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20 Albums Turning 20 in 2025

Posted on Wednesday 15th January 2025 at 15:00

Sarah Moore

Written by
Sarah Moore

20 ALBUMS TURNING 20 IN 2025

As human beings, we're addicted to the pangs of nostalgia. With each passing year, we find ourselves wistfully looking back at times that have passed, memories shared, and the things we enjoyed the most - that includes the albums we've consumed and loved over the years. The start of a new year seems as good a time as any to look back at some iconic records that were released 20 years ago, back in 2005.

2005 birthed the very first video on YouTube, the release of Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, and the Xbox 360. But what about music? Read on and find out which records turn 20 years old this year, and try not to feel too old while doing so.

What memories do you have of music in 2005? Be sure to let us know on social. Follow us on FacebookInstagramThreadsX, and TikTok for all the hottest gig updates and conversation, and subscribe to our newsletter to be the first in line for all the biggest ticket releases this year.

 

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SILENT ALARM- BLOC PARTY

1. Silent Alarm - Bloc Party

Release date: 2nd February 2005

In February 2005, indie rock and dance-punk outfit Bloc Party released their debut studio album Silent Alarm, which included singles such as "Helicopter", "Banquet", and "The Pioneers".

Critically acclaimed, the album was nominated for a number of awards, winning the likes of NME's Best Album award, and reached a peak of No. 3 on the Official Albums Chart in the UK. It was later remixed as Silent Alarm Remixed and re-released with bonus tracks to coincide with Bloc Party's worldwide touring schedule. This critical and commercial recognition helped cement Bloc Party as one of the leading bands in the mid-00s indie rock scene.

Bloc Party will be celebrating the album in 2025 by performing it in its entirety at Live at Leeds in the Park festival this May, alongside their greatest hits.

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REAL ILLUSIONS: REFLECTIONS - STEVE VAI

2. Real Illusions: Reflections - Steve Vai

Release date: 22nd February 2005

Real Illusions: Reflections is the seventh studio album by virtuoso guitarist Steve Vai, released on in February of 2005, marking Vai's return after a six-year hiatus since his previous release, The Ultra Zone in 1999. The first installment of a planned three-part concept album, collectively titled "Real Illusions," the album explores a narrative centered around a town visited by the godsent Pamposh and his construction of the Church.

The album was well received, with critics noting Vai's vocals in particular had become increasingly confident. The track "Lotus Feet" was nominated for Best Rock Instrumental Performance at the 2006 Grammy Awards and charted on the US Billboard 200.

See Steve Vai team up with Joe Satriani in SatchVai Band, as they bring the Surfing With The Hydra 2025 Tour to the UK in June. Limited tickets remain for Manchester's O2 Apollo date!

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 ANGEL OF RETRIBUTION - JUDAS PRIEST

3. Angel of Retribution - Judas Priest

Release date: 23rd February 2005

Heavy metal legends Judas Priest released their 15th studio album in 2005 - Angel of Retribution - which marked the return of vocalist Rob Halford, who rejoined the band two years prior after a 12 year absence. The album featured production from Roy Z, best known for his work with Bruce Dickinson and Rob Halford's solo projects.

Debuting at No. 13 on the UK Billboard 200 chart, the album is considered somewhat autobiographical, notably on the track "Deal With The Devil" which references the band's early days in the West Midlands. A documentary titled Reunited was released along with the album on DualDisc.

This summer, Judas Priest team up with Alice Cooper for a huge headlining show at The O2 arena, London.

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EMPLOYMENT - KAISER CHIEFS

4. Employment - Kaiser Chiefs

Release date: 7th March 2005

2005 saw Kaiser Chiefs enter the music industry with a bang, releasing their debut record Employment. The album draws inspiration from a number of genres, including Britpop, new wave and 1970s-era punk rock. The album was the fourth best-selling album of the year, and debuted at No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart. It later reached No. 2 almost a year after its release, following the band's success at the BRIT Awards.

As a result of the album's success, Employment was nominated for Best British Album at the 2006 BRIT Awards, with the band also winning Best British Group at the same ceremony. Kaiser Chiefs saw a number of other awards and accolades thanks to the album's critical and commercial success and solidified its status as a defining album of 00s indie rock

Kaiser Chiefs will be marking the anniversary of Employment with a number of outdoor live shows this summer. 

