Putting the whole Kendrick/Drake beef aside, 2024 is shaping up to be a legendary year in the music industry, with many of our favorite artists releasing some of their best work yet. We are expecting many more albums in the coming months, but for now, here are 7 albums (in no particular order) that were released in the first semester of 2024, all of which are worth checking out:
Dark Times – Vince Staples: Dark Times truly encapsulates Vince Staples’ unique, humble approach to rapping through a compelling and captivating tracklist. This intricate album is brimming with illustrious production and a great feel of Staples’ sound with intriguing lyricism and a number of riveting beats.
Hit Me Hard And Soft (HMHAS) – Billie Eilish: Released on May 17th and adequately produced by Billie Eilish’s brother FINNEAS, HMHAS has quickly become a favorite among many people, fans of Eilish or not. Billie’s beautiful voice matches the mood and makes her brother’s magnificent production on this vibrant gothic-pop album most definitely worth the wait.
Scrapyard – Quadeca: From YouTube diss tracks to one of the most interesting alternative/indie albums ever, Quadeca really portrays the uniqueness and versatility of his sound in his fifth studio album Scrapyard. This album is a whole mix of emotions from the heartfelt “Guide Dog” to the electric “Guess Who?”. Tears were shed and heads were bopped all while witnessing Quadeca solidify himself with one of the best albums of the year.
I’ve Never Been Here Before (INBHB) – Erick The Architect: A diverse track full of experimental hip-hop, INBHB is a deep, thought-provoking album by Flatbush Zombies’ one and only Erick The Architect. With a large cast of features, Erick The Architect opens up to his audience and explores the genre of hip-hop through his superb and catchy production.
Cowboy Carter – Beyoncé: Although this album is really more country-inspired than a country album itself, Beyoncé most definitely did not disappoint. Beyoncé once again shows off her amazing voice on this hit album and covers a range of moods, making this album perfect for almost any occasion.
PARTYNEXTDOOR 4 (P4) – PARTYNEXTDOOR: The classic PARTYNEXTDOOR (PND) vibe is finally back after a long wait. The Canadian R&B artist brings his mellow tunes to this future classic album with his yearning lyrics and stunning sound, making this featureless album possibly PND’s best solo work to date.
Medea – Avenoir: While not technically an album, Medea is a brief plunge into an elegant melancholy sound by the blooming R&B artist that is Avenoir. This short and somber EP will either have you bawling your eyes out at 2:00 AM or swaying from side to side with someone you love.
This article also appears in our June 2024 edition.
