2024 was an exciting year for music! The music was eclectic, and creativity was at an all-time high with artists/bands ridding themselves of genre boundaries. Here are my picks for the Best Albums of 2024 in no particular order!
1. The Smile– ‘Cutouts’
The Smile, is Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead, and drummer Tom Skinner. Their latest album, ‘Cutouts’ is perfection. The band’s use of progressive rock and jazz influences creates a cinematic vibe with Yorke’s signature haunting vocals.
2. N8NOFACE – ‘Crime Partner’
N8NOFACE is a truly one-of-a-kind artist. With his unique sound, he destroys the concept of musical genres, and it’s refreshing to the ear. His latest release, ‘Crime Partner,’ is on constant rotation.
3. BONES, Drew The Architect – ‘ModernArchitecture’
BONES and Drew The Architect’s ‘ModernArchitecture’ is a standout with phenomenal production. The album has a great mix of mellow beats inspired by the 70s and 80s, filled with saxophone, keyboards, and bass.
4. Childish Gambino – ‘Bando Stone and The New World’
Donald Glover has said that ‘Bando Stone and the New World’ will be Childish Gambino’s final album. The album is the soundtrack to Glover’s movie of the same name, which revolves around a musician trying to survive a global disaster.
5. Amigo the Devil – ‘Yours Until the War is Over’
Amigo the Devil blends country and folk music with captivating gothic storytelling on ‘Yours Until the War is Over’ to create a compelling and cinematic album.
6. Sierra Ferrell – ‘Trail Of Flowers’
Sierra Ferrell’s career has soared this year with the release of ‘Trail Of Flowers.’ Ferrell’s renegade style combined with her country, folk, and bluegrass roots makes this one of the best albums of the year.
7. Saint Avangeline – ‘Inferno’
Saint Avangeline is one of the most captivating artists of the year. ‘Inferno’ is a powerful listen. Saint Avangeline’s vocals are incredible, ranging from ethereal to beautifully rageful.
8. Melvins – ‘Tarantula Heart’
Melvins, are one of the most influential bands in music. Their original sound mixes punk rock and heavy music. Their latest album, ‘Tarantula Heart’ is in a class by itself. With the Melvins at the helm of this eccentric and beautifully weird adventure, this album is one of a kind.
9. Scarecrow Adams- ‘idreaminsongs’
Scarecrow Adams is an indie artist/producer whose album credits include Korn’s ‘Follow The Leader’ and Sevendust’s ‘Home.’ ‘idreaminsongs’ is an album that is on constant rotation with its feel-good, lo-fi beats and incredible production.
Stream Scarecrow Adams | Listen to idreaminsongs
10. Chelsea Wolfe – ‘She Reaches Out To She Reaches Out To She’
Chelsea Wolfe’s artistry knows no bounds. Her use of gothic rock, metal, alternative, electronic, and folk influences on ‘She Reaches Out To She Reaches Out To She’ makes this a sonic masterpiece.
I’m Music Magazine Associate Editor/Writer Meesha Walden
