Music we like: KHOL’s best of 2024

From indie rock to energetic pop, alt-country to jazz fusion, hip-hop to tech house and everything in between, music in 2024 kept our bodies moving, souls fulfilled, and emotions enhanced.  

Though the tastes of the extended KHOL family of DJs, staff and board members are complex and varied, a few albums stood out as favorites among the KHOL crew:  

• Psychedelic jazz-funk grooves from Mildlife on “Chorus”
• Kendrick Lamar’s sample-happy victory lap on “GNX”
• Johnny Blue Skies’ poetic bluegrass on “Pasage du Desir”
• Beyoncé’s complete country takeover on “Cowboy Carter”
• Fresh new wave rock from The Cure on “Songs of a Lost World”
• Creative and cinematic dance production on Jamie xx’s “In Waves”
• Mk.gee’s’ emotive electro-folk on “Two Star & The Dream Police”
• Brilliant and mischievous unapologetic pop on Charli xcx’s “Brat”

Take a spin through the playlist below to listen to 2024’s standout tracks, and read about your favorite DJs’ best-of picks at the individual links below. Here’s to an uplifting and beautiful new year filled with the anticipation of more music discovery on KHOL in 2025.

Spotify Playlist

JUMP TO YOUR FAVORITE DJ’S PICKS

KnewJack | Emily Cohen | Rachel Stevens | Reed Russell | Sophia Boyd-Fliegel | Dante Filpula Ankney | Jenna McMurtry | Zoe Curran | Garth Gillespie | Kevin P | Ethan | Sandanford | Ruby | Cori | Pahl | DJ P | Parker | Eli | Ohnassi | DJ ECHO | Lash | Rachel Cohn | Indie | Evan Ballew | Mark B | Johnny Peanutbutter | Logan Owings | Johnny Boy King | b3plyr | Mike Werner | Cam Rood | Studebacher | Chef Lito | Kevin Doyle | Mike Walker |

 

KnewJack (Jack Catlin), Music Director | Host of “The Heavy Warmup” (Weekdays 7 – 10 a.m.)

Albums Mildlife – Chorus Crazy P – Any Signs Of Love Emperor Machine – Island Boogie Reyna Tropical – Malegria Glass Beams – Mahal Logic1000 – Mother NxWorries – Why Lawd? Fana Hues – MOTH Kurious – Majician Arthur Lyman – Island Vibes

Singles Kendrick Lamar – squabble up Toro y Moi – Tuesday Mindchatter – Brain Pills Ducks LTD. – Train Full of Gasoline Pipe-eye – Lords of Lithium Rosie Lowe – In My Head Brijean – Workin’ On It Justice – One Night/All Night feat. Tame Impala Jamie xx – All You Children feat. The Avalanches Elkka – Right Here

 

Mildlife – Chorus

My favorite album of the year comes from Melbourne, Australia’s Mildlife — a four-piece with no designated leader, only a unified theory of groove. The band has grown into one of Australia’s most critically acclaimed acts, comfortably living in a world that traverses jazz, dance, prog and psychedelic music.Their third album, “Chorus,” features a cornucopia of warm bass lines, radiant guitar riffs, enticing vocals, spiritual rhythms and percussive tapestries.

Influenced by a wide array of sounds—like Polish jazz, Italian disco and pioneering electronic music from bands like Kraftwerk—the album’s longer, stretched out tracks reflect optimism and cosmic consciousness, allowing the group the space to flex their musical muscles. At each of Mildlife’s shows, the band dedicates its encores to extended improvisational jams which led directly to the album’s nucleus: “Musica,” an intoxicating sonic love letter to the mighty grooves of Italo disco. With its adept use of synthesizers and sequencers, the track propels you into a half-man half-machine-filled universe where the only thing you can do is dance your troubles away.

Although “Musica” serves as the album’s peak, the entire record is impressively cohesive and does not wane or wilt with subsequent listens. Every time you press play, “Chorus” continually stands as a testament to the band’s focus on creating seamless, ambitious, uplifting and at all times soulful “Musica.”

Crazy P – Any Signs of Love

Revered and celebrated English dance collective Crazy P have been inspiring dance floors for 25 years, ever since they splashed onto the scene with their 1998 debut “A Nice Hot Bath With…”. The release of 2024’s ninth studio album, “Any Signs of Love,” comes with a heavy heart as it features the final recordings of beloved frontwoman Danielle Moore, who passed away in August 2024.

Moore electrified audiences with her powerful voice and charismatic presence both onstage and in the studio. That emotional and kinetic presence is felt throughout the album’s 10 tracks showcasing Crazy P’s masterful blending of retro influences with modern energy. Lead single “Human After All” is everything you expect and need from the band with its punchy groove, arpeggiating synthesizers and magical Italo disco pixie dust that provide Moore the perfect platform to shine bright—like a diamond from the afterlife.

Emperor Machine – Island Boogie

The soundtrack of my summer comes from a fellow Englishman, Andrew Meecham, best known by his current production alias, The Emperor Machine. Meecham got his start in the music biz back in the early ’90s as a member of chart-topping rave outfit, Bizarre Inc., and later as part of the dub-disco-defining duo, Chicken Lips with fellow former Bizarre Inc. member Dean Meredith.

Meredith and Meecham have remained close and collaborative throughout the years and Meecham’s 2024 album “Island Boogie” was directly inspired by Meredith’s annual Rotation Soundsystem Garden Party. Renowned for its custom-built, audiophile-friendly sound, the party serves as muse for the album, which attempts to capture the magic of the micro-festival in its heady and intoxicating expression of what The Emperor Machine is all about — a delicious melting pot of early ‘80s NYC punk-funk and dub disco, vintage electro, proto-house and left-of-center synth-boogie.

Arthur Lyman – Island Vibes

I first came across this record as I was preparing for a much-needed offseason voyage to the enchanting shores of Hawaii in late May. I was looking for something that musically captured that tangible Hawaiian aura that gently blankets you as you step off the plane into paradise. Arthur Lyman, a Hawaiian jazz vibraphone and marimba player, popularized a style of faux-Polynesian music during the 1950s and 1960s which later became known as exotica.

Most of Lyman’s albums were recorded in the aluminum Kaiser geodesic dome auditorium on the grounds of the Kaiser Hawaiian Village Hotel on Waikiki in Honolulu. The dome provided unique acoustics, including a natural three-second reverberation. All of Lyman’s albums were recorded live after midnight to avoid the sounds of traffic and tourists. The musicians knew their recording session was over when morning arrived and the trash trucks began making noise.

On his last recorded album from 1980, “Island Vibes,” Lyman successfully merged the atmospheric sounds of natural Hawaii with his resounding vibraphone to create a sense of pure weightlessness, transporting listeners to a beautiful and relaxing beachside euphoria.

