The Best Albums of 2024: 50 – 41

As we bid farewell to 2024, it’s time to reflect on a year that has been nothing short of transformative for the music industry. This year has woven a rich tapestry of groundbreaking achievements, poignant moments, and cultural milestones that have left an indelible mark on the global music scene.

Charli XCX took the world by storm with her album BRAT, dominating charts and cultural conversations alike. Shaboozey’s infectious single “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” tied the record for the longest-running number-one on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing its widespread appeal. Coldplay’s ‘Music of the Spheres’ World Tour set new industry standards, becoming the highest-grossing tour by a group. Not to be outdone, Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour concluded with a staggering 149th show, grossing over $2 billion and solidifying her status as a global music icon.

Beyoncé ventured into new musical territories with her country album, topping charts and making history as the first Black female artist to lead Billboard’s Hot Country Songs Chart with “Texas Hold ’Em.” However, her exclusion from the Country Music Awards sparked important discussions about representation in the genre. Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” not only became his fourth number-one on the Billboard Hot 100, but also reignited the competitive spirit in hip-hop, with many viewing it as a decisive moment in his rap beef with Drake.

The year also celebrated enduring legacies, with Elton John achieving EGOT status after winning an Emmy for his television special Elton John: Farewell From Dodger Stadium. Beyoncé continued to break barriers, becoming the most nominated artist in Grammy history, reflecting her profound influence on the industry. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted a diverse class, including Mary J. Blige, Cher, Dave Matthews Band, and A Tribe Called Quest, honoring their significant contributions to music.

Usher headlined the Super Bowl LVIII halftime show, delivering a memorable performance with special guests Alicia Keys, will.i.am, Lil Jon, Ludacris, and H.E.R. Missy Elliott embarked on her first-ever arena tour in North America, with standout performances at venues like UBS Arena. Celine Dion made a triumphant return at the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony, marking her first performance in over four years following her diagnosis with Stiff Person Syndrome. Fans rejoiced as Linkin Park reunited with a new vocalist, and Oasis announced their reunion with a tour slated for 2025, igniting anticipation worldwide.

The year was not without its controversies. Tory Lanez was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion, and Sean Combs faced serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering. Additionally, Lil Durk was arrested on federal charges as he attempted to flee the U.S., and Young Thug’s legal battles concluded with a guilty plea to racketeering charges, resulting in time served and probation.

We also bid farewell to several influential artists who left an indelible mark on the music world, including Toby Keith, Chino XL, Liam Payne, Quincy Jones, and Bob Bryar. Their contributions continue to resonate, and they will be deeply missed.

As we reflect on the dynamic and diverse musical landscape of 2024, let’s delve into the albums that defined this remarkable year. Join us as we celebrate We Plug Good Music’s Best Albums of 2024, a curated journey through the sounds that shaped our times.

50. Brittany Howard – What Now

Brittany Howard’s 2024 album, What Now, stands as a testament to her boundless creativity and refusal to be confined by genre. Following her acclaimed solo debut, Jaime, Howard ventures even further into uncharted musical territories, seamlessly blending elements of funk, jazz, psychedelia, and electro into a cohesive and compelling narrative. The album’s opener, “Earth Sign,” sets the tone with its meditative introduction, leading into a dynamic exploration of sound that mirrors Howard’s personal and artistic growth.

Among the standout tracks, “Prove It to You” showcases Howard’s ability to craft danceable rhythms infused with soulful depth, while “Red Flags” captivates with its intense portrayal of romantic turmoil, driven by a relentless groove. The title track, “What Now,” serves as a powerful centerpiece, reflecting on themes of love and self-discovery with raw honesty and musical prowess. Throughout the album, Howard’s vocal performances are nothing short of mesmerizing, effortlessly conveying a spectrum of emotions that resonate deeply with listeners.

Critics have lauded What Now for its expansive vision and execution. NME describes the album as “thrillingly expansive and vibrant,” noting Howard’s seamless navigation through various genres. Pitchfork highlights the album’s “musically muscular and thematically heady” nature, emphasizing its “stadium-sized panache.”

This ambitious project not only cements Brittany Howard’s status as a formidable solo artist but also contributes significantly to the musical landscape of 2024, earning its rightful place among the year’s top albums.

49. Nala Sinephro – Endlessness

Nala Sinephro’s Endlessness is a mesmerizing journey that seamlessly intertwines ambient serenity with jazz dynamism. Building upon the foundation of her acclaimed debut, Space 1.8, Sinephro crafts a cohesive suite of ten tracks, each titled “Continuum,” unified by a recurring arpeggio that evolves throughout the album. This continuous motif serves as the album’s heartbeat, guiding listeners through a rich tapestry of sound that reflects the cyclical nature of existence.

The album features collaborations with notable musicians from the London jazz scene, including saxophonist Nubya Garcia, drummer Morgan Simpson, and flugelhornist Sheila Maurice-Grey. Their contributions enhance the album’s depth, with each artist adding their unique touch to Sinephro’s visionary compositions. Tracks like “Continuum 1” showcase Simpson’s intricate drumming alongside James Mollison’s emotive saxophone, creating a dynamic interplay that complements Sinephro’s modular synth explorations.

Endlessness is notable for its innovative fusion of genres and its meditative qualities, with Pitchfork noting that the album “dissolves the binaries that define ambient jazz and imagines a third sort of music that thrives at their midpoint,” highlighting Sinephro’s ability to create a seamless blend of styles. This album not only solidifies Nala Sinephro’s place as a leading figure in contemporary music but also stands as a significant contribution to the musical landscape of 2024, earning its rightful place among the year’s top albums.

48. Ariana Grande – eternal sunshine

Ariana Grande’s seventh studio album, Eternal Sunshine, released on March 8, 2024, marks a significant evolution in her artistry, blending pop and R&B with introspective lyricism that delves into personal themes. The album’s title references the 2004 film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, signaling its exploration of memory and healing.

The album opens with “Intro (End of the World)”, where Grande contemplates the uncertainties of relationships, setting a reflective tone. Tracks like “Bye” and “I Wish I Hated You” candidly address the complexities of her recent divorce, showcasing her growth and resilience. “Yes, And?”, the lead single, stands out with its effervescent pop-house production, while “We Can’t Be Friends (Wait for Your Love)” offers an ethereal goodbye, blending synth-wave influences with Grande’s signature vocal prowess.

Critics have praised Eternal Sunshine for its cohesive production and mature themes. Rolling Stone commended it as “some of the most honest and inventive music of her career,” highlighting its emotional depth. The album’s fusion of genres and introspective content has solidified its place among the top albums of 2024, reflecting Grande’s continued relevance and artistic evolution in the music industry.

47. KA – The Thief Next to Jesus

The Thief Next to Jesus by Ka stands as a profound exploration of the complex relationship between Black Americans and Christianity. Released on August 19, 2024, this self-produced work delves into themes of faith, redemption, and systemic oppression, all conveyed through Ka’s signature minimalist beats and poetic lyricism.

The album opens with “Bread, Wine, Body, Blood,” setting a contemplative tone that resonates throughout the project. Tracks like “Collection Plate” and “Broken Rose Window” blend gospel and blues influences, creating a stark, atmospheric soundscape that enhances the album’s thematic depth. Ka’s reflective lyricism and subdued vocal delivery invite listeners into a meditative space, encouraging deep engagement with the narratives he presents.

The Thief Next to Jesus is critically acclaimed for its cohesive production and thematic ambition. Pitchfork praised the album’s examination of the links between Black Americans and Christianity, noting that Ka’s “bluntness is his superpower” as he delivers some of his clearest writing to date. This album not only solidifies Ka’s legacy as a master storyteller but also stands as a significant contribution to the musical landscape of 2024, earning its rightful place among the year’s top albums.

Tragically, The Thief Next to Jesus is Ka’s final recording, as he passed away on October 12, 2024, at the age of 52. His profound impact on the hip-hop community and his unwavering commitment to artistic integrity continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

46. Being Dead – EELS

Being Dead’s EELS is a vibrant testament to the Austin-based duo’s inventive spirit and genre-blending prowess. Following their 2023 debut, When Horses Would Run, band members Falcon Bitch and Shmoofy, along with bassist Nicole Roman-Johnston, have expanded their sonic palette, delivering a collection that is both eclectic and cohesive. Produced by John Congleton, known for his work with St. Vincent and Explosions in the Sky, EELS traverses a spectrum of styles, from surf rock and punk to psychedelic folk, all while maintaining a distinctive, lo-fi charm.

