The Best Vinyl Releases Of May 2025

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Uproxx

Anybody who thought the vinyl resurgence was just a fad was mistaken: The industry has experienced a legitimate revival. As a result, music fans are interested in physical media in ways they may not have if the decades-old medium hasn’t made a comeback. That doesn’t mean everybody is listening to just their parents’ old music, though. That’s part of it, sure, thanks to rereleases that present classic albums in new ways. A vital part of the renewed vinyl wave, though, is new projects being released as records, of which there are plenty.

Whatever you might be into, each month brings a new slew of vinyl releases that has something for everybody. Some stand out above the rest, naturally, so check out some of our favorite vinyl releases of May below.

Daniel Blumberg — The Brutalist: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

A24

The Brutalist was a darling at the Academy Awards and Blumberg’s score was definitely a contributing factor to the film’s acclaim, notably taking home a statue for it. Before picking it up on its new vinyl edition, A24 shared this great video a few months ago that offers an inside look at the music.

Get it here.

Mariah Carey — The Emancipation Of Mimi (20th Anniversary Edition)

Def Jam Records/UMe

Kaytranada delivered a superb remix of Mariah Carey’s “Don’t Forget About Us” in April, and that was part of a new reissue campaign. The highlight is the 5LP version, which features three discs of bonus tracks and a letter from Carey herself. You also get the long-awaited release of “When I Feel It” after a 20-year wait, which should satisfy the many fans who have been seeking it.

Get it here.

Miles Davis — Bitches Brew (55th Anniversary Edition)

MoFi

Bitches Brew, simply put, is one of the albums you think of first when you think of jazz. This year, the Miles Davis classic turns 55 years old and Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab is offering the opportunity to hear the best-sounding version of it, with a reissue sourced from the original master tapes and limited to 5,000 numbered copies.

Get it here.

Ebba Åsman — When You Know

Dorado Records

Åsman is a newer face in the jazz realm, and like Bitches Brew, When You Know is fueled by adventure and experimentation. It incorporates influences from R&B, electronic, and ambient music, and the striking album art looks great blown up to vinyl proportions.

Get it here.

Chris Stapleton — Traveler (Reissue)

Mercury Nashville

Stapleton is one of the biggest crossover artists in contemporary country music, and it all started with his debut album, 2015’s Traveler. To mark a decade of the project, there are now several different pressings of the album, with colors varying depending on where you buy (the ruby version in particular is a stunner).

Get it here.

Headphones — Headphones (Reissue)

Suicide Squeeze

David Bazan had a productive run of albums, but with Headphones, there was only the well-received self-titled album. The synth-led project has a new 20th-anniversary reissue, which comes in a gatefold jacket featuring expanded artwork and new liner notes.

Get it here.

Morgan Wallen — I’m The Problem

Big Loud/Mercury

It’s a good time to be Morgan Wallen: Right now, he has both the No. 1 album and song in the country (he has the top three songs, actually). This is thanks to I’m The Problem, a 37-track, near-2-hour behemoth of an album.

Get it here.

Resavoir and Matt Gold — Horizon

International Anthem

Horizon is quite the project, indebted to both orchestral jazz and Brazilian MPB. The retro-inspired album is a great one to own on vinyl, especially with the lovely, semi-transparent “lake glass green” pressing.

Get it here.

Rico Nasty — Lethal

Fueled By Ramen

Anybody who’s been paying attention to Rico’s Lethal album cycle knows it’s been a high-effort affair when it comes to the visuals. That extends to the vinyl, too, which almost certainly won’t look like anything else in your library, given that it’s shaped like a saw blade.

Get it here.

Alanis Morissette — Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie (Reissue)

Maverick/Reprise

Many have taken spiritual journeys to India, but rarely is what comes out of it as good as Morissette’s 1998 album Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie. Now’s a great time to revisit or listen for the first time, too, as this Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab reissue is the first-ever audiophile edition.

