The Best Albums and EPs of 2024

Realm Music

2024 has been a phenomenal year for music lovers, with artists across genres pushing boundaries and delivering projects that resonate deeply. From experimental sounds to introspective lyrics, the year has been a sonic treasure trove. Here’s a roundup of some of the best albums and EPs that have graced our playlists this year.

Albums of the year

Smino – Maybe In Nirvana

Smino’s Maybe In Nirvana is a genre-blurring masterpiece. Known for his inventive flows and lush soundscapes, this album sees Smino exploring themes of self-discovery and transcendence. Tracks like "ms. joyce" and "hoe-nouns" showcase his knack for blending soulful melodies with razor-sharp lyricism. This album cements Smino as a visionary force in modern hip-hop.

FLO – AAA

FLO continues their rise as R&B’s hottest trio with AAA. The EP’s sleek harmonies and nostalgic 90s influences are elevated with fresh production and heartfelt lyrics. Standouts like "In My Bag" and "How Does It Feel?" highlight their vocal chemistry and knack for creating timeless grooves. FLO is solidifying their place as torchbearers of R&B’s resurgence.

Kiana Ledé – Cut Ties

Kiana Ledé’s Cut Ties is a soulful exploration of heartbreak and healing. With tracks like "Too Many Strings" and "U Can’t Remember," Kiana lays her emotions bare, inviting listeners into her world of vulnerability and strength. The album’s delicate balance of acoustic ballads and sultry R&B grooves makes it an unforgettable experience.

Ravyn Lenae – Bird’s Eye

On Bird’s Eye, Ravyn Lenae soars with her celestial voice and dreamy production. This album is a sonic journey through love, freedom, and introspection. Tracks like "Love Me Not" and "Love Is Blind" exemplify her ethereal artistry, making Bird’s Eye a standout release in 2024.

SchoolBoy Q – Blue Lips

SchoolBoy Q’s Blue Lips is a gritty, introspective dive into his life and experiences. Known for his hard-hitting beats and candid storytelling, Q balances aggression with vulnerability in tracks like "Thank God For Me" and "Love Birds." It’s a powerful addition to his discography and a testament to his growth as an artist.

Tyler, The Creator – CHROMAKOPIA

CHROMAKOPIA is Tyler, The Creator at his most experimental and vibrant. This album is an explosion of colors, sounds, and emotions, blending elements of funk, jazz, and electronic. Tracks like "Judge Judy" and "Noid" push creative boundaries, solidifying Tyler’s reputation as one of the most innovative artists of our time.

WILLOW – empathogen

WILLOW’s empathogen is a raw and emotional rock-tinged journey. Tackling themes of mental health and human connection, tracks like "Home" and "false self" showcase her powerful vocals and ability to craft introspective anthems. This album is a bold statement from an artist who continues to evolve.

Kali Uchis – ORQUIDEAS

Kali Uchis blooms on ORQUIDEAS, a lush, multilingual exploration of love and identity. Infused with Latin rhythms and dreamy production, tracks like "Diosa" and "young rich & in love" radiate sensuality and sophistication. This album is a testament to Kali’s ability to craft universal yet deeply personal music.

KAYTRANADA – TIMELESS

KAYTRANADA’s TIMELESS is a danceable feast for the ears. The producer/DJ delivers a cohesive mix of house, funk, and R&B that keeps listeners grooving. Collaborations with stellar vocalists only enhance tracks like "Spit Out Out" and "Still," proving KAYTRANADA’s mastery in blending genres.

Gallant – Zinc.

Gallant’s Zinc. is a poignant, soulful exploration of vulnerability. With his signature falsetto and emotive delivery, tracks like "siberia" and "coldstar." resonate deeply. This album is a reminder of Gallant’s unparalleled ability to touch hearts through music.

Shae Universe – Love’s Letter

Love’s Letter by Shae Universe is a poetic R&B gem. This EP feels like a love note to listeners, with tracks like "passenger princess" and "what's luv?" combining lush instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics. Shae’s artistry shines through in every note.

Sinead Harnett – Boundaries

Sinead Harnett’s Boundaries is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. The album tackles themes of self-worth and resilience, with tracks like "The Most" and "Unfamiliar" offering solace and empowerment. Sinead’s honeyed vocals and poignant lyrics make this a standout project.

Jamilah Berry – Full Circle

On Full Circle, Jamilah Berry crafts an intricate tapestry of sound and emotion. Tracks like "if the love goes" and "beast." reflect her journey of self-discovery, blending neo-soul with jazz and Afrobeat influences. It’s an album that feels both timeless and refreshingly new.

Raveena – Where The Butterflies...

Raveena’s Where The Butterflies... is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of change and renewal. The album’s ethereal soundscapes and poetic lyrics, especially on tracks like "Baby mama" and "Junebug," create an immersive listening experience.

Amber Mark – Loosies

Amber Mark’s Loosies is a vibrant mix of funk, soul, and pop. Tracks like "Won’t Cry" and "Destiny’s Child" are irresistibly groovy, showcasing Amber’s versatility and magnetic energy. This album is a celebration of life and self-expression.

Vince Staples – Dark Times

Vince Staples delivers unflinching honesty on Dark Times. The album delves into societal issues and personal struggles with razor-sharp lyricism and minimalist production. Tracks like "Little Homies" and "Liars" prove Vince’s skill as a storyteller and commentator.

EarthGang/Spillage Village – Perfect Fantasy

Perfect Fantasy is a collaborative triumph. EarthGang and Spillage Village bring their eclectic energy to tracks like "Electric" and "In My Mind," blending hip-hop, soul, and funk in a way that feels organic and visionary.

Ab-Soul – Soul Burger

Ab-Soul’s Soul Burger is a thought-provoking album packed with dense lyricism and introspection. Tracks like "all that" and "paiday" challenge listeners to think deeply, making this one of the year’s most compelling releases.

Amaria – Free Fallin’

Amaria’s Free Fallin’ is a dreamy R&B escape. Her velvety voice glides over atmospheric beats on tracks like "Finer Things" and "Fly" This EP is a testament to her ability to create music that feels both intimate and expansive.

Destin Conrad – SUBMISSIVE2

SUBMISSIVE2 by Destin Conrad is an exploration of vulnerability and desire. With sultry tracks like "Same Mistake" and "War!" Destin’s smooth vocals and emotive storytelling take center stage, making this a standout project.

Bryson Tiller – Bryson Tiller

Bryson Tiller’s self-titled album is a return to his roots, blending trap and soul seamlessly. Tracks like "Attention" and "Ciao!" showcase his signature sound while pushing his artistry forward. It’s a welcome evolution from a beloved artist.

2024 has been an unforgettable year for music, and these albums and EPs exemplify the innovation and heart that artists poured into their work. Whether you’re into introspective R&B, genre-defying hip-hop, or soulful ballads, this year’s offerings have something for everyone.

What are your favorite albums of the year? Let us know in the comments!