam Thai album. That’s it, that’s the tweet. Actually, it’s not, we’re gonna talk a lot about Hometown. For the first time in 14 years since his debut, BamBam released an EP fully in Thai, and the project is all we could’ve wanted and so much more! From the dreamy vibes of ‘WONDERING’ all the way to the more modern feel of ‘Dancing By Myself,’ HOMETOWN is a beautiful and heartwarming tribute to his origins, and we can definitely hear all the love and care BamBam put into every song, once again proving his talent knows no bounds. And neither do his connections in the industry, apparently, seeing as he got some of the most popular names in Thai music to feature in HOMETOWN.

Seriously, Jeff Satur in ‘More Than Friend,’ TIMETHAI in ‘Dancing By Myself’ and INK WARUNTORN in ‘Greenlight?’ Perfection! And we can’t help but mention how finishing the EP off with ‘Angel in Disguise,’ an ethereal fantasy in song form produced by Pharrell Williams, that really evokes the feeling of coming home. More than an album, HOMETOWN is an invitation into BamBam’s world, and we’re more than happy to accept it.– Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘WONDERING,’ ‘More Than Friend’ and ‘Angel in Disguise’

The Life Of A Showgirl – Taylor Swift

The Life of a Showgirl may have been released in October, but it became one of the most talked about albums of the year in a matter of a few hours – needless to say, that even after the Eras Tour, Taylor is still taking the world by storm. Taylor Swift mixed a new and old approach when it came to the writing of this album, going back to her most-pop era collaborator Max Martin – the mastermind behind her best and most iconic albums, such as 1989 and Reputation – but also offering a new style of writing in these songs.

Opening the album with pure Taylor pop gold with ‘The Fate of Ophelia,’ there was no escaping this song or this entire album. Catchy pop songs like ‘Opalite’ and ‘Elizabeth Taylor’ explored her newfound peace and love, while delving into some of her deeper past fears, and songs like ‘Father Figure’ explored darker sides of the industry. The final and title track of the album sums up the message of the entire release, and choosing to feature Sabrina Carpenter is nothing short of genius. The Life of a Showgirl explores the pressure of the public eye, the complex relationships within the industry, but also love and change, all in the unique style of Taylor Swift. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘The Fate of Ophelia,’ ‘Elizabeth Taylor,’ and ‘Opalite’

Echo – Jin

Jin’s new solo drop, Echo, sits somewhere between a heart-shattering breakup diary and a late-night drive soundtrack, and it is deliciously dramatic. From the gut-punch ache of the lead single ‘Don’t Say You Love Me’ to the smoky pop-rock moments that slide between piano-led introspection and guitar-fuelled alt-rock, this record finds Jin digging deeper into his feelings than ever. His voice? Still, that honey-soft velvet that somehow makes heartbreak sound golden.

Tracks like the tongue-in-cheek country-rock standout ‘Rope It’ add a playful, familiar charm, giving his more cinematic, melancholic moments even more room to breathe. And when he leans fully into that emotional storytelling, the album glows with the kind of star power only Jin can pull off: confident, tender, and unexpectedly bold all at once. Echo doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it polishes it so well that by the time the last track fades out, you realize it’s taken you for a ride anyway. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s Top Picks: ‘Background,’ ‘With The Clouds,’ and ‘Rope It’

This Is For – TWICE

We have to talk about TWICE every year, their music is a staple for us! Our favorite girls have celebrated their tenth anniversary this year, and that shows how unstoppable they’ve been in 2025! We feel like we’ve grown with them through this decade, and their full album from this year, THIS IS FOR, is a perfect example, celebrating their evolution as well as a new chapter for the group.

TWICE reflects and shows their talent through THIS IS FOR with songs that include the whole group, as well as amazing sub-units that were amazing surprises for us! With this album, we’ve gotten to hear new combinations and new styles that we’ve never heard before, and it’s incredible how much the members want to show new sides of themselves, even after ten years of releasing some of the most iconic K-Pop tracks. They want to show us how passionate they are, as well as deliver empowering messages to their fans. THIS IS FOR is TWICE’s most mature project, and it keeps being as fun, groovy, and legendary as the rest of their discography! Our biggest 2025 wish is to keep celebrating more decades with them!

