It’s safe to say that 2024 has been quite the eventful year—in music, on campus, and beyond. Equal parts exhausting and exhilarating, music has been our refuge, a simultaneous anchor to and escape from reality, soundtracking our lives as we navigated the ups, downs, mundane, and marvel of day to day.
For the first time in KSDT history, the Media Department is proud to announce our (by no means exhaustive) list of the year’s best, reinforcing the cultural impact of chart-topping pop behemoths, commending breakout artists who redefined the modern music landscape, and putting the well-earned spotlight on underrepresented indie gems. We carefully selected 24 of our favourite projects from 2024, an eclectic list of songs and full-length records, to recap one of the most exciting years in recent music history.
In curating this list, we honour and revel in the music that has brought and kept us together, both individually and collectively, rounding out yet another momentous year in the creative universe. Reminisce (or venture) with us; we hope you find something you enjoy, or at the very least, develop a deeper fondness for the diverse medley of music and art 2024 had to offer.
Without further ado, KSDT Radio’s Media Team presents our take on the best releases of 2024!
— Isabella Le, Media Director (2024-2025)
Listen to our playlist here, and read all about the picks below!
KSDT’S BEST MUSIC RELEASES OF 2024
(Alphabetized by artist name)
Ariana Grande – Eternal Sunshine
In the midst of public scrutiny surrounding her divorce from Dalton Gomez and her new relationship with Wicked co-star Ethan Slater, Ariana Grande released her seventh studio album, Eternal Sunshine. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Grande labels Eternal Sunshine a concept record, one that journals her emotional journey through the collapse of her marriage and the critical public reaction that followed.
The album opens with Grande grappling with uncertainty in her relationship in “intro (end of the world).” Backed by sentimental strings, she sings, “And if it all ended tomorrow / Would I be the one on your mind?… / And if it all ended tomorrow / Would you be the one on mine?” The song sets a reflective tone, expressing self-judgement and vulnerability as her future shifts.
However, by track two, Grande has moved on. The nu-disco, break-up anthem “bye” finds her reclaiming control, flipping her hair, and giving her ex a sassy, “bye-bye, boy, bye.” You can almost picture the cocky wink as she pulls out of the driveway, leaving her past behind.
The lead single off the album, “yes, and?” perfectly encapsulates Grande’s mindset. “Your business is yours and mine is mine,” she sings, declaring her indifference to the opinions of outsiders. She may not care what the public thinks, but if her name is in the spotlight, she’ll make the most of it— delivering a beautifully crafted and emotionally vulnerable Grammy-nominated album. — Lola Dogat
Billie Eilish – HIT ME HARD AND SOFT
Billie Eilish’s highly anticipated third album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT (2024), is a testament to her artistry and sonic evolution. More consistent than WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? and more experimental than Happier Than Ever, Eilish truly finds her stride in this album, balancing her signature dark pop influence and layered vocals with introspective lyrics and bold production. Once again, Eilish teams up with her brother, Finneas, to create a record that explores themes of sexuality, heartbreak, and fame.
Eilish’s dreamy vocals and Finneas’ adventurous production shines on the third track of the album, “CHIHIRO.” Inspired by Hayao Miyazaki’s film Spirited Away, the track dives into a complicated relationship from Eilish’s past. A funky bass and guitar arpeggio drives the song as it gradually builds to a rich, expansive sound, layered with electronic synths. The album opener “SKINNY” delves into self-image and the perils of fame, containing emotional hard-hitters such as, “People say I look happy / Just because I got skinny / But the old me is still me and maybe the real me / And I think she’s pretty.” Critics have deemed HIT ME HARD AND SOFT as Eilish’s most mature work yet, reinforcing her place as a generational talent unafraid to push boundaries. — Lola Dogat
Bring Me the Horizon – POST HUMAN: NeX GEn
Bring Me the Horizon is a band that needs no introduction; if you’ve ever explored the waters of post-emo and metalcore, or even if you vaguely recognize the signature hit “Can You Hear My Heart” from trending TikTok audios of late 2020, most people have likely crossed paths with the Sheffield band in one way or another, whether close and intently or briefly and in passing. In the wake of Jordan Fish’s departure, Bring Me The Horizon’s drummer of 11 years, the British metalcore icons surprised media and fans alike with their seventh studio album, POST HUMAN: NeX GEn, in late May, the second installment to 2020’s POST HUMAN: SURVIVAL HORROR.
