2025: Second Quarter Review | EPs
A rundown of some of the best EPs of the year between April and June.
Hi Pal,
Two weeks , I wrote one for the albums, so it’s only fair that we show the EPs some love. This is not a ranked list; it’s just a fun rundown. Streaming links are embedded in titles.
I. Miracle Service — Andy Squyres
Indie Rock, Indie Folk
Quite frankly, this is probably going to end up being the EP of the year, especially in the indie/alternative space. Andy Squyres's ability to write and craft tunes with deep emotion and sincerity is something that I will never fully comprehend. If you’re looking for music that will sit with you in this season, give this one a listen.
II. More Than This — Liv Douglas
Singer-songwriter, Indie Folk
Liv Douglas is a creative with multiple areas of interest, and when she is not making music, she is most likely taking pictures at a wedding somewhere. A consequence of this is that there may be gaps between projects, but every time she releases something new, it’s often one of the standouts of that year.
III. Goodbye, Eden — Solae
Ambient lofi
Solae has been very active this year, giving us an album and an EP. I love their brand of lofi because it leans into ambient and atmospheric soundscapes, and gives room for acoustics to shine. This EP has been one of my comfort projects for 2025.
IV. Lost Without You — Calah Mikal
Indie Folk
Speaking of comfort, Calah Mikal’s approach to indie folk and worship is easing and soothing. I was hoping for a new album this year, but I’ll have to settle for an EP. It’s a short collection of songs, containing some of her best work, and I’ve enjoyed the progression in her songwriting and general creative process since her debut.
V. SEOUL BROTHER — nobigdyl.,Kato On The Track
Hip-hop, Rap
It’s been a busy year for Hip-Hop already. Nobigdyl. and Kato On The Track have contributed to an immersive catalogue of released projects. SEOUL BROTHER features excellent verses and stellar production, easily making it one of the best offerings in the genre so far.
VI. Thousand Sunny Days — From The Ground Up
Alternative/Indie, Worship
I was surprised at how much indie and heartland rock sensibilities are on this EP, especially considering how folky their debut sounded. This is stellar work from FTGU, and I’m looking forward to more projects from them.
VII. In All Things — Salt of the Sound, Dear Gravity
Ambient
This list would not be complete without sharing an ambient project or two. This short body of work by Dear Gravity and SotS has helped with peace reflection and a partner through meditative moments since it was released. They are veterans at this by now, but I’m still blown away by the subtle ways they surprise me.
VIII. FALSE PROPHETS — Identify The Body
Metalcore
As far as heavy projects go, this one has been on my anticipated radar for a few months, and I’m glad to finally have it in my library. It’s bold, expressive, truthful and did not disappoint on the heaviness.
IX. The Doorway (Version 2.0) — The Shimmering Carnelians
Alternative Rock, Psychedelia
Adam Michael may be new to most folks, but his approach to rock music, creating with an experimental edge, bringing elements of psychedelia, hard rock, alternative metal and post-grunge into his sound, is one of the oddest things I’ve heard in a while (and I mean this as a compliment). If you’re looking to hear something that is biblically sound but equally strange, give this one a chance.
X. Deny Myself — Stephen Willo
R&B
Stephen Willo has had a busy year, and I’m sure he is done. His blend of R&B, soul and gospel music — and sometimes rock — is always delightful to hear, especially when paired with his light tenor vocals. There are many reasons to love this EP if you’re into these genres.
That’s it for today.
Catch you soon!
Feel free to leave a comment. Also, I am always open to hearing from you, so feel free to send an email to me at
stismavo@gmail.com
really love your posts - keep it coming Billy. Also the song by Calah Mikal is so so soothing!