Get it here.



source https://uproxx.com/indie/best-vinyl-releases-may-2025/

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Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution

Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution and What Listeners Look For Hip hop is more than just a genre of music; it is a cultural movement that has deeply influenced the world for over four decades. Originating in the South Bronx during the 1970s, hip hop was birthed from the creative expression of marginalized communities. What started as a fusion of DJing, breakdancing, graffiti art and MCing (rapping) quickly became a global phenomenon. Over the years, hip hop has expanded its reach, influencing various aspects of society, from fashion and language to politics and social movements. But what exactly do listeners seek when they tune in to their favorite hip hop tracks? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music At its core, hip hop music is built on rhythm and lyricism. Early pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. laid the foundation for what we now recognize as hip hop. They mixed disco, funk, and soul beats with rhythmic rapping to create a unique sound. Through the 1980s and 1990s, iconic artists such as Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z further shaped the genre, adding deeper narratives that explored social issues, struggles, and triumphs.
In the 2000s, hip hop saw its golden age evolve into new sub-genres, from Southern hip hop (e.g., OutKast and Lil Wayne) to the rise of trap music (led by artists like Future, Gucci Mane, and Migos). Today, artists continue to experiment with hybrid sounds, blending trap with pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a more diverse landscape for the genre.

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music While the genre has evolved, the heart of hip hop music still beats with certain core elements that listeners continue to seek. Here’s what attracts audiences to hip hop music:

1. Authenticity

One of the most important qualities of hip hop is its authenticity. Listeners are drawn to artists who stay true to themselves, their roots, and their experiences. Whether an artist is rapping about overcoming hardship, life in the streets, or personal triumphs, their genuineness resonates with fans. Authenticity gives hip hop its raw edge, connecting the artist's voice with listeners on a deeply personal level.

2. Lyricism and Wordplay

Hip hop has always been a platform for storytelling, and the craft of lyricism is highly valued. Fans look for clever wordplay, metaphors, punchlines, and deep storytelling in their favorite tracks. Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas are revered for their intricate lyricism and ability to convey powerful messages through their words. A song with sharp bars, vivid imagery, and emotional depth can elevate a listener’s connection to the music.

3. Beat and Production Quality

The beat is often the first thing people notice in a hip hop song. A catchy, hard-hitting beat can make or break a track, and producers play an integral role in shaping the sound of hip hop music. Producers like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Metro Boomin have become household names for their distinctive production styles. From boom-bap beats to trap drums, the instrumental elements are essential in drawing listeners into the rhythm and groove of the song.

4. Innovation and Evolution

Hip hop is known for its constant evolution. Fans of the genre are often on the lookout for artists who push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. This spirit of innovation keeps the genre fresh and exciting. From the rise of auto-tune with artists like T-Pain to the blend of electronic and rap seen with artists like Travis Scott, listeners are eager for new music that challenges the traditional limits of hip hop.

5. Vibe and Energy

Hip hop isn’t just about the lyrics or the beat—it’s also about the energy the music brings. Whether it’s a party anthem, an introspective track, or a political statement, the vibe and energy of a song play a crucial role in how it resonates with fans. Artists like Drake, Cardi B, and Lil Uzi Vert have mastered the art of creating tracks that make listeners feel a certain way, whether it’s hyped up, laid back, or reflective.

6. Relatability and Emotional Connection

Hip hop has always been an outlet for self-expression and commentary on life experiences. Because of this, listeners often gravitate toward songs that reflect their own lives, struggles, and aspirations. Whether it’s a song about the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the celebration of personal success, or the experience of love and heartbreak, hip hop has the unique ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Fans often seek songs that speak to their individual journeys and provide comfort, validation, or empowerment.

The Global Reach of Hip Hop

What was once confined to the streets of New York City has now become a global cultural force. From Tokyo to Paris, hip hop has spread across continents, influencing artists and listeners worldwide. In recent years, artists from outside the U.S. have brought their own cultural influences to the genre, blending hip hop with local sounds, languages, and traditions. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its universal themes of struggle, self-expression, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Hip hop music is an ever-evolving cultural powerhouse that has grown from a localized subculture into a global sensation. The authenticity, lyricism, production quality, innovation, energy, and emotional depth are the main ingredients that attract listeners to hip hop. While the genre continues to change, its core values remain consistent—offering a space for self-expression, storytelling, and connection. As hip hop continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a major force in shaping the future of music. Whether you’re a fan of classic boom-bap or modern trap, hip hop’s diverse range offers something for everyone, proving that its cultural impact is here to stay.