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Paul Rauch's Top Ten Jazz Albums of 2025

By Paul Rauch
December 9, 2025
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It's that time of year again, when we attempt to nail down this year's top ten jazz albums. 2025 has had a lot to offer, with hundreds of deserving releases. The hope is that you look over a variety of lists from different writers, and make a list of your own—a roster of selections you might listen to, and subsequently support the artist's efforts in the marketplace. Here's a solid ten for you to consider.

Belonging
Branford Marsalis
Blue Note Records
2025

Cipher
Charlie Porter
PHP Records
2025

Delight
Dawn Clement
Origin Records
2025

City Life: Music of Gregg Hill
Michael Dease
Origin Records
2025

Screen Time
Thomas Marriott
Imani / 88 Keys Productions
2025

New America
Nick Biello
La Reserve
2025

Live At The Jazz Standard
George Colligan
Whirlwind Recordings
2025

First Meeting
Gonzalo Rubalcaba
5Passion Records
2025

Peace Unknown
Art Hirahara
Posi-Tone Records
2025

Rivers
Reggie Watkins
BYNK Records
2025

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