Hello guys, Happy New Year! I hope you all had lots of fun over the festive period!
It’s that time again when NEW LEASE MUSIC picks out the top releases of the year! Today, we start with the Top Ten Albums of 2025 where – as always – you’ll find a selection of earworthy collections. So if you’re in the mood to move your hips to the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats, Afro-fusion and EDM, you’ll find some here to keep you dancing. Prefer something more laid-back? We’ve also included albums steeped in the intimate vibes of indie rock, pop, singer-songwriter, and hip-hop—perfect for reflective moments and late-night listening.
So, get tuck in and explore! If any of the great releases tickle your fancy, why not comment below!
Be sure to look out for NEW LEASE MUSIC’s Top Ten Singles of 2025, coming soon….
10. DEEP BLUE – LAVENDINE
9. YESTERDAY’S WEIRDNESS IS TOMORROW’S REASON WHY – ALASKA X ALEX LUDOVICO X JASON GRIFF
8. DO IT – HANSHAKE IN SPACE
7. ALL OF ME – RAPHAEL TATE
6. BLACK RENAISSANCE – NATTY BOI ZOE
5. WAYFINDING – COLIN MANSON
4. A MOMENT ALONE (LIVE AT FACTORY STUDIOS) – JAMES O’HURLEY
Rising Afro-fusion artists 705 and Big Femzy have joined forces to release ‘Enjoy’, a vibrant new single that’s destined to become a staple of summer playlists and nightlife scenes.
Blending infectious Afrobeat rhythms with smooth melodies and contemporary fusion influences, ‘Enjoy’ is a sonic invitation to let go, live fully, and feel the music. The track pulses with tropical percussion, layered harmonies, and catchy hooks that bring instant energy and good vibes. 705, known for his rich vocals and dynamic delivery, effortlessly complements Big Femzy’s confident flow and rhythmic cadence. Together, they create a synergy that feels natural and elevating — a true collaboration rooted in rhythm, joy, and authenticity.
‘Enjoy’ was released last Friday, 1st August across various music platforms. Not to be missed; check out this smooth bad boy below…
Keyboardist/artist DEXTER MOORE’s new single, ‘Feel The Rhythm’ is an immediately feel-good anthem. Out today (3rd July) across various music platforms, the funk-infused instrumental arrives in time for Independence Day; a time to have pure unadulterated fun with family and friends.
With Afrobeats taking the world by storm over the recent years, Dexter wanted to pay homage to his African/African-American roots and show his love for the genre with ‘Feel The Rhythm’, by incorporating the rhythmic beats of the Motherland, with playful elements of Contemporary Jazz and World Music.
‘Feel The Rhythm’ follows, Dexter‘s 2022 single ‘Daydreaming’, which received firm support from various jazz, soul and even pop stations across the globe. The gleeful jazz instrumental was often used as background music for many radio station’s weather and travel bulletins! ‘Daydreaming’ was #1 for six consecutive weeks on CHBN Radio’s Playlist Chart in the UK and earned a spot at #14 on their Top 20 Songs of 2023.
Dexter has toured in Europe as well as throughout the USA and has been privileged to play behind some of the heavyweights in Gospel and secular music; including Yolanda Adams, Bebe Winans, CeCe Winans, Jill Scott, Mary J. Blige, Miles Jaye and Teddy Pendergrass. With over 30 years’ experience performing with other artists as a sideman and accompanist, Dexter now wants to share his keyboard talents to the world as an artist. To date, Dexter has released two albums and five singles to date and has amassed close to 2,000,000 streams worldwide.
Aside from making music in his studio or performing live onstage with the biggest stars, Dexter is first and foremost a family man, loves to do crossword puzzles and is a huge Philadelphia Eagles fan. Dexter also serves as a minister of music at his church.
Now it time to ‘Feel The Rhythm’ with Dexter Moore’s new offering, coming out from 3rd July acrossall good music platforms.
Rising Afrobeats star 705 serenade his fans worldwide with latest Afrofusion single, ‘Time and Date’, a heartfelt declaration of love and admiration for that special someone who transports him to a place of pure bliss.
With its infectious melodies, smooth rhythms, and soulful lyrics, ‘Time and Date’ is a romantic anthem where 705 professes his unwavering affection, expressing how every encounter with his love interest elevates him to a state of peace and euphoria. The song is a sweet plea for a moment together—asking for just a time and date to meet and deepen their connection.
Produced with a blend of contemporary Afrobeats and sultry Afrofusion elements, ‘Time and Date’ showcases 705’s signature vocal charm and ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners. Whether you’re in love or yearning for that special connection, this track is the perfect soundtrack to your emotions.
Rising music producer & artist 705 shares the release of his highly anticipated EP, ‘Quarter Past 7ven’, a dynamic Afro fusion project that seamlessly merges the rich sounds of West African music with contemporary Western influences. Featuring collaborations with talented artists CBlvck, Tradge, and Habeeb Samba, this EP is a celebration of cultural diversity, energy, and innovation.
‘Quarter Past 7ven, is a bold exploration of rhythm and melody, offering listeners a fresh twist on Afrobeat, Afro-pop, and hip-hop. Each track is infused with vibrant percussion, infectious grooves, and soulful vocals, creating an electrifying listening experience that transcends borders. From the high-energy bangers to the introspective moments, the EP showcases 705’s versatility as a producer and their ability to craft a cohesive yet diverse body of work.
‘Quarter Past 7ven’ is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a journey through sound and culture. The title reflects the idea of being at a unique moment in time—a quarter past seven—symbolising a fresh perspective and a new direction in music. The EP is a testament to 705’s commitment to pushing boundaries and creating music that resonates with a global audience.
“This EP is a love letter to my roots and the sounds that have shaped me as an artist. I wanted to create something that feels both familiar and entirely new, and I’m so grateful to have worked with incredible talents like CBlvck, Tradge, and Habeeb Samba to bring this vision to life.” – 705
‘Quarter Past 7ven’ is now out across various music platforms. Have a listen below: