Special albums, such as “Unearthed, Pt. 2” by BC25, demand that you lean in, pay attention, and stay. BC25, which started in Freiburg, Germany, is a living dialogue between the past and present, presence and absence, what was left behind and what can still be carried forward. BC25 is producer and writer Barbonus, who discovered 18 unfinished cassette recordings that a close friend had left behind. These delicate pieces served as the grounds for the Unearthed series, which featured music that was rebuilt to honor rather than to replace history.
“Unearthed, Pt. 2” feels less like a rebuild and more like an intentional act of listening thanks to Vela Sorell’s intimate, controlled vocal performances and Mark’s warm, analog-minded mastering. This is music that uses memory as a collaborator and silence as an instrument. This album, which was released on December 12, 2025, is a carefully powerful statement. Come along with me as I go over each track.
“Second Window,” the album’s opening track, artfully begins with catchy sounds to grab your attention right away. The lyrics to this song discuss cautious curiosity. It implies a different viewpoint—that is, a different way of viewing the same moment. Enhanced by Vela Sorell’s lovely vocals and catchy musical arrangement, this is a song that encourages us to sing along and get into the vibe.
True to its title, “No Words” leans into restraint. Minimal melodic movement allows silence to speak just as loudly as sound. The vocals feel intentionally understated, transporting emotion without explanation—a recurring theme throughout the album. Personally, I liked how the combination of catchy rhythms and lyrics makes this an infectious track that is sure to get you moving to the beat.
The album’s third track, “Sanctum,” feels like a refuge. Soft harmonies and warm tones give the track a protective quality, as though the music itself is shielding something fragile. The performance is tender and reverent, reinforcing the idea of memory as a sacred space. The vocal delivery on this track is intimate and nicely delivered, creating an immersive atmosphere that draws you in.
As one of the album’s most emotionally direct tracks, “Hold” talks about connection and attachment—what we keep and what keeps us. The instruments stay calm and beautiful, but they never lose their charm. With Vela Sorell’s voice stealing the show, this is a song with a heavenly and simple chord progression. It’s exceptionally moving, full of gentleness and longing.
“Lines I Never Sent” is a song about unsaid words and unfinished thoughts that has a strong connection to the album’s story of origin. The idea of partial messages is reflected in shattered melodies. The vocals have a candid, almost secret quality that makes us feel as though we’re listening to something that wasn’t meant for us. This composition is somewhat unusual in its execution and is truly enjoyable. For this interesting recording, the drums stand out in line with Sorell, thanks to the hypnotic piano melodies.
“Folding Light” offers a subtle sense of hope gently and beautifully. With shimmering textures that imply light bending rather than shattering, the instrumentation feels a little more open. Without losing the album’s reflective tone, it’s a moment of emotional release and catches you with punchy drums and lively melodies that nicely match the song’s lovely lyrics.
“The Reckoning,” one of the album’s heavier tracks, has a controlled tension. An air of anxiety is produced through restrained textures and mellow rhythms. The emotional weight is only heightened by Vela’s serene vocals; this reckoning is internal rather than dramatic. Despite having a dark subject, it is quite enjoyable. It creates an environment that transports you to a world of bliss where you are prepared to move your body and let go of all your concerns. Thanks to its catchy beat.
“Run the Lights,” the eighth song, presents movement but in a somber way. There’s a feeling of moving forward, of going through something instead of pausing to study it. The performance keeps the album’s contemplative tempo while becoming a little more urgent. The atmosphere glows with the energy on this track. This song is a must-have whether you’re feeling loose.
Moving on, “All That Rises” feels reflective and expansive. It explores growth and aftermath: what comes after loss, after silence. The layered instrumentation gently builds, suggesting resilience without triumphalism. Everything about this song is worth dying for: the instrumentation, the vocals, and the pace. I, for one, could not stop listening to it over and over. I think BC25 and Vela Sorell outdid themselves on this one.
“Under” is a very thoughtful piece that is absorbed in feeling. The idea of being weighed by memory is reinforced by the mix, which places vocals just below the surface. It’s one of the most introspective songs on the record. Thanks to the sweet piano melodies that provide the background, this is a beautiful track with the gently moving vocals that enter like someone entering a room filled with elegance and shine.
“Six Strings Left” simply highlights the physicality of making music. The song itself has a raw, musical quality, and the title nods to instruments that have been worn down over time. Here, the guitar textures are especially striking, sounding both classic and vibrant. This song is precise, well-written, and enjoyable to listen to! Everything gets paid for by the production. The instruments are played with such excellence that the buildup seems enticing.
“Quiet Endings” explores closure, as the title implies—gentle finishes rather than dramatic ones. Rather than providing finality, the performance is limited and deeply personal. I think this is one of the most lovely tracks on the album. The pieces work together perfectly, and before you realize it, an alluring charm has carried you away, which will undoubtedly drive you to repeatedly press the play button. I was left wanting more of its delightfully cheerful attractions after only one listen.
In a calm loop, the album ends by going back to its starting point. “Through the Second Window” has a contemplative, cyclical quality, as if reflecting on the past with fresh insight. It develops into a thoughtful anthem as it goes along, with sounds that entice you to continue listening. It’s an extremely easy-to-hear ending that leaves the door slightly open rather than closed. Overall, I love this song!
Musically, the production across “Unearthed, Part 2” is minimal but never empty. Nothing here is overproduced. Instead, each sound is placed with care, leaving room for breath and reflection. Mark’s mastering adds a gentle warmth that preserves the archival character of the recordings.
Overall, this is not an album designed for quick consumption. It rewards patience, stillness, and emotional openness. BC25 has created a work that respects its origins while allowing new voices and textures to gently reshape the past. Through thoughtful production, intimate performances, and a deep understanding of silence, this record is a shared space for memory and reflection. If you are willing to slow down and listen deeply, BC25 has offered a rare and beautiful experience. I am confident that you will be able to relate to the songs.
Listen to the “Unearthed, Part 2” album on Spotify.
Follow BC25 here for more information.