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Emily Cohen, Executive Director

 

Albums Beyoncé – Cowboy Carter The Cure – Songs of a Lost World Noga Erez – The Vandalist Ibibio Sound Machine – Pull the Rope Hermanos Gutiérrez – Sonido Cósmico Willie Watson – Willie Watson Adrianne Lenker – Bright Future Maria Ka – Der Hemshekh Richard Hawley – In This City They Call You Love The Felice Brothers – Valley of Abandoned Songs

Singles Christine and the Queens – That’s Us/Wild Combination Noga Erez – Dumb Adrianne Lenker – Sadness as a Gift Inland Isle – Born Ahead Willie Watson – Slim and the Devil Richard Hawley – People Eddie Vedder – Save it for Later Pokey LaFarge – So Long Chicago Nation of Language – Weak in Your Love William Jack – Tell Tchaikovsky the News

 

The Felice Brothers – Valley of Abandoned Songs

Ian Felice of The Felice Brothers is arguably one of the best contemporary lyricists, stringing together phrases and concepts with the same lucidity only otherwise found in that state of semi-consciousness between dream and wake. The upstate New York-based band vividly explores themes of death, regret, fear, devotion, and disillusionment in this collection — all songs that didn’t make the cut for their 2019 album “Undress.” This album’s release was supposed to be a low-key Bandcamp B-side, but longtime friend Conor Oberst (of Bright Eyes) ended up launching the label Million Stars specifically to release Valley of Abandoned Songs. A label just to launch an album? It’s worth it. 

Noga Erez – The Vandalist

Israeli singer-songwriter Noga Erez has an impressive mastery of the lyrical verse—fusing hip-hop, jazz and electronic and singing with syncopation that makes my head spin (in a good way). Satirical, catchy, and attitude-packed, Erez is both sensitive to the world and critical of its hypocrisy—something she’s expereinced firsthand by the BDS movement. Pop at first listen, her music has a lot more in its layers and will take a few spins before all the words fully reveal their meaning. 

Beyoncé – Cowboy Carter

Beyonce once again nails it with another masterpiece from the first track to the last note. This genre-bending album masterpiece carries a folk and country throughline, lyrically and melodically balancing comfort  (think “Blackbird” and “Jolene”) and boundary-pushing pop inspired by roots music—Americana, folk, country. It’s a powerful reminder  that Black artists were the genesis of these genres despite what Nashville might otherwise lead you to believe. 

Maria Ka – Der Hemshekh

Polish singer Maria Ka sings in Yiddish—a fusion of German and Hebrew historically spoken by Ashkenazi Jews. Yiddish originated in the 9th century, but fluency is now rare, even as many of its words have made their way into American vernacular. Ka contemporizes this endangered language, taking cues from psychedelic rock, punk and electronica with songs inspired by feminism and anti-establishmentarianism.Influences like Bjork, The Dead Weather and The Kills are clear. And it’s quite alright if you don’t understand a word.

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Rachel Stevens, Deputy Director

Favorite albums:

• Beyoncé – Cowboy Carter
• Toro y Moi – Hole Erth
• Charli XCX – Brat
• Waxahatchee – Tigers Blood
• Kendrick Lamar – GNX
• Nilüfer Yanya – My Method Actor
• Father John Misty – Mahashmashana
• Billie Eilish – Hit Me Hard and SoftPhantogram – Memory of a Day
• Yard Act – Where’s My Utopia?

 

Beyoncé – Cowboy Carter

A country album by the queen herself? Yes, please. Beyoncé getting absolutely snubbed by the CMAs after this incredible country album is a tragedy. As a Texas native, Beyoncé dove deep into her roots to create a pop-country album so moving it brought me to tears. (I literally still cannot listen to “PROTECTOR” without crying.) When I went home to Texas in April, I took many mental-health runs around the neighborhood I grew up in, listening to Cowboy Carter on repeat. This album is a gift—one that helped me reconcile feelings about Texas, my childhood, motherhood, and even my unexpected love for Miley Cyrus (who knew?).

Beyoncé is the artist of our generation, proving again that nothing will hold her back from greatness. The times she’s been snubbed? The losses she’s faced? They only make her stronger. “Cowboy Carter” has the magic to make listeners feel stronger just by pressing play. Thank you, Beyoncé.

Toro y Moi – Hole Erth

I’m obsessed with this album. Chaz Bear (Toro y Moi) is the SoundCloud rapper who’s emo enough to reach right into you and find your inner teenager. Remember that kid? The one who loved music more than almost anything? Hole Erth makes me feel like that kid again—in the best way. It inspires me to make cool things with my friends. It’s poppy, it’s emo, it’s electronic—a perfect blend of everything I love about music. This is Toro y Moi’s eighth album, and to me, it feels like his freshest yet.

Charli XCX – Brat

It’s brat. That’s so brat. Brat summer. I mean… it’s probably the album of the year. I’ve been riding with Charli since the Boom Clap days, and it warms my heart to see “Brat” become such a pop culture phenomenon, packed with bangers.

Waxahatchee – Tigers Blood

“Tigers Blood” has somehow become the most-played album in my household. My husband often put it on during meal prep, and every time it played, Waxahatchee made it feel like a Sunday morning. Katie Crutchfield (Waxahatchee) grew up in the South and has spent the past few years getting sober and working on herself. That history shows up on “Tigers Blood” in a way that feels like home—at least for this Southern girl with a complicated relationship with alcohol.

Kendrick Lamar – GNX

The world has had only a moment with Kendrick Lamar’s newest album, but we can all agree—it’s incredible. This man does not miss. After absolutely owning Drake with “Not Like Us” and inspiring everyone and their sister to jump on that takedown, Kendrick dropped GNX on November 22. I didn’t have high hopes, as I was still content listening to “Not Like Us” on repeat during long runs, but wow. Not only are there no skips on GNX, but it’s also an album that makes me say, “Wait, let me listen to that again” as soon as each track ends.

Nilüfer Yanya – My Method Actor

Talk about beauty! This British songbird witch, Nilüfer Yanya, has created a gorgeous record that demands to be played from start to finish without interruption. I wouldn’t be surprised if doctors start prescribing “My Method Actor” to cure most ailments.

Father John Misty – Mahashmashana

Josh Tillman is the guy I need to stay away from but never can. “Sure, buy me another drink, Josh!” Of course, Josh is Father John Misty. When he releases an eight-track album in late November, it feels like he’s being difficult on purpose. But dammit if I don’t love these songs. I missed seeing him in Bozeman in September (thanks, COVID!), but I’m hoping to catch him live in 2025. Adding the “Mahashmashana” songs to his already stellar catalog should make for a fantastic show.

Billie Eilish – Hit Me Hard and Soft

Okay, I guess I love pop music! Billie Eilish going hard on lullabies and queer themes is exactly what we needed in 2024. It’s no Brat—there are fewer anthems—but this softness was necessary. Thank you, Billie.

Phantogram – Memory of a Day

Yes, Phantogram is back! They said this album “captures a sense of disorienting time travel,” and I feel that 100%. Living in Jackson, Wyoming, and hearing Phantogram’s banger of a new album feels like a time warp—is it 2010 again? “Memory of a Day” combines Phantogram’s brilliance with the growth of time, giving us everything we could hope for in a return.