For a band well over two decades into its career, Bring Me the Horizon constantly continue to reinvent the wheel and transcend genre boundaries—and they’re never short of pulling it off. No strangers to unconventional and bold experimentation, the latest LP sees the five-piece welding alternative rock, hyperpop, and nu-metal, as lead singer Oliver Sykes lyrically explores a futuristic, cyborgian dystopia while channeling his present, deeply personal reality. POST HUMAN: NeX GEn proves a thoroughly powerful emo record apt for the social, cultural, and artistic climate of 2024 and forward, and Bring Me the Horizon, in their consistent and successful evolution across 20 years, further reinforce their places on the thrones as one of the best and most venerated in mainstream rock music across the globe. — Isabella Le
BUBBLE TEA AND CIGARETTES – we should’ve killed each other
To say that the 2020s have seen a resurgence in shoegaze and dream pop within the alternative zeitgeist would be a dramatic understatement, with countless modern bands now emerging from the post-90s shadows of My Bloody Valentine, Mazzy Star, and Cocteau Twins. With that, there’s inevitably endless discourse surrounding the oftentimes derivative nature of new wave shoegaze, but for New York duo BUBBLE TEA AND CIGARETTES, nostalgia and the contemporary intertwine to create a distinct yet harmonious listening experience on their latest record, we should’ve killed each other.
In its entirety, the project falls just short of half an hour; across eight tracks ranging from two minutes to four, the duo intimately explores themes of love, longing, and loss—nothing unseen before in discographies of adjacent artists—and beautifully elevates them through ambient atmospheres of penitence and lament. Breathy, haunting vocals waft over melancholic synths and reverbed guitar riffs, striking a balance between intense and euphoric, and dreamy and ethereal to conjure a cinematic unconscious. In a genre where everything’s ostensibly been done before, BUBBLE TEA AND CIGARETTES continue to take my breath away and sweep me off my feet with each release, and for what my words are worth, we should’ve killed each other cements the duo as artistic trailblazers and rising genre heavyweights. — Isabella Le
Charli xcx – Brat
Winning the title of Top Album of the Year from Rolling Stone, Metacritic, and Pitchfork, and earning ten Grammy nominations, Brat, Charli xcx’s eighth studio album, stormed onto the music scene with unprecedented success. Dominating the charts since its release, the album’s transformative impact on both music and culture is undeniable. What Charli initially feared might have limited appeal instead became a cultural phenomenon, with neon green symbolizing the Brat era. Beyond its influence in music, the album extended its reach into society, even serving as a marketing tool for Kamala Harris during her presidential campaign.
Charli xcx’s earlier albums dabbled in electronic sounds, with Pop 2 marking her entry into the hyperpop genre. While she had notable hits before, Brat has become her most acclaimed work. The album honors her influences, particularly SOPHIE, the late hyperpop pioneer who deeply shaped Charli’s music. Its momentum grew with deluxe editions featuring artists like Lorde, Ariana Grande, and Billie Eilish. The Sweat tour further solidified her cultural impact, selling nearly 300,000 tickets nationwide. Brat not only redefined Charli’s career but also pushed the boundaries of electronic dance music. Its commercial success and societal impact demonstrate Charli’s ability to innovate while creating tracks that connect with a broad audience. Brat proves itself as more than just an album—it’s a cultural phenomenon. — Freya Greenwood
Chri$tian Gate$ – No Strings Attached
Looking for a new and upcoming artist? Look no further with Chri$tian Gate$’ debut album, No Strings Attached. Gate$, known for his hit song “Numb”, blends alternative and indie pop to create energetic heart-stopping beats. Themes of heartbreak, distrust, and insecurities are explored throughout the album but especially in his top songs, “Toxic” and “Secrets”.
Gate$ has a unique way of storytelling through his beat-driven music and thought-provoking lyrics as revealed in songs like “LIAR LIAR” and “BABYDOLL.” While the ending song, “SHREDS,” compliments the album it takes a departure from the rest with its sentimental ballad and vocals that elongate every word allowing the listeners to connect with his experiences. Navigating themes of relationship issues, Chri$tian Gate$ makes an impact on the music world by creating timeless music of emotions that resonate with its listeners. — Caitlyn Williams
Clairo – Charm
Through her characteristic soft vocals and a 70s-inspired soft rock sound, Clairo’s third studio album Charm is an introspective and intimate unraveling of formative life experiences and lingering memories. From exploring the complex disillusionment of love and relationships to the challenges of self-discovery, Charm feels both uniquely personal and also highly relatable. This vulnerability paired with Clairo’s hush vocals complements the whimsical nature of the record, culminating in arguably her strongest and most confident release to date.
