It’s finally here! Blacforje has compiled the top 20 albums of the year - 10 of our favorite albums in black metal and 10 of the best in dungeon synth. 2025 was the year for some outstanding releases, and here are our favorites.

Eternal Gaze is quickly working to become synonymous with the high-quality blackgaze of Deafheaven and Alcest. The artist does bring something new to a genre that features plenty of cookie-cutter acts, including unique progressive, grunge, thrash, and hymnal influences.