Yard Act – Where’s My Utopia?

Yard Act is the band you would’ve started if you’d taken those funny college songs seriously. Remember staying up late, singing and laughing after devouring all the Jell-O shots you were supposed to save for the party? That’s “Where’s My Utopia?” and it’s awesome.

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Reed Russell, Development & Outreach Director

Albums Tyler, The Creator – CHROMAKOPIA Crazy Frog – Crazy Frog presents Crazy Hits NxWorries – Why Lawd? Charley Crockett – $10 Cowboy Rubii – Change & Remain The Red Clay Strays – Made By These Moments Crawlers – The Mess We Seem To Make Sad Night Dynamite – Welcome The Night Charley Crockett – Visions of Dallas Marcus King – El Dorado

Singles Tyler, the Creator – Take Your Mask Off Strumbucket – Friends Like You NxWorries – Daydreaming berlioz & Ted Jasper – la danse Bootsy Collins – Album of the Year #1 Funkateer Crawlers – What I Know Is What I Love The Red Clay Strays – Wanna Be Loved Charley Crockett – Killers of the Flower Moon Marcus King – Wildflowers and Wine Manchester Orchestra – The Sunshine

Tyler, the Creator – Chromakopia

Tyler, the Creator is a weirdo, and the opening track on this album is both weird and spooky. His trademark melodies play over a soundtrack of dystopian marching and chanting. The album feels darker and more introspective as Tyler confronts his insecurities through lyrics, often projecting them onto himself in the third person. However dark and strange the music becomes, his signature goofiness still shines through, reminding us he never takes himself too seriously.

Crazy Frog – Crazy Frog Presents Crazy Hits

Yes, Crazy Frog is still out there producing bangers—look it up! Most people don’t realize that “Axel F” is just one of many Crazy Frog tracks. “Crazy Hits” features a whopping 16 songs. I had the questionable pleasure of listening to every single one during a grueling 20-hour drive.

NxWorries – Why Lawd?

This is straight fire—soul gumbo at its finest. Anderson .Paak slows the tempo and brings in some serious star power (Thundercat, Snoop Dogg, Earl Sweatshirt, Rae Khalil, and even Dave Chappelle) for NxWorries’ new album. It’s a perfect blend of laid-back vibes and unforgettable collaborations.

Charley Crockett – $10 Cowboy

Charley Crockett has done it again! He’s producing so much music that it’s hard to keep up, but I don’t mind having more tunes to play while driving across the range. His voice is pure vintage, as are his music videos, album covers, and stage attire. I love his nostalgic sound and the way he calls back to the Great American West.

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Sophia Boyd-Fliegel, Managing Editor

Favorite albums:

• Mk.gee – Two Star & the Dream Police
• Arooj Aftab – Night Reign
• Peach Pit – Magpie
• Clairo – Charm
• Orville Peck – Stampede: Vol. 1
• Waxahatchee – Tigers Blood
• Kendrick Lamar – GNX
• SOPHIE – SOPHIE
• Remi Wolf – Big Ideas
• James Blake, Lil Yachty – Bad Cameo

 

Mk.gee – Two Star & the Dream Police

I first heard this record in the backseat of a Prius driven by a coincidental new friend on a Los Angeles freeway. And that’s what Mk.gee’s tunes feel like: The ‘80s are back and they’re driving fuel-efficiently into your soul. This is electro-folk: totally understandable, yet weirdly unpredictable. 

Orville Peck – Stampede: Vol. 1

Another ’80s throwback to kick off this album. Was I alive? No. But I feel as if I were, with the album’s kickoff queer antham made famous by Willie Nelson in 2006. Through the rest, Peck is keeping country on its toes. There’s no replacement for simple, talented instrumentation. And if my list says nothing else, it’s that I’m a sucker for a cameo.

SOPHIE – SOPHIE

Not quite four years ago pop producer SOPHIE died after a fall from a roof while she was trying to see the moon. That was about ten years after I–a 13-year-old with the same name—was first entranced by her driving, cracking sound. This posthumous album was produced by SOPHIE’s brother, a studio engineer. Nothing moves me like a brother-sister team united in art. Shout out to my little. And this one is layered with nostalgia for a monumental artist.

Kendrick Lamar – GNX

“Crazy, scary, spooky, hilarious.” The tag on the seventh track sums up 2024 nicely.

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Dante Filpula Ankney, Senior Reporter

Favorite albums:

• Johnny Blue Skies – Pasage du Desir

Favorite songs:

• Charley Crockett – Hard Luck & Circumstances
• Charley Crockett – Spade
• Noeline Hofman – August
• Clayton Nile Young – Perfect Rope
• The Red Clay Strays – Ramblin’
• Johnny Blue Skies – Scooter Blues
• Johnny Blue Skies – Mint Tea
• Sierra Ferrell – Dollar Bill Bar
• Will Carlisle – Higher Lonesome
• Kade Hoffman – Wanderlust

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Jenna McMurtry, Reporter

Albums Maggie Rogers – Don’t Forget Me Suzanne Vega – Songs In Red And Gray Abby Webster – Livin’ By The Water Faye Webster – I Know I’m Funny haha Magdalena Bay – Imaginal Disk Cat Stevens – Tea For The Tillerman Clairo – Charm Jockstrap – I Love You Jennifer B Caroline Polachek – Desire, I Want To Turn Into You Sierra Ferrell – Trail Of Flowers

Singles Alice Phoebe Lou – Glow Samia – Honey The Tumbling Wheels – Take Her Dancing Big Yellow Taxi – Joni Mitchell Darryl Rahn – Heaven’s a Dive Bar Blaze Foley – Big Cheeseburgers & Good French Fries Kacey Musgraves – gracias a la vida Mt. Joy – Bathroom Light Mikayla McVey – June Beyonce, Miley Cyrus – Most Wanted II

 

Maggie Rogers — Don’t Forget Me

When Maggie Rogers told NPR she wrote her latest album for a twenty-something roadtripping the Southwest, I like to think she was talking about me. All jokes aside, this album has a song for every emotion, from uplifting jams for long car rides with loved ones to some slower sentimental pieces — there’s a song for every occasion. I highly recommend seeing her live in concert if the opportunity ever comes up.

Suzanne Vega — Songs in Red and Gray

Sometimes your car bluetooth breaks, and you’re thrust back into the world of CDs. Sometimes the first CD you pick up at the thrift store is Suzanne Vega’s, reminding you that “Tom’s Diner (DNA Remix)” will forever top your list of favorite songs. Thanks to random thrift finds for throwing me back a few decades and becoming a familiar friend on long drives this summer.

