Best Of 2024: Music
The panelists and Patreon supporters of the Great Pop Culture Debate have nominated their favorite albums of 2024. Check out their recommendations below. (Unlike previous years, we did not do an actual episode devoted to Best Of 2024; we’re just doing listicles on the website.) Artists discussed include Ariana Grande, Dua Lipa, Kim Deal, Kylie Minogue, Man Man, Mannequin Pussy, Sabrina Carpenter, Smashing Pumpkins, Vampire Weekend, and more.
Want to drop your own favorite albums of the year? Feel free to share them in the comments.
If you’d like to contribute to our Best Of picks for next year, and for more exclusive content, become a Patreon supporter of the podcast today.
Ariana Grande, Eternal Sunshine
Still waiting for an explanation on how this album got shut out of the big categories (Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Record of the Year) for the 2025 Grammys. Did Grande’s messy personal life play a part? If so, 1) gross; that would never impact a male artist, and 2) all of that is right there in the album. Eternal Sunshine is Grande’s most mature, emotionally open album to date, a thoughtful examination of her awareness that she needed to leave a relationship that wasn’t working, but not wanting to hurt the person from whom she was walking away. There’s not a single bad track on the album, and in fact there are several instant classics: “Bye,” “The Boy Is Mine,” “We Can’t Be Friends,” “Imperfect for You.” This is a more restrained Grande than we have gotten previously, but even more effective. I guess she’ll have to just settle for a likely Oscar nomination after crushing her breakout role in the Wicked movie. (Eric Rezsnyak)
Dua Lipa, Radical Optimism
It might have been Brat Summer, but the best album for me in 2024 was the supremely well-crafted Radical Optimism by Dua Lipa. It’s a melange of styles -– dance, hip-hop, Brit pop, with a little trip-hop sprinkled in there, too. Dua kicked it off with the lead single “Houdini,” a high-energy smash referencing the famous illusionist, about how quickly she can disappear if a hookup fails to please her. One of my favorite upbeat songs is “Illusion.” It was the third single from the album. Not as popular, but the video was amazing. It was filmed in the same location in Barcelona as Kylie Minogue's 2003 “Slow” video, and she even pays homage to it with scantily clad sunbathers, divers, etc. It's just as hot as it was 21 years ago when Kylie did it. There are other songs that are not as high energy. “These Walls,” of which she released two versions, one with Belgian singer Pierre de Maere, is about the downfall of a relationship. And “French Exit,” a fun, seductive mid-tempo track, even includes a little French language. I call that Dua Lingo. But my favorite track on the album is “Happy For You,” the last track. It's a somber, longing track about having a former love. I would say it is Dua Lipa's “Hello” by Adele. It actually could have fit in on the second half of Madonna's Ray of Light album. It has that same feel and that same kind of wanting and needing of someone you can't have anymore. She released an extended version of the album in June. It's double the length of the original, but it's so much more lush. She even adds additional bridges and verses for each song, which really adds to how complex and beautiful they are. As Wendy Williams said, I love this Dula Peep. It's Dula Peep, right? (Jonny Minogue)
Gavin Turek, Diva of the People
Gavin Turek got some buzz in the nu disco scene with her “Don’t Fight It” track in 2015. For this, her second full-length album, she went ALL the way in, giving us one of THE best modern disco collections since Jessie Ware’s That! Feels Good! Don’t be dissuaded by the spoken-word opening track and interludes; this is a full-bodied, capital-D Disco album. Track after track delivers infectious beats, breathy vocals, and an inescapable groove. Standouts include “IOU,” “Disco Boots,” and “Heaven Knows.” (Eric Rezsnyak)
Khruangbin, A LA SALA
Khruangbin’s album A LA SALA has been a highlight of 2024, showcasing the band’s signature blend of jazz, funk, and world music to create a dreamy, atmospheric soundscape. I first learned of Khruangbin from the band’s collaboration with Leon Bridges and the song “Texas Sun,” but I hadn't dove into their music fully until this year. It's a great album to pop on and chill out to. Speaking of collaborations, 2024 also saw one between Khruangbin and Childish Gambino on his album Bando Stone & The New World, with Khurangbin contributing to the track “Happy Survival.” Another genre-blending album worth a listen. (Jim Czadzeck)
Kim Deal, Nobody Loves You More
“Give me poetry and magic and I’ll come running” are lyrics Kim Deal sings on her debut solo album, but could easily have been said by her many fans clamoring for this record. These 11 songs clock in at 35 minutes but pack a punch. Standout tracks include “Crystal Breath,” “Disobedience,” “Big Ben Beat,” and “Come Running.” An excellent outing from one of the very best. (Karissa Kloss)
