The best of 2025: IPA Music’s Top 40 indie, punk and alternative albums of the year
2025 has been another cracking year for music, with some excellent records released, and picking a favourite has proved harder than ever.
Loaded 44 make long-awaited return with a tasty slice of punk rock ‘n’ roll
ALBUM REVIEW: Loaded 44 – In The City (self-released)
Cock Sparrer lay on a Christmas cracker with the help of Gimp Fist and Tear Up
GIG REVIEW: Cock Sparrer + Gimp Fist + Tear Up @ York Barbican, Saturday 13 December 2025
Social Distortion announce month-long UK and European tour for 2026
Southern California punk legends Social Distortion have announced a pair of UK dates as part of a month-long summer 2026 European tour.
Slalom D look to the future at landmark 100th gig at their home away from home
GIG REVIEW: Slalom D + Great Silence + Ugly Criers @ Trillians, Newcastle, Sunday 7 December 2025
In Evil Hour reveal new layers to their melodic hardcore by stripping it right back
ALBUM REVIEW: In Evil Hour – Permanent Record (self-released)
The Undertones leave Newcastle Hypnotised as they celebrate classic album
GIG REVIEW: The Undertones + John Otway @ Boiler Shop, Newcastle, Thursday 4 December 2025
Ash release Santa Claus Is Coming To Town as their first-ever Christmas single
Irish indie-rockers Ash have today notched another first in their 33-year career by releasing a Christmas single.
The Puncturists continue to grow old disgracefully on debut album I’m Not Alright
ALBUM REVIEW: The Puncturists – I’m Not Alright (Dead Swan Records)
Cockney Rejects to headline North East Calling 2026 as The Meffs and Meryl Streek make their debuts
Street-punk legends Cockney Rejects are heading back to Newcastle to headline North East Calling 2026.