Abby Webster — Livin’ By The Water

Long story short: if a spontaneous trip to Bozeman winds up in the cards for you, take it and run with it. You might find your new favorite musician (and her imaginary band!) during a night out at the Filling Station. And, she might just have Jackson roots. Nothing like “River Rats” to sum up a summer in the mountains…

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Zoe Curran, Digital Producer

Albums Tiger & Woods – On the Green Again Ntombi Ndaba – Tomorrow Fatima Yamaha – Imaginary Lines Shinichiro Yokota – Do It Again And Again David Jackson – We Never Talk Elkka – Prism of Pleasure S. Product – Suicide Beat Little Simz – Drop 7 SONNIKU – Joyful Death Peach – Galaxy Girl

Singles Peach – Faxing Jupiter Ntombi Ndaba – Tomorrow Breaka – Living Nona Hendryx – Transformation Tiger & Woods – RadioTiger Feater – Blood Moon Gina X Performance – Nice Mover Daphni & Cos-Ber-Zam – Ne Noya Joy Orbison – Flight FM Chris Stussy – Seeing & Believing (Kolter Remix)

 

Tiger & Woods – Through the Green

An album for a wild summer dance party or a magical bike cruise.

A modern Italo disco treat and a masterclass in groove. As a fan of previous Tiger & Woods albums, “Through the Green,” this 2016 release surprised me, grew on me, and became a favorite over the summer. RadioTiger’s synth arpeggios are pure transcendence. “Come and Get My Lovin”’s vocal chops are mouthwatering. “Phoenix”’s final breakbeat breakdown is a most delicious surprise. This album leaves me feeling perfectly full and wonderfully unencumbered. It’s all just so fun. Fav track: “RadioTiger”

Ntombi Ndaba – Tomorrow

An album for not knowing, and wondering if it will all be okay.

This album, and the title track itself, “Tomorrow,” sat on my digital listening shelf for many weeks before its time to shine. From the first listen, South African singer Ntombi Ndaba’s deep, passionate voice captured my heart, full stop. Released on the label Afro Synth, this album features previously unreleased Ndaba tracks from 1988-1991. Initially captured by the absolute groove of these catchy bubblegum tunes (I damn near crashed my car I was jamming so hard), “Tomorrow’s” depth lies in its gorgeous lyrical explorations of heartbreak, transition, and the inevitability of change. This album has become my anthem for the future, giving me strength and hope in the face of the unknown. Fav track: “Tomorrow” 

Fatima Yamaha – Imaginary Lines

An album for getting lost, and found.

Range—that’s the word that best describes Fatima Yamaha’s albums. “Imaginary Lines” is no exception, featuring ambient, melodic openers (“Imaginary Lines”) and pure funk (“Love Invaders”). The largely instrumental album is gooey and easy to sink into, making it possible to get lost in it without realizing you’ve reached the end of a 45-minute audio journey. Yamaha has tracks on every album that make us feel special (think about the classic “What’s A Girl to Do”—or better yet, watch a live audience reaction), and “Imaginary Lines’” last track, “Only of the Universe.” I would listen to this track while gardening—working in a universe of small things while being reminded of a universe of very big things. I often listen to this album on long walks on cold days to feel warm. Fav track: “Only of the Universe”

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Garth Gillespie, Board Member

Favorite albums:

• The Cure – Songs of the Lost World
• Fontaines D.C. – Romance
• Waxahatchee – Tigers Blood
• Alcest – Les Chants de l’Aurore
• Been Stellar – Scream from New York, NY
• Blood Incantation – Absolute Elsewhere
• IDLES – TANGK
• Washed Out – Notes from a Quiet Life
• Wunderhorse – Midas
• Deerlady – Greatest Hits
• Gurriers – Come and See
• Marika Hackman – Big Sigh
• Lime Garden – One More Thing
• Mount Kimbie – The Sunset Violent
• DIIV – Frog in Boiling Water
• MJ Lenderman – Manning Fireworks
• Maxband – On Ice
• Ty Segall – Three Bells
• Sunflower Bean – Shake EP
• Elbow – Audio Vertical

 

The Cure – Songs of the Lost World

Absolutely stunning new album from The Cure. “Endsong” is an immediate classic. The more I listen to this album the more I am amazed by Robert Smith, who has been doing this since 1976. “A Fragile Thing”> “Warsong”> “Drone:Nodrone” is an amazing string of tunes.

Fontaines D.C. – Romance

English guitar rock at its finest. Thrilling release with Fontaines slowing it down for a few songs with others made for anthem rock. “In the Modern World,” “Death Kink” and “Sundowner” are a few standout tunes on the album. They put on a great live show, too.

Waxahatchee – Tigers Blood

I’m not a country fan in the least but this twangy rock album was an amazing listen. Song of the year: “Right Back to It”! It’s a collaboration between Waxahatchee and MJ Lenderman and immediately made me think of my friend, Rad, who passed away a few years ago. Rad loved classic rock and country so the happy melody of this song just brought images of Rad into my life again. The last song and title track of this album is a 10!

Alcest – Les Chants de l’Aurore

French Melodic Black Metal. I went back to this album multiple times this year. Album highlights include “Amethyste” and “L’Enfant de la Lune.”

Been Stellar – Scream from New York, NY

Young punks based in New York debut with one of the finest American rock band releases of the year. The opening song, “Start Again,” sets the tone for the whole album. I’d like to be in “the pit” at one of their live performances.

Blood Incantation – Absolute Elsewhere

Headliners for Fire In The Mountains Fest 2025! This album is incredible, when you can go from speed metal and drumming to spaced-out Pink Floyd-type jams. It’s the only album like it in 2024! If you want to give this album a chance start with the first song, “Stargate Tablet #1,” and make it through the first few minutes. I cannot wait for Montana this summer, and having Blood Incantation as part of the lineup gets me ready.

IDLES – TANGK

I’m a sucker for punk / post punk music and IDLES are the leaders in that category in my opinion. This album was tight and showed some new lyrical deliveries for IDLES.

Washed Out – Notes From A Quiet Life

This was my go-to chill album for the summer. I found myself weaving through the crowds in town during the tourist season listening to Washed Out. “A Sign,” “Second Sight,” “Running Away” in the middle of the album captured the old vibes from the early days of chillwave.

Wunderhorse – Midas

An overlooked band and album that was brought to my attention by Matt Wilkinson of Apple Music. Really strong rock songs on this album. I loved the outro of the album, “Aeroplane.”

Deerlady – Greatest Hits

Folk-rock-shoegaze. It’s a great mellow album with some fantastic guitar work.

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Kevin P (Kevin Pusey) | Host of “Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out” (Sundays 4-7 p.m.)

Favorite albums:

• Pearl Jam – Dark Matter
• The Smile – Wall of Eyes
• Everything Everything – Mountainhead
• The Black Crowes – Happiness Bastards
• Green Day – Saviors
• Neil Young – Early Daze
• Widespread Panic – Snake Oil King
• Widespread Panic – Warfield 2000 #4 (Live)
• Widespread Panic – Hailbound Queen
• The Band Feel – The Band Feel

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Ethan Oxman I Co-Host of “OX Radio” (Mondays 5-7 p.m.)

