Top 10 Downtempo/Chillout/Psychill&Psybient Albums of 2025

The title is a mouthful. I apologize. The reason for this, is because not all of the following albums have a psychedelic flair to them. But they all have one thing in common: They are in the Top 10 list because they put out beautiful downtempo electronic music this year.

This year was difficult for me and new music. I just was having a difficult time finding new releases, and when I did, nothing stood out to me. Suddenly at the very end of the year a friend linked me to a website that listed a ton of new releases (shoutout to psyfeed.org). So picture me in December, frantically listening to all the new music of 2025 that had come out in that year. The fact remains, however, that I did find the new music, and I did find great new music. Here they are: I will let the music speak for itself here!

10. Emog - Temple of the Turning Sun

psychill

9. Lotus - Sounds of Snow

psybient, chilltrance (chillgressive)

8. Sundial Aeon - Nebulosis

psybient

7. Invisible Garden - Nautis

psychill

6. Brokenblender - Aether

psybass

5. Tales From The Path 2 - Kalya Scintilla

psybass

4. Psybur - Sporelight

psychill

3. Mattura - Rites of Passage

psybass

2. Magnetik - Renaissance

downtempo electronic

1. Geoglyph - Otherworldly

psychill

Congratulations to the Top 10 of 2025!

Top 10 Psychill/Psybient Albums of 2024

Get ready to dive deep into the psychedelic abyss! Our annual Top 10 Psychedelic Chill Albums of 2024 is here. Remember, everyone's trip is unique, so what's trippy to one might be mellow to another.

This year, we've been completely captivated by the mind-bending sounds of psydub. While I'm not not usually into psydub as much as the other styles, 2024 has delivered some truly groundbreaking artists who've redefined the genre.

We'll start with #10:

10. Squazoid - Electronic Heart

Squazoid's 'Electronic Heart' plunges deep into the psychedelic abyss with a sonic tapestry woven from shimmering reverb, echoing delays, and filters that warp reality. Pulsating beats intertwine with tantalizing hints of ethnic flavors, creating a mesmerizing soundscape that demands your undivided attention. (Did you know 'Electronic Heart' was recorded entirely live in a single session, capturing the raw energy and spontaneity of Squazoid's performance?)

9. Kick Bong - Elevation

Kick Bong's 'Elevation' crafts a deeply emotional psychill experience, a sonic journey through ethereal soundscapes. Delicious basslines pulse beneath layers of mesmerizing synth textures, creating a sense of soaring elevation and satisfying the inner adventurer's craving for sonic exploration. The album features flute by Mylene Coubronne on the tracks "Escape Time" and "The Wave". This adds an interesting element to those specific tracks.

8. Sundial Aeon - Aquamorphosis:

Sundial Aeon's 'Aquamorphosis' invites you on a tranquil voyage through sonic landscapes, a departure from their more intensely psychedelic past. While the journey may be smoother, you're still floating on a cloud of pure bliss, surrendering to the music's gentle currents as it carries you to uncharted sonic shores.

7. Moon Tripper - Echoes of Freedom:

With 'Echoes of Freedom,' Moon Tripper weaves a tapestry of sound, where psychedelic textures intertwine with soothing melodies, creating an atmosphere of pure enchantment. It's a journey into the heart of magic and wonder, a sonic escape that resonates deep within.

6. Psyrius - Return to Sol: 

Prepare for liftoff with Psyrius' 'Return to Sol,' a reimagining of their 2015 release, 'Sorry Pluto.' This album is a cosmic tapestry woven from shimmering psychill textures, creating an out-of-this-world atmosphere. While the inclusion of vocals (a full song and vocalizations elsewhere) didn't fully resonate with me, the instrumental sections are pure sonic bliss.

5. Globular - Lifts The Curse of the Grey Goo Assimilators : 

Globular unleashes a sonic antidote to monotony with 'Lifts The Curse of the Grey Goo Assimilators,' a funky, dub-infused explosion of bubbly, bass-driven goodness. This album is pure sonic joy, a guaranteed mood booster that will have you grooving from start to finish.

