by It’s hard to believe that 2025 is almost over, but it’s been quite a year. As we do every year, we’re capping off 2025 by rounding up the best tracks. Our team has put together the list based on a wide range of factors, including quality, impact, significance, support, and success. 2025 saw everything from the rise of new stars to the return of iconic legends, the fusion of the two, epic remixes, insane originals, and so much more. Dive into the list below!
50. Subfiltronik and Bommer – Planet Droid (Modal Nodes Remix)
‘Planet Droid’ has been a riddim plate for over a decade, and most people thought it would never get an official release. To everyone’s surprise, the original, a VIP, and multiple remixes were released this year on INFEKT’s new Port Zero label. Conversely, Modal Nodes has been making waves in the dubstep scene on SoundCloud, and his remix for ‘Planet Droid’ was his first official release. Featuring Modal Nodes’ quintessential Star Wars-themed introduction, mind-melting sound design and hypnotizing fills, the remix earns a well-deserved spot in this year’s list.
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49. Drvmmer – Silence
Andrea aka Drvmmer is one of the hidden gems of the Italian bass scene. A mastermind in the studio and a titan behind the console, as I wrote on these pages back in 2021, “Drvmmer is an assurance.” This year, he released his most mature and inspired project yet, No Man’s Land EP, and ‘Silence’ is the single that took the spotlight. A claustrophobic track that crushes you between broken rhythms and slashing synths. The refined sound design a-la-Drvmmer effectively saturates the entire auditory spectrum and puts some serious physical and psychological pressure on the listener. In ‘Silence’, Drvmmer tempers his impulse to compress too many elements into a single track. The result is a song with a wider audience appeal while maintaining his quality standard well above the average.
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48. KETTAMA – It Gets Better (Forever Mix)
One of 2025’s electronic music final bosses, KETTAMA ruled over both the offline and online scene this year, with stops at major festivals as well as behind the web’s most popular booths. His blend of house, UK garage, trance, and techno has proven to be super effective across generations, making him a widely accepted beacon for the Gen Z and Gen Alpha generations of clubbers. Off his list of hits released this year – which also includes ‘Yosemite’ with Interplanetery Criminal, ‘Airmaxes’ with Fred again.. – ‘It Gets Better (Forever Mix)’ is the one that perfectly embodies the crosspollination at the core of KETTAMA’s sound. It’s a spontaneous track that cleverly mashes up direct influences from Underworld, Robert Miles, and Faithless, acting as a manifesto for that section of the scene who is injecting 00’ sounds into ‘25 productions.
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47. IMANU x Rhode – All Too Late
Released as part of his Entangled EP via Deadbeats earlier this year, ‘All Too Late’ was arguably IMANU’s most popular track of the year. Featuring familiar vocalist Rhode, the track is one of those cuts that immediately stands out as IMANU’s work. From its moody vocal progression to its smooth drum and bass textures wrapped in pristine production, the track is hypnotizingly beautiful. There is no denying how important IMANU has become to shaping the bass scene, and ‘All Too Late’ is but further proof of the artist’s talents.
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46. Chediak, Dj RaMeMeS, MC Xangai – PERVERSA
SPEEDTEST RAVE’s boss Chediak had another strong year, topped by several tours overseas and an excellent new album. But the release that I was waiting for the most was, without any doubt, his collaboration with fellow Brazilian artists Dj RaMeMeS and MC Xangai. ‘PERVERSA’ is a bare yet punchy 2-step cut that flirts with baile funk and is led by some insanely catchy vocals. Even if you don’t know any words in Portuguese, be sure that you’ll end up having this one stuck in your head forever.
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45. Vorso – Harsh Light
‘Harsh Light’ is one of those songs that my mind can’t fathom how it’s produced. The synths sound like they’re coming from another dimension, not from a human-made DAW. The clarity of every single element is simply unreal. The inspiration must have come from some unnamed forces beyond our comprehension. Instead, ‘Harsh Light’ is “just” a release by Vorso. A song, published inside Vision’s massive Mission 03 compilation, that reiterates that the UK producer is a singularity within the contemporary music scene, a unique voice that seems incapable of platitudes.