Kylie Minogue, Tension II
Sequels are not just for movies anymore. Tension II by Kylie picks up the mic where 2023’s Tension left off. It's like the two-part weekend party album. To quote my Turbid Radio co-host Jon Whitney, Tension is Friday night, Tension II is Saturday night. It's an even more high-energy affair than its predecessor. While that disc had amazing tracks like “Padam Padam” and “Vegas High,” this jacks it up to 11. You start off the album with “Lights, Camera, Action.” Kylie spares no time busting down the doors of the nightclub with this banger. You cannot not work the runway when this song comes up. She's ready for more than her close up. “Kiss Bang Bang” is a fast moving song that talks about getting a hookup in the bathroom stall, and getting your rocks off before your friends even know that you came back from the bar. I can't get enough of the first nine songs on the album. Other highlights include “Diamonds,” which is reminiscent of “Love at First Sight”; and “Hello,” which is a track about good bad decisions with a toxic but so sexy lover. The last four tracks are previously released collaborations. The one that fits the Tension II vibe the most is “Edge of Saturday Night” with the Blessed Madonna. It’s a New Wave-inspired 128 BPM track that just melds right in. The other three mesh a little less well, especially the Orville Peck collab. But I will say I've had a number of people say, It took Kylie Minogue for me to like Orville Peck. Now, granted, I've always liked Orville Peck – visually – I've just never liked him audibly. But hey, you know what? You gotta put them someplace. (Jonny Minogue)
Lemon, Zestiny Pt. 1
A white, Canadian drag queen gave us one of the coolest rap/dance albums of the year. I’m dead serious. Zestiny Pt. 1 is an EP, just six songs – likely released to coincide with Lemon’s crowning run on Canada’s Drag Race vs. the World 2 – but every track is absolute fire. From the euphoric “Pool Party” with Marina Summers to the filthy “Highsexual” to the surprisingly thoughtful online-culture analysis of “It’s Not That Deep,” Lemon puts down some genuinely great lyrics with a confident, seductive delivery. One of the best Ru Girl music projects, and deserving of way more attention. (Eric Rezsnyak)
Man Man, Carrot on Strings
Man Man, the project of Honus Honus (Ryan Kattner), has been around a good long while, with its first studio album dropping 20 years ago. Ever since then, the band has been the king of weirdo indie pop. From instrument choices, to lyrics, to the live performances - if you ever get the chance to catch a Man Man show, DO IT. Carrot on Strings may be some of the band’s best work yet. While previous album Dream Hunting in the Valley of the In-Between was the most accessible, Carrot on Strings strikes the balance of maintaining that kookiness Man Man is known for and having some downright pretty-sounding songs (such as “Mongolian Spot”). (Andrea Guerrero)
Mannequin Pussy, I Got Heaven
Mannequin Pussy is a band poised to take on the mainstream and made a big splash with its newest release, I Got Heaven. Managing to maintain the melodic highs and punk energy of the band’s live shows, this album showcases everything Mannequin Pussy has to offer. From confidence boosters (“I Got Heaven”) to sweet love stories (“Nothing Like”) to all-out ragers (“OK? OK! OK? OK!”), all bases are covered. Bone up now so when you see the band on the festival circuit next summer you can sing, “I got a loud bark / deep bite!” along with the rest of the crowd. (Karissa Kloss)
Paris Hilton, Infinite Icon
Are we finally at a place in culture where we can acknowledge that Paris Hilton’s 2006 album Paris was, in fact, a genuinely good pop album that was turned into a joke by a media machine hellbent on humiliating and exploiting young women? Because “Screwed,” “Stars are Blind,” and “Nothing In This World” are legit bops. And now they have company via this Sia-produced follow-up, featuring collabs with Rina Sawayama, Megan Thee Stallion, and Sia herself. “BBA” – which stands for Bad Bitch Academy – is a full-on banger, “Legacy” is a surprisingly bouncy 2000s-throwback track, and “Welcome Back” is a great encapsulation of Paris reclaiming her narrative. The album is uneven, but worth consideration. (Eric Rezsnyak)
Pom Pom Squad, Mirror Starts Moving Without Me
The sophomore slump is nowhere to be seen on Pom Pom Squad’s second full-length album. More polished than debut Death of a Cheerleader, Mirror Starts Moving Without Me continues themes of growing up, finding oneself, and being M-E-S-S-Y. Singles “Downhill” and “Street Fighter” shine, and “Villain” is a fun banger. (Karissa Kloss)
Sabrina Carpenter, Short ‘n’ Sweet
