The Best Albums of 2024: 40 – 31

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.

Revisit our list so far here, and dive into our best albums of 2024, from #40 to #31 below.

40. Los Campesinos! – All Hell

After a seven-year hiatus, Welsh indie rock ensemble Los Campesinos! triumphantly returned in 2024 with their seventh studio album, All Hell. Released on July 19 via their own label, Heart Swells, this record encapsulates the band’s evolution while retaining the fervent energy that has long endeared them to fans. The album’s creation spanned from October 2023 to February 2024, with recording sessions held in Frome and Cardiff, and was produced by band member Tom Bromley.

All Hell delves into themes ranging from adult friendship and existential dread to late-stage capitalism and climate apocalypse, all delivered with the band’s signature wit and lyrical dexterity. Standout tracks include “Feast of Tongues,” which builds towards a lighter-waving crescendo, and “A Psychic Wound,” showcasing their polished production reminiscent of 2013’s No Blues. The album also features “kms,” notable for Kim Paisey’s lead vocals, adding a refreshing dynamic to the band’s sound.

Critics have lauded All Hell as a significant addition to Los Campesinos!’s discography. Pitchfork described it as “unquestionably the ultimate Los Campesinos! album,” highlighting its self-referential and self-produced nature. Stereogum named it their Album of the Week, noting the band’s sharpness and ambition despite the lengthy hiatus. This release not only reaffirms the band’s relevance in the contemporary music scene but also cements their legacy as purveyors of emotionally resonant and socially conscious indie rock.

39. Mount Eerie – Night Palace

Phil Elverum’s return as Mount Eerie with Night Palace marks a profound addition to his discography, encapsulating over two decades of musical evolution. Released on November 1, 2024, this expansive 26-track, 81-minute album traverses a spectrum of styles, from lo-fi folk to black metal, reflecting Elverum’s deepening engagement with Zen meditation and his life in the Pacific Northwest.

The album’s thematic core delves into the cycles of destruction and rebirth, a reflection of Elverum’s personal experiences and philosophical contemplations. Tracks like “I Walk” and “Broom of Wind” exemplify his ability to intertwine the natural world’s beauty with introspective lyricism, creating a meditative atmosphere that resonates throughout the album.

Critically acclaimed, Night Palace has been lauded for its ambitious scope and emotional depth. Pitchfork describes it as a culmination of Elverum’s 25-year career, integrating his various musical personas into a cohesive work. The Atlantic places it at the top of their 10 Best Albums of 2024, highlighting its profound exploration of human existence. This release not only reaffirms Mount Eerie’s significance in the indie music landscape but also offers listeners a deeply personal and expansive auditory journey.

38. Cassandra Jenkins – My Light, My Destroyer

Cassandra Jenkins‘ third studio album, My Light, My Destroyer, released on July 12, 2024, via Dead Oceans, marks a significant evolution in her artistry, seamlessly blending ambient jazz, indie rock, and chamber pop to craft a sound both expansive and intimate. The album’s genesis is rooted in personal experience; notably, “Aurora, IL” was conceived during Jenkins’ quarantine in a hotel room, reflecting her introspection and resilience.

Critics have lauded My Light, My Destroyer for its sophisticated compositions and thematic depth. Pitchfork praised Jenkins’ “smoldering, sophisticated songs” that “get a little more cosmic while retaining their characteristic wit and charm.” Stereogum highlighted the album’s “ambient soft-rock” quality, noting its “gorgeously sighing passages.”

This release not only solidifies Jenkins’ place in the contemporary music landscape but also showcases her ability to transform personal narratives into universal reflections, making it a standout among the top albums of 2024.

37. Jack White – No Name

Jack White’s sixth solo album, No Name, released on August 2, 2024, via Third Man Records, marks a triumphant return to his raw, blues-infused roots. Surprising fans with an unannounced physical release on July 19, 2024, the album was initially distributed clandestinely to customers at Third Man Records locations, embodying White’s penchant for unconventional and guerrilla-style marketing strategies.

Recorded, produced, and mixed entirely by White at his Third Man Studio in Nashville, Tennessee, No Name showcases his multifaceted musicianship and commitment to analog production techniques. The album opens with “Old Scratch Blues,” a track that immediately immerses listeners in gritty guitar riffs and White’s unmistakable vocal intensity. “That’s How I’m Feeling,” one of the singles released on November 22, 2024, further exemplifies his ability to blend raw energy with melodic hooks, reminiscent of his early work with The White Stripes.

Critics have praised No Name for its unfiltered sound and return to form. NME described it as White’s “punkiest outing since The White Stripes,” highlighting the album’s raw energy and stripped-down production. Pitchfork noted that the album “revitalizes his image and reconnects with the raw energy that characterized his work with The White Stripes,” emphasizing its straightforward, blues-punk approach.

No Name stands as a testament to Jack White’s enduring influence in the rock genre, reaffirming his status as a torchbearer for authentic, unadulterated rock music in the contemporary landscape.

36. Bill Ryder-Jones – Iechyd Da

Released on January 12, 2024, via Domino Recording Company, Bill Ryder-Jones’ Iechyd Da marks a significant evolution in his artistry. The title, translating to “good health” in Welsh, reflects a poignant irony, as the album delves into themes of mental health challenges and personal introspection, particularly influenced by the isolation during the COVID era.

Produced at his Yawn studio in West Kirby, England, Ryder-Jones describes Iechyd Da as his “most produced record,” showcasing a meticulous balance between voice and instrumentation. The album opens with “I Know That It’s Like This (Baby),” sampling Gal Costa’s “Baby,” setting a contemplative tone. “This Can’t Go On,” with its Hollywood strings and Phil Spector-esque reverb, depicts a personal crisis, referencing Echo & The Bunnymen’s “The Killing Moon.” The closing track, “Nos Da,” meaning “goodnight” in Welsh, offers a serene conclusion, encapsulating the album’s introspective journey.

Critically acclaimed, Iechyd Da holds a Metacritic score of 90, indicating universal acclaim. Mojo praises the album for documenting “a period of intense anguish with careful understatement and smart musical references,” while The Guardian describes it as “overwhelmingly lovely, with classy hooks and rousing choruses.”

This release not only solidifies Ryder-Jones’ place in the contemporary music landscape but also showcases his ability to transform personal narratives into universal reflections, making it a standout among the top albums of 2024.

35. Knocked Loose – You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To

Knocked Loose’s third studio album, You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To, released on May 10, 2024, via Pure Noise Records, stands as a testament to the band’s relentless evolution within the hardcore and metalcore scenes. Produced by Drew Fulk, known for his work with acts like Beartooth and Disturbed, the album encapsulates a raw intensity that has become synonymous with Knocked Loose’s sound.

The album’s composition reflects a meticulous selection process, with the band narrowing down from 40 written songs to a concise 10-track offering. This deliberate curation results in a focused and formidable record, balancing unrelenting aggression with dynamic nuances. Tracks like “Thirst” serve as a haunting induction into the album’s soundscape, while “Don’t Reach For Me” showcases the band’s ability to intertwine crushing chugs with wailing leads, culminating in a mammoth breakdown finale.

You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To has been described as a “claustrophobic collision of chainsaw guitars, jackhammer drums, and tar-thick heaviness,” with Kerrang! noting its unrelenting intensity and lack of concessions to mainstream accessibility. The album’s impact is further evidenced by its debut at No. 23 on the Billboard 200, signaling Knocked Loose’s growing influence in the broader music landscape.

Incorporating collaborations with artists like Poppy on “Suffocate” and Chris Motionless on “Slaughterhouse 2,” the album expands its sonic palette while maintaining the band’s signature ferocity. This release not only solidifies Knocked Loose’s position at the forefront of modern hardcore but also exemplifies their commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre, making it a standout among the top albums of 2024.

34. Kali Uchis – ORQUÍDEAS

Kali Uchis‘ fourth studio album, Orquídeas, released on January 12, 2024, via Geffen Records, is a vibrant celebration of her Colombian heritage and a testament to her versatility as an artist. The album’s title, translating to “Orchids,” reflects its thematic exploration of beauty, resilience, and passion, qualities emblematic of the national flower of Colombia.

Orquídeas seamlessly blends genres such as reggaeton, dembow, merengue, and bolero with Uchis’ signature R&B and alt-pop sensibilities, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in Latin traditions. The album opens with “¿Cómo Así?,” a graceful and pillowy track that sets the tone for the journey ahead. Standout tracks include “Te Mata,” a triumphant bolero anthem of self-love where Uchis showcases her full vocal range, and “Diosa,” a cosmic ode embracing her divine feminine. Additionally, “Muñekita,” featuring Dominican dembow artist El Alfa, infuses a danceable rhythm that adds to the album’s dynamic energy.

Critically acclaimed, Orquídeas has been praised for its genre-hopping prowess and celestial joyride from beginning to end. The album debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200, marking Uchis’ highest charting album to date, with 69,000 units sold in its first week. This commercial success underscores Uchis’ growing influence in the music industry and her role as a fearless ambassador for Latin pop. Orquídeas not only solidifies Kali Uchis’ place in contemporary music but also highlights her ability to bridge cultural and musical landscapes, making it a standout among the top albums of 2024.

33. The Smile – Wall of Eyes

The Smile’s sophomore album Wall of Eyes showcases the collaborative prowess of Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, and Tom Skinner. Recorded between Oxfordshire and Abbey Road Studios with producer Sam Petts-Davies, the album reflects the band’s evolution since their 2022 debut, A Light for Attracting Attention.

Wall of Eyes traverses a diverse sonic landscape, integrating elements of jazz, krautrock, and progressive rock. The title track introduces an avant-samba groove, while “Under Our Pillows” exhibits intricate math-rock rhythms. “Bending Hectic,” initially released as a single in June 2023, stands out with its dynamic progression and emotive depth.

Critics have lauded the album for its innovative approach. NME describes it as “a masterclass in pushing rock forward,” highlighting the band’s ability to blend complex musical styles seamlessly. Pitchfork notes that Wall of Eyes brings “center stage to jazz, kosmische, prog—aesthetic signposts and satellite genres usually kept in the more established band’s wings,” underscoring the album’s experimental nature.

Wall of Eyes not only solidifies The Smile’s position in the contemporary music scene but also underscores their commitment to innovation, making it a standout among the top albums of 2024.

32. Tyla – TYLA

Tyla’s self-titled debut album, Tyla marks a significant milestone in the South African artist’s burgeoning career. The album seamlessly blends elements of amapiano, pop, Afrobeats, and R&B, reflecting Tyla’s commitment to infusing her South African heritage into contemporary music.

The album’s lead single, “Water,” gained international acclaim, peaking within the top 10 in multiple countries and earning multi-platinum certifications. This track, along with others like “Truth or Dare” and “Art,” showcases Tyla’s versatility and ability to craft infectious melodies that resonate across diverse audiences.

Tyla stands out for its genre-blending sound and cultural fusion. Rolling Out highlighted the album’s groundbreaking African fusion sounds, noting its achievement of gold status. NME commended Tyla’s rhythmic amapiano style, emphasizing her emergence as a significant figure in the global music scene.

The album’s success is further evidenced by its debut at number 24 on the Billboard 200 chart, underscoring Tyla’s growing influence in the international music landscape. With Tyla, the artist not only introduces herself as a formidable talent but also elevates South African sounds on a global platform, making it a standout among the top albums of 2024.

31. Doechii – Alligator Bites Never Heal

Doechii’s 2024 mixtape, Alligator Bites Never Heal, released on August 30 via Top Dawg Entertainment and Capitol Records, showcases her dynamic versatility and lyrical prowess, solidifying her status as a formidable force in contemporary hip-hop. Spanning 19 tracks, the mixtape traverses a spectrum of genres, from the introspective opener “STANKA POOH” to the dancefloor-ready “NISSAN ALTIMA.”

Critics have particularly lauded “DENIAL IS A RIVER” for its narrative depth, with Rolling Stone highlighting it as “an immaculate display of her quirks, relatability, and tenderness.” Additionally, “Boom Bap” has been praised for its incisive critique of traditionalist views within hip-hop.

The mixtape’s thematic core delves into industry politics and personal introspection, with NME noting Doechii’s exploration of “a sense of being trapped or feeling inadequate” across several tracks. This candidness resonates throughout the project, offering listeners an authentic glimpse into her artistic journey.

Alligator Bites Never Heal has garnered significant critical acclaim, earning spots on several year-end lists, including Rolling Stone’s ‘The 100 Best Albums of 2024’ at number nine. This recognition underscores Doechii’s impact on the music landscape, with Pitchfork describing the mixtape as “a formidable and focused debut.”

In live performances, such as her NPR Tiny Desk Concert, Doechii’s dynamic stage presence and genre-blending artistry have further solidified her reputation as a rising star. Her ability to seamlessly navigate diverse musical styles while maintaining a cohesive narrative thread makes Alligator Bites Never Heal a standout project in 2024, reflecting her evolution as an artist and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of hip-hop.

Click HERE for a full list of our Top 50 Albums of 2024!

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