Albums SoleSides – Greatest Bumps Nat King Cole – Re:Generations Golden Features – Sisyphus ODESZA x Yellow House – Flaws in Our Design bad tuner – look at me but through me Stephen Marley – Old Soul Ol’ Dirty Bastard – Return to The 36 Chambers: The Dirty Version Nirvana – MTV Unplugged In New York The Coral – Sea of Mirrors Delta Spirit – Ode To Sunshine

Singles Green Day – Warning ODESZA x Yellow House – Flaws In Our Design The Airborne Toxic Event – Sometime Around Midnight Goth Babe – Alone In The Mountains Jon Batiste – I Went To Juilliard Nat King Cole, Stephen Marley, Damian Marley – Calypso Blues J. Roddy Walston & the Business – Same Days Pokey LaFarge – Something In The Water Red Fang – Prehistoric Dog Arise Roots – Nice and Slow

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SanDanford (Daniel Sanford) | Co-Host of “OX Radio” (Mondays 5-7 p.m.)

Albums NxWorries – Why Lawd? Machinedrum – 3FOR82 Tyler, the Creator – Chromakopia Doechii – Alligator Bites Never Heal Tanks and The Bangas – The Mind Juls – Peace and Love Kalisway – A Kid From Toronto 1999 Write the Future – hella TEMS – Born in the Wild Baby Rose & BADBADNOTGOOD – Slow Burn

Singles NxWorries – Move On Leon Thomas – MUTT Kalisway – Superstar Doechii – Beverly Hills Kaytranada – Witchy (feat. Childish Gambino) Juls – Perspective (feat Masego) Common & Pete Rock – Dreamin’ playboi carti and The Weeknd – Timeless Leon Bridges – Peaceful Place yuné pinku – Bluff

 

NxWorries – Why Lawd?

Simply put, this album is an example of when two incredibly creative minds meld together. It’s an organic and easy way to create one of the best R&B / hip-hop albums of all time. Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge are a force to be reckoned with. I mean yooo, peep the album art. It’s two goats on a hill. Say less, fam!

To me, this album was so easy to listen to, back to front, which is rare for me and my concerningly short attention span. The album had a rare, darker melancholy tone in crooning, belting R&B soulful tracks. It felt fitting and tasteful. Top shelf. 

Machinedrum – 3FOR82

Get out your best headphones or big sound system, folks. This album is certified smack, slap and rizz. Incredible electronic production meets alt-pop and hip-hop. I think it got lost in the crazy amount of other electronic music always coming out. I found myself coming back to this record time and time again, my face frozen in a stank-like shape for a long time while listening to it. Highly creative and inspired me to get after it on my own productions. Also, it’s crazy how many amazing features and artists are on this thing.

Tyler, The Creator – Chromakopia

I didn’t like it at first, but I gave it a full listen again and just melted into it. I really love this record. There is no denying Tyler Okonma is a prolific artist of my generation. And I think we have to recognize as a society it is so hard to remain as authentic to himself as he has amidst so much fame and the rap game trying to put him in a box. Tyler always shows us what’s possible and I notice lots of things usually follow suit. Lyrically, this album reflected a collective feeling of anxiety that was a major risk for him, but I think was so honest in nature.

Doechii – Alligator Bites Never Heal

Doechii!! She has blown me away — talent, lyrically, musically. All of it. This might have been my top album of the year. This album is so dynamic and has a feel that reminds me of my favorite old hip-hop records. Just flows so well, and honestly, you’ve got to listen to how her lyrics flow into the music. It’s as in-the-pocket rhythmically as you can get.

Tanks and The Bangas – The Mind

This EP is of major note for me because I listened to it over and over again. I’m getting into Tanks and the Bangas more and more. Then they collaborated with Aja Monet on this one. Ya, wayyyy! Such a good energy on this.

Juls – Peace and Love

Such an incredible Afrobeats record. I loved the dynamic rhythms in this.

Kalisway – A Kid From Toronto

Kalisway is an artist who came out of nowhere this year for me. I was mind-blown. This album gives an OG feel but it’s so unique in her style. I keep listening to it tons!!

1999 Write the Future – Hella

“Yo! What is this?!?” That is exactly what I said when I opened this. It caused me to go down a major rabbit hole on this collective. I highly encourage you to check it out. So many dope collaborations on this record. This is top-tier for me no doubt.

TEMS – Born In The Wild

Ahhhh!! TEMS is an incredible artist, this album was such a breath of fresh air and a true masterpiece.

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Ruby Jenco | Host of “Hidden Gems” (Mondays 7-9 p.m.)

Albums Vampire Weekend – Only God Was Above Us Charli xcx – BRAT Remi Wolf – Big Ideas Shannon & The Clams – The Moon Is In The Wrong Place Shiloh – Wind Down Hours Beyoncé – COWBOY CARTER Wallows – Model Sarah Kinsley – Escaper King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – Flight b741 Justice – Hyperdrama

Singles Sarah Kinsley – Sublime Shiloh – For The Last Time Charli xcx – Talk Talk featuring Troye Sivan Remi Wolf – Soup Empire Of The Sun – Music On The Radio Mk.gee – I Want Wallows – Calling After Me Conceited – Lola Young Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe! Vulfmon, Zachary Barker – Disco Snails

 

Vampire Weekend – Only God Was Above Us

Out of all the albums released in 2024, “Only God Was Above Us” hits at the top of my list. As an avid Vampire Weekend fan who grew up listening to A-Punk and Holiday, this might be my new favorite album from the group. The album seems to pay homage to early Vampire Weekend, yet with new twists and stellar orchestration. For example, the piano is absolutely RIDICULOUS throughout the album. “Only God Was Above Us” feels like a hangout session with a best friend you haven’t seen in years. You jump back in where you left off and everything is so effortless, but still new and exciting! If you have not given this album a chance, do your favorite Monday night DJ a favor and LISTEN.

Highlights: “Connect,” “Pravda,” “Gen-X Cops,” “Classical”

Charli xcx – BRAT

New York’s hottest club is ‘BRAT.” It’s like if your childhood diary was a rave, and it had a TikTok account. Pop sensation Charli xcx has gone all out. Inside this album you can find everything: car keys, Julia Fox, introspective thoughts about motherhood, teeny tiny leather mini skirts, generational trauma, and electric speed. You know, it’s that thing where you’re not sure if Charli xcx is referencing drugs or music, but you can’t help but dance along.

It’s chaotic. It’s self-aware. It’s too much… but in the best way

Highlights: “Talk talk,” “Everything is romantic,” “360,” “Sympathy is a knife”

Shiloh – Wind Down Hours

Needed to highlight this STELLAR album from small Missouri band, Shiloh. This is their debut album and it has such a nostalgic feel. I love love love it. I have a feeling “For the Last Time” will be my number one song of the year.

