The Best Vinyl Releases Of December 2025

on
vinyl
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 December below.

Blur — The Great Escape (30th Anniversary)

Blur

A lot of eyes have been on ’90s UK rock over the past couple years and Blur is among the reasons for that. Aside from some 2024 performances, the group also just released an anniversary edition of their 1995 album The Great Escape. This vinyl pressing has the 15-track album (which has been half-speed mastered) and a second disc of rare B-sides and bonus tracks.

Get it here.

Carl Perkins — Dance Album Of Carl Perkins (Reissue)

Intervention Records

Intervention Records has launched a new series of Sun Records hi-fi reissues and they kicked it off with a Carl Perkins classic. Dance Album Of Carl Perkins is an iconic release in music history, featuring songs that have been covered by Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, and many more. This reissue was lovingly sourced from the original tapes, making it the first time this project has been cut to vinyl from analog tape since at least the early ’80s.

Get it here.

The Hold Steady — Separation Sunday (20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition)

Positive Jams

Craig Finn had one of this year’s best indie albums with Always Been and this happened as his band The Hold Steady celebrated a big milestone: Their second album, Separation Sunday, turned 20 years old. On their own Positive Jams label, the band dropped a new deluxe edition. It comes with nine newly remastered bonus tracks that are now available on vinyl for the first time, previously available on the The Virgin Digital Sessions EP.

Get it here.

Pink Floyd — Wish You Were Here 50

Sony Music

One of the most iconic albums of the ’70s and of all time, Wish You Were Here turned 50 years old in 2025. The band just dropped a massive new box set that comes with a number of tantalizing goodies. Beyond the core album, extras include a hardcover book full of never-before-seen photos, demos, instrumentals, and live recordings.

Get it here.

R.E.M. — Chronic Town (Reissue) and Murmur (Reissue)

Definitive Sound Series

Interscope and Capitol Records’ Definitive Sound Series of reissues rolls on with a pair of early R.E.M. projects together on one release. These versions of the EP and the album were sourced from the original analog master tapes and have involvement with the projects’ original producers. It comes in a heavyweight tip-on single pocket jacket, making it a top-tier set.

Get it here.

Beck — Morning Phase (Reissue)

Definitive Sound Series

The Definitive Sound Series also delivered some classic Beck this month, a premium audiophile limited edition of Morning Phase. It was pressed using he One Step process, which means the elimination of multiple stamper stages to ensure unparalleled quality. It’s a release to pounce on, as only 3,000 copies are being pressed.

Get it here.

T. Rex — Electric Warrior (Reissue)

Rhino

Speaking of remaster series, Rhino Hi-Fi closed out the year with a pair of classics, one being T. Rex’s 1971 album Electric Warrior. It was cut from the original analog master tapes and pressed on 180-gram black vinyl. It’s also limited to 5,000 individually numbered copies, and there’s a limited bundle option that comes with the 7-inch singles “Hot Love” and “Bang A Gong (Get It On).”

Get it here.

Devo — Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo! (Reissue)

Rhino

The other Rhino Hi-Fi rerelease is Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!. The specs for the T. Rex release apply here, too. The project is of course best known for Devo’s cover of the Rolling Stones classic “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” but it’s a stellar debut album beyond that.

Get it here.

This Is Lorelei — Holo Boy

Double Double Whammy

Nate Amos previously told Uproxx of how he chose the songs to include on Holo Boy, which features rerecordings of back-catalog tracks, “If I’d chosen 10 songs on five different days, it would’ve come out differently every time. There are definitely some songs that probably would’ve ended up on it every time, but there are certain songs that didn’t end up on it that I feel would’ve landed on it the other four days. A big part of the Lorelei writing process is that there needs to be some component of improvisation. And when you’re working with a bunch of stuff that’s already been written, it’s hard to figure out exactly how to improvise. So, I honestly improvised the process of song selection, since there wasn’t room to do it anywhere else really.”

Get it here.

Theodore Shapiro — Severance: Season 2 (Apple TV+ Original Soundtrack)

Mutant/Lakeshore Records/Fifth Season

Severance is one of the best shows on TV right now, and music helps build the immersive world. Composer Theodore Shapiro says of his score for the second season, “The music of Season 2 of Severance is true to what came before in Season 1, while also developing new themes, new sounds, and new variations. The season’s bold expansions into new storylines and new locations, along with the incredible filmmaking and performances, provided plenty of inspiration.”

Get it here.



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

Comments

Post a Comment

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.