4. Ott - Hiraeth: 

Ott's 'Hiraeth' is a mind-bending journey into a kaleidoscopic soundscape, a jumbly, jittery, and utterly funky explosion of sonic textures. Prepare for a wild ride through distorted basslines, glitchy rhythms, and otherworldly melodies that will leave you feeling simultaneously exhilarated and delightfully disoriented.

3. Zymosis - Memento: 

Zymosis showcases their mastery of sound design with 'Memento,' a dynamic exploration of up-tempo and midtempo grooves. This album is a showcase of slick instrumentation and intricate production, delivering fast-paced mind-benders that will impress even the most discerning listener.

2. Auratech - Shambala: 

Auratech's 'Shambala' is a sonic pilgrimage to a mythical realm. Imagine swirling textures, pulsating rhythms, and soaring melodies, all underpinned by a truly badass bass that resonates deep within. This album is a feast for the senses, a journey through trippy beats and mind-bending FX that will leave you spellbound.

And #1 goes to...

1. Cabeiri - Beyond Time: 

With 'Beyond Time,' Cabeiri crafts a sonic world that transcends the ordinary. Haunting mysticism intertwines with supreme electronic vibes, creating a captivating atmosphere. Excellent synth lines dance across brilliant beats, while smooth pads provide a lush backdrop for the involving story that unfolds across the tracks. This is upbeat and midtempo electronic music elevated to an art form.

2024 proved to be a veritable treasure trove for psychill and psybient enthusiasts. The sheer volume of releases made the task of curation a challenging but ultimately rewarding endeavor. After countless hours of listening, these ten albums emerged as true gems, each offering a unique and captivating sonic journey. I'm confident that these selections represent some of the finest offerings the genre had to offer this year.

Have a listen to these YouTube clips of each album and tell  me which one is YOUR favorite!

2023 Top Chill Albums

Top 10 Chill Albums of 2023

Get ready to groove, because here comes the much-anticipated countdown of the top 10 psychill/chill/psybass albums of 2023! This year was an absolute arctic blast for chill music – a real treat for our ears. We've got tunes that are diverse, soul-stirring, and a whole lot of fun, all wrapped up with some seriously awesome production quality (and believe me, I listened to a ton!). So, without further ado, let's dive into the beats!

10. Klaada - The Remixes: A treasure trove of remixes by various artists, and it's got quite the variety. From psybass vibes to Middle Eastern flavors and a hint of dub, this one's a real gem. 

9. One Arc Degree - The Forest and the Milky Way: It's like taking a chill pill while watching the galaxy whirl by. There's a nice blend of ambient and groovy beats here, creating a mesmerizing experience. 

8. Perpetual Loop - SoloChillinInTheBackGardenOfMyMind: Chillgressive with a touch of ambient magic. Dreamy melodies and engaging synths make this a delight! 

7. Spoq - First Contact: This one's psychill with a focus on heavier beats and bass, creating a symphony of pleasure for your ears. 

6. Sundial Aeon - Regenesis: Get ready for deep and immersive sounds. It's a blend of ambient with a psychedelic melody and quick-paced beats. Complex and layered, deserving of a respectable 6th place.

5. Carbon Based Lifeforms - Seeker: If you're into chilled goodness, this one's a treat. It's like a nostalgic trip to the old-school sounds of CBL or Solar Fields. Intricate melodies make it an easy star!

4. Kayla Scintilla - Mumijo: This one's an awesome sonic journey with organic drumming and thick psybass. It's like a whirlwind of loops, synths, and organic instruments that'll take you to another dimension. 

3. Astronaut Ape - Openness: This one's a bit like a slow-burning campfire that grows warmer with each listen. It might not instantly grab you, but it's got those familiar vibes reminiscent of the 2016 album "Unknown Sector." Think lush soundscapes, groovy beats, and other sonic goodies. 

2. Phutureprimative - Mind’s Eye: Chunky basslines, dreamy melodies, and a dash of moodiness make this one a tasty treat. 

and..#1 is:

1. Auratech - Eternity: Delve into deeper psychill, bordering on psybass, with trippy and captivating sounds. Definitely worth a #1 placement. 