The record’s first released single, “Sexy to Someone,” is a groovy, piano-laden track that finds Clairo yearning to be wanted, while the following single “Nomad” outlines the internal conflict that comes with seeking this type of connection. These feelings tied with processing the emotional complexities of the highs and lows of intimate companionship are further explored on tracks such as the popular hit “Juna” and the reflective yet upbeat “Add Up My Love.” Navigating the intricate emotional journey that is young adulthood was never meant to be easy, but Clairo has proven that these feelings can be transformed into inspiring art. — Megan Hirao
Conan Gray – Found Heaven
Conan Gray’s Found Heaven is a novel angle into the pop star’s iconic story-driven lyricism, characterized by catchy, synthy 80s style beats. Featuring interpolations like “Lonely Dancers” (modeled after Men Without Hats’ “Safety Dance”) and “Eye Of The Night” (a perfect mashup of Belinda Carlisle’s “Heaven Is A Place On Earth” & Rockwell’s “Somebody’s Watching Me”), the album has the instant effect of evoking timeless radio classics. Known for his heartbreaker hits like “Heather” and “The Cut That Always Bleeds,” Gray manages to infuse his signature sadness quite seamlessly into the style of the late Beatles and the piano ballad before closing out with “Winner,” the one track that truly matches the iconic Conan sound.
What’s remarkable about this album is its ability to yo-yo between the variety of 80s subgenres, capturing the breadth of how synth revolutionized the sound of the decade. From the twangy, British swagger of “Bourgeoisieses” to the Duran Duran-esque falsetto strut of “Boys & Girls,” there’s a song for every listener. The sheer variety of pace & technique makes the album a perfect cover-to-cover listen, imparting the kind of emotional whiplash that leaves a person crawling back for more. — Elizabeth Owens
Doechii – Alligator Bites Never Heal
With Alligator Bites Never Heal, Doechii continues to explosively kick down boundaries not only within her own music, but within rap, hip-hop, R&B, and the music world at large. Released in late August, this mixtape took those new to her work on a journey full of boundless energy, power, and witty lyricism, and gave returning fans a once again glimpse into the raw creativity and charisma that they grew to love. Tracks “NISSAN ALTIMA,” “DENIAL IS A RIVER,” AND “CATFISH” all give a taste of the dynamic relationship between lyrics and rhythm that Doechii continues to flawlessly weave between, never compromising one over the other. However, tracks such as “HIDE N SEEK” and “BEVERLY HILLS” should not be overlooked, as their slower nature let Doechii showcase her intricately layered and expressive vocals. But if one had to pick a track to scream about from the rooftops, “BOOM BAP” would have to be it, as the track is Doechii’s letter to anyone listening: she has, is, and will always be, everything. — Alex Kozak
Fontaines D.C. – Romance
For Fontaines D.C., Romance is not only a new album of some of the best instrumentals the band has to offer, but a show of extreme growth and maturity within their post-punk discography. Their newest project was released in late August, and with it, came both a deconstruction and a revival of the poetry that sings (no pun intended) within their lyrics and the gritty yet melodic instrumental backdrop. Hailing from Ireland, Fontaines D.C. had showcased their ability to command the stage while opening for the Arctic Monkeys just last year, and thus, Romance was well-anticipated. However, Fontaines D.C. were able to not only improve upon their prowess over the guitar, drums, and voice from past works such as Skinty Fia, A Hero’s Death, and Dogrel, but continue their grounding and painstakingly realistic love for the past and the present within Romance. Tracks such as “Starburster,” “Here’s The Thing,” and “Death Kink” are for the moments of raging against the mundane and frustrating daily motions, while “Bug” and “Favorite” are for the off-kilter lovesickness within us all. However, the gem of the album lies within the melancholy reflections of “In The Modern World,” as Fontaines D.C calls to the feeling of standing alone in a city that may or may not love you back. — Alex Kozak
Gracie Abrams – The Secret of Us
While not a stark departure from her signature “whisper-pop” sound, Gracie Abrams’ highly anticipated sophomore album, The Secret of Us, offers promising pop star potential. Featuring her trademark plucky acoustic guitars and confessional lyrics that explore the messiness of breakups, Abrams embraces her sad-girl roots while also venturing into a more energetic, synth-pop side to her sound on tracks like “Close to You” and “Tough Love.”
