2024 Favourite albums so far

Just a list of a few albums I have really enjoyed this year.

As we are just past the halfway point of 2024, i thought it was a good opportunity to take stock of some of the releases that have stood out to me  so far.

NOTE - I am not saying these are the best, these are just some albums, mainly hip hop, that I really like (and have heard) from this year. There are so many releases each week it is so so hard to keep up. Lots of other honourable mentions I could have added but this post would have been way too long. Please let me know what some of your favourite albums from this year are down in the comments. 

Brother Ali – "Love & Service"

So to be brutally honest I have always really liked Brother Ali but never adored any particular album of his. This album has completely  changed that. This is currently my favourite album of the year. Kind reminds me of the Danger Mouse & Black Thought album “Cheat Codes” from a few years ago. Ali is just so good on here, a master of his craft and the beautiful psychedelic tinged production makes it all come together for a really cohesive project. This album is a thing of shear beauty and something I will be revisiting over and over. 

Beth Gibbons – "Lives Outgrown"

Beth Gibbons’ "Lives Outgrown" is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of melancholy and resilience. Elements of her work with Portishead are here but with a different spin as she delves deep into poignant lyricism and minimalist arrangements. Deeply moving and introspective piece of art.

Regular Henry – "Regular Henry Sessions"

Love this album. Relatable, re-listenable, fun and just 2 razor sharp MC’s doing their thing. ”Moses Rockwell & Plain Old Mike have such a good partnership going on here. Day old gas station sushi never tasted better.

Amanda Whiting – "The Liminality of Her"

This is a stunning exploration of jazz, infused with a modern twist. Her harp playing is both delicate and powerful, weaving intricate patterns that captivate. This album stands as a testament to Whiting’s virtuosity and her ability to push the boundaries of jazz music.

Sunmundi & klwn cat – "Lived and Born"

Every so often I will hear a new MC and they will just stand out and have that certain X factor most don’t. As soon as I hear Sunmundi you could tell he has “it”. Great mixture of relatable traits you’ve heard previously but with his own unique twist on it. Great flows, voice and lyrical content throughout and delivered with such conviction. Klwn cat provides a beautiful set of production and soundscapes which perfectly marry with Sunmundi’s style. Highly recommend. 

Khruangbin – "A LA SALA"

Khruangbin's latest album, "A LA SALA," continues to mesmerize with their signature blend of psychedelic rock, funk, and world music. The band’s ability to create atmospheric soundscapes is unparalleled. Intricate melodies, dope grooves leading to a sonic paradise.

ShrapKnel – "Nobody Planning To Leave"

ShrapKnel (Curly Castro & PremRock) deliver their third and best album to date here with hard-hitting lyrics full of great references. The production is covered by

Controller 7

who delivers an absolute masterclass here. Interesting sounds, tons of changes, interesting structures and lots of banging drums. A standout hip-hop album of the year.

The Smile – "Wall Of Eyes"

Mesmerizing blend of alternative rock and electronic elements. The band, featuring members of Radiohead, crafts a sound that is both innovative and familiar. Complex arrangements and haunting vocals that I look forward to listening to more.

Lupe Fiasco – "Samurai"

So this album is apparently about Amy Winehouse being a battle rapper. Well….ok….anyway…Lupe delivers is a masterclass here. He really is rapping his ass off on this and has been on quite the run with the last couple of albums. The production is top-notch too.

NAHreally & The Expert – "BLIP"

No 2024 album list would be complete with this. (Ha ha!). If you haven’t heard my latest album I highly recommend it as its great! 

New music on the way….soon enough.

Ex.