As we enter the final week of June we are exactly half way through 2024! We thought it would be a good time to recap what our favourite albums of the year have been. We'll leave the ranking of them to December and the end of year final list so here they are right now, at this stage, in no particular order – with our review of each one handily linked.
Randall King – Into the Neon
Throughout ‘Into the Neon' Randall King showcases his rich vocals, thoughtful storytelling, and a seamless blend of modern and traditional country elements. The album encompasses a diverse range of emotions, from upbeat honky-tonk celebrations to heartfelt reflective ballads
Shane Smith & the Saints – Norther
With anthemic guitar licks and powerful imagery, Shane Smith and the Saints deliver a powerful message of resilience and hope. ‘Norther' is not just an album; it's a testament to the power of music to evoke emotion, inspire change, and unite us in our shared humanity.
Luke Combs – Fathers & Sons
‘Fathers & Sons” is a masterful collection that reaffirms Luke Combs’ place as a storyteller capable of capturing the universal and deeply personal aspects of life and family. As a concept it is a daring and intelligent piece of work, well crafted and tied together with a strong and binding narrative.
Walker County – Painted Ponies
‘Painted Ponies' offers a rich tapestry of country sounds woven with empowering messages and poignant storytelling. The sisters bring forth a compelling blend of traditional country elements with modern twists, captivating listeners from start to finish.
Chayce Beckham – Bad For Me
‘Bad For Me' is a compelling testament to Chayce Beckham's songwriting prowess and emotional depth, offering a diverse collection of tracks that resonate with authenticity and sincerity. The album solidifies Beckham's place in the country music landscape
Elvie Shane – Damascus
‘Damascus' is an explosive showcase of Elvie Shane's talent and storytelling prowess, offering a heartfelt exploration of American life and the human experience. With its blend of gritty rock anthems, soulful ballads, and infectious melodies, the album cements Shane's place as a rising star in the country music scene.
Carly Pearce – hummingbird
‘hummingbird' is a testament to Carly Pearce’s ability to blend traditional country instrumentation with modern lyrical twists. Each track offers a unique perspective on love, loss and moving forward: making the album a deeply personal and universally relatable work.
Kameron Marlowe – Keepin' the Lights On
Overall ‘Keepin' The Lights On' shows Marlowe's growth as an artist and writer with its open, vulnerable approach. His vocals are excellent throughout and there's a real sense that he's come into his own on this album, especially when he's branching out into those storytelling aspects or drawing on the details of his own story.
Wade Bowen – Flyin'
There's an intriguing mix of sounds and styles here and a lot of songs about loss and regret that will relate to fans of Texan Country music but Bowen is also, clearly, stretching his wings at the same time, tinkering with heartland rock, mid-west tones and Americana melodies: it's a damn good look and sound on him for sure.
Adeem the Artist – Anniversary
Adeem's ability to seamlessly blend folk, punk, and rock influences results in a dynamic and compelling collection of songs that resonates on both an emotional and intellectual level. ‘Anniversary' is more than just an album—it's a testament to their artistry, compassion, and unwavering commitment to storytelling.
