Best Albums of 2025

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DownBeat presents a complete list of the 4-, 4½- and 5-star albums from 2025 in one convenient package. It’s a great way to sum up an amazing year in music! CLICK HERE to view the Best Albums of 2025, published in our January 2026 issue.



  • Sonny_Rollins_by_Michael_Jackson_copy.jpg

    Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.

    Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95

    Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…

  • NikBaertschs_RONIN_by_Christian_Senti.jpg

    “We thought it’s important that Ronin has a new statement,” said Nik Bärtsch of his band’s latest album, Spin. “The sound is differently produced, so it reflects more of who we are.”

  • The_Bad_Plus_by_Evelyn_Freja_copy1.jpg

    ​Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.

  • Davis_Miles_by_Jack_Vartoogian_lo_res_copy.jpg

    How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.

  • Ava_Preston_Courtesy_Ava_Preston.jpg

    Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.


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June 2026
Marcus Gilmore, Blank For.ms & Jason Moran
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