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44. Maysev x The Caracal Project – Before You
The Caracal Project’s only track of the year came in the form of a mesmerizing collaboration alongside Maysev. While I spoke about Maysev in our 80th edition of Focus Five, I wasn’t aware just how much ‘Before You’ was going to grow on me (and on the drum and bass scene) over the course of the year. Easily a top contender as a personal favourite of 2025, the track has amassed over 400K plays on Spotify, attesting to its broad appeal. The smooth guitar, the ethereal soundscapes, and the crisp yet relaxed drum and bass textures make it a unique track that helped put Maysev on the map.
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43. What So Not x Buunshin x Maiah Manser – Threads
What So Not and Buunshin are in the process of releasing a joint project at the time of writing, and ‘Threads’ is the first single from the The Quiet That Hurts EP. Growing gradually in intensity over Maiah Manser’s angelic vocals, the track beautifully displays the strengths of both producers, leading to a climax of bass euphoria. Combining the signature sounds of two producers into a single track is not always so trivial, but What So Not and Buunshin executed this one perfectly. The track balances emotional peaks and troughs exquisitely, while also featuring the top-notch production one would expect from the two artists.
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42. Control Freak – THROW YA HANDZ UP
Control Freak is one of those artists who became popular due to his dubstep releases but has since diversified his output across the vast array of bass music, and honestly, his versatility is underrated. His debut album EAT YOUR FRIENDZ demonstrated this to a tee, and no track was bigger than the opener, ‘THROW YA HANDZ UP.’ While still in the realm of heavy bass music, the track combines rap, dubstep, and hybrid trap in a relentless yet infectious way. The drops are electric, the musicality is catchy, and it sets the stage nicely for the rest of the album.
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41. Dyzphoria x Ephex – Ignorant Style
The Sable Valley summertime compilations are always so fun to dive into. Showcasing some of the hottest talent within the underground. There’s always a mixture of incredible sounds, rhythmic structures, and more. And ‘Ignorant Style’ by Dyzphoria and Ephex completely throws you for a loop, as it was one of the most unique tracks of this year’s compilation. It’s a gorgeous and enticing piece consisting of colorful sound design, angelic melodies, and an overall wonderland of characteristics. That main mono-styled lead in the chorus section completely elevates the vision of the track in a whole new sense, while the intro, along with the outro sections, transports the listener into a cinematic environment. Never wanting the experience to end.
-JD
40. Strobez x phantomhouse – Tell Me It Hurt
The sheer power of Strobez has baffled many within the underground for a while now. His works have completely pushed the electronic sound in the right direction. Always delivering such high-quality and unique pieces while flying to the top. Him, along with phantomhouse are two dangerous forces to be reckoned with and ‘Tell Me It Hurt’ is pure proof. This electrifying and eclectic track will not only tear your mind apart, but it will stick with you for a long time due to its highly creative drive. There’s so much to behold within, such as their futuristic sound design, everlasting drums, and easy-going arrangement. Falling completely in love with it each go around. It’s a track like you’ll be dying to hear live.
– JD
39. Just A Gent – kickons?
Just A Gent, as an artist, has gone through many exciting phases in his career, and we thought it was only right to include him on the list. His track ‘kickons?’ is a really fun and hard-hitting wonderland full of deep basslines and nasty drums. Using a sample from Flo Rida’s ‘In The Ayer’ as a solid bass, he built an absolute weapon of a tune around it. Giving it a dark and stormy space. Those clean-sounding drums combined with such sinister bass leads will leave you in complete awe. And it just keeps going and going till the end! A non-stop experience that will have any dance floor destroyed.
-JD
38. Mac Miller – Nikes on My Feet (AYCH Remix)
Nashville producer AYCH put himself on the map this year, and no track had as much of an impact as his Mac Miller remix. Taking on one of Mac’s most iconic tunes and flipping it into a heavy-hitting bass banger is no easy feat, but AYCH proved to be more than up to the task. It’s not often you see bootlegs breaking over 100k plays on SoundCloud, but this one has soared past the marker, currently sitting at 173,000. Mac floats over the smooth yet filthy beat, which allows the vocals to serve as a focal point while still bringing some truly exceptional bass. So many things could’ve gone wrong with this one, but it was executed perfectly. Don’t snooze, don’t sleep.
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37. borne – Want To Go
Landing a spot on our breakout artists of 2024 list last December, it should come as no surprise that borne finds himself on our Top 50 songs list this year. The Montreal-based producer has been on a steady ascent with banger after banger after banger. Released via UKF, ‘Want To Go’ is a godly 140 stomper. The gospel introduction takes you to church with heavenly keys and soulful vocals, bringing listeners to the promised land. That is, if the promised land is scored by dark and sludgy basslines, and rough ragga vocals (it is for me at least). Expertly blending darkness with light, menacing with inviting, borne crafts a truly exceptional 140 monster.
