Ah, December 31, 2025. The world is preparing for popping champagne corks and dodging fireworks. I decided to keep it low-key this morning. It’s cozy and gloriously old-school: spinning vinyl records. There are no playlists or algorithms. It’s just me with my turntable, a stack of black gold, and the satisfying crackle that makes everything feel right.
It started slow in the morning. The mellow vibes helped ease into the day. Muddy Waters’ Folk Singer from 1964 for that dreamy reflection on the year gone by. The grooves pulled me in as I sipped my coffee. Vinyl has this magic. It forces you to listen. You have to flip sides and appreciate the album as a whole journey. They are not just skippable tracks. Then came the Beatles’ Abbey Road, because what’s a year-end without a medley like side two of that album?
But the real highlight? Dropping the needle on AC/DC’s Highway to Hell. Oh man, what a rush! As the opening riff of the title track blasted through the speakers, I couldn’t sit still. Angus and Malcom Young’s guitars screamed pure energy. Bon Scott’s vocals snarled with that devilish grin. Suddenly, it was 1979 all over again. “I’m on the highway to hell!”—perfect anthem for bidding farewell to 2025’s chaos. The whole album is a fireball. Songs like “Girls Got Rhythm” and “Walk All Over You” highlight that thunderous bass. It’s raw, unpolished rock ‘n’ roll. Digital just can’t replicate it. The vinyl warmth made those power chords hit even harder.
Here’s to more analog adventures in 2026. If you’re tired of the digital hustle, grab a record, dim the lights, and let the music spin you into the new year. It’s the most fun way to say goodbye to the old one—no regrets, just pure rock ‘n’ roll bliss. What was your go-to album this year? Drop it in the comments—I might add it to my collection, if I don’t already have it!