Kitty Empire: the best rock and pop of 2015

Adele returned and Kendrick Lamar captured the anger of black America. But 2015 will probably be remembered for Eagles of Dying Metallic’s slogan

• Observer critics’ reviews of the year in full

This yr shall be remembered, at the least partially, as one through which pop’s most acutely felt maternity depart lastly ended. Four years on from 21, and three years on from putting out her first-born, Adele launched the long-awaited follow-up to 21.

Just a little overcautious, 25 delivered the goods; alive with that acquainted Adkins harm, if just a little heavy on the ivories. Did it save the music business? Despite the record-breaking first-week gross sales, it’s early days telling. However the policy of withholding 25 from streaming providers will make a captivating case research in the ongoing debate about whether recorded music is one thing of intrinsic value, or a loss leader for touring. The icing on the cake? Adele waved two fingers at her stage fright and sutured vocal cords, and truly announced dates.

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