Usually these releases can fall into the money grab category, not really adding much outside of revenue for the label and (hopefully) the artist. Every now and then though some spectacular collections are unearthed and are worth any price.
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With the increase in vinyl, and enhanced Record Store Days to help smaller sellers, there are more and more archival releases each year. RtBE are sure to miss a lot of them, but the quality and abundance is exciting. Post your favorites, or any we may have missed, in the comments.
These were our favorite archival releases of 2025, click the link in the title for full reviews.
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First one out of the gate and RtBE is already cheating. This was actually released last year, 2024, to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the recordings, but RtBE didn't get around to it until January this year, so we are including it. Nothing was unreleased with this record, so Miles fans probably already own most/all, but having it in one spot, and getting to hear “Blue ’n’ Boogie” and “Walkin’” from these sessions is simply killer. A very cool collection of Miles in transition.
The best of the four Dave's Picks released by the Dead this year. This show is really top notch from the group, a bit mellow, but cool. What elevates this release is the bonus material from March 31, 1973 show, played at the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium. Some of the same songs as 3/26, but better versions and a dynamite spin through "The Other One". A very solid release in the ongoing series.
(Not official Dave's Picks audio)
This year was the first we became aware of Johanson, who is a damn good guitarist and singer. His live album, recorded just last year, is a perfect intro for his sound that will wow and delight any fans looking for hard rocking blues.
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Here is an even more recent live album, recorded at this years Jazzfest by an upcoming artist. I got a feeling Eckert will be making these "Best of" lists a ton in the future. The next torch bearer of NOLA piano sounds put together a great band and released really solid live record from the Fairgrounds.
Various Artists - A Tribute to the King of Zydeco
The archive/live album RtBE played the most this year, by far, is this surprisingly vibrant release from the 75 year old (at the time of recording) punk icon. So damn good, the music has a jazz/bass driven sound that is really well delivered throughout. If you think Iggy is doing simply a greatest hits show you are wrong, he (and the band) still have it flowing through them. They are still doing it live as well as we got to see for ourselves. Check out this live record if you doubt him.
A live capturing of a special night, with a band perfectly suited to do the original album justice. They do just that and with their fleet of guests, go above and beyond. Insert some new tunes, great singing, great playing, worth hearing for both fans of the original and newbies.
The Tipitina's Record Club is fantastic and this was the highlight release this year. A historic and funky collection of tunes they released for Mardi Gras this year.
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We started this with a Craft Records release and we will end with one as well. Stax Revue: Live in 65! captures the famous labels all-star soul legends live from two different shows in 1965. Hometown Memphis is loose and the LA outing is tight, as the players give it their all, especially house band Booker T and the MG's.
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