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36. Cesco – Pretty & Plump
Cesco’s 3-track Pretty & Plump EP is infectious from start to finish, and honestly, any of those tracks could have made this year’s list. The artist has a knack for making incredibly catchy tunes, and this project is no exception. The collection’s title track, ‘Pretty & Plump,’ masterfully pairs Emz’s vocals with a groovy instrumental to create a cut that goes hard in so many different settings. It’s not overly complicated in its ideas, but that’s the beauty in a catchy garage tune; crisp sound design and swinging percussion come together to get you dancing out of your seat. Pineapple Records said it best: “Emz takes a relaxed conversational tone, flinging out bars effortlessly over a syncopated stepper par excellence.”
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35. Bakey – Backrooms
Piacevolmente estenuante (pleasantly exhausting) is the best way I found to describe ‘Backrooms’. An unusual banger that brings BAKEY’s haunting and muscular style to its very extremes. ‘Backrooms’ is a proper, raw, club-focused track that leaves home any unnecessary frills and brings to the dancefloor just the purest elements. Drums to guide your feet, a bassline to rip your chest apart, a vocal sample to hypnotise your mind. But its personality goes beyond that. The liminal and nebulous atmosphere that fills the entire five minutes gives ‘Backrooms’ a dramatic Lynchian touch, which would make it perfect as a movie soundtrack.
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34. NXSTY & ero808- CODEINE
‘CODEINE’ feels like stepping into a warehouse at 5AM when the air is thick, the lights are low, and the DJ is deep into the filthiest part of the night. NXSTY unloads a bassline that sticks to your ribs and refuses to let you off the dancefloor, while vocals glide through the chaos with this smooth, but haunted energy that gives the track its edge. It’s dark, sweaty, and hypnotic, built for those late-nights when you’re running on adrenaline and the music is the only thing keeping you upright. A proper heater from two artists who know exactly how to bend a room to their will.
-AK
33. HerShe – Hit Maker
“That girl’s a HIT MAKER!” Blending an absurdly catchy vocal, beatbox elements, and masterful bass, ‘HIT MAKER’ was the soundtrack to HerShe’s explosive breakout year. While she dropped an onslaught of heat, ‘HIT MAKER’ feels like the pinnacle of her sound and style. The track exploded online and IRL at shows with HerShe taking over TikTok and Red Rocks. If this doesn’t get you moving, you may need to see a doctor.
-CV
32. JID x Clipse – Community
There is no denying that the 2025 Clipse reunion was a major milestone for rap fans around the world (more on that later). However, we think it is also important to mention JID’s return to the album format with the release of God Does Like Ugly, and specifically the collaboration with the legendary duo titled ‘Community.’ From exquisite production to JID’s quintessential vocal mastery, to Pusha T and Malice’s undeniable swagger, the track is aggressive in nature yet deep in its meaning, creating a mesmerizing dichotomy that makes it a standout in the album.
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31. Pink Pantheress – Illegal
Without a doubt, one of the most charming and iconic opening tracks ever, ‘Illegal’ is also on this list as representative of the entire Pink Pantheress album. Fancy That, is a project that draws heavily on the fundamentals of the British electronic scene and covers them with icing sugar. ‘Illegal’ is a perfect example of this. Musically dense with a jumpy 2-step bounce, but still floaty and soft. As Harry Tafoya writes on Pitchfork, Fancy That is “a portal into an alternate universe where UK garage blew up in America and fashion froze in 2006”.
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30. Amine – Vacay
Whether you’re about to board a flight to an island getaway or just need two-and-a-half minutes of mental bliss, ‘Vacay’ by Aminé is your theme song. Coming off the fittingly titled 13 Months of Sunshine, the single is the embodiment of a fun-loving escape. Painting vivid images of a European romp, Aminé shows us how to vacation in style. From “only wearing robes for the whole damn week” to being “Somewhere sunny, Sweatin’ with two spritz in my tummy, I’m eatin’ ravioli and the pizza with the honey, I’m O-O-O for the week, you dummy,” how can you not smile when listening to this one?
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29. Farrah x KILLMATTER – WHAT YOU MEAN!