The singles, “Risk” and “Close to You” are standouts on the album, making it clear why fans have been begging for the release of the latter for so many years. The album’s highly anticipated collaboration with her “music industry mother,” Taylor Swift, titled “us.,” delivers exactly what fans would expect: dreamy, layered vocals, plucky folk guitars, and vulnerable lyrics that delve into the longing that lingers after a relationship ends. As with many of Abrams’ tracks, the bridge steals the spotlight, featuring hard-hitting, anachronistic lines like “the curse or a miracle, hearse, or an oracle / You’re incomparable, fuck, it was chemical.” While Abrams could benefit from venturing outside of her brooding comfort zone, The Secret of Us still remains a sad-girl gem, cementing her place in the Taylor Swift Cinematic Universe. — Lola Dogat
Kali Uchis – ORQUÍDEAS
ORQUÍDEAS, a beacon of sensual, zealous, and emotive frequencies, marks itself as one of the most iconic and transformative albums in music history. With vibrancy and groove, Kali Uchis flawlessly blends numerous genres including reggaeton, bolero, disco, house, pop, R&B, and merengue. As her fourth studio album and second Latin album, Kali Uchis features Peso Pluma, El Alfa, JT, KAROL G, and Rauw Alejandro in a fresh, energizing album. The Grammy-nominated ORQUÍDEAS was released on January 12th, 2024 with fourteen tracks, running 44 minutes and 19 seconds. The deluxe ORQUÍDEAS PARTE 2 was released seven months later on August 9th extending its time with three added tracks and one remix of “Young Rich & In Love” by KAYTRANADA.
The artist, known for her ethereal voice and captivating, alluring melodies immerses us in a dynamic journey of understanding, shielding, and elevating energies. In “¿Cómo Así?,” “Me Pongo Loca,” and “Igual Que Un Ángel (with Peso Pluma),” Kali Uchis articulates the significance of protecting and exuding confidence in one’s self-value. In the following track, “Pensamientos Intrusivos,” the artist absorbs herself into a track committed to unconditional love. In “Diosa,” “Te Mata,” and “Perdiste,” Kali Uchis illuminates how persistence through adversity yields serenity and glee. Then, in “Young Rich & In Love” and “Tu Corazón Es Mío…” the artist’s songs epitomize passionate loyalty. The next tracks “Muñekita (with El Alfa & JT)” and “Labios Mordidos (with KAROL G)” comprise high energy and symbolize self-empowerment. Then, Kali Uchis returns to a promise for devotion in “No Hay Ley Parte 2 (with Rauw Alejandro),” and follows with “Heladito” and “Adicto”: tracks encapsulating feelings of love and emotional affirmation. In “Simple” and “Como Debe Ser,” the artist explores her desires and manifests harmony and gratitude. With the invigorating “Dame Beso // Muévete,” Kali Uchis concludes her exceptional album of artistic brilliance with an encouragement to own and embrace oneself. — Katelyn Villon
Kendrick Lamar – GNX
What’s an end-of-the-year list without mentioning the surprise project of one of the most prolific artists of the 21st century? In the wake of one of rap history’s most iconic feuds (which you can read more about in our comprehensive album review), Kendrick Lamar’s sixth full-length album, GNX, is a groundbreaking testament to Lamar’s artistic brilliance, integrity, and the greater hip-hop scene in far more ways than one. Despite releasing as the year drew to a close in late November, the LP has been widely lauded as one of 2024’s most influential releases across the press and general public alike, as Lamar lays out everything that makes him one of rap’s best with pure passion, power, and precision.
