Best albums 2024
Here are the 10 best albums of 2024 in a random order. Each album earns its place on the list for different reasons—some are incredibly catchy, others are innovative. One album might be packed with amazing individual tracks, while another stands out as a stunningly cohesive whole.
Oranssi Pazuzu - Muuntautuja
This album is incredibly innovative and inspiring in its diversity, despite its inherent darkness. Muuntautuja feels like a new step for the band, incorporating even more electronic influences that at times evoke the trip-hop boom of the early 2000s. A heavy yet beautiful album!
Tracks to check out: Muuntautuja, Voitelu, Valotus
Hammok - Look How Long Lasting Everything Is Moving Forward For Once
It feels rare these days to come across a hardcore album that's this experimental yet so undeniably catchy. This 11-track collection hits hard, like a punch to the face that leaves you euphoric from the dizzying impact.
Tracks to check out: Seance, Wannabe (Billboard No. 1), Brainrotdesperation
Floating Points - Cascade
Following the Promises album, Floating Points returns to more danceable electronic music that draws from house, electro, IDM, and ambient. The soundscape on this album is truly breathtaking and engaging.
Tracks to check out: Key103, Fast Forward, Ocotillo
Jamie xx - In Waves
If you’re in the mood to sweat and dance, crank up the volume on this album. In Waves feels like a DJ set where Jamie xx masterfully plays with loops and samples, creating mesmerizing song structures.
Tracks to check out: Baddy On The Dancefloor, Breather, All Your Children
Marika Hackman - Big Sigh
Marika Hackman has been a bit of a mystery to me at times, but with this album, she’s nailed it. Big Sigh is a fantastic blend of indie rock, folk, and pop. This album deserves far more attention than it received this year.
Tracks to check out: No Caffeine, Blood, Slime
Apollo Brown & CRIMEAPPLE - This, Is Not That
An incredible old-school-inspired hip-hop release that absolutely belongs on the year's best-of list. CRIMEAPPLE’s laid-back flow fits perfectly with the sharp yet minimalist beats. The vibe is flawless from start to finish.
Tracks to check out: Wonderful Feelin’, Know No Better, Coke With Ice
Father John Misty - Mahashmashana
Father John Misty’s 2018 album God’s Favorite Customer made my year-end list, while its follow-up, Chloë and the Next 20th Century, didn’t resonate with me. Mahashmashana is pure gold again, with stunning melodies and massive arrangements.
Tracks to check out: Mahashmashana, She Cleans Up, I Guess Time Just Makes Fools of Us All
Fred again.. - USB
Fred again.. released two albums this year, each unique in its own way. While ten days didn’t grab me, the compilation-like USB is packed with sweaty bangers. This album is pure energy and good vibes. Put it on, and you’ll find yourself smiling and planning your next weekend!
Tracks to check out: places to be - MESSIE remix, leavemealone, Baby again..
Ben Chatwin - Verdigris
This is undoubtedly one of the year’s most beautiful albums and deserves far more attention. Ben Chatwin’s previous album, The Hum, paved the way for Verdigris. It’s a stunning work that defies being pigeonholed into a single genre. While it has post-rock qualities, it ventures far beyond. This is an album that paints cinematic images in the listener’s mind.
Tracks to check out: Sawtooth, Pig Iron, Chorale
Joey Valence & Brae - NO HANDS
This duo blew up with last year’s PUNK TACTICS and continues the same energy with NO HANDS. It’s a slick album that draws heavily from old-school hip-hop but with a fresh twist. Playful and fun, it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Tracks to check out: BUSSIT, PACKAPUNCH, THE BADDEST
