The Best of 2024 So Far...
The Patch Where Nothing Grows - Newest Welsh sensations, The Royston Club, have hit that sweet spot of indie greatness again with an exceptionally captivating track with the release of "The Patch Where Nothing Grows." A compelling guitar riff starts the tune, echoing the sound of their standout single "I'm a Liar. We've highlighted this release due to the brilliance of frontman Tom's voice throughout and the sensational songwriting on display. The Royston Club might be the most promising prospects in the indie scene right now. Outstanding vocals blended with impeccable instrumentation—what is there not to like with these young talents?
Favourite - As previously mentioned in a review that can be located on the article section of our website. "'Favourite' by Fontaines D.C. is a track that hits you from the very first note, instantly feeling like a classic. It seamlessly captivates from start to finish. The generational songwriting is prominent from Grian and the group, supported by angelic backing vocals and sheer quality through the emotions displayed with the deep meanings this song intends to convey. This song could be the piece that takes the band to a whole new level, seeing them flourish across the globe, hitting that global audience that every band will dream about. Many songs from Fontaines D.C.'s fourth studio album, "Bug," released this year, could have comfortably made this list. A faultless album by Dublin's Finest, showcasing themselves as one of the hottest bands in 2024.
Gary - The Blossoms are rapidly asserting themselves as one of the true indie/pop icons across the UK music scene, and the release of single "Gary," a blissful single about a stolen fibreglass gorilla, has created an immediate buzz among fans. This song embodies everything that defines classic Blossoms, from the playful humour in the music video to the upbeat pop intro, which only enhances the catchiness of the track. "Gary" is not only the name of a standout track released earlier this year; it's also the title of the band's fifth studio album. While the album showcases hints of eighties jazz blended with the signature Blossoms sound, it's the song 'Gary' that has truly stolen the spotlight and captured listeners' attention. This may be the band's best-produced work since their debut album in 2016.
Nowhere To Run - Arguably one of the most influential and successful bands to come out of America in the last two decades, Nashville's finest Kings of Leon, have nailed it yet again, seeming to go back to their old roots with the release of the band's ninth studio album, "Can we please have fun?" a true American styled album brimming with creativity and immense quality. The single we had to add to the list of the standout songs so far in 2024 is one tune showcasing the band's signature southern rock sound, displaying a pulsating rhythm and superb vocals. Lyrically, "Nowhere to Run" explores themes of confronting one's actions and overcoming and evaluating crucial choices. Overall, this song brings a lyrically thoughtful rock tune accompanied by a lively sound. When the end of 2024 arrives, this track may be the song of 2024.
Showtime - Amongst much anticipation, one of Britain's indie rock favourites, Catfish and the Bottlemen, returned with their first single since 2019: "Showtime". The single perfectly encapsulates the band's recent years, offering many hints of what has occurred in the time away. "Back to the Graft Again" is a perfect opening lyric for a band's first words back in five years; more lyrics such as "Tryna work things out myself" potentially convey a message of what frontman Van Mcann has been going through during his time away from Catfish and the Bottlemen. Despite the ongoing chatter regarding the band's future plans, the situation is currently quite unclear, due to tours being cancelled, but one thing that is undeniable is the sheer quality in Vans tones in this song, especially in the chorus where he really excels. A noteworthy comeback release from Catfish.
July - A change in style was apparent on the release of Wunderhorses second studio album, "Midas." A more grunge feeling was pursued by the band, and this is extremely evident in "July," an exceptional track with booming guitar riffs and thunderous drums. Jacob's remarkable voice in this track is almost reminiscent of the late music icon Kurt Cobain. Raw emotion with intense charisma radiates from Jacob as he performs this powerful track live. His presence is certainly a talking point during the introduction. "July" has seen Wunderhorse hit the next level up in the music game, seeing their monthly listeners sky rocket to over a million listeners. An immense leap forward for an electrifying band.
The Emptiness Machine - After the tragic passing of former Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington in 2017, it was uncertain if the American rock band would ever come back for more shows and fresh music, but "The Emptiness Machine" was released on the 7th of September 2024, marking the return of the revamped Linkin Park, with Emily Armstrong taking the lead vocals in this recent release. Amongst many mixed opinions on whether this was the right idea for Linkin Park to continue their legacy, there's no denying the power of Emily on this track, with the brains behind the group Mike Shinzo beginning the song with a strong start and Emily slotting into the tune nicely before her true talent is showcased with the impeccable chorus infused with strength and passion accompanied with a true heavy rock essence. It's certainly a launch sparking conversations among the media.
In the Modern World - A truly cinematic piece, "In the Modern World," in short, is a phenomenal release that we could not leave out of this list. Everything about this tune oozes quality: the slow start that enhances the cinematic feel, then the catchy chorus creating that rhythm that just flows perfectly, descending you back down to reality, going back to that true Fontaines feeling, of Grians distinct voice, and the astonishing backing vocals from Connor Deegan, which has been a common theme throughout recent Fontaines D.C. material. This song could be their best work.