The first quarter of 2024 has seen the release of some remarkable albums spanning various genres, from pop to rock to hip-hop. While much anticipation surrounds upcoming releases from Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, several other artists have already made a significant impact with their latest offerings. Here’s a rundown of the standout albums of the year thus far.
The Top Music Albums of 2024 (So Far)
Ariana Grande – “eternal sunshine”
Ariana Grande returns with her seventh album, marking her first release since 2020. With “eternal sunshine,” Grande showcases newfound maturity while staying true to her pop roots. The album, loosely interpreted as her “divorce album,” explores themes of relationships and self-discovery. Grande experiments with elements of classic disco and ’90s Madonna, demonstrating a more refined vocal style and setting high expectations for her future projects.
Liam Gallagher & John Squire – “Liam Gallagher John Squire”
Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher joins forces with Stone Roses guitarist John Squire for a collaboration that delights fans of both bands. While the album may lack surprises, it delivers solid rock tracks with Gallagher’s trademark sneer complemented by Squire’s psychedelic guitar work. Despite some lyrical shortcomings, the album’s energy and chemistry between the two musicians make it an enjoyable listen for rock enthusiasts.
Sleater-Kinney – “Little Rope”
“Sleater-Kinney” returns with “Little Rope,” their second album since drummer Janet Weiss’s departure. The album, tinged with themes of loss and grief following the tragic death of guitarist Carrie Brownstein’s family members, marks a shift in the band’s tone. Retaining their punk ethos while embracing a more subdued approach, Sleater-Kinney delivers emotionally charged tracks that resonate with listeners on a deeper level.
Tierra Whack – “World Wide Whack”
Philadelphia rapper Tierra Whack continues to push boundaries with her debut full-length album, “World Wide Whack.” Known for her innovative style and off-kilter lyricism, Whack delivers a diverse range of tracks that defy categorization. From trap beats to introspective ballads, Whack showcases her versatility and unique perspective, cementing her status as one of hip-hop’s most exciting new talents.
Sierra Ferrell – “Trail of Flowers”
Americana artist Sierra Ferrell makes a bold statement with her sophomore album, “Trail of Flowers.” Building on her distinctive voice and eclectic style, Ferrell explores a variety of musical traditions, from bluegrass to ragtime. Backed by legendary Nashville session musicians, Ferrell’s songwriting shines on this impressive and soul-stirring record, solidifying her place in the Americana landscape.
In conclusion, the first quarter of 2024 has delivered an array of standout albums across different genres. From pop to rock to hip-hop and Americana, these releases showcase the diversity and creativity of today’s music scene. As the year progresses, music fans can look forward to more exciting releases from both established artists and emerging talents.
