In 2024, the UK music scene was vibrant, with numerous notable album releases across various genres, including Charli XCX’s ‘Brat’ and English Teacher’s ‘This Could Be Texas’. As we approach 2025, here are some of the most anticipated new albums to be released, we know of so far:
Manic Street Preachers – ‘Critical Thinking’
The Manic Street Preachers, an iconic Welsh rock band formed in 1986, are celebrated for their mix of anthemic rock and introspective, often political lyrics. The band’s upcoming album, ‘Critical Thinking’, is scheduled for release on January 31, 2025. This will be their fifteenth studio album, following 2021’s ‘The Ultra Vivid Lament’.
Early reports suggest that ‘Critical Thinking’ will continue the lush, orchestral soundscapes introduced in their previous work, with a balance of introspection and the socially conscious lyrics the band is known for.While the specifics of the album’s themes haven’t been fully disclosed, the title ‘Critical Thinking’ hints at a reflective, possibly politically charged narrative, fitting their reputation for engaging with societal issues.
The album will feature the single ‘Hiding In Plain Sight’, with the bassist Nicky Wire on lead vocals, a rare occurrence in the band’s discography.
Ed Sheeran – Title unknown
Ed Sheeran, one of the UK’s most successful singer-songwriters, is known for his ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with a variety of musical styles, from acoustic ballads to upbeat pop tracks. Since his debut with ‘+’ in 2011, Sheeran has become a global sensation, delivering chart-topping albums like ‘x’, ‘÷’, and ‘-’. After the introspective and acoustic-driven tone of ‘-’ (2023), Sheeran has hinted that his 2025 album will mark a return to the pop-centric style that defined his earlier hits like ‘Shape of You’ and ‘Bad Habits’.
Ed Sheeran to release a new album in 2025, Variety reports.
It’s already finished with two music videos shot. He describes it as a return to “big pop.” pic.twitter.com/Sr8LkTl25h
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) December 11, 2024
While Sheeran hasn’t disclosed specific themes, he has mentioned that this album reflects a “new chapter” in his life, possibly inspired by personal milestones such as fatherhood and his evolving perspective as an artist. Sheeran’s ability to reinvent his sound while maintaining widespread appeal makes this upcoming release one of the most anticipated albums of 2025.
The Wombats – ‘Oh! The Ocean’
The Wombats are a British indie rock band formed in Liverpool in 2003, known for their catchy melodies, quirky lyrics, and energetic sound, they gained fame with hits like ‘Let’s Dance to Joy Division’ and ‘Moving to New York’. Over the years, their music has evolved to incorporate electronic elements while maintaining their indie charm. The Wombats’ sixth studio album, ‘Oh! The Ocean’, is scheduled for release on February 14, 2025.
The band has described ‘Oh! The Ocean’ as their most ambitious album to date, blending their trademark upbeat sound with darker, introspective undertones. The album reportedly explores themes of mental health, isolation, and finding solace in unexpected places, inspired by the band’s experiences during recent global challenges. The single ‘Sorry I’m Late, I Didn’t Want to Come’ is already generating buzz for its witty lyrics and infectious chorus.
Sam Fender – ‘People watching’
Sam Fender is a British singer-songwriter and musician from North Shields, England. Known for his powerful vocals, anthemic indie-rock sound, and deeply personal and socially aware lyrics, Fender has become one of the most celebrated artists of his generation. His debut album, ‘Hypersonic Missiles’ (2019), and follow-up, ‘Seventeen Going Under’ (2021), both received critical acclaim, with the latter earning him a BRIT Award for Best British Alternative/Rock Act.
Sam Fender’s third studio album, ‘People Watching’, is set for release on February 21, 2025. As the title suggests, the album explores themes of observation, human connection, and introspection. Fender has revealed in interviews that the album was inspired by his experiences during the last few years, including the pressures of fame and his reflections on the people and stories around him.
While specific tracks haven’t been officially released yet, early reports indicate that the album’s lead single will premiere in early 2025. Fender has described it as a “cathartic anthem” that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Following the massive success of ‘Seventeen Going Under’, which resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, ‘People Watching’ is expected to further solidify Fender’s reputation as one of the most vital voices in contemporary music.
The Sherlocks – ‘Everything Must Make Sense‘
The Sherlocks are an English indie rock band formed in 2010 in South Yorkshire. Known for their anthemic, guitar-driven sound, The Sherlocks gained attention with tracks like ‘Chasing Shadows’ and ‘Will You Be There?’. Their fifth studio album, ‘Everything Must Make Sense’, is set to be released on February 21, 2025.
The band describes the album as a return to their raw, guitar-driven roots, with a fresh energy inspired by their live performances. The album will reportedly tackle themes of finding clarity in chaos, personal growth, and navigating life’s uncertainties. The Sherlocks have so far released three singles from the new album, including ‘Death Of Me‘, ‘Man on the Loose‘, and ‘Bones‘.
With a loyal fanbase and a reputation for heartfelt, relatable music, ‘Everything Must Make Sense’ is highly anticipated by indie rock enthusiasts. It’s poised to showcase The Sherlocks’ maturity and reaffirm their place in the UK music scene.
Aside from the artists above, Inhaler, The Darkness, FKA twigs, and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, have all also announced the release of their new albums in the new year. Some of them as early as January 2025.