Top 10 Psychill of 2022

 I'm back with another Top 10 list, this time for 2022. This was an interesting year for music. A lot of long-awaited albums came out, and some other surprises from artists we didn't expect. 

I listened to approximately 100 of the new psychill/psybass/chill/whatever albums and EPs released this year, and it was tough to determine who would end up on this list, but I think I got it pegged. I hope you enjoy finding out who was on the top 10!

10. Man of No Ego & Logical Elements - Seen and Unseen

Beautiful guitar effects surround rich soundscapes to envelope you into a peaceful vibration. Blossoming psychedelic melody blends with a slight melancholic feeling that really helps you sit and relax while you listen.

Man Of No Ego & Logical Elements - Seen and Unseen [Full EP]

9. Panda on the Bamboo Tree - Xtradimensional Motions

Bountiful psybass entrances you on this album. With a touch of psydub, the mounting energy and soft blended chanting makes this one stand out.

Panda On The Bamboo Tree - Xtradimensional Motions [Full Album]

8. Annihilation of Self - First Orbit

Reach for the stars. That is the message this album conjures up for me in my head. Slick melodies backing clever bass send you into outerspace. Psychedelic chillout at it's best.

Annihilation Of Self - First Orbit [Full Album]

7. Unusual Cosmic Process - Atlantis

UCP does not usually disappoint, so it is no wonder that this musical enchantment brings about success. With the full scope of synths, melody, bass, and some mid-tempo chilltrance, this album definitely makes us think about Atlantis, the lost underwater city.

Unusual Cosmic Process - Atlantis [Full Album]

6. Klaada - Conjunctio Oppositorum

As one of the most highly anticipated albums this year, it is no wonder it is on this list. Deep and moody, with an ethereal vibe that includes chanting in french, the epic sound on this one takes us on a journey in our minds.

Klaada - Coniunctio Oppositorum [Full Album]

5. Ott - Heads

Psydub at it's finest, Ott is back again with more brain melters. Or should I say Head benders? :)

Dubby basslines and snazzy psychedelic surprises abound on this album, no wonder it is one of the most fun on this list.

Ott - Heads [Full Album] (2022)

4. Solar Fields - Formations

Our good friend Magnus is back with a highly anticipated album. It's been a while since we have held in our hands a copy of a new Solar Fields album, of new material that is.  This album shows us new perspectives of sounds and atmospheres that evoke visions of different moods around different time periods.

SOLAR FIELDS - FORMATIONS (preview) 4K

3. Eelison - Obscurities

Very masterfully crafted minimal psybass. Or at least that is what I would call it. Dubstep beats showing off downtempo sounds. Smooth basslines. This album provides a moody atmosphere. If you like your moody music on the chill side, this is definitely for you.

eelison - Obscurities [Full Album]

2. Kalya Schintilla - Trinkets

We always get what we want with a new Kalya Scintilla album. Chunky basslines, fun beats, and an atmosphere ready for a big psybass party. Melodies abound, this album throws us a beautiful remix of the song "Feelin' Good" by Nina Simone - an unexpected treat.

Inhale Exhale

And are you ready for #1?

1. E-Mantra - Silence 3

As per the usual, E-Mantra doesn't fail to impress with this auditory masterpiece. With a perfect balance of proper chillout and psychedelia, this album is a win. Soothing pads, beautiful synths, just the right touch of fx makes this beautiful album perfect for any winter day.

E-MANTRA - Ode to the Winter Nights (Silence 3 Album)

Top 10 Psychill/Chillout-y Downtempo of 2021

 It's that time of year! Time to show off the top 10 chill albums from 2021. In the non-electronic world of music, I was a bit disappointed. I mean, all these rock and pop and country groups had all of 2020 sitting at home to put together really great material, but it seems like re-releases, remix albums, and crummy EP's were all anyone did! Not so, in the electronic world. It was very difficult this year picking a #1. And a #2. And a #3... you get the hint. There was a lot of good music this year in the chillout world. It was hard to narrow it down, so let me just say congrats to all of these Top-10-ers, they put out some great work!