Harkening to Los Angeles’ hip-hop golden age with a star-studded list of features, GNX shows the Compton rapper’s lyrical and musical mastery on full display as he boasts his indisputable presence in and impact on the genre’s mainstream at large. Artists who command such sustained attention are few and far between, and Kendrick Lamar is one in eight billion. As per “man at the garden,” an unabashed declaration of Lamar’s self-assurance, discipline, and legacy, “Dangerously, nothin’ changed with me, still got pain in me / Flip a coin, want the shameless me or the famous me? / How annoying does it angers me to know the lames can speak? / Or the origins of the game I breathe, that’s insane to me / It’s important, I deserve it all because it’s mine / Tell me why you think you deserve the greatest of all time, motherfucker / I deserve it all.” — Isabella Le
Magdalena Bay – Imaginal Disk
With Imaginal Disk, Magdalena Bay put forth a landmark album in the world of pop music showing that there is still much room left for innovation in the scene. The album seamlessly blends aspects of synthpop and dance pop with blemishes of psychedelia, crafting a surreal soundscape that feels as if we were looking into the future of these genres. Each track is layered gorgeously with glamorous synths and funky basslines weaving their way through them.
One of the leading singles to Imaginal Disk, “Image,” features a pulsating and infectious bass line which sits below a funky lead synth creating a track that’s irresistible to dance to. As the track progresses, layers of pianos and effects are slowly added before it erupts with the bass blowing through the mix, combining beautifully with Mica Tenenbaums vocals getting stuck in the ear of anyone who hears them. On the song “Cry for Me,” Magdalena Bay crafts a transcending piece of music as the track evolves from a dark synthpop sound into an obvious ABBA-influenced dance-pop banger with soaring strings and glistening piano chords. On each song, Magdalena Bay develops the sound layer by layer, slowly building the tracks into these explosive and anthemic soundscapes that feel as if they’re from a different time period. Magdalena Bay’s sophomore record, Imaginal Disk, is a major achievement in the young duo’s career giving listeners a peek into the sound of the future. — William Beltramini
The Marías – Submarine
In the wake of two Grammy nominations for their breakout record Cinema, collaborations with Bad Bunny, Eyedress, and Still Woozy, and the uncertainty of dissolution following the breakup of primary songwriters Maria Zardoya and Josh Conway, The Marías return to the mainstream. Submarine is an affirmation of their delicate musical craftsmanship and an altogether tantalizing display of the sonic luxury listeners have come to know and love from the group.
While Cinema, and even their earliest works on Superclean volumes I and II, heavily feature the color red, synonymous with passion and desire, Submarine is defined by an inviting blue hue which sets the stage for lush opulent soundscapes, masking the numbing pain of self-isolation, anxiety, and heartbreak beneath the soft veil of Zardoya’s satin pillow-talk vocals. Being their most overtly dance record yet, it is no surprise that tracks like “Ay No Puedo,” “Real Life,” and “Run Your Mouth” deliver on the promise of jazzy and atmospheric dream-pop anthems. I, however, am much more interested in the quiet solace and vulnerability presented on songs like “If Only” and the album’s clear stand-out track “No One Noticed.” Beginning with a simple drum beat and vocals reminiscent of the band’s earlier work on songs like “Carino” the track slowly builds up to a bridge before ending on the lyrics “hold me, console me, and then I’ll leave without a trace”. Though the production on this record is some of the best I’ve heard this year, this track is overwhelmingly indicative of the life which Zardoya breathes into the group. Within each and every song on the album she weaves vignettes of personal turmoil between cascading guitars and soft waves of electronic ambience transforming blank canvases into riveting tales of jealousy, longing, and love that could have been, ultimately driving home the fact that despite any interpersonal drama, the Marias don’t shy away at the idea of baring it all to the world and that it is in this honesty and relatability that they find their power. — Julian Aguilar
Men I Trust – “Husk”
With their newest release since the groovy indie-disco anthem that was 2023’s “Ring of Past,” the Montreal dream pop trio returns to a simpler sound. Trading in funky slap bass lines and upbeat drum grooves for infectiously spiraling lead guitar lines and velvety blankets of reverb. As is expected of Men I Trust, “Husk” is a distinctly transportative and almost mystical track in which lead singer Emanuelle Proulx’s silken, ghostly vocals take center stage. She beckons the listener closer with abstract lyrics which border on the poetic; “Erosion, shadow be thy husk. Go downwards at your behest,” weaving a tale worth a listen for all those eagerly awaiting what’s next for the band. — Julian Aguilar