Highlights: “For the Last Time,” “Endurance Sports,” “Pink Saratoga,” and “Sweet, Soft, Low”

Sarah Kinsley – Escaper

Hear me now. I will play “Sublime” on KHOL till the day I die. If you check out any song from this album, let it be “Sublime”.

Highlights: “Sublime,” “Knights,” “Matter,” “My Name is Dancing”

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Cori Patrick I Co-Host of “Pickled Beats” (Mondays 9-11 p.m.)

Albums Merl Saunders & Jerry Garcia – Keystone Comparisons: The Complete 1973 Fantasy Recordings Talking Heads – Speaking in Tongues (Deluxe Version) Billy Strings – Highway Prayers Dope Lemon – Kimosabé

Singles John Prine – Speed of the Sound of Loneliness Fleetwood Mac – Sunny Side of Heaven Tim Hill – Payador Billy Strings – Gild The Lily Jungle – Back on 74 Tame Impala – Disciples J.J. Cale – Cajun Moon Neil Young, Crazy Horse – Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere Van Morrison – Cleaning Windows Grimes – Oblivion

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Pahl (Alex Blackwelder) | Co-host of “The Fondue” (Tuesdays 5-7 p.m.)

Albums Mildlife – Chorus Mikaela Davis & Circles Around The Sun – After Sunrise Phish – Evolve Vulfmon – Dot Ghost Note – Mustard n’Onions Grandmaster – Grandmaster Theo Katzman – Modern Johnny Sings: Songs in the Age of Vibe Harry Nilsson – The Point Strumbucket – Friends Like You Strumbucket – Chest Vessel Beats

Singles Billy Strings – Gild The Lily Harry Nilsson – Think About Your Troubles Circles Around the Sun & Mikaela Davis – Gloaming Way Mikaela Davis – Home in the Country Flavien Berger – La fete noir Jungle – Let’s Go Back Phish – Hey Stranger Grandmaster – Pillars of Power Strumbucket – Mountains High Strumbucket – Lavender’s Laundry

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DJ P (Peter Henderson) | Co-host of “The Fondue” (Tuesdays 5-7 p.m.)

Albums Billy Strings – Highway Prayers Ginger Root – SHINBANGUMI Hermanos Gutiérrez – Sonida Cosmico Johnny Blue Skies – Passage Du Desir King GIzzard & the Lizard Wizard – Flight b741 Phish – Evolve Taylor Swift – The Tortured Poets Department Jocelyn Gould – Portrait of Right Now

Singles Billy Strings – Richard Petty King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard – Mirage City Hermanos Gutierrez – El Fantasma Ginger Root – No Problems Johnny Blue Skies – Scooter Blues

 

Billy Strings – Highway Prayers

Billy Strings does it again! This album has something for everyone, from the classic bluegrass tunes like “Leaning on a Travelin’ Song” and “In The Clear” to the psychedelic, introspective “Stratosphere Blues/I Believe In You.” Billy and his band continue to push the needle forward for what a bluegrass band can achieve.

Ginger Root – SHINBANGUMI

This band is awesome! First stumbled into their music at Kilby Block Party in the Spring of 2024 and was excited to see new music come out the following fall. Tight beats, funky keys melodies, and catchy lyrics ooze and slide from this indie soul music project out of Huntington Beach, California. 

Hermanos Gutiérrez – Sonido Cósmico

This album showcases the dynamic duos’ prowess to form intricate instrumental jams. We love using their music for our background tunes during the show. The track “Low Sun” will transport you to a desert oasis where the mirage plays tricks on your soul.

Johnny Blue Skies – Passage Du Desir

Sturgill Simpson reborn as Johnny Blue Skies. And what a rebirth it is! Any music that we get from this artist is just icing at this point. “Scooter Blues” is a catchy tune and I love the lyrics to “Mint Tea.” This album is a great work of art by the mastermind himself.

Phish – Evolve

The sixteenth studio album by the iconic jam band from Vermont. This album has some tracks from band leader Trey Anastasio’s solo album, and most of these songs have been in the live rotation for the past few years. The band eminantes great sound, showcasing why they have been together for over 40 years.

Taylor Swift – The Tortured Poets Department

Not my favorite T Swift album, but Taylor never ceases to produce amazing pop music. I do like some of the tracks on this record and I became a true “Swiftie” fan after listening to the “Anthology” version, on which track 28 is named after a certain KHOL DJ.

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Parker Steveson | Host of “The Goods” (Tuesdays 9-11 p.m.)

 

Favorite albums:

• Pokey Lafarge – Rhumba Country
• Grateful Dead – Hundred Year Hall
• Public Enemy – Muse Sick-N-Hour Mess Age
• Merle Haggard – Best Of The Best Of
• Thelonious Monk – Underground
• The Dave Brubeck Quartet – Take Five
• The Beatles – Help!
• Creedence Clearwater Revival – Pendulum
• Outkast – Aquemini
• Dune: Part Two (OST)

 

Pokey Lafarge – Rhumba Country

Fun, funky old school lounge jazz album. Perfect for a drive through the park on a nice summer day.

Grateful Dead – Hundred Year Hall

The Dead at the height of their powers. Rockin’ live show from the early ‘70s Europe tour, featuring some of the best versions of their more common live show setlists.

Public Enemy – Muse Sick-N-Hour Mess Age

An underrated P.E. album filled with funk, fire, and messages that remain relevant 30 years after its release.

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Eli Bernstein | Host of “Left Of The Dial” (Wednesdays 5-7 p.m.)

Albums Dame Area – Toda La Verdad Sobre Dame Area Los Campesinos! – All Hell Friko – Where We’ve Been, Where We Go from Here Reyna Tropical – Malegría Floating Points – Cascade Foxing – Foxing Ducks Ltd. – Harm’s Way Vampire Weekend – Only God Was Above Us Wild Pink – Dulling The Horns F***ed Up – Someday

Singles Foxing – Hell 99 Waxahatchee – Right Back To It Boeckner – Lose The Bug Club – Quality Pints Badvril – I Am God Panda Bear, Sonic Boom, Mariachi 2000 de Cutberto Pérez – Peligro (Danger) MJ Lenderman – Wristwatch Yung Lean, Bladee – Sold Out Porridge Radio – Sick of the Blues Dehd – Mood Ring

 

Dame Area – Toda La Verdad Sobre Dame Area

Usually, I have to think hard about what album was truly my favorite over the preceding 12 months. Not this year. This record from Dame Area—a duo from Barcelona—packs the surprise and ferocity of getting punched with brass knuckles. Synth-driven industrial sounds clang and clamber, and Silvia Konstance barks her Spanish and Italian vocals with a feralness that might turn you a little wild yourself. If you listen to one off-the-radar album this year, make it this one.

Los Campesinos! – All Hell

Everybody loves a comeback story, and Wales’ top (only?) practitioners of epic emo return to their heart-wrenchingly verbose best on this one. Los Camp pairs enormous hooks with lyrics so specific they’ll make you squirm (or dance, or a combo of both). Here’s to hoping this kicks off a triumphant second act to what’s been a hell of a career so far.