Taken off of Farrah’s ecstatic EP Heaven in Hiding, this was such an unexpected combination of sounds, making it a highlight for both artists. The blend of their styles is so easily heard and really gives it such a memorable experience for their listeners. Those fast-paced drums combined with such crisp and fun samples flying throughout instantly knock you into the stratosphere. A pure love letter to the breakbeat style. Its unpredictable nature will have you replaying this work of art over and over again. Another pure gem for both of their discographies.
-JD
Now this remix has been teased and played out for a little while now. From show to show, the crowd always goes ballistic whenever this comes on! Released two years ago, ‘Slices’ has become easily one of Nitepunk’s most played out tunes to date. And with Silcrow slowly rising to the top, he wanted to put his own spin on the already hard-hitting experience. And he did it with no problem in the slightest. Adding his own crazy percussion, rhythmic structure, and more, this remix has easily become a staple of both their paths. Always being filmed and uploaded to their social media stories or posts, fans were eagerly waiting for this to finally be released.
-JD
27. Getter x SXMPRA – Born 2 Stunt
With a little hiatus within the electronic space as a whole, the return of Getter’s incredible and iconic production is nothing but a gift for many in the scene. This track really highlights everything we’ve missed from the artist. The solid hip-hop production, combined with SXMPRA’s stellar vocals, is a whole box of treats. From a hard-hitting dubstep section to an overall addictive arrangement from beginning to end, you’ll be having this one on repeat for years to come. It perfectly highlights Getter’s production from many years ago while still being very unique and electric. Even those spicy little fills consisting of fun sampled vocals or even the coin sound effect from the Sonic series, there’s always something new to catch with each listen. And we’re happy to include this one on our list for this year!
-JD
26. Know Good – Sock’em Bop’em
The cousin pair known as Know Good may be one of the year’s biggest bass success stories. Building upon heavy momentum, the pair unleashed an onslaught of killer flips in addition to the incredibly impressive All In album. Amongst the plethora of incredible tracks on the project is ‘Sock’em Bop’em’. The smooth rap bars swerve and glide over the production with expert precision. The drops are speaker-rattling, the bass rumbles your very being, but it’s really the progression that makes this so special. The back half takes a cinematic turn, giving the vocals, which are repeated from the first half, a completely different feel and reverence. From the bird adlibs to the nostalgic voice outro, the back half will give you chills. Demonstrating the pair’s immense range and talent, ‘Sock’em Bop’em’ cements its place on this list.
-CV
25. Juelz – SYBAU
‘SYBAU’ is Vancouver-based Juelz in full scorched-earth mode. No mercy, no breathing room, just pure pressure from the second it hits. The alarms scream like a warning siren for anyone not ready, the low-end growls, and the high-frequency details slice through the mix with that unmistakable Juelz precision. His vocal chops hit with the same force as the drops, adding this gritty, almost confrontational energy that pushes the track into full demolition-mode territory. It’s one of those records that reminds you exactly why he sits in his own lane: aggressive, controlled, and absolutely ruthless.
-AK
24. Fabian Mazur – Cash
Fabian Mazur’s ‘Cash’ is straight money. Serving as a standout from his excellent imellem album, ‘Cash’ is the definition of a banger. Leveraging his own vocals with some heavy processing, he explores a wide array of synonyms for the track’s namesake while switching his flow, delivery, and effects. Fabian doesn’t get enough credit for flipping his own vocals, and ‘Cash’ is a reminder of how dope they can be. But this is a Fabian Mazur track after all, it’s not all about the vocals, the bounce is crazy, the drums are masterful, and those 808s… you already know.
-CV
23. Wink x Peekaboo – leaving (dont tell me)
Released on WINK’s WIIINK EP via Sable Valley, this was a collaboration that blew everyone’s minds. WINK in general, has really made a mark in the industry this year. Releasing hit after hit, there was no stopping the young legend from making his dreams come true. And what better artist to connect with than PEEKABOO. This track is a ton of fun and will put many electronic lovers in a pure trance. The angelic vocal surrounded by WINK’s signature futuristic void instantly draws the listener in. Eager to find out what’s next. And both chorus sections are absolutely insane. Those heavy and violent-sounding bass leads combined with such hardcore drums will knock you out of your seats in the best ways possible. Plus PEEKABOO specifically using his signature high-pitched lead in the second drop, combined with WINK’s metallic drums is pure icing on the cake. Making this one of the artist’s best tracks this year!
-JD
22. Blawan – NOS
Straight from one of the best albums of the year, ‘NOS’ is a track that perfectly reflects the extremely complex and articulated nature of SickElisir. ‘NOS’ is chaos. ‘NOS’ is order. ‘NOS’ is abstraction. ‘NOS’ is the most concrete thing there is. Blawan plays on multiple narrative levels, but above all, he brings all his incredible technical know-how into the game. It’s not only the sound palette that impresses, but also the level of refinement of the listening experience it offers us. A truly one-of-a-kind tune.
-AA
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21. RL Grime x Deadcrow – Dominator
First debuted at Ultra 2024, this song really started turning heads as its pure sheer energy hypnotized the audience as well as listeners around the world. Wondering what this ID was! Now, with a full release this year, the exciting surprise of it being a collaboration with Deadcrow is simply stunning. The combination of both their styles shines on a high platform throughout this track. The fast-paced environment with monstrous sound design will have you on the dance floor in a complete frenzy thanks to its shining qualities. One that’s ready for any stage, anywhere!
-JD
20. Zero – On Job
The UK wave has continued to dominate the bass scene, and Zero is another artist steadily riding high. From the moment you press play and are met with epic choir tones, you know you’re in for something massive. ‘On Job’ is a face-melting 140 ripper that gives us everything we want in 2025. Catchy pre-drop grime vocals: check. Snappy drum work: you got it. Pulses of bass that make you want to slap somebody: you be the judge. Zero has been on fire through 2025, and ‘On Job’ is straight napalm.
-CV
19. Flume, Emma Louise – Easy Goodbye
Flume’s year can be described as one of collaborative projects. From the We Live In A Society project with JPEGMAFIA to DUMB with Emma Louise, the veteran artist allowed some of his favourite vocalists to shine above his usual pristine production. ‘Easy Goodbye,’ the first single from DUMB, was arguably his best track of the year, showcasing some of that quintessential Hi This Is Flume production quality around Emma Louise’s angelic vocals. Flume will always remain a pioneer in the ever-changing sphere of future bass (and beyond), and with ‘Easy Goodbye,’ he continued to push the limits of this genre.
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18. Skrillex – VOLTAGE
Back in 2011, Skrillex reportedly planned an album titled Voltage, with ‘VOLTAGE’ as the title track. However, the project was derailed when his hard drives and laptops were stolen from a hotel in Milan. That theft destroyed most of the in-progress project files. Despite that, a version of ‘VOLTAGE’ leaked from a promotional CD (by some accounts), and over the years, the cut became a kind of mythic “lost Skrillex track” among fans. Fast-forward to April 1, 2025, where Skrillex surprise-released F*CK U SKRILLEX YOU THINK UR ANDY WARHOL BUT UR NOT!! <3>. This marked his final album under his deal with Atlantic Records, and the project included the legendary ‘VOLTAGE’ for all to enjoy. Despite its age, the timeless track blends classic Skrillex-style sound design with more melodic elements, giving the track an anthemic, emotional feel. The release of FUS, and ‘VOLTAGE’ in particular, marked an important transitional moment in Skrillex’s career.
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17. Ring noord – Wild Flowers
What could we expect from a duo comprised of former Noisia member Nik Roos (Sleepnet) and producer/visual artist Jasper Scholma (Former) if not something beyond our expectations? Their creative output during 2025 was a real trip, peaking with ‘Wild Flowers.’ A masterful track that atomises the characteristics of genres such as jungle, hardcore, and drum & bass and reworks them in a futuristic setting. A track brimming with creativity and unparalleled quality.
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16. PEEKABOO – Yeke Yeke
After a monstrous 2023 highlighted by the Eyes Wide Open album, it seems that PEEKABOO took last year to recharge and rebuild his discography, and we can confidently say that he leveled up his game once again in 2025. The handful of singles released this year showcased the artist’s ever-growing ability to create something unique, and while the collaborations with WINK, Jon Casey, and borne were all amazing tracks in their own right, ‘Yeke Yeke’ was the standout in originality among them all. Sampling Sam Interface and Kuenta’s 2019 track, PEEKABOO utilized the original vocals and built an absolute slapper around them, keeping listeners enthralled from start to finish. I have no f’ing clue what’s being said, but I do not care because it is insanely infectious.