Mickey Darling – “BLAH BLAH BLAH” (feat. Nick Wagen)
Released in February, “BLAH BLAH BLAH” would set the scene for Mickey Darling’s stylistic shift for the rest of 2024. Its twinkly keyboard opening couples with the heavily reverbed bass to create a certain dreamy quality that had only been scratched on the surface by songs like “You Were Perfect & I’m Sorry.” Besides the shift in sound, there’s a serious tone of mourning in the lyrics rarely shown by the usually bawdy duo. Compared to other songs of loss (“Em Rata,” “Big Sad,” “MOVE ON TOO”) that smear the loneliness and hurt with a layer of salt, “BLAH BLAH BLAH” conveys a sense of vulnerability that is new to the artist’s vocabulary. While themes of regret, self-loathing, and introspection are not new to the Mickey Darling discography, this single would be a preview to how they would be expanded in a new, softer style on their debut album, Let’s Dance Until We Get Scared. — Elizabeth Owens
Nia Archives – Silence is Loud
Jungle and Britpop are an unlikely pairing, but Leeds-bred DJ-producer Nia Archives makes the worlds-apart genres meld seamlessly on her debut album Silence is Loud. Reviving a largely obscured musical subgenre is one thing, but making it palatable to a new generation and remaining grounded in the human experience is another. Sprawling over a bed of bold breakbeats and drum ‘n’ bass sensibilities, Archives’ UK roots form the backbone of the album, influentially and thematically, as she touches on feelings of estrangement, misery, and despair, her distinctive and frenetic vocals driving the record’s anthemic heartbeat.
One of the most creative and thrilling, yet achingly poignant projects of 2024, Nia Archives conjures a soundscape and allure unlike anything we’ve experienced before on Silence is Loud. Walking the tightrope of noisy and melodic, unapologetically expressive and deeply introspective, Nia Archives artfully balances brash jungle proclivities and heart-rending, intimate lyricism. Silence is uncomfortable, palpable, and profound, but most of all, silence is loud, and there’s nowhere that’s conveyed better than here. — Isabella Le
Okay Kaya – Oh My God – That’s So Me
In a series of serene yet enigmatic songs, Okay Kaya melodically delves into existential thoughts and the understanding of human nature in her latest LP Oh My God – That’s So Me. Her succinct and witty lyricism laced with delicate vocal harmonies creates this distinctive dream-like sound that enhances the self-aware and ruminative nature of each song. Overall, this record is able to add to Okay Kaya’s repertoire of abstract artistry and further spotlight her unique sound and subject matter.
The lead single “The Groke” demonstrates these characteristic features of her work, as its lyrics describe an unidentified wintry lurker on top of a funky flute-led production. In a similar vein, the album’s third single “Check Your Face” returns to this groovy sound with its prominent plucky bassline overlaid with Kaya’s vocals discussing the unjustified use of common sense as vindication for decisions. The slower songs on the tracklist, such as “Help, I’ve Been Put Into Context!” which explores the fear of being wrongfully perceived, showcase this record’s sonic diversity while still maintaining sight of its introspective themes. All in all, Okay Kaya’s demonstrated ability to navigate complex production and songwriting with this album has established a unique sound that made a lasting impact this past year. — Megan Hirao
Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet
After over a decade in the industry, former child star turned pop princess Sabrina Carpenter has delivered her true breakout moment with Short n’ Sweet. This sixth addition to her discography builds on the unexpected viral success of “Nonsense” from her 2022 album emails i can’t send (an album that deserves a revisit if you haven’t already). With Short n’ Sweet, Carpenter channels that same cheeky allure, bringing playful, self-aware pop back into the limelight.
True to its name, Short n’ Sweet clocks in at a brief 36 minutes—not much longer than the famously 5’0 Carpenter herself, but it’s packed with clever lyrics, catchy hooks, and a few cheeky double entendres just for good measure.
The breakout single of the album, “Please Please Please” was a career-defining moment for Sabrina Carpenter. Set to a mellow yacht-rock beat with country-pop influences, the track earned Carpenter her very first number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Through lyrics like “Well, I have a fun idea, babe, maybe just stay inside…” Carpenter warns her partner not to embarrass her, blending her signature wit with honeyed vocal delivery, resulting in a track that feels playful and replayable.
