2024 has turned out to be an interesting year for music to say the least. From the rise of cultural pop phenoms such as Charli XCX, Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter, to an incredibly public feud between hip-hop juggernauts Drake and Kendrick Lamar, to many of your favorite rap/pop artists venturing into the country space, it seemed there was no shortage of headlines to be found in the past 12 months. However, if you found yourself scoffing at music news that had to do primarily with public appearance and were more interested in finding some new, great stuff to listen to, 2024 was full of that as well. Let’s get into some of the best projects this past year has seen.
Mk.gee, Two Star & The Dream Police
On Two Star & The Dream Police, Guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer, Mike Gordon (aka Mk.gee) makes waves that have quickly solidified him as one of the most exciting artists in music right now. The cosigns alone from artists such as Tyler, The Creator, John Mayer and Matty Healy (to only name a few) have only seemed to further prove why the internet has dubbed Mk.gee, “your favorite artists’ favorite artist.” The album itself seems to land somewhere between pop and indie given its infectious, yet dynamic songwriting, and unique production, all on top of some stellar guitar playing. Be sure to check this one out as well as the series of YouTube live performances of a handful of songs from the record.
Porter Robinson, SMILE! 😀
This year we got to see electronic music wunderkind Porter Robinson leave behind the DJ controller and pick up a guitar on his third studio album, SMILE! :D. Being known for his massive, lush synths and immersive production, Porter ventures into a less produced, almost emo/punk rock soundscape that still feels a bit electronic but also wouldn’t feel out of place at a Warped Tour. In terms of songwriting, Porter is centering the record around the theme of para-social relationships that we find online as well as the mutual connection he has to his fan base. His compelling melodies are still there, the sense of nostalgia and fantasy are still present, but they’re being put through a completely different filter that’s somewhere between pop, emo, electronic and rock. An incredibly well written, well produced, heartfelt album you won’t want to miss.
Joey Valence & Brae, No Hands
The over the top, eccentric attitude of the nineties is alive and well on Joey Valence & Brae’s No Hands. The album sees performance elements of artists like The Beastie Boys and The Alchemist put over modern-day instrumentals that make for a fresh, yet undeniably nostalgic record. The duo continue to not take themselves too seriously on the lyrical front while rapping about Shirley Temples, video games and Pokemon cards, making the songs incredibly fun while still worth taking seriously given the great songwriting. For fans of old school hip-hop, or those who are just sick of modern day hip-hop, this one’s for you.
Kendrick Lamar, GNX
While we aren’t here to discuss his year in the public eye, when talking about some of the best projects of the year it’d be hard to not talk about Kendrick Lamar’s love letter to the west coast that is GNX. We see a lot of the introspection and self-reflection Kendrick is so known for on songs like, “reincarnated” and “heart pt. 6” but at the same time, we see Kendrick setting out to write songs and give performances that are a reflection of his community and pay homage to the sound of the west coast. Not that the songs are not compelling, but tracks like, “tv off” “squabble up” and “dodger blue” all prove to be songs that serve a purpose of regional representation, rather than that of being overly conscious and thought provoking, in the best way possible. His record year continues with this project: It’s very much in the conversation for being one of his best while also further advancing his name into the realm of hip hop greatness.
Local Pick–
George Richter, Tributary
After years of playing with local groups Smug Honey and Liminal Space, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist Goerge Richter released his first solo project, Tributary in July earlier this year. The stellar, seasoned songwriting combined with some heartfelt, authentic performances make for a great soft rock/indie project. Be sure to catch George playing with a number of groups in Southern Rhode Island. •
Be sure to check out our playlist to find our favorite tracks from these projects.
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