THP’s Song Picks: ‘OPTIONS,’ ‘BATTITUDE (NAYEON, JEONGYEON, MOMO, MINA),’ ‘TALK (NAYEON, JIHYO)’

HOPE – ARrC

You know we love our rookie groups, and ARrC is no exception. We knew these boys were going to be big since their debut last year with AR^C, and this year’s releases only confirmed our suspicions. Their third mini-album, HOPE, released in July, brought us five absolute bangers that showcase the group’s musical versatility, going from ‘awesome,’ which takes inspiration from 2000s hip-hop, all the way to the neo-soul influences of ‘night life.’ We also can’t help but mention the messages in their lyrics.

Staying true to their name (“Always Remember the real Connection”), the group’s focus stays on positive messages about staying optimistic even in the middle of a chaotic world and staying true to yourself, and we cannot wait to see what our boys will be up to next in their career! – Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘awesome,’ ‘night life’ and ‘vitamin I’

Only cry in the rain – CHUU

In the post-LOONA era we unfortunately have to live in, the girls continuously make it better by giving us some of the best releases K-Pop has to offer. This year, Chuu may have been booked and busy in variety shows and having her own tour, but it didn’t stop her from giving us her best mini-album yet: Only cry in the rain. Her previous flawless mini-albums established her as a soloist, and Only cry in the rain allowed her to go even deeper, offering five extremely recognizable, unique songs that fit together like a beautiful puzzle. ‘Only cry in the rain’ has a very clear concept and message: to find hope even in the darkest times while embracing all your emotions, including the pain.

Chuu used her addictive energy and positivity to create a mini-album that brings comfort and love, and doesn’t forget to have fun like in songs like ‘Back in Town’ and the viral ‘Kiss a Kitty.’ While ‘Je t’aime’ is a beautiful love song, ‘No More’ ends the release on a high note of positivity and empowerment. All tied together by Chuu’s infectious personality and stunning vocals, Only cry in the rain became a ray of light in our lives. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Only cry in the rain,’ ‘Je t’aime,’ and ‘No More’

Underwater – Big Ocean

2025 marked a huge turning point for Big Ocean. A year into their debut, they stepped confidently into a mature, sultry concept that completely shed any “young and innocent” expectations people once had. Their second mini album, Underwater, pulls you straight into an ocean of mystery; it’s moody, cinematic, and fully immersive. From the raw ache of PJ’s solo track ‘SINKING’ to the slick, cool allure of ‘FADE OUT,’ co-penned by Chanyeon, every song feels like a wave tugging at your heartstrings.

Then comes the title track ‘ATTENTION,’ a hypnotic surge of confidence with commanding vocals that dare you to dive deeper. And by the time ‘End of Time’ drifts in under moonlight, a love letter to PADO straight from the members’ hearts, it feels like the final piece of a fully realised concept. Underwater isn’t just a comeback; it’s a transformation. With its mermaid-inspired visuals, emotional depth, and bold tonal shift, the album proves that Big Ocean isn’t afraid to explore their shadowy depths, and they surface stronger, more expressive, and endlessly magnetic. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Attention,’ ‘Sinking,’ and ‘End Of Time’

The Misunderstood EP – Hannah Bahng

Our Aussie girl is back once more on this list with another bahng-er (hehe) in the form of The Misunderstood EP. Vocals? On point. Lyrics? Gut-wrenchingly beautiful. Our ears? Blessed! One of our absolute faves from the EP is ‘IM ME AGAIN,’ an ethereal track that showcases both Hannah’s talent for lyricism as well as her gorgeous voice in the best way possible. We also got our hearts slightly broken while listening to ‘RIBS,’ but coming from Hannah, we’re willing to accept that. The Misunderstood EP feels like a natural evolution from her previous release, The Abysmal EP, but more mature and experienced, and we cannot wait to see what comes next for this amazing girl we love so much. – Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘what never lived,’ ‘IM ME AGAIN,’ and ‘RIBS’