Friko – Where We’ve Been, Where We Go from Here

Chicago has proved incredibly fertile for young indie bands lately, and Friko is my favorite of the bunch. Their debut has an earnestness that might be unfashionable if it wasn’t so pure, and the emotion is tempered by spiky guitars and well-earned shout-alongs throughout. I can’t wait to catch this band live, and to see what they do next.

Reyna Tropical – Malegría

What a gorgeous, lived-in record. I was only going to write about three albums, but I need to note that “Puerto Rico” is the best song that anybody showed me this year. Shoutout to our fearless leader, KnewJack, for that one.

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Ohnassi (Ford Hebard) | Co-Host of “Something Else Radio” (Wednesdays 9-11 p.m.)

Albums Nia Archives – Silence is Loud Jamie xx – In Waves Machinedrum – 3for82 OAKK – I Made This For You Mia Koden – 34U

Singles Joy Orbison – Flight FM Nia Archives – Forbidden Feeling Aloka – Ring the Alarm Lorkestra – I Like Him Bambii – Wicked Gyal (Vandalized Edit)

 

Nia Archives – Silence is Loud

A beautiful, emotional take on jungle. I have never described anything as pop-jungle but that is exactly what this album is and I mean that in the best way. Singing vocals over the top of her own impeccable productions, this album was a stand out for me!

Jamie xx – In Waves

Insane production, the album blends perfectly from start to finish. Numerous cameos from past projects, creative sampling and cinematic soundscapes. Perfect for dancing or daily listening.

Machinedrum – 3FOR82

From the man who can do it all. In-your-face production style that still comes off as chill. Collaborations with some of the best rappers in the game and a remix album that is off the charts for the club.

OAKK – I Made This For You

Emotive, light and bright. Melodic synths and bright keys in the production from OAKK, who is known more for his club music. This EP has a little bit of something for everyone. Lovely tunes that make you feel like you’re in a dream.

Mia Koden – 34U

Mia Koden further explores the diversity of sound of the 140 tempo. “Wait a Minute” saw heavy rotation this summer from heavyweight DJ’s across the musical spectrum. Refreshing take on dubstep.

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DJ ECHO (Brandon Whitesell) | Host of “Dimensional Sound Groove” (Thursday 5-6:30 p.m.)

Albums Tommy Guerrero – Amber of Memory Richie Hawtin – Dimension Intrusion Hudson Mohawke/ Tiga – L’ecstacy Anthony Naples – Chameleon Floating Points – Cascade Daniel Avery – Ultra Truth Sofia Kourtesis – Madres Jon Hopkins – Music for Psychedelic Therapy Jamie xx – In Waves

Live DJ Sets Jamie xx Honey Dijon

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Lash (Delya Shock) | Host of “Easy Street” (Thursdays 6:30-8:00 p.m.)

Albums LP Giobbi – Dotr Leon Bridges – Leon Ben Böhmer – Bloom Bonny Light Horseman – Keep Me on Your Mind/See You Free Brittany Howard – What Now Vampire Weekend – Only God Was Above Us Cigarettes After Sex – X’s Joan As Police Woman – Lemons, Limes and Orchids Buddy Guy – Live In Montreux Peter Tosh – Wanted Dread and Alive Johnny Blue Skies – Passage Du Desir

Singles Angel Olsen – Safety Dance Bon Iver – S P E Y S I D E ROZET – Rigamarole Brooklyn Funk Essentials – Blow Your Brains Out 2024 Strand of Oaks – Party at Monster Lake Sharon Van Etten – Afterlife Iron & Wine – All in Good Time Foster The People – Lost in Space Freak Slug – Sexy Lemon Lucius – Old Tape

 

LP Giobbi – Dotr

Talk about co-music-e-e. They say it takes a community to raise about anything these days. This album fully encompasses what it takes to make an album — with the likes of Danielle Ponder, Alabama Shakes and Portugal. The Man. Listen on and be free, your ears will thank you.

Leon Bridges – Leon

Hanging out with someone new? Having a slow, easy night? Nobody can resist the sultry voice of Leon Bridges, nobody.

Ben Böhmer – Bloom

When you’re finally on a spaceship, peacefully thru orbit, gravity-free, seatbelt unclipped for the first time in space, the engines are off and you’re looking down at earth. I would say this album makes you feel gravity-free in 2023…but it’s 2024 so open the spaceship door!

Peter Tosh – Wanted Dread and Alive

Why not? I’ve always got Reggaemylitis.

Johnny Blue Skies – Passage Du Desir

Sturgill Simpson’s voice never gets old!

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Rachel Cohn | Host of “Absent Auxer” (Thursdays 9:30-11 p.m.)

Albums Cults – To The Ghosts Cloth – Cloth Clairo – Charm Roy Rogers – Representing Roy Rogers Waxahatchee – Tigers Blood Palehound – Eye On The Bat St. Vincent – All Born Screaming Magdalena Bay – mini mix vol. 3 Brittany Howard – What Now Ty Segall – Three Bells

Singles Cults – Crybaby Cloth – Felt Clairo – Second Nature Roy Rogers – Don’t Fence Me In Waxahatchee – Ice Cold Palehound – Eye on the Bat St. Vincent – Broken Man Magdalena Bay – Top Dog Brittany Howard – Earth Sign Ty Segall – Hi Dee Dee

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Indie (India Smith) | Host of “Highway 89.1” (Thursdays 11 p.m. – 1 a.m.)

Albums HUM – You’d Prefer An Astronaut Pixies – Surfer Rosa Arches of Loaf – Icky Mettle Marcy Playground – Marcy Playground PJ Harvey – Rid of Me Patti Smith – Horses Descendents – I Don’t Want to Grow Up Deftones – Saturday Night Wrist MGMT – Little Dark Age Mazzy Star – She Hangs Brightly

Singles Elevator to Hell – Why I Didn’t Like August 93 Deftones – Cherry Waves Veruca Salt – Forsythia Amyl and the Sniffers – Security Sleater-Kinney – I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone Melvins – A History of Bad Men Sh*tKid – Highway Jawbreaker – Jet Black Tyler Childers – Messed Up Kid Loretta Lynn – You’re the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly

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Evan Ballew | Host of “Intermountain Best” (Fridays 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.)

Albums MJ Lenderman – Manning Fireworks Geordie Greep – The New Sound Mk.gee – Two Star & The Dream Police SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE – YOU’LL HAVE TO LOSE SOMETHING Waxahatchee – Tigers Blood Crumb – AMANA Brittany Howard – What Now Adrianne Lenker – Bright Future Kamasi Washington – Fearless Movement Billy Strings – Highway Prayers

Singles MJ Lenderman – Wristwatch Geordie Greep – Holy, Holy Mk.gee – ROCKMAN SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE – 1/500 Waxahatchee – Right Back to It (feat. MJ Lenderman) Crumb – Genie Adrianne Lenker – Fool Kamasi Washington (feat. Andre 3000) – Dream State Brittany Howard – What Now Billy Strings – Catch & Release

 

MJ Lenderman – Manning Fireworks

Hailing from my home state of North Carolina, MJ Lenderman’s music reaches a new pinnacle on his fourth album, Manning Fireworks. Seamlessly mixing country, slowcore, and indie rock, this album has been a staple in my rotation since its release back in September. Listeners can expect to hear poetic lyrics interlaced with luscious guitar tones over this highly listenable, 38-minute record.

