TOP 5 LIST: Breanna Lists Her Top 5 Songs of 2025

By: Breanna Workman

​For the world of rock and metal, the expression "2025 is going to be my year" rang especially true. The year brought us explosive comebacks, breakout releases, and cross country tours for faces familiar and fresh. As we approach the end of a defining year for the heavy metal and rock scene, there were a few songs that specifically defined it for me.

1. “Dionysus” - PRESIDENTS
PRESIDENTS hard launched their arrival at Download Fest in Leicestershire, England just three months prior to the release of their first ever EP titled King of Terror. The group's anonymity instantly made headlines of the band’s true identities further fueling their explosive rise to fame. Speculations surrounded “The President" to be Charlie Simpson of Fightstar, though rumors are yet to be confirmed. The song showcases uniquely haunting vocals and their ability to create an artistic flow from rhythmic synth beats to heavy breakdowns that drive each hitting chorus. The EP speaks for itself and gives us a taste of what's to come from the band's growing artistic identity and what they are yet to bring to the table in 2026.

2. “Dying to Love” - Bad Omens
Ever since the release of the breakthrough album The Death of Peace of Mind in 2022, the rise of Bad Omens has been undeniable. The success of the album earned them their first single to reach certified Platinum status by The RIAA. Their rise to chart domination continues with the release of not one but three stand out singles this year including a new favorite of mine, "Dying to Love". From the first note, the use of soft synths blend with somber guitar riffs to create a moody soundscape. We are then met with rhythmic drumming that brings the song to life and is carried throughout the track’s emotionally charged entirety. Noah Sebastian’s ability to evoke emotion through lyrical genius and distinctive melodic range that carries throughout til the very end. 

3. “Blackhole” - Architects
Third on their 2025 album The Sky, The Earth, & All Between, “Blackhole” is nothing short of the energy you would expect from Architects. From the start, the song unleashes supercharged vocals, heavy guitar hooks, and intense percussion. As the track progresses, the chorus showcases Sam Carter’s range with a clean, melodic tone that advances into an aggressive guttural that warms up the second verse. Throughout the remainder of the song, the intensity of both vocals and riffs persist. Each bone-rattling breakdown fit to blow out your speakers is merely the cherry on top, sealing the deal on this addition as one of my new favorite songs of 2025 and of all time.

4. “Bad Luck” - We Came as Romans
We Came As Romans 2025 record ALL IS BEAUTIFUL… BECAUSE WE’RE ALL DOOMED is not only huge for the world of metal but also for the band themselves, as the album marks their first release since Darkbloom three years ago. The emotional weight both lyrically and vocally hit just as hard as the riffage in true WCAR fashion. The instrumental presence throughout remains subtle yet rhythmic while the drums remain consistently prominent, giving the track a distinct identity within its genre. Once the breakdown arrives the heavier riffage shifts the mood to a melodic, almost euphoric, moment of instrumental and reverberating vocals. The song then surges back to life with a heavier reprise of their emotionally charged chorus, that is the finale to a metal masterpiece.

5. “For I Am Death” - The Pretty Reckless
A voice that needs no introduction, Taylor Momsen, undoubtedly ranks amongst the greats in the world of Rock. Since their debut, The Pretty Reckless has reached Platinum status by the RIAA with their song “Heaven Knows”, the second single off their second album Going To Hell. Over a decade later, the resurgence of The Pretty Reckless began as their second release of 2025, "For I Am Death", gained major popularity. The pace throughout the song remains consistent and supercharged carrying the same familiar guitar riff throughout. After each verse the slowing of drums and rhythmic guitar ease into a build up for a chorus that hits just as hard as the first. It’s no surprise the single eventually attained the title of the band's eighth number one hit on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Airplay just a few short months after its release and secured its spot amongst my favorites of the year.

 In short, 2025 has been an unforgettable year for music. Each release this year marked a momentous milestone that helped shape an ever evolving genre. From can’t miss releases, to first time debuts, it's safe to say the world of rock and metal shows no signs of slowing down. If this list of ovation worthy achievements is any indication of what's in store for next year, then 2026: We are ready for you.​