Wait On Me – KAI

KAI’s fourth solo album was far more understated than its predecessors, but no less worthy of acclaim or a spot on our top 50! KAI’s first release since returning from the military, everyone was anticipating Wait On Me, whether you’re an EXOL or not. Wait On Me also brought KAI’s first solo tour, which THP was lucky enough to attend, basically making all our dreams come true. And no, we won’t be taking this opportunity to talk about the ‘Pressure’ choreography. The singles, ‘Adult Swim’ and ‘Wait On Me,’ didn’t have the same fanfare as the likes of ‘Rover’ or ‘Mmmh,’ but still reiterated KAI’s status as one of K-Pop’s very best. Wait On Me is rife with KAI’s sensual artistry, honey-smooth vocals, and legendary performance skills. As KAI says in ‘Flight to Paris,’ “Get away from the mundane,” and check out Wait On Me. – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Flight to Paris,’ ‘Walls Don’t Talk,’ and ‘Pressure’

DESIRE : UNLEASH – ENHYPEN

We can trust ENHYPEN to always deliver incredible music, and their 2025, DESIRE: UNLEASH, is truly everything that we wanted, and more! We have already explored their sweet romantic side with ROMANCE: UNTOLD, but this year’s project was a total 180 (in the best way!). With this comeback, ENHYPEN wanted to focus more on the mysterious lust and daring side of vampires. Everything surrounding DESIRE: UNLEASH was designed to make us want more, from the amazing songs to the visuals that they keep on serving!

We believe that ENHYPEN has created one of the best K-Pop discographies ever, and the addictive tracks from this project could only have been created by this group. The title track, ‘Bad Desire (With or Without You),’ follows how the group longs and yearns for true love. It goes along with their lore so well! And, of course, their b-sides keep getting better and better, following their enigmatic sides with passion and fiery romance. We love how the group keeps adding chapters to their storytelling through music that we can’t get enough of! – María Solano

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Outside,’ ‘Helium,’ and ‘Bad Desire (With or Without You)’

Winter Heptagon – GOT7

Mature, charming, and unapologetically GOT7 at its finest… that’s how we’d describe Winter Heptagon in one sentence. We knew this year was going to be a good one when we heard Winter Heptagon for the first time in January. With nine songs total and at least one written by each member, GOT7’s 13th mini album truly shows off how versatile the group is. And it’s amazing to be able to tell which song belongs to who just by listening. We knew the R&B vibe present in ‘Remember’ was Yugyeom’s doing, and ‘SMOOTH’ has Jackson’s signature written all over it, and that goes for all of them.

We were so glad to see GOT7 back together, making music and visibly enjoying every second. Frankly, Winter Heptagon brought us some much-needed warmth, and we can’t wait to see what else our lovely, chaotic seven have in store for us in the future. – Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘PYTHON,’ ‘Yours Truly,’ and ‘SMOOTH’

Am I The Drama? – Cardi B

Seven years is a long time to wait for a sophomore album, but Am I The Drama? proves, once again, that Cardi B plays by her own rules and comes out on top. Across 23 songs, Cardi flexes her versatility to such an extent that even dedicated fans might’ve been surprised. From vulnerable R&B to maximalist anthems to that highly anticipated diss track, not one of these songs could be accused of being filler. Another decision Cardi made for Am I The Drama? that we love? With the exception of ‘Up’ and ‘WAP,’ Cardi didn’t add the plethora of hit singles she’s had in the interim between Invasion of Privacy and Am I The Drama?. In a music industry that’s ruled by numbers, the decision to prioritize artistry over debuting an album with an extra 2 billion streams from the get-go is one we’ll always respect. – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Imaginary Playerz,’ ‘Pretty & Petty,’ and ‘Safe’

Permission to Dance On Stage: Live – BTS

2025 marked a huge moment in BTS history: the year all seven members finally returned from military service, sending ARMY into full celebration mode. Soon after their discharge, the members headed straight back into the studio to begin preparing for their highly anticipated return to music. While we’re more than happy to wait (perfection takes time, after all), they made sure we were well fed in the meantime with Permission To Dance: LIVE. Pulled from shows between 2021 and 2022, this project is BTS’s first-ever live album, and it serves as a powerful reminder of just how phenomenal they are as performers.