Geordie Greep – The New Sound

Following the breakup of short-lived British prog-rock group, Black Midi, frontman Geordie Greep wasted no time releasing more music, evolving a familiar sound into something that is unironically “new.” Deploying an array of session musicians from London and Sao Paulo, Greep masterfully conjured an energy and sense of urgency typically reserved for live performances inside the recording studio. Experimental to its core, “The New Sound” takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride from the first notes.

Mk.gee – Two Star & The Dream Police

The past, present and future all meld into one on Mk.gee’s debut studio album. It’s hard to pin Mk.gee’s music down to a single genre – its rock, electronic and pop in all of its purest forms. His vocal melodies and guitar playing are nostalgic yet modern and sleek. An inspiration to the DIY music producers of the world, few releases have felt as refreshing to listen to as “Two Star & The Dream Police.”

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Mark B (Mark Byall) | Host of “By All Means” (Fridays 7-9 p.m.)

Favorite albums:

• Rakim – G.O.Ds NETWORK – REB7RTH
• Judas Priest – Invincible Shield
• Shannon & The Clams – The Moon Is In The Wrong Place
• MC Lyte – 1 of 1
• Fu Manchu – The Return Of Tomorrow
• Willie Nelson – The Border
• Dr. John – The Brightest Smile In Town
• The Pixies – The Night The Zombies Came
• Blu & Exile – Love (the) Ominous World
• The Cure – Songs Of A Lost World

 

Rakim – G.O.Ds NETWORK – REB7RTH

One of the greatest lyricists ever in the rap game is back with a fresh installment of original songs, smooth beats, and a lyrical style that holds true to the roots of hip-hop. The album hosts a variety of collaborations with legendary artists including Kool G Rap, Method Man, DMX, Prodigy, Masta Killa, and Snoop Dogg. Rakim has been doing this for a long time and still sits on top of the game. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it!

Judas Priest – Invincible Shield

British heavy metal band Judas Priest has created a monster of a new album with the release of their 16th studio album “Invincible Shield.” With over 50 years in the music industry and over 50 million records sold worldwide, Judas Priest has shown that music that kicks ass never goes out of style. This album is great for anything you’re wanting to do fast. It will make you want to drive fast, ski fast, run fast, talk fast, bike fast, even eat fast! Put your seatbelt and helmet on for this one.

Willie Nelson – The Border

Willie Nelson, in his ninth decade of life, has released not one but two albums in 2024. Continuing one of the most prolific country music careers of all time. “The Border” highlights Willie’s signature style with a taste of his aging songwriting prowess. Another classic release from a legend who just can’t quit!

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Johnny Peanutbutter (Daniel Huckel) | Host of “Mixed Jam” (Fridays 9-11 p.m.)

Favorite singles:

• Deka Sul, Polish Ambassador – Ladyship
• Klangkarussell, GIVVEN – Afterglow
• Kasbo – Atlantis
• Akshin Alizadeh – You’ll Be Heard
• Fred again.., BERWYN – BerwynGesaffNeighbours
• De-Phazz – Guru Bamboolo
• Yonder Mountain String Band – Nowhere Next
• Hozier – Too Sweet
• Flox – Loose
• The Hip Abduction – An Island Still Remains

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Logan Owings | Host of “Open Garage” (Saturdays 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.)

Albums P.O.D. – VERITAS Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet Wind Rose – Trollslayer

Singles P.O.D. – DROP (feat. Randy Blythe) Weezer – In The Garage – 2024 Remaster Sabrina Carpenter – Please Please Please Sabrina Carpenter – Coincidence TV Girl, George Clanton – Summer 2000 Baby

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Johnny Boy King (John King) | Host of “Rock N’ Blues” (Saturdays 12-2 p.m.)

Albums Slash – Orgy Of The Damned The Fabulous Thunderbirds – Struck Down Little Feat – Sam’s Place Reckless Kelly – The Last Frontier Mark Knopfler – One Deep River The Black Crowes – Happiness Bastards Corb Lund – El Viejo The Black Keys – Ohio Players Blackberry Smoke – Be Right Here Anthony Gomes – Peace, Love & Loud Guitars

Singles Slash & Brian Johnson – Killing Floor Charley Crockett – Ghost Riders In The Sky Reckless Kelly – Fired Up Ready To Go Paul Cauthen – Hot Damn The Fabulous Thunderbirds – Payback Time (feat. Billy Gibbons) Little Feat – Mellow Down Easy Red Stray Clays – Caddo County Mark Knopfler – Scavengers Yard Pokey LaFarge – Run Run Run The Black Keys – Beautiful People (Stay High)

Slash – Orgy Of The Damned

Everyone knows Slash, the famous lead guitar player from Guns N’ Roses. And everyone knows he’s a great guitar player. However, until you can really play the blues, are you really that great? Well, after listening to Slash rip it hard, and play those simmering slow blues, yes, he is truly an incredible guitar player. On this album, “Orgy Of The Damned,” he teams him up with many artists you wouldn’t expect to be on a blues album: Brian Johnson from AC/DC, heavy metal singer Dorothy, and even Iggy Pop. And others you would: Billy Gibbons, Paul Rogers (of Bad Company), Chris Robinson (of The Black Crowes), and Chris Stapleton. This album of mostly classic blues covers is fresh, invigorating, and it rocks. My favorite release of 2024!

The Fabulous Thunderbirds – Struck Down

The Fabulous Thunderbirds have been around for 50 years, and this latest release does not disappoint. “Struck Down” is reminiscent of the T-Birds of old; those rockin’ blues of the ‘70s and ‘80s that they became famous for. On this album, founding member and harmonica master Kim Wilson is joined by many blues artists on the collaboration such as Bonnie Raitt, Billy Gibbons, Elvin Bishop, Keb Mo, and Taj Mahal. This is a ‘Fabulous’ album, and my runner-up for the best album of 2024.

Little Feat – Sam’s Place

Little Feat hadn’t released an album in a dozen years. Well, the wait was worth it. “Sam’s Place” is their first blues album, and it’s a good one. Sam Clayton’s vocal on this album are gritty, swampy, and very bluesy when mixed with the rest of the band’s musicianship. This album is energetic, fun, and diverse. Not a bad song on it. It is definitely worth the listen!

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b3plyr (Andrew Clark) | Host of “Cellar Door” (Saturdays 4-7 p.m.)

Favorite singles:

• Lady Gaga + Bruno Mars – Die With A Smile
• Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso