Our Top 10 Lists have been named in honor of late Blog Director and DJ Clarence Ewing, who pioneered and published this annual feature for nearly a decade.
Our next list is from Barry Owen. Please note, Barry's list is unranked.
10. Snocaps by Snocaps (Anti-)
Thanks to Mom and Dad Crutchfield!
Listen: Bandcamp
9. Roots Rocking Zimbabwe - The Modern Sound of Harare’ Townships 1975-1980 (Analog Africa)
Listen:
8. Tantums in Tandem by Irish Exist (Cropsey)
I first heard this on CHIRP!
Listen: Cropsey Records
7. The Boojums by The Boojums (Having Fun)
I first heard this on CHIRP!
Listen: Bandcamp
6. Chigiyo Music Kings 1987-1998 by Zig-Zag Band (Analog Africa)
This album knocked me out. I listened to this as much as anything in 2025.
Listen: Bandcamp
5. Billboard Heart by Deep Sea Diver (Sub Pop)
Listen:
4. Phonetics On And On by Horsegirl (Matador)
I first heard this on CHIRP!
Listen: Bandcamp
3. Radio DDR by Sharp Pins
I first heard this on CHIRP!
Listen: Bandcamp
2. Trying Not to Have a Thought by Algernon Cadwallader
I just loved this album. It feels knowing and angry in all the right ways for 2025.
Listen: Bandcamp
1. Electric War by Little Barrie & Malcolm Cotto
I first heard this on CHIRP and couldn’t believe the amazing groove these guys create.
Listen: Bandcamp