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15. Hamdi – Abomination
Hamdi continued to build off a momentous 2024 with the Abomination EP, largely centered around the project’s title track (although the Visages and LYNY collaborations should not go unmentioned). Building lots of hype around the track via his social media, as he has done so often in the past, Hamdi created tons of anticipation around ‘Abomination’ before its release, and it lived up to the hype. The track is the soundtrack to an alien invasion and a conversation between those aliens. It has a wonky call-and-response drop that is undeniably Hamdi in nature, and the sound design is sure to unleash your nastiest bass face.
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14. BSEARL – Sold My Soul
It’s not often you hear a song that converts you into an instant fan. I had never heard of BSEARL before encountering ‘Sold My Soul’. The song popped up randomly on my Instagram, and I was so impressed that I stopped what I was doing to get my computer and headphones to follow him and listen properly. ‘Sold My Soul’ is a work of absolute beauty. From the subtle vinyl crackle to the infectious percussive loops, every element feels meticulously chosen. Built around emotive chords and an absolutely exceptional vocal, the song is as catchy as it is stunning. Raking in over 3.5 million plays on Spotify alone, it seems I’m not the only one who’s been captivated by this special single.
-CV
13. Ninajirachi – Fuck My Computer
Ninajirachi makes her third consecutive appearance in our Top 50, but never has she deserved it more than this year. After years of build-up, the Nina-mania has finally exploded, triggered by the release of her phenomenal album I Love My Computer. Not only has the project already become a cult favourite among the Australian producer community, but it has also managed to break through the bubble and propel her onto the next level of her career. An example? Just a few weeks ago, I Love My Computer earned her three ARIA awards. Multiple songs off the album would’ve deserved to be on this list, but the choice ultimately fell on ‘Fuck My Computer’, the single that spearh
-AA
12. Calvin Harris – I’m Not Alone (MPH Remix)
Calvin Harris’ ‘I’m Not Alone’ is one of those timeless classics that early fans of radio-friendly electronic music just love. Among the pioneers of the big room movement and its adoption into the mainstream, Calvin Harris has had an immeasurable impact on today’s scene. This track has certainly, in some way, shaped MPH into the artist he is today, and incredibly, he had the opportunity to officially remix the classic. A rising star in the garage scene, MPH had a huge year, highlighted by the release of his album Substance, but with his remix for ‘I’m Not Alone’ serving as the catalyst to it all. The artist was able to keep the integrity of the original while blessing it with his classic garage twist, making it an instant club hit.
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11. Interplanetary Criminal – Fóca Póca (feat. Travy)
Interplanetary Criminal has pursued his climb to the apex of the garage scene. Between an intercontinental tour, his debut at Coachella, and collaborations with other hot artists of the moment, such as KETTAMA and Main Phase, the UK producer has released some of the most popular anthems of the year. ‘Fóca Póca’ might not be the first that comes to mind, but it is a significant addition to his catalogue and the scene. This UKG cut flows smoothly thanks to the impeccable chemistry between Interplanetary Criminal and Irish rapper Travy, and serves as a reminder of the former’s artistic depths and integrity, which has not been spoiled in the slightest by the mainstream attention he has received post ‘B.O.T.A.’
-AA
10. Jon Casey & TroyBoi – AHORA
‘AHORA’ was a no-brainer for the list, especially with the year Jon Casey and TroyBoi have both had. Jon Casey has been leading a full-on wave out of South Africa, proving over and over why he’s one of the most inventive names in trap right now, while TroyBoi continues his reign as one of the OGs in the game, dropping heaters all year. When the two collide, you get ‘AHORA,’ a track that hits like a heavyweight. It’s built on that dark, chest-rattling hard-trap foundation, but layered with the rhythmic swagger and cultural fingerprints that both artists carry in their DNA. The drops slam, the percussion bites, and the whole thing feels like a statement piece from two producers at the top of their game.
-AK
9. Zeds Dead – One Of These Mornings
With well over a decade in the game, Zeds Dead are undisputed legends. ‘One Of These Mornings’ sees the pair return to peak form, putting their signature sound on full display. From the cinematic piano and strings in the intro to the iconic vocal sample and masterful, rich bass, every aspect of the track screams Zeds Dead. The single was a standout from their astounding thematic RETURN TO THE SPECTRUM OF INTERGALACTIC HAPPINESS album, which is easily one of the best electronic albums of 2025. While Zeds Dead have remained consistent throughout their long career, 2025 saw them returning to their roots with the wealth of skills they’ve continued to develop. True originality can be a rarity, but for Zeds Dead, it’s ingrained in their DNA.
-CV
8. Cloonee & InntRaw & Young M.A – Stephanie (HNTR Remix)
I’ve been a fan of HNTR since I saw him live under a different alias way back in 2014. Having watched him transition from bass house, to techno, to tech house over the last decade has been an inspiring story, as he always believed in himself even when his music wasn’t reaching the masses. In late 2024, his unreleased material started gaining traction among the bigger DJs and crowds around the world, and the one that truly catapulted this explosion was his remix of ‘Stephanie.’ Adding a grungy, more underground layer to the purely tech house original, HNTR made a name for himself with this remix, and its popularity can not be understated. It’s always great to see a Toronto local finally getting their flowers, and HNTR’s remix of ‘Stephanie’ deserves a spot in our Top 10 for it.
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7. Skrillex, ISOxo – fuze
As mentioned in #18, 2025 was a transitional year for Skrillex, but it was also an impressive one in terms of output. It was truly an auditory feast for fans of the artist, as an album, a handful of singles, and an EP all made their way into our airwaves. Among the many collaborations that most thought would never see the light of day but did was ‘fuze’ alongside ISOxo. This track was the first single from Skrillex’s hit me where it hurts x EP, and saw the legend team up with the rising star to deliver an absolute banger of a track that beautifully blends everything we love about the two artists. From powerful vocals, to Skrillex’s brostep influence to ISOxo’s high-octane energy, ‘fuze’ slaps from start to finish and perfectly set the stage for the next chapter of Skrillex’s career.
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6. Nero, Taiki Nulight – Innocence 2025
You’d be hard-pressed to find a dubstep track that’s more iconic than Nero’s ‘Innocence.’ The 2010 release helped to bring the original dubstep explosion to the mainstream and will forever be a timeless classic. Reworking a track of this calibre is a tricky undertaking, but if there’s one artist who was ready for the challenge, it’s Taiki Nulight. The veteran producer has been behind some of the best edits and originals in the 140 realm of the past few years. ‘Innocence 2025’ sees Taiki uniting with Nero for an absolutely astounding 2025 rework. All of the emotion, passion, and impact of the original are preserved while the track is modernized with absolutely blistering bass and brain-bending low end. This track was an absolute weapon in live sets and will remain as timeless as the original itself. Taiki, you cheeky bugger! You’ve done it again.
-CV
5. Sammy Virji, Skepta – Cops & Robbers
The release of ‘Cops & Robbers’ was a true cultural happening. The news of a collaboration between UKG’s golden boy and grime’s legend Skepta alone was enough to send the scene into tilt. The way they delivered took the scene by storm. A all-year-round anthem deeply rooted in Virji’s feel-good sauce of garage and Skepta’s lyricist ability that turned out as the perfect point of contact between the genre’s underground heritage and its newfound mainstream appeal.
-AA
4. LYNY – Section
‘Section’ feels like one of those records that doesn’t wait for you to settle in…it just detonates. LYNY comes out swinging with the trap essentials: that grimy low end, the slick serpentine synth work, and a confidence that lets you know he’s fully in his bag. What separates ‘Section’ from the list of big drops released this year is how he uses restraint as a weapon. While most producers would fill the space with extra layers, LYNY leaves the track room to breathe. The bass sits right at the front, unapologetic, letting the groove hit harder because nothing gets in its way. It’s trap at its purest but sharpened with LYNY’s own edge. And then there’s the iconic vocal sample from Benny Benassi’s ‘Satisfaction.’ LYNY cuts it into the track like a blade, and it somehow makes the record feel even leaner and meaner. If ‘Section’ wasn’t already massive enough on its own, add in the fact that it picked up an entirely new wave of momentum this year when it became a crucial piece of one of the biggest tracks of the year (more on that later).
-AK
3. Clipse, John Legend & Voices of Fire – The Birds Don’t Sing
2025 blessed us with a lot of incredible music moments, but the return of Clipse easily tops my list. One of hip-hop’s greatest duos united for their first album in 16 years and dropped a certified classic. Uniting with Pharrell, Let God Sort Em Out, reminded the world of the pair’s greatness. While singles like ‘So Be It’ and ‘Ace Trumpets’ could have easily laid their claim on this list. It’s the album’s opener that claims one of our top spots in ‘The Birds Don’t Sing.’