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LANGUAGE. SEX. VIOLENCE. OTHER? - STEREOPHONICS 

5. Language. Sex. Violence. Other? - Stereophonics

Release date: 14th March 2005

Language. Sex. Violence. Other? by Welsh alternative rock band Stereophonics was released in March 2005 and marked a return to the band's more energetic and rock-oriented sound. Featuring a blend of rock, Britpop, and new wave influences, tracks like "Doorman" and "Brother" showcased the band's more aggressive sound. The album's title reflects the band's intention to explore more provocative and intense themes in their music.

The album debuted at No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and featured the track "Dakota" - Stereophonics' biggest hit in the UK, reaching No. 1 on the sales chart and topping the download chart, where it remained in the top ten for 11 weeks.

Stereophonics are heading out on a summer stadium tour this year, where they'll be playing tracks from Language. Sex. Violence. Other? and the rest of their extensive discography.

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FROM UNDER THE CORK TREE - FALL OUT BOY 

6. From Under The Cork Tree - Fall Out Boy

Release date: 3rd May 2005 

Pop-punk icons Fall Out Boy released their sophomore album in 2005, From Under the Cork Tree, and was the band's major-label debut. Delving into themes of anxiety, depression, and self-reflection, the album played a pivotal role in bringing pop-punk and emo music into the mainstream during the mid-2000s, influencing a generation of listeners and paving the way for similar bands in the genre.

Selling over seven million copies, From Under The Cork Tree featured the hugely popular tracks "Dance, Dance" and their breakout single, "Sugar, We're Goin Down", both of which achieved significant commercial success. It was nominated for a number of awards, including the Grammy Award for Best New Artist and Teen Choice Award for Choice Rock Group.

 

 

DEMON DAYS - GORILLAZ

7. Demon Days - Gorillaz

Release date: 11th May 2005

British virtual band Gorillaz returned with their second album Demon Days in 2005, which signalled a significant evolution in the band's sound, blending alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. It is often hailed as a landmark in 00s music. Produced by Gorillaz and Danger Mouse, it features collaborations with artists such as De La Soul, Neneh Cherry, and MF DOOM, contributing to its diverse musical palette.

Demon Days received widespread acclaim from critics and was praised for its innovative production and genre-blending style. Lead single "Feel Good Inc." reached No. 2 on the Official UK Singles Chart and won a Grammy Award from Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals, meanwhile "DARE" peaked at the No. 1 spot.

 

 

MEZMERIZE - SYSTEM OF A DOWN 

8. Mezmerize - System of a Down

Release date: 17th May 2005

American heavy metal band System of a Down's fourth studio album Mezmerize blended elements of nu-metal, alternative metal, and art rock by using aggressive guitar riffs, complex rhythms, and politically charged lyrics. The band's shortest album at just over 36 minutes, Mezmerize is considered one part of a double album, with Hypnotize making up the other half.

The album debuted at No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 chart and birthed one of the band's most successful songs, "BYOB" which earned a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance. 

 

 

DON'T BELIEVE THE TRUTH - OASIS

9. Don't Believe The Truth - Oasis

Release date: 30th May 2005

Don't Believe the Truth is the sixth studio album by English rock band Oasis, released in May 2005. The album was notable thanks to a shift towards a more collaborative approach, with all band members contributing to the songwriting process, and was the first Oasis album to feature drummer Zak Starkey, son of Ringo Starr. A return to form for the band, the album was praised for its cohesive sound and strong songwriting, with tracks like "Lyla" and "The Importance of Being Idle" standing out, both reaching No. 1 on the Official UK Singles Chart.

The album debuted at No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and achieved the the highest US chart position for an Oasis album since 1997's Be Here Now. Winning the People's Choice Award and Best Album for Don't Believe the Truth, Oasis released an album that many consider one of their stand out records.

 

 

CITY OF EVIL - AVENGED SEVENFOLD 

10. City of Evil - Avenged Sevenfold

Release date: 6th June 2005

Considered a departure from their earlier metalcore style, City of Evil by Avenged Sevenfold remains a favourite of fans of heavy metal even 20 years since its release in June 2005. It features no screaming vocals, unlike previous records, with lead vocalist M. Shadows working extensively with vocal coach Ron Anderson to achieve a gritty yet melodic tone. Drummer The Rev enhanced his performance by practicing to reach speeds up to 210 beats per minute.

