Here are the biggest and best tracks of 2025, picked by the staff at Off the Record.

In 2025 we bled, got killed, and learned how to love.

Off the Record’s 2025 recap continues with picks from the year of the rock star.

They may be a decade in, but this was truly the year of Post Animal.

From the best of grunge rock to up-and-coming alt-pop acts, take a look at Off the Record’s picks for best alternative songs of 2025.

These are some of our favorite snapshots from the year and the stories behind them — the reasons that make it all worth it.

We’re kicking off OTR’s annual music recap with an homage to the music industry’s favorite contentious genre classification: indie songs.

For all you cinephiles, the Off the Record staff has compiled a list of albums we’re recommending based on your favorite movies.

Looking for the perfect soundtrack to autumn? Here’s a mix of classic and niche albums that define fall listening.

Wouldst thou lend thine ear to my curated selection of melodies?

Spoiler alert: the band is real, and they’re hitting the road this fall.

Peel back the many creative layers behind some of your favorite artists with this playlist featuring side projects, supergroups, and early bands.

Travel the world—no visa required—with this playlist of tracks from beyond the United States.

From Harry Styles to the Glee Cast and everything in between, the Off The Record Press staff weighed in on the covers we believe surpass the original.

It seems as though every day users online are questioning where 2025’s “song of the summer” is. Here’s why.

Warning: this playlist may elicit strong feelings of nostalgia, a craving for the scent of sunscreen, and the urge to lay by the pool.

Mark your calendars for some sure-to-please albums dropping as we head into the second half of the year.

If you need a break from summer fun, dive into your thoughts and let the current of this atmospheric playlist sweep you away.

Reaching the halfway point of the year, here are the standouts from January to June.

Lollapalooza presents a mixed bag of indie alt acts among their otherwise mainstream lineup.

While some fans are willing to pay the price to witness the trendiest stars at the most iconic festivals, attending smaller, more local music events can not only spare your wallet the pain, but also introduce you to your new favorite acts. Photo by Nico Beauchamp.

As a city busting out of the seams with music, it’s no secret that Austin has produced some incredible acts over the years. Read here to add a few to your rotation this spring.

You might be able to find Stranger Things cast members Maya Hawke, Joe Keery, and Finn Wolfhard in one of your Spotify playlists. When not on set, the actors are in the studio as musicians, and some of the most brilliant at that.