No Treble’s Top 10 Reader-Favorite New Albums of 2025

by Kevin Johnson Sunday, December 28th, 2025

Our love of the bass really comes down to music, and 2025 gave us plenty to dig into. From archival releases to fresh live albums, the bass playing community delivered some real gems that kept us grooving all year long.

We’re continuing our year in review with new albums, highlighting the top ten reader favorites for 2025.

As always, our “best of” lists are based on article views, making this a true reflection of what resonated most with the No Treble community this year.

1. Doobie Brothers Reunite with Michael McDonald and Bass Icons for “Walk This Road”

"Walk This Road" marks the Doobie Brothers’ latest release with Michael McDonald and session bass legends including Pino Palladino and Bob Glaub.

2. Unearthed: Sly & The Family Stone’s Earliest Live Recording Captures Larry Graham’s Funk Bass Roots

Before their breakout, Sly & The Family Stone recorded a rare 1967 live set. Hear Larry Graham’s groundbreaking bass style in its rawest form before it changed funk forever.

3. NOFX’s “Barcelona”: How the Unlikely Combination of Fat Mike and David Pastorius Created a Genre-Bending Bass Gem

David Pastorius breaks down his collaboration with Fat Mike on NOFX’s “Barcelona” and shares a video on how to play his standout bass parts.

4. Two Bassists, One Wild Night: Frank Zappa’s 1978 Halloween Show Returns in Full

Frank Zappa’s 1978 Halloween concert returns in full glory with dual bassists, five CDs of wild jams, and a box set packed with extras.

5. BEAT LIVE: Belew, Levin, Vai & Carey Capture King Crimson’s ’80s Era on New Album

"BEAT LIVE" captures Belew, Levin, Vai & Carey revisiting King Crimson’s ’80s era on tour. Hear classics from Discipline, Beat and more on this live album.

6. The Who Release “Live at The Oval 1971,” Spotlighting John Entwistle’s Fiery Bass Genius

The Who unearth Live at The Oval 1971, a powerful archival release that highlights John Entwistle’s groundbreaking bass playing.

7. Nathan East Releases “Father Son” Album with Son Noah: Features Clapton, Beatles Cover, and Jazz Icons

Bass legend Nathan East and son Noah release "Father Son," a new jazz album with Eric Clapton, iconic covers, and a deeply personal touch.

8. Sting Returns to His Roots With “Sting 3.0 Live” Trio Album Including Classics Like “Message in a Bottle”

Sting captures the energy of his "Sting 3.0" tour with a new live trio album, featuring classics like "Message in a Bottle" and "Every Breath You Take."

9. Pino Palladino and Blake Mills Return with “That Wasn’t a Dream,” Reveal Tour Plans

Pino Palladino & Blake Mills unveil That Wasn't a Dream, a stripped-back follow-up to Notes With Attachments, with tour dates ahead.

10. Deftones’ “private music” Launches a New Chapter with Bassist Fred Sablan

Deftones return with private music, their 10th album and the first to feature bassist Fred Sablan. Read how he shaped the band’s new chapter.

In his time with No Treble, Kevin has met hundreds of amazing bassists and interviewed icons like Jack Casady, Victor Wooten, Les Claypool, Marcus Miller, and more. He's a gigging bassist performing jazz in Northern Virginia and bluegrass with The Plate Scrapers up and down the East Coast. Kevin appreciates all genres of music, from R&B to metal and everything in between. Connect with Kevin on Facebook and check his performance schedule on his website.

No Treble’s Top 10 Reader-Favorite New Albums of 2025

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