2024 was a landmark year in music, defined by groundbreaking achievements, genre-defying releases, and cultural milestones that reshaped the industry. From Charli XCX’s domination with BRAT to Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” tying the record for the longest-running number-one on the Billboard Hot 100, and Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour, the year was packed with unforgettable moments.
Beyoncé made history with her country album, sparking important conversations about representation, while Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” and his rap feud with Drake reignited hip-hop’s competitive spirit. Meanwhile, Elton John achieved EGOT status, Beyoncé became the most Grammy-nominated artist ever, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame welcomed a diverse and influential class.
We also witnessed unforgettable performances, including Usher’s Super Bowl halftime show and Celine Dion’s triumphant return at the Olympics. Reunions, such as Linkin Park and Oasis, brought fans joy, while the industry grappled with controversies and bid farewell to iconic figures like Toby Keith, Quincy Jones, and Liam Payne.
As we continue our countdown, let’s celebrate the albums that shaped this transformative year in music.
While you can revisit our list so far here, let’s dive into our best albums of 2024, from #30 to #21 below.
30. Hurray for the Riff Raff – The Past Is Still Alive
Hurray for the Riff Raff’s 2024 album, The Past Is Still Alive, stands as a testament to Alynda Segarra’s profound artistry and introspection. Emerging from a period of personal grief following the loss of their father in March 2023, Segarra channels this emotional landscape into a collection that seamlessly blends Americana roots with contemporary sensibilities. The album’s sound is described as “dusky, naturalistic, one-third electric and two-thirds acoustic,” creating a rich tapestry that reflects both softness and the lurking challenges of modern life.
Standout tracks like “Alibi” and “Ogallala” delve into themes of time, memory, and personal history. “Alibi,” the lead single, is characterized as “a reckoning with time and memory,” offering a gently shuffling folk-rocker that opens the album with layers of shimmering guitar beneath Segarra’s emotionally expansive vocals. “Ogallala” reflects on Segarra’s past experiences, with lyrics that vividly depict their adventuresome days, set against a backdrop of pedal steel and saxophone, pairing to perfection.
Critically acclaimed, The Past Is Still Alive has been lauded for its vivid lyrical imagery and direct arrangements, making for a compelling and emotionally affecting listening experience. The album has secured its place among the top releases of 2024, ranking 20th in Uncut’s “80 Best Albums of 2024.” This project not only marks a return to more traditionally Americana textures after 2022’s Life on Earth but also showcases Segarra’s ability to intertwine personal narratives with broader cultural reflections, solidifying their position as a significant voice in contemporary music.
29. Magdalena Bay – Imaginal Disk
Magdalena Bay’s Imaginal Disk, marks a significant evolution in the duo’s artistic journey, blending synth-pop, dance-pop, and electronic rock into a cohesive and ambitious concept album. The narrative centers on a character named True, who undergoes a transformative journey after rejecting an implanted “Imaginal Disk” intended to create her ideal self, prompting a profound exploration of human consciousness and identity.
Musically, the album showcases the duo’s versatility, with tracks like “Image” delivering disco-infused pop that delves into themes of self-identity and reflection, while “Death & Romance” features piano-led melodies that highlight their willingness to experiment beyond traditional pop structures. “Tunnel Vision” stands out with its progressive build-up, exploring themes of artificial intelligence and self-hatred, culminating in a synth-rock crescendo that underscores the album’s thematic depth.
Critically acclaimed, Imaginal Disk has been praised for its vivid lyrical imagery and direct arrangements, making for a compelling and emotionally affecting listening experience. The album has secured its place among the top releases of 2024, ranking 19th in Pitchfork’s ’50 Best Albums of 2024.’ This project not only marks a return to more traditionally Americana textures after 2022’s Life on Earth but also showcases Segarra’s ability to intertwine personal narratives with broader cultural reflections, solidifying their position as a significant voice in contemporary music.
In support of the album, Magdalena Bay has announced the ‘Imaginal Mystery Tour,’ extending into 2025 with performances across North America, further cementing their growing influence in the music scene. Overall, Imaginal Disk is a testament to Magdalena Bay’s innovative approach to pop music, seamlessly integrating complex narratives with genre-blending compositions, solidifying their place as one of the most exciting acts in contemporary music.
28. English Teacher – This Could Be Texas
English Teacher’s debut album, This Could Be Texas, released on April 12, 2024, through Island Records, has firmly established the Leeds-based quartet as a formidable force in the contemporary music scene. The album’s seamless fusion of indie rock, art punk, and post-rock elements showcases the band’s versatility and innovative spirit. Frontwoman Lily Fontaine’s insightful lyricism, combined with the band’s dynamic instrumentation, crafts a sound that is both refreshingly modern and deeply resonant.
Standout tracks such as “The World’s Biggest Paving Slab” and “R&B” exemplify the band’s ability to blend surrealism with social commentary. “The World’s Biggest Paving Slab” captivates with its intricate guitar work and thought-provoking lyrics, while “R&B” reimagines their earlier work, delving into Fontaine’s experiences as a frontwoman of color in the indie-rock scene. The title track, “This Could Be Texas,” further highlights the band’s progressive tendencies, with complex, proggy arrangements that draw comparisons to influences like Black Country, New Road, and Radiohead.
The album’s critical acclaim is underscored by its victory at the 2024 Mercury Prize, where judges praised its originality and character, noting its fresh approach to the traditional guitar band format. This recognition, alongside its inclusion in numerous ‘Best of 2024’ lists, cements This Could Be Texas as a significant and influential addition to this year’s musical landscape. English Teacher’s thoughtful exploration of contemporary themes, combined with their innovative sound, positions them as one of the most exciting new bands to emerge in recent years.
27. Still House Plants – if I don’t make it, i love u
Still House Plants‘ third studio album, If I Don’t Make It, I Love U, released on April 12, 2024, through Bison Records, stands as a testament to the trio’s innovative approach to art rock and experimental music. The London-based band—comprising Jess Hickie-Kallenbach (vocals), Finlay Clark (guitar), and David Kennedy (drums)—has crafted a collection that seamlessly blends skeletal post-rock with soul and jazz influences, deconstructing genres to create a sound uniquely their own.
The album opens with “M M M,” a track that exemplifies the band’s telepathic interplay and eschews conventional song forms in favor of a collective flickering, with rhythms that speed and slow by their own logic, carrying the persistent charge of small epiphanies. “Sticky” serves as a tremendous showcase of the band’s cohesion, aiming for a more robust sound that captivates the listener. Throughout the album, Hickie-Kallenbach’s luminously soulful voice acts as a distinctive instrument, with vibrato that makes whole songs shudder with life, while Clark’s detuned guitar crackles and Kennedy’s scrambled action-painting drums contribute to the album’s angular charm and emotional heft.
Critically acclaimed, If I Don’t Make It, I Love U received a score of 90 out of 100 on review aggregator Metacritic, indicating “universal acclaim.” The album was named Stereogum’s Album of the Week, with praise for its robust sound and the band’s cohesion. The Quietus highlighted the band’s embrace of sounds absorbed from childhood in working-class environments, blending skeletal post-rock with soul and jazz, deconstructed by a presiding impulse to blur lines between terms or genres. Pitchfork included the album in its list of the 50 Best Albums of 2024, ranking it at number 15.
If I Don’t Make It, I Love U is an engrossing testament to the musical elasticity and emotional potency of rock music, solidifying Still House Plants’ position as one of the most vital bands in Britain today.
26. Mabe Fratti – Sentir Que No Sabes
Mabe Fratti’s Sentir Que No Sabes, released on June 28, 2024, through Unheard of Hope, marks a significant evolution in the Guatemalan cellist and composer’s discography. Collaborating closely with producer and multi-instrumentalist Héctor Tosta (I. La Católica), Fratti crafts an album that seamlessly blends avant-garde experimentation with accessible pop sensibilities, resulting in a richly textured and emotionally resonant work.
The album opens with “Kravitz,” featuring groove-locked drums and hammering piano, setting the tone for a harmonious chamber-pop sound. Tracks like “Pantalla Azul” metaphorically explore social anxiety, while “Elastica II” and “Oídos” showcase Fratti’s ability to juxtapose balmy euphonies with startling discordance. Her dreamy vocals and impressionistic Spanish-language lyrics add an extra layer of magical realism, inviting listeners into an extraordinarily possessed, uncanny world.
Sentir Que No Sabes holds a Metacritic score of 86, indicating universal acclaim. Alexis Petridis of The Guardian described it as “rich, rewarding, spellbinding music” and “unequivocally fantastic.” The album’s inclusion in Pitchfork’s ’50 Best Albums of 2024′ further cements its status as a standout release. Fratti’s innovative approach to composition and her seamless integration of diverse genres have solidified her position as a leading figure in contemporary experimental music.
25. Nilüfer Yanya – My Method Actor
Released on September 13, 2024, via Ninja Tune, Nilüfer Yanya’s third studio album My Method Actor marks a significant evolution in her artistry, showcasing a refined blend of indie rock and soul influences. Collaborating exclusively with producer Wilma Archer, Yanya crafts a cohesive and intimate soundscape that delves into themes of self-awareness and personal growth.
The album opens with “Keep on Dancing,” setting a contemplative tone that reflects Yanya’s introspective songwriting. “Like I Say (I Runaway)” stands out with its distorted guitar riffs and candid lyrics, capturing the tension between desire and self-restraint. The title track, “Method Actor,” further exemplifies her nuanced storytelling, exploring the complexities of identity and performance.
My Method Actor has been praised for its immersive and confident compositions. Pitchfork notes that Yanya’s matured sound makes her music “more triumphant, less nervous,” resulting in an album that feels like “everyday luxury.” The album’s inclusion in year-end lists, such as Exclaim!’s 50 Best Albums of 2024, where it ranks 14th, underscores its impact in the music world.
Overall, My Method Actor solidifies Nilüfer Yanya’s position as a compelling voice in contemporary music, offering a richly textured and emotionally resonant listening experience that stands among the top albums of 2024.
24. Mdou Moctar – Funeral for Justice
Mdou Moctar’s 2024 album, Funeral for Justice, released on May 3 via Matador Records, stands as a powerful testament to the Tuareg guitarist’s fusion of desert blues and psychedelic rock. Recorded in mid-2023 in a New York home studio, the album delves into themes of political unrest and foreign interference in Niger, Moctar’s homeland. The title track confronts colonial exploitation, with Moctar questioning in Tamasheq, “Why does your ear only heed France and America? Occupiers are carving up your lands.”
Musically, the album is a tour de force. Tracks like “Sousoume Tamacheq” showcase Moctar’s virtuosic guitar work, blending traditional Tuareg rhythms with modern rock elements. “Imouhar” features an electrifying solo that exemplifies the band’s dynamic energy. The production, led by bassist Mikey Coltun, captures the raw intensity of Moctar’s live performances, creating an immersive listening experience.
Funeral for Justice has been praised for its fervent energy and potent anti-colonial sentiment. The album’s impact is further evidenced by its inclusion in Pitchfork’s ’50 Best Albums of 2024,’ where it ranks among the year’s most compelling releases. Moctar’s ability to channel personal and political struggles into his music not only elevates his artistry but also amplifies the voices of marginalized communities, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in contemporary world music.
23. Arooj Aftab – Night Reign
Arooj Aftab’s fourth studio album Night Reign further cements her reputation as a boundary-defying artist, seamlessly blending elements of jazz, folk, and classical traditions. Drawing inspiration from nocturnal themes, the album serves as an ode to the night, reflecting the creative community she has fostered in Brooklyn, New York.
The album opens with “Aey Nehin,” where Aftab’s sonorous and soothing voice soars above a calming kaleidoscope of acoustic guitars, harps, piano, and percussion—rhythmless yet endless. Her rendition of the jazz standard “Autumn Leaves” stands out, infusing the familiar piece with a ghostly quality, backed by sparse instrumentation that adds a noir film-like shadow. Collaborations with musicians like harpist Maeve Gilchrist and jazz pianist Vijay Iyer contribute to the album’s intricate arrangements, characterized by their patient development and emotional depth.
Night Reign comes critically acclaimed, and has been described as “wondrous,” deepening the sound of Aftab’s boundless folk-jazz style with bold, romantic, and unforgettable gestures. The album’s inclusion in year-end lists, such as The Time’s ‘The 10 Best Albums of 2024,’ underscores its impact in the music world. Aftab’s ability to bridge musical borders and convey a wide emotional range through subtle shifts solidifies her place as a significant voice in contemporary music.
22. Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet
Sabrina Carpenter’s sixth studio album, Short n’ Sweet, released on August 23, 2024, via Island Records, marks a significant evolution in her artistic journey. Collaborating with renowned producers such as Jack Antonoff, Julian Bunetta, John Ryan, and Ian Kirkpatrick, Carpenter crafts a vibrant pop tapestry interwoven with country, disco, rock, and R&B influences. The album’s concise 36-minute runtime is packed with witty lyricism and dynamic vocals, reflecting her maturation as an artist.
The album opens with “Taste,” a track that sets the tone with its playful and flirtatious energy. “Espresso,” the lead single, became Spotify’s most-streamed song of the year, showcasing Carpenter’s ability to blend catchy hooks with a breezy nu-disco beat. “Bed Chem” delves into themes of romantic chemistry, highlighting her nuanced storytelling. Throughout the album, Carpenter’s clever wordplay and candid exploration of modern dating experiences resonate with listeners, offering a refreshing take on contemporary pop.
Short n’ Sweet has been praised for its smart pop sensibilities beneath a frothy exterior. The Times noted that Carpenter’s evolution from Disney Channel star to mature pop artist is reminiscent of trajectories followed by icons like Britney Spears and Miley Cyrus. The album’s inclusion in various ‘Best of 2024’ lists underscores its impact on the music landscape, solidifying Carpenter’s status as a pop star with longevity.
In addition to her recording success, Carpenter’s live performances have garnered attention. Her recent NPR Tiny Desk Concert showcased her ability to reimagine her hits in an intimate setting, further demonstrating her versatility and connection with audiences. Overall, Short n’ Sweet is a testament to Sabrina Carpenter’s growth as an artist, offering a collection of tracks that are both playful and poignant, and securing her place among the top pop acts of 2024.
21. Clairo – Charm
Released on July 12, 2024, Clairo’s third studio album, Charm marks a significant evolution in her artistic journey. Collaborating with producer Leon Michels, known for his work with The Dap-Kings and El Michels Affair, Clairo crafts a sound that seamlessly blends soft rock, jazz, and psychedelic folk, drawing inspiration from 1970s aesthetics.
The album opens with “Nomad,” featuring cinematic slide guitars and subtle synths that set a warm, inviting tone. “Slow Dance” stands out with its lush instrumentation and Clairo’s hushed yet confident vocals, capturing the allure of fleeting, intimate moments. “Sexy to Someone,” the lead single, showcases her ability to blend playful melodies with astute lyrics, exploring themes of love and desire.
The critically acclaimed Charm has been praised for its lush, layered production and Clairo’s matured songwriting. The album debuted at number eight on the US Billboard 200, becoming her first top 10 album. Its inclusion in various ‘Best of 2024’ lists underscores its impact on the music landscape, solidifying Clairo’s status as a significant voice in contemporary music.
Click HERE for a full list of our Top 50 Albums of 2024!