Arguably the band's most successful single, "Bat Country" reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks and No. 6 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks. The song is inspired by Hunter S. Thompson's novel Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. The album's success led to Avenged Sevenfold winning the Best New Artist award at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards, a significant achievement that underscored their rising prominence in the rock and metal scenes.

 

 

MONKEY BUSINESS - THE BLACK EYED PEAS 

11. Monkey Business - The Black Eyed Peas

Release date: 7th June 2005

Monkey Business marked a major crossover for The Black Eyed Peas from hip-hop and soul to more funk and dance music. This fourth record featured collaborations with artists such as Justin Timberlake, Timbaland, Q-Tip, Talib Kweli, Cee Lo Green, John Legend, Jack Johnson, James Brown, and Sting. The diverse range of guest artists contributed to the album's eclectic sound.

The album achieved significant commercial success, debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart and selling over 300,000 copies in its first week. Two of the album's singles - "Don't Phunk with My Heart" and "My Humps" - both charted in the top three in the US singles charts, securing The Black Eyed Peas place in the heart of 00s pop music. 

 

 

hours - funeral for a friend 

12. Hours - Funeral For A Friend

Release date: 13th June 2005

Welsh post-hardcore band Funeral for a Friend returned with their sophomore album Hours in 2005. Marking a significant shift in the band's musical direction, Hours moved the band towards a more melodic and emotionally charged sound compared to their earlier work. The album was produced by Terry Date, known for his work with bands like Pantera and Deftones, with co-production by the band itself. Notably, unconventional recording techniques were used during the album's production, such as capturing vocals in a moving vehicle for the track "Drive" and on a public street for "History."

The album was released in multiple formats, including a special edition with a bonus DVD featuring interviews with the band and fans before a gig at the Give it a Name festival. Their song "Roses For The Dead" from the record, although not commercially their most successful, has become one of the band's most loved and recognised tracks 20 years later.

 

 

in your honor - foo fighters

13. In Your Honor - Foo Fighters

Release date: 14th June 2005

Fifth record from American rock legends Foo Fighters In Your Honor was praised for its cohesive blend of heavy and acoustic tracks, showcasing the band's versatility. The album was produced by the band alongside Nick Raskulinecz, known for his work with bands like Rush and Velvet Revolver. Its title, In Your Honor, was inspired by Grohl's desire to honour his late friend and former Nirvana bandmate, Kurt Cobain.

In Your Honor debuted at No. 13 on the Billboard 200 chart and birthed some of Foo Fighters' most iconic signature songs such as lead single "Best Of You" and "DOA". The year following, the album was nominated for Best Rock Album at the 2006 Grammy Awards.

 

 

doomsday machine - arch enemy

14. Doomsday Machine - Arch Enemy

Release date: 26th July 2005

Swedish melodic death metal band Arch Enemy released their sixth studio album Doomsday Machine in July 2005. The record showcased the band's signature blend of aggressive riffs, melodic solos, and powerful vocals, further solidifying their status in the metal community. Doomsday Machine is notable for its polished production and intricate guitar work, featuring complex solos and harmonies that highlight the Amott brothers' technical prowess.

The album was well received in the music press, with AllMusic's Eduardo Rivadavia noting that Doomsday Machine felt like a pivotal album for Arch Enemy, suggesting it was a "make-or-break" moment for the band. MetalReviews.com mentioned that the album employed "slicker production", and it debuted at number 87 on the Billboard 200.

In 2025, Arch Enemy return to the live stage for the Blood Dynasty Tour 2025, with special guests Amorphis, Eluveitie and Gatecreeper.

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all we know is falling - paramore 

15. All We Know Is Falling - Paramore

Release date: 26th July 2005

American rock band Paramore made their debut in 2005 with All We Know Is Falling. The album showcased the band's early influences of the hardcore, punk and emo music of the early-to-mid 00s, with lead vocalist Hayley Williams' dynamic performances pushing the teenage band to forefront of the scene. The departure of bassist Jeremy Davis shortly before recording began influenced the album's themes, particularly evident in the title and cover art, which symbolises his absence.