Short n’ Sweet isn’t just an album—it’s a watershed moment that marks Carpenter’s evolution from industry veteran to undeniable pop sensation. With humor, heart, and a little bit of cheek, this album proves that Sabrina Carpenter isn’t just the “blond girl” anymore, she’s the “blond girl” with a number one album. — Lola Dogat
Sarah Kinsley – Escaper
Sarah Kinsley’s debut album, Escaper, takes its listeners on a cinematic journey of fate and acceptance of life. Kinsley is a groundbreaking experimental artist in the indie genre. Known for her hit single “The King,” Kinsley took components of this song, like its orchestral elements and introspective lyrics, and grew into her own style for this album. In this long awaited project, Kinsley explores the process of growing up, falling in and out of love, dreaming, and the uncertainty of life.
Kinsley has such a distinct and imaginative style which translates into beautiful melodies and lyrics. From reminiscing on past loves with “Starling,” trapping yourself in nostalgic memories in “Beautiful Things,” to even yearning about leaving for your dream life in “Knights,” this album is literally an escape. With her trusty contact mic and experience in classical music, Kinsley has created her own sense of ethereal uniqueness to intertwine with her storytelling. — Emma Cam
Tasha – All This and So Much More
Tasha’s third album, All This and So Much More was a much-needed resolution to the three-year gap left in the wake of Tasha’s last project, Tell Me What You Miss The Most. All This and So Much More once again features Tasha’s uniquely breathy yet heartfelt vocals, woven in between plucky and bustling acoustics. Tracks such as “The Beginning” and “Michigan” are beautifully reminiscent of the transition between summer and autumn, and the feelings of wanting to start anew, but missing the simplicities of the old. A Tasha album will not be complete without her softly stinging pensiveness, and “Good Song,” “Party,” and “Eric Song” encapsulate those signature emotions perfectly. However, Tasha’s thoughtful lyricism is wrapped up within “So Much More” and “Love’s Changing,” and leaves you already rewinding for another listen. – Alex Kozak
Twenty One Pilots – Clancy
The long-awaited finale to the DEMA storyline arrived on the clarion call of its first single & opener, “Overcompensate.” Indie rockstars Twenty One Pilots need no introduction, but even if Clancy is the listener’s first album experience, it’s a wonderful place to start. Calling back to the band’s heavy, trap-inspired beats with songs like “Backslide” and “Vignette,” long-time fans will notice revisitations of styles from across the DEMA arc, which started with the critically acclaimed Blurryface (2015). Whether creating texture through crunchy drum-centric beats or the silky combination of synth and falsetto vocals, each track is a unique expansion of the novel indie sound that brought the band to fame.
While previous “lore heavy” albums like Trench (2018) and Scaled & Icy (2021) stole the spotlight with their emotional ballads (e.g. “Neon Gravestones,” “Leave The City,” “Redecorate”), every track on Clancy shines with platinum-potential. It’s impossible not to yell the “NOT YET! / TWO MINUTES!” sections of the bouncy “Midwest Indigo” and get the “Pennyloafer squeak” of “Lavish” out of one’s head. The emotional tracks the albums did have (“Vignette,” “The Craving,” “Snap Back,” “Oldies Station,” “At The Risk Of Feeling Dumb”) all nail their respective topics of addiction, devotion, relapse, surviving depression, and helping others survive depression with lyrics that are nothing short of poetry. Even without its cinematic entrance and exit tracks, this album is a testament to Twenty One Pilots’ continued relevance to the modern indie scene. — Elizabeth Owens
wave to earth – play with earth! 0.03
South Korean indie rock trio wave to earth never fails to deliver some of the most pleasant and healing music listening experiences to mend our ears and hearts, and their sophomore album, play with earth! 0.03, is certainly no exception. Living up to its name, play with earth! 0.03 is notably more playful and blithe than the band’s past projects, fusing its signature soft rock with jazz and psychedelia as vocalist-guitarist Daniel Kim’s warm timbre evokes a nostalgic yearning for joy unburdened by worries, expectations, or regrets. Cascading synths, reverberated guitars, and tongue-in-cheek lyricism reimagine the band’s more lauded sentimental and downtempo tracks (e.g., “seasons,” “love.,” and “homesick”), approaching love and identity in higher spirits and unfettered fun.
Always tender, never pretentious, wave to earth solidifies their artistry through a brief but beautiful LP, a cohesive amalgamation of easy-listening genres that lends to a timeless, lively, and dulcifying body of work. play with earth! 0.03 stands firmly in the intersection of K-Indie and blues, reaffirming wave to earth as one of the most promising global artists to emerge in the unrelenting chaos of the 2020s. — Isabella Le
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