Danny Welbeck's composed first half finish put Albion in the lead but they were pegged back shortly after the interval as Ezri Konsa fired home from close range after a Jack Grealish set piece.
Solly March however put Albion back into the lead when his curling right-footed strike from Pascal Gross' pass flew beyond Aston Villa stopper Martínez.
It was a hugely entertaining match at Villa Park and it was Albion's second's victory of the Premier League campaign.
Scroll down and click through to see who shone and who struggled for Brighton.
9. Adam Lallana 6/10
Assist for Welbeck's opener and missed a decent chance from 12 yards from Lamptey's cross. Replaced by Veltman at halftime due to a tight groin
10. Danny Welbeck 8/10
Brighton's man of the match today. Sublime finish to open the scoring. Provided a focal point for Albion. Suffered with cramp in the second half but carried on until the end
11. Neal Maupay 7/10
Denied by Martinez in the first half after clever link-up play with Welbeck. Did his fair share of defensive work and worked hard for the team. Headed an awkward second half chance just wide from Gross' pass in the second half. Replaced by Dan Burn on 80 minutes.
12. Joel Veltman 6/10
Came on after the break and slotted in seamlessly at the back. The Dutch international is a smooth operator and rarely gives the ball away. Perhaps he can give Adam Webster a few pointers in that regard