I was predisposed to reject this album after Spotify force-fed me “Espresso” for months leading up to its release. And yet, I was impressed. In Short ‘n’ Sweet, Carpenter achieves escape velocity from the bubbling-under pop-girlie circuit (which is VERY crowded right now) and ascends to pop-icon status. In addition to the glossy pop of the aforementioned lead single and opener “Taste,” the album verges into softer, almost folky sounds even as the content of the songs is thoroughly modern. “Bed Chem” seems poised to be the next breakout single, but the exhilarating “Juno” is one of my Top 5 songs of 2024. (Eric Rezsnyak)
Smallpools, Ghost Town Road
I’ve followed indie-pop band Smallpools for years, eager for it to live up to the promise of the thrilling 2015 debut album, Lovetap! We got close with this year’s Ghost Town Road, which has more hits than misses. Some of those successful songs are among the band’s best. “Swayze” – inspired by the late, great 80s movie icon – has been on repeat since I first heard it, an absolutely perfect pop song that I only wish was about 30 seconds longer. “Paperweight” has a surging chorus that pulls you through the song like an undertow. “Caller ID” and “Be Kind, Rewind” are wistful ballads about being faced with a lost love. We love to see indie faves live up to their potential. (Eric Rezsnyak)
St. Vincent, All Born Screaming
When I saw St. Vincent’s performance on Saturday Night Live, I was hooked. Her electrifying renditions of “Broken Man” and “Big Time Nothing” from the latest album, All Born Screaming, left a lasting impression on me. They packed a punch, and this was somewhat of a newer, more powerful sound. I was already a fan of St. Vincent’s previous work with David Byrne and other past albums, but as I explored the new album, I was struck by the impeccable production and the eclectic mix of styles. Elements of industrial rock, art pop, and progressive rock create catchy and thought-provoking tracks worth exploring for both production and meaning. The album, entirely self-produced by St. Vincent, also features collaborations with notable artists like Dave Grohl, Cate Le Bon, and Stella Mozgawa, adding even more depth to its sound. Additionally, I also found the fact that she released a full Spanish-language version of the album, Todos Nacen Gritando, particularly interesting. Although I didn’t understand a word, I listened to it a few times and enjoyed exploring the differences the languages brought to the songs. All Born Screaming is a standout in my top albums of 2024, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and powerful musical experience. (Jim Czadzeck)
Smashing Pumpkins, Aghori Mhori Mei
The Smashing Pumpkins dropped a surprise album this year exclusively on digital platforms, and then released physical copies after it found success.The album is the Pumpkins’ heaviest since Zeitgeist from 2007, something that fans have been clamoring for. This album is a treat for fans old and new, harkening back to the old days and leaving room for Billy Corgan to continue to evolve as an aging rockstar. (Andrea Guerrero)
Vampire Weekend, Only God Was Above Us
A band that truly does not miss, Vampire Weekend hits the masses again after a five-year gap. The indie-pop darlings haven't lost their touch, and it doesn't seem like the band will anytime soon. This might be my only no-skip album of the year. All roads for Vampire Weekend seem to have led up to this album, a masterpiece dedicated to what this band does best. (Andrea Guerrero)
The Year in Power Pop Albums
Power pop is a charging, melodic rock and pop subgenre that is kind of like porn: you can’t always define it, but you know it when you see it. It has existed since the 1960’s and has come in and out of fashion across the decades since, blending along the way with similar styles such as punk, pub rock, new wave, alt rock, and emo.
That said, 2024 was a banner year for power poppers, as five of my favorite albums of the year all fell into this category. Together, they show just how versatile, varied, and alive the genre can still be. They are:
Liquid Mike, Paul Bunyan's Slingshot
The album for folks who want a clear definition of the genre. Crunchy guitars and memorable hooks make each song a sing-along anthem.
Oso Oso, life till bones
Emo-adjacent, yet also reminiscent of 2000’s-era melodic rock like Coconut Records. Every track here would've killed on The O.C.
Ducks Ltd, Harm's Way
The jangly side of power pop, in the vein of The dBs. Would've fit in on 80s college rock radio.
Ahem, Avoider
Trading male and female vocals for a collection of driving, energetic indie-skewing rock.
Macseal, Permanent Repeat
True to its name, this is my favorite album of the year. All of the above styles mix together for a sweeping, emotional collection of songs that feel like snapshots of people's lives, much like Fountains of Wayne's Utopia Parkway. Timeless, yet very 2024. (Brendan Hay)
Want to play along at home?
Download the Listener Bracket and see if your picks match up with ours!
Sign up for our weekly newsletter!
Subscribe to find out what’s new in pop culture each week right in your inbox!
Vote in more pop culture polls!
Check out our Open Polls. Your votes determine our future debates!
Then, vote in our Future Topic Polls to have a say in what episodes we tackle next.