While the bulk of the album is stacked with opulent flexes, street tales, coke raps, and the razor-sharp wordplay we’ve come to expect from Clipse, ‘The Birds Don’t Sing,’ is honest, introspective, and heartbreaking. Offering the unfiltered and unique perspective from both brothers, the track is a raw depiction of the pain and grief surrounding the loss of their parents. Pusha T opens the track saying, “Lost in emotion, mama’s youngest, Tryna navigate life without my compass, Some experience death and feel numbness, But not me, I felt it all and couldn’t function.” The weight and intensity of emotion are only amplified by the masterful backing. The slow-building production scores the vivid imagery of the verses exceptionally. When the bass hits over the first verse, it gives me the physical chills every time, deepening the emotional impact of Pusha’s words. John Legend’s impassioned hook adds a further layer of soulful mourning that bridges the perspectives between Pusha and Malice.
Just when you think it can’t be any deeper, Malice opens up about finding his father after he passed away. The honesty and level of detail in the description of the scene is heartbreaking. The verse also pivots to the highs and lows of their relationship, from the joy of having a father he could share with his friends and their fishing trips, to the pain his father must have felt working so hard to provide for his family, only to find his sons still turn to drug dealing. It’s the closing bars that really hit unlike anything else, “Birds don’t sing if the words don’t sting, Your last few words in my ear still ring (Oh), You told me that you loved me, it was all in your tone (Oh-oh), “I love my two sons” was the code to your phone, now you’re home.”
Artists are expected to share a piece of themselves within their work, but it’s rare that they are willing to be this open and honest, especially surrounding their darkest days. ‘The Birds Don’t Sing’ is painful, beautiful, and inspiring. It’s a heartbreaking reminder to show the ones you love how much they mean to you every day. I wasn’t expecting the intro of a Clipse album to bring me to tears, but I’d be lying if I told you I had dry eyes listening to ‘The Birds Don’t Sing.’
-CV
2. Chrystal – The Days (NOTION Remix)
Despite its late 2024 release, NOTION’s rework of ‘The Days’ was the soundtrack to the summer, seeing incredible viral success and ringing off everywhere you went. From the beach to the gym, the club, or in the car, it was almost impossible to escape. And for good reason. While some may be over it due to oversaturation, you can’t deny its greatness. The garage groove is smooth and dancey, the bassline is instantly recognizable, and the vocals are beyond catchy and addictive. Add in the nostalgic lyrics and smooth vocal delivery, and it’s simply irresistible. ‘The Days’ fits in that rare category of electronic/pop crossover that’s actually exceptional. The track took garage from the sound that’s been bubbling in the electronic scene to the stratosphere and catapulted NOTION to superstar status. With nearly half a billion plays on Spotify alone, it’s a testament to the power of a quality remix, the production skills of NOTION, and Chrystal’s incredible vocals. Press play and let the memories of warmer days flood back.
-CV
1. Fred again.., PlaqueBoyMax, and Skepta – Victory Lap
There couldn’t be a more fitting title for the Fred again.. single that tops our Top 50 Songs Of 2025 List. 2025 was Fred again..’s year. While his star has continually been rising, this year cemented Fred again..’s status as the face of electronic music. From the viral livestreams (on which ‘Victory Lap’ debuted), to the collab EP with Skepta, and the iconic 10 Shows in 10 Cities (along with new music weekly), Fred again.. hasn’t taken his foot off the gas all year.
‘Victory Lap’ isn’t just a single; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The track spawned five official versions and more unofficial remixes than you could count. The fact that the final iteration ended up sampling LYNY’s ‘Section’ with D Double E rapping over it is simply incredible. Everything about the track and iterations feels like they were created from a love for the culture, and each iteration of ‘Victory Lap’ is masterful. The Doechii vocal sample is aggressive and infectious, setting the tone, and Fred again.. and PlaqueBoyMax just kept building from there. Thumping basslines and perfected percussion lay the foundation for Skepta to slide on the beat with his signature mix of swag and intensity.
‘Victory Lap’ is a celebration of the underground on the main stage, mixing grime, bass, and hip-hop for the year’s biggest banger. It’s also a testament to Fred again..’s artistic integrity. So many artists in his place are quick to sell out, making mass-produced, watered-down, poppy renditions of their earlier work. Fred again.. has instead opted to take the opposite approach, making whatever he wants, embracing the sounds he loves, and keeping it weird and wonderful. Press play and bask in the greatness.
-CV
You can listen to all the tracks in our playlists on SoundCloud and Spotify.
Written and curated by Alessio, Alshaan, Colin, John, and Steph