Williams' vocal abilities and the band's potential at such a young age made waves, and retrospective assessments of the album consider it a "scene classic". In the UK, Paramore's debut reached No. 4 on the UK Rock Chart and eventually peaked at number 51 on the UK Albums Chart in 2010, piggybacking off the success of their 2009 record Brand New Eyes. The album's lead single "Pressure" has become a fan favourite and was certified gold in 2016.

 

 

wonderland - mcfly 

16. Wonderland - McFly

Release date: 29th August 2005

Wonderland is the second studio album by English pop rock band McFly, released in the UK in August 2005. The record was a signalling of the band's growth since their debut Room on the 3rd Floor, featuring a more mature sound and a broader range of musical styles and more intricate arrangements. The album features a 60-piece orchestra, adding depth to tracks like "All About You."

Wonderland debuted at No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart, making McFly the youngest band to have their first two albums debut at the top of the charts. The album was certified platinum, selling over 300,000 copies in the UK and was accompanied by the Wonderland Arena Tour, during which the band performed at various large venues across the UK.

McFly will be performing live in the UK in 2025, with a show at Southampton's Guildhall Square already sold out, and a headline performance at Norwich's Rock N Roll Circus on sale now. They'll also be teaming up with Busted in October for a co-headlining arena tour.

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plans - death cab for cutie 

17. Plans - Death Cab For Cutie

Release date: 20th August 2005

American rock band Death Cab for Cutie made their major label debut in 2005, with their fifth studio album Plans, which brought their polished indie pop and alternative rock sound to mainstream audiences for the first time.

The album explore themes of love, mortality, and the passage of time, and debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a significant commercial breakthrough for the band. Lead single "Soul Meets Body" became one of the band's most successful songs, and poignant acoustic ballad "I Will Follow You into the Dark" earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.

 

 

a fever you can't sweat out - panic at the disco

18. A Fever You Can't Sweat Out - Panic! At The Disco

Release date: 27th September 2005

A Fever You Can't Sweat Out is the debut studio album by American rock band Panic! At The Disco, released in September 2005. The album is notable for its unique blend of pop-punk, emo, and electronic influences, divided into two distinct halves: the first featuring electronic-influenced rock tracks, and the second showcasing a more vaudevillian, cabaret-inspired style. After posting demos online, they caught the attention of Fall Out Boy's bassist Pete Wentz, who signed them to his label, Decaydance Records, an imprint of iconic alternative label Fueled by Ramen who represent peers such as Paramore, Fall Out Boy and Jimmy Eat World.

The album was a commercial success, peaking at No. 13 on the Billboard 200 chart. By 2011, it had sold over 1.8 million copies in the United States. "I Write Sins Not Tragedies" - the album's second single and the band's most successful song - reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Over the years, the album has become one of the most notable albums of the mid-00s emo scene.

 

 

taller in more ways - sugababes 

19. Taller in More Ways - Sugababes

Release date: 10th October 2005

Taller in More Ways is the fourth studio album by one of the UK's most successful girl groups, Sugababes. Released in October 2005, the album showcases a blend of pop, electropop, and R&B genres, reflecting the group's evolving musical style.

Notably, the title Taller in More Ways was inspired by a line in the album's second single, "Ugly", which achieved commercial success and conveyed a positive message about self-acceptance. "Push the Button", the lead single, topped the UK Singles Chart and became one of the group's most successful tracks.

Sugababes will be touring their original line-up of Mutya Buena, Keisha Buchanan and Siobhan Donaghy in 2025, across UK arenas.

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first impressions of earth - the strokes 

20. First Impressions of Earth - The Strokes

Release date: 30th December 2005

The Strokes released their third studio album First Impressions of Earth in Germany in December 2005, and everywhere else in the world a month later in January 2006. The album marked a stylistic shift for the band, incorporating a more polished production and exploring new musical directions. It was produced by David Kahne, known for his work with artists like Paul McCartney and The Bangles.

The album's lyrics delve into themes of existentialism, self-reflection, and societal observations, showcasing a maturation in the band's songwriting. It secured the No. 1 spot on the UK Albums Chart, marking the band's first UK No. 1 album, and in Japan it achieved gold status within the first week of release.

 

 

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