The album opens with “Godzilla Rises,” a whimsical love song to the iconic monster, setting a tone of playful absurdity that permeates the record. Tracks like “Van Goes” and “Firefighters” showcase the band’s ability to craft infectious hooks layered with dynamic vocal interplay, reminiscent of early ’90s indie acts. “Dragons II” stands out as a strangely moving highlight, with lyrics that subvert traditional fairy tale tropes, adding depth to the album’s thematic exploration of innocence and the cusp of adulthood.

Critics have praised EELS for its relentless creativity and charm. Pitchfork awarded the album “Best New Music,” noting that despite its seemingly bare-bones approach, the music overflows with expertly sculpted feedback and unexpected instrumental cameos, such as Mellotron and banjo. Far Out Magazine highlighted the band’s ability to veer from sweet Alvvays choruses to sudden Kingsmen proto-punk, likening the album to a classic on too much caffeine.

This inventive approach has solidified EELS as a standout in the 2024 music landscape, earning its place among the year’s top albums and affirming Being Dead’s status as a band unafraid to push boundaries while delivering undeniably fun and engaging music.

45. The Last Dinner Party – Prelude to Ecstasy

The Last Dinner Party’s debut album, Prelude to Ecstasy, released on February 2, 2024, is a masterful blend of baroque pop and indie rock that has captivated both critics and audiences alike. Produced by James Ford, known for his work with Arctic Monkeys and Florence + The Machine, the album showcases the band’s penchant for theatricality and intricate arrangements, drawing comparisons to art-rock luminaries such as Kate Bush and Roxy Music.

The album opens with an orchestral overture that sets the stage for the opulent soundscapes to follow. Tracks like “Burn Alive” and “Sinner” highlight lead vocalist Abigail Morris’s dynamic range, while “The Feminine Urge” delves into themes of female rage with a swirling, Kate Bush-esque intensity. “On Your Side” offers a shimmering balladry that contrasts with the album’s more bombastic moments, showcasing the band’s versatility.

Prelude to Ecstasy stands out for its ambitious scope and melodic confidence. NME described it as “flamboyant, fun, and totally distinct,” noting its thrilling expressions of intimacy, desire, and regret. Rolling Stone UK hailed it as “one of the greatest rock debuts in years,” emphasizing the band’s ability to craft intricate guitar anthems that grab attention from the first note. The album’s success has been further cemented by its chart-topping debut, marking the UK’s biggest first-week sales for a debut album in nine years.

In the broader musical landscape of 2024, Prelude to Ecstasy stands out for its maximalist approach and unapologetic embrace of grandiose pop styles. The Last Dinner Party’s fusion of classical influences with modern sensibilities has not only earned them critical acclaim but also a dedicated fanbase, positioning them as one of the most exciting new acts of the year.

44. Tems – Born in the Wild

Tems‘ debut album Born in the Wild is a compelling exploration of self-discovery and resilience. Spanning 18 tracks, the album seamlessly blends Afrobeats, R&B, and hip-hop, showcasing Tems’ versatility and depth as an artist. The opening track, “Born in the Wild,” sets a reflective tone, with Tems delving into themes of personal growth and spiritual awakening. This introspection continues in “Me & U,” where she navigates the complexities of relationships with poignant lyricism. Collaborations with artists like Asake on “Get It Right” and J. Cole on “Free Fall” add dynamic layers to the album, enriching its sonic landscape.

Critics have lauded Born in the Wild for its cohesive production and thematic depth. NME described it as “soulful, spiritual, and self-assured,” highlighting Tems’ fluid approach to genre and her ability to weave West Africa’s rich musical diversity into her work. Pitchfork noted that the album “has the feel of a sprawling mood board,” incorporating elements of Tems’ Christian faith and fluctuating self-assurance, though suggesting that a more focused edit could have enhanced its impact.

Commercially, the album achieved significant success, debuting at number 56 on the US Billboard 200, marking the highest charting album by a Nigerian female artist to date. In the broader musical landscape of 2024, Born in the Wild stands out as a testament to Tems’ artistry and her ability to transcend traditional genre boundaries. The album’s introspective themes and innovative sound have solidified its place among the year’s top releases, reflecting Tems’ continued evolution and influence in the global music scene.