#10. Zero Cult - Eclectica 

Youtube 

I'll start you off with a gem from Zero Cult. Perfectly smooth and hitting all the right spots, Eclectica is a smart album with plenty of  subtle psychedelic hints and emotional melodies that make it beautiful. 

#9. Dense - Reflux Compressor 

Youtube

Reflux Compressor is only one of the albums Dense came out with in 2021, but to my ears it was the more psychedelic, more magical of them. This is an album you could definitely turn off the lights, put some headphones on, and tune yourself into another dimension.

 

#8. 121569 - Mermaid Marmalade

Youtube 

Mermaid Marmalade is an album by one of Side Liner's projects, 121569. I didn't find information on the unique artist name, but I did find that the album cover was a drawing done by his daughter. This album has some pretty cool lo-fi hip and trip hop beats with some pizazz thrown in for good measure. The tracks are all pretty short, but it is a fun jam.

 

#7. Eelison - When The Sea is Cooling Down

Youtube 

Some mellow liquid dubstep for you here. Blissful beats, soothing melodies, and vocals. Can I just say, I hate vocals in my electronic music? It's true. But these are actually very lovely and haunting, and fit the tracks perfectly. I had this album on repeat for about a week without listening to anything else, it was very nice.

 

#6. Hidden Frequency - Thoughts of Imagination

Youtube 

 Thoughts of Imagination is a truly jazzy trip hop album that surpasses the others. It blends some truly phat beats with that very chilled out groovy sound to make a mellow evening more fun. Play this one while driving in your car under the moon with your windows rolled all the way down. 

 

#5. Tengri - Best of Chillout

Youtube 

This one was #1 for a good part of the year because the beauty was so intense. Most of these songs were previously released on other albums, so it sort of breaks my rules, but it is such a great collection of psychedelic tribal psychill that I absolutely could not help put it on the list. The amount of mysticism goes far on this album, with enchanting tribal drums, chanting vocals, didgeridoos, and shimmering sequences. Haunting and psychedelic.

#4. Cosmic Touch - Nirvana

Bandcamp 

This turned into #1 for a long time after Tengri's album. This psybass album is seemingly perfect, fun, oozing with incredible psychedelic beats and sounds, twisting around in your brain, driving you crazy. The overall aura and vibe, alone, of this album is worth mentioning. A very fun listen, but I recommend some psilocybin if you want to make the experience go off the rails, in a good way.

 

#3. Kiphi - Move The Stars Here

Youtube

Then, this album became my #1 spot when I first heard it. It has a rather old-school psychill/psybient flavor to it, circa 2008/2009 or earlier, that I just love. The pacifying pads and soft hints of melody and wonder delight the senses, no doubt about it. You'll feel like you are floating on a cloud while listening to this album.

 

#2. Sundial Aeon - Synthesis

Youtube 

Wow, talk about psychedelic! I hear some acidic 303 sounds in this album, very tasty and crunchy. The soft squelch just gets me every time. Reassuring pads, satisfying synths, and effective beats really put you in a psychedelic mind frame inside a joyful atmosphere. I wouldn't skip a single track, and this quickly shot up to #1 as I listened more and more.  

Are you ready for #1.?

Drum Roll...

#1. Ten Madison - Borealis

Youtube

This album is #1 because I couldn't stop listening to it. I was surprised by this one, too, because all those many years ago before discovering psychedelic downtempo music, I discovered jazzy/housey chillout music, and Ten Madison provided that for me. I could imagine this album being played in outer space. Dreamy and spacey, surpassing time. At times epic, at other times thoughtful, the pace and the sentiment on this album was blatantly perfect.  Time to cough up 6 million dollars for a trip on Blue Origin. Stick this in your earbuds and off you go!

I hope you can click on all the links to have a listen to the song I picked to represent each album, and as always, be sure to support the artists! Have a happy 2022... and may music be even BETTER than it was in 2021!

Cheers.

Top 10 Chill Albums coming soon!

The elves are bust working, listening to albums to get you the top 10 psychill downtempo of the year. Not much longer now!