The album leans into nostalgia while spotlighting the strength of their live vocals, even as they tackle intense choreography. From fresh arrangements on classics like ‘FIRE’ to the rich, prominent live instrumentals, Permission To Dance: LIVE brings us one step closer to their eagerly awaited 2026 comeback and the tour that the members have been teasing. It leaves us buzzing for the day we finally see all seven of them light up a stage together again. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Fire,’ ‘Black Swan,’ and ‘Permission To Dance’

WRLD – The Rose

If you asked us what The Rose’s WRLD feels like, we’d say it feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s like Woosung, Dojoon, Hajoon, and Jaehyung are telling us everything will be okay through these seven songs. And not only did they do that through the lyrics, but The Rose also gave us a stunning video on their YouTube channel where they play the songs, creating a truly immersive experience for all of us.

As huge fans of immersive visuals in songwriting that we are, of course, we’d be obsessed with ‘Nebula,’ where subtle chords mix with lyrics like, “Counting stars, I closed my eyes / Searching for answers of life…” to create a perfect atmosphere. We’re also absolutely in love with Tomorrow’ and how it brings the feeling of being hopeful for the future, after all, “Tomorrow we’ll be okay.” And now on to the closing track, ‘Ticket To The Sky,’ it honestly feels like coming home to who we love and feeling safe in their embrace. Yes, we cried a little (or a lot). Don’t judge us. – Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Nebula,’ ‘Tomorrow’ and ‘Ticket To The Sky’

SWAG – Justin Bieber

2025 has been the year of unforgettable comebacks, including the rise of the iconic Justin Bieber, and bringing him back to our on-repeat playlists! Justin has released not one, but two special R&B albums, called SWAG and SWAG II. These releases show us how much this genre and his personal style are a true fit for one another. We’ve decided to focus on the first album from this duology, since it was the one that announced his big return, but we recommend listening to both to get the complete story of where Justin has been.

As Justin has been experiencing adulthood, this new music represents growth. SWAG is a collection of his feelings while dealing with adult themes such as faith, marriage, and loyalty. As enjoyers of Justin’s R&B, we fell in love with this album. All of the tracks are cohesive, and they’re perfect if you want to enjoy the production and collaboration that comes with this genre. We can’t talk about 2025 without mentioning this big comeback!

THP’s Song Picks: ‘TOO LONG,’ ‘405,’ ‘WALKING AWAY’

No Genre – BOYNEXTDOOR

Listening to BOYNEXTDOOR turns our whole day around! We can recognize their music anywhere by their energy, and 2025 has been an incredibly busy year for them. They’ve shown us how versatile they are through this year’s releases, including No Genre, a mini-album full of tracks created by the members that highlights the message of embracing your true identity.

No Genre’s songs are playful and colorful, and they are all incredibly different from one another! If this were your first taste of the group, you would’ve discovered their hunger to display their artistry. BOYNEXTDOOR was in charge of this entire comeback, including the storytelling and the lyricism of the tracks. The members are deeply connected with No Genre, and we’re so happy to see that more groups are in charge of their creative works in K-Pop. This project shows that the group is here to conquer K-Pop’s fifth gen, and we can’t wait to keep seeing what they create in their next releases!

THP’s Song Picks: ‘I Feel Good,’ ‘123-78,’ and ‘Next Mistake’

Everyone’s A Star! – 5SOS

If you’re at all familiar with The Honey POP and our origin story, you would’ve probably expected this album in our top 50, right? After three long years (the pain of which was admittedly soothed by solo releases from every member), 5SOS returned with EVERYONE’S A STAR!, and we’re toying with the notion that this might be their best album yet. This album truly encapsulates all four members’ musical tastes, their sense of humor, their fanbase, and their talents. EAS! is an album that could only be made by a band that has been in the industry as long as 5SOS has; it exists perfectly in the balance between being self-aware and realistic, without being jaded and cynical. Even more than that, EVERYONE’S A STAR! was 5SOS’s most exciting (and well-executed) album rollout yet. Move over, ’She’s Kinda Hot’ graffiti livestream! – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Evolve,’ ‘Boyband,’ and ‘istillfeelthesame’

Ruby – JENNIE

If you were wondering, no, nobody does it like JENNIE! 2025 has been a huge year for the BLACKPINK members, both as a group with a new release and a world tour, and as soloists. All of them now have incredible albums under their belts! We want to highlight one of our favorites that has been appearing in all of our Spotify Wrappeds: Ruby. JENNIE has always been one of our favorite K-POP icons, but this album has made her conquer all of our hearts and our playlists!

We always associate Ruby with empowerment and owning your personal evolution. We have been craving to enjoy a full project created by JENNIE for as long as we can remember, and we wanted to hear her story from her, and only from her. We knew she was going to knock our socks out, as she has always delivered breathtaking concepts and songs that make history. This album gives us a glimpse into JENNIE’s creative mind through raw storytelling and versatility. Whether you prefer to listen to her iconic and catchy raps, her pop perfection with collaborations with amazing artists, or you love her vocals and her exploration through her growth, JENNIE does it all in Ruby. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect project to define our year! – María Solano

THP’s Song Picks: ‘with the IE (way up),’ ‘ZEN,’ ‘Filter’ (and of course, special mention to ‘like JENNIE’. Such an iconic title track!)

Back To Life – &TEAM

&TEAM’s Korean debut had been highly anticipated for three years, albeit a little confusingly, given they’ve always straddled the line between J-Pop and K-Pop, and have promoted Korean versions of most of their songs. But nonetheless, we’re so happy they’ve officially debuted, but we’re pretty sure &TEAM’s excitement superseded even the most hyped LUNÉs. The members clearly worked so hard on every aspect of this era, from the vocals to the performance to all of the extracurricular activities that come along with being a K-Pop idol.

The title track, ‘Back To Life,’ was &TEAM at their very best, with rock melodies and vocals mixed with hip-hop sensibilities and choreography. This versatility is matched (‘Mismatch-ed?!’) with the far more overtly hip-hop influenced coupling track, ‘Lunatic.’ This one-two punch of a rock anthem and a hip-hop banger has worked for &TEAM for several comebacks now, and we don’t see that changing anytime soon. Also, what on earth happened to Jo this era?! We’re still not ok. – Anna Marie

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Lunatic,’ ‘Mismatch,’ and ‘Back To Life’

Debí Tirar Más Fotos – Bad Bunny

No one does Latin pop like Bad Bunny does Latin pop. Benito chose to start the year with a bang in the form of Debí Tirar Más Fotos. The album is a love letter to his Puerto Rican upbringing, but it resonated with the entire Latin American community, to the point where most recognized the feeling behind not just the lyrics, but also the cover with the two empty chairs.

The title track, ‘DtMF,’ deserves all the praise it got (and still gets) for translating the feeling of looking back on past moments and thinking “I should’ve appreciated these things and these people more,” and how we only seem to realize that once we’re away and missing it. We also cannot help but mention ‘LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii,’ where Bad Bunny directly tells the people of Puerto Rico not to let their home lose its identity in the same way much of Hawaiian culture has been lost over the years. In summary, one of the best albums of 2025, and we can’t wait to see what songs Benito will be performing during the Super Bowl halftime show next year. – Anna Bastos

THP’s Song Picks: ‘LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii,’ ‘DtMF’ and ‘LA MuDANZA’

Beautiful Mind – Xdinary Heroes

Xdinary Heroes debuted in 2021, and ever since, they’ve continued to push boundaries and expectations, carving out a space in the industry meant for them and them only. Last year was already a massive year for the band as they released their first full-length album, Troublemaker, and their more experimental mini-album, LIVE and FALL. Mix those two, and you get one of the absolute best releases by Xdinary Heroes yet: Beautiful Mind. ‘Beautiful Life’ is at the forefront of the album. This rhapsody draws direct inspiration from ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by Queen and ‘Welcome to the Black Parade’ by My Chemical Romance, adding Xdinary Heroes’ special spark to the mix and an opera-rock influence. It gave us one of the year’s most unique and unforgettable songs.

Beautiful Mind is a darker release, full of songs that push their sound to a new level while remaining true to Xdinary Heroes’ colors. From powerful ballads like ‘Supernatural’ to impactful, fun songs like ‘BBB,’ Xdinary Heroes packed some of their most unique and impressive songs in this mini-album, and created a new precedent in K-POP with Beautiful Mind. – Juu Luquín

THP’s Song Picks: ‘Beautiful Life,’ ‘Supernatural,’ and ‘George the Lobster’

DUH! – P1HARMONY

The dark horse of K-Pop struck again in 2025 with the greatest comebacks ever! P1Harmony has been, once again, one of our favorite boy groups of the year, as they’ve shown us more of their craft and their incredible music and charisma. They’re here to stay, and they will be loudly and confidently proud of how much they’ve worked to create their style. As they keep it fresh with every release, we proudly say that DUH! is one of our favorite records of the year!

DUH! is a mini-album that focuses more on the old-school hip hop style, but it also adds new genres to their iconic discography, like afrobeats and hyperpop tunes. These six tracks give us verses that leave us speechless, as well as a massive boost of energy and confidence! All of the songs from this record are playful and fun, reminding us that P1Harmony never plays about exploring new sounds and new dance moves to make their discography the most memorable of them all. This comeback is a breath of fresh air in K-Pop; they’re the only ones that can make such incredible music like this!

THP’s Song Picks: Pretty Boy,’ ‘DUH!,’ and ‘Work’

HUNTER – Key

Key’s HUNTER crashes in like a neon-soaked thriller; bold, stylish, and completely unafraid to push boundaries. From the pounding, bass-heavy swagger of the title track ‘HUNTER’ to the ‘90s-groove bounce of ‘Infatuation’ (ft. Eunho of PLAVE), the album shows off Key’s fearless flair for blending pop-house, R&B, and experimental electronics into something fresh and electrifying.

Tracks like ‘Picture Frame’ deliver dreamy synth-house that blurs the line between reality and fantasy, while the dance-floor-ready ‘GLAM’ and the edgy, off-kilter ‘Want Another’ prove Key still lives for the unexpected. And then there’s ‘Lavender Love,’ like a calm sunrise after the storm of beats. HUNTER doesn’t just revisit familiar styles; it reinvents them, crafting a sleek, cohesive sonic universe where every track stands on its own and somehow clicks together effortlessly. – Jazmin Williams

THP’s Song Picks: Hunter,’ ‘Strange,’ and ‘GLAM’

Color Outside The Lines – CORTIS

When we talk about our favorite K-Pop debuts of the year, we must talk about CORTIS. They’ve already taken the world by storm with Color Outside The Lines! CORTIS’ message is to break free from the standards with their passion for music and their vibrant fun. We felt that they would be superstars the moment we pressed play on ‘GO!’ and ‘FaSHioN!’ The group is full on creatives that want to show the world how K-Pop can mix with other genres in a modern and hip way. CORTIS wanted to showcase their personalities as much as they could with this debut, and thanks to that, they’ve created great, catchy tunes that have added a new soundtrack to the K-Pop genre this year.

We’ve never seen a debut catching so much praise and attention! Plus, all the members have collaborated in the creation of this debut in some shape or form. Every beat, lyric, dance move, and vibe from Color Outside The Lines includes their personal artistry. We feel like CORTIS is such a refreshing group! We’re so glad to be experiencing this new take on K-Pop with them. It’s been a while since we’ve heard such a perfect debut, and we can’t wait to see what they do in 2026 and beyond! – María Solano

THP’s Song Picks: ‘FaSHioN,’ ‘GO!,’ and ‘JoyRide’

And that’s your lot! What are your thoughts on our top 50 albums for 2025? Did you see your faves on this list? Let us know over on Twitter @TheHoneyPOP! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram.

And if you want more music in your life, you’ve come to the right place…

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