43. Blood Incantation – Absolute Elsewhere

Blood Incantation’s Absolute Elsewhere, released on October 4, 2024, through Century Media, marks a significant evolution in the band’s sonic journey, seamlessly blending their death metal roots with progressive rock influences.

The album comprises two expansive tracks, each exceeding 20 minutes, showcasing the band’s ambition and compositional prowess. “The Stargate [Tablet I]” opens with thunderous double bass drums and cavernous riffs, transitioning into a keyboard bridge reminiscent of 1970s organ and classic 1980s rock guitar. This fusion of old-school elements with modern metal creates a dynamic and immersive listening experience.

Absolute Elsewhere shines bright with its innovative approach and execution. AllMusic’s Paul Simpson described it as “a headstrong rush of slashing riffs, complex time signatures, tripped-out growling, and wild, surreal left turns,” concluding that the album “exceeds all expectations.” Metal Hammer’s Dom Lawson awarded it four and a half stars, calling it “pure prog-death perfection.”

In the broader musical landscape of 2024, Absolute Elsewhere stands as a testament to Blood Incantation’s willingness to push genre boundaries, earning its place among the year’s top albums and solidifying the band’s status as pioneers in the progressive death metal scene.

42. ScHoolboy Q – BLUE LIPS

ScHoolboy Q’s sixth studio album, Blue Lips, released on March 1, 2024, marks a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus since 2019’s CrasH Talk. The album showcases Q’s growth as an artist, blending his signature West Coast hip-hop style with introspective lyricism and innovative production.

The 18-track project features collaborations with notable artists such as Freddie Gibbs, Rico Nasty, and Childish Major, each adding unique elements to the album’s dynamic soundscape. Standout tracks include “Yeern 101,” where Q’s gritty delivery is complemented by a haunting beat, and “Cooties,” which delves into themes of entrapment and self-reflection.

Critics have praised Blue Lips for its cohesive production and Q’s lyrical prowess. Pitchfork highlighted the album’s exploration of personal and professional struggles, noting that Q “marvels at the dimensions of the box he’s put himself in.” HipHopDX commended the album’s “optimistic and self-assured transparency,” emphasizing Q’s ability to balance introspection with infectious energy.

In the broader musical landscape of 2024, Blue Lips stands as a testament to ScHoolboy Q’s resilience and artistic evolution, earning its place among the year’s top albums and reaffirming his status as a formidable force in hip-hop.

41. Father John Misty – Mahashmashana

Father John Misty’s sixth studio album, Mahashmashana, released on November 22, 2024, delves into profound themes of impermanence, rebirth, and the duality of mind and body. The title, derived from the Sanskrit word for “great cremation ground,” sets a contemplative tone that permeates the album’s eight tracks. Co-produced by Josh Tillman (Father John Misty) and Drew Erickson, with Jonathan Wilson as executive producer, the album showcases intricate arrangements and a rich orchestral palette, reflecting Tillman’s introspective songwriting and evolution as an artist.

The opening title track, “Mahashmashana,” is a nine-minute orchestral rock epic that exemplifies the album’s grand orchestral designs, echoing the classic Hollywood songbook arrangements of Tillman’s previous work. “She Cleans Up” introduces a jittery blast of art rock, while “I Guess Time Just Makes Fools of Us All” incorporates disco-funk rhythms, showcasing the album’s stylistic diversity. “Screamland,” featuring Alan Sparhawk from Low on guitar, stands out with its lush instrumentation and contemplative lyrics, further highlighting the album’s exploration of existential themes.

Critics have praised Mahashmashana for its ambitious scope and depth. NME describes it as “perhaps his most sincere album yet,” noting the album’s gentle psychedelic elements and introspective nature. Pitchfork highlights the album’s thematic focus on the cyclical nature of life and death, emphasizing Tillman’s ability to blend melancholic rock with introspective lyrics.

In the musical landscape of 2024, Mahashmashana stands as a testament to Father John Misty’s artistic maturity and willingness to explore complex themes through a richly orchestrated and stylistically diverse approach. The album’s contemplative nature and intricate compositions have solidified its place among the year’s top releases, reflecting Tillman’s continued evolution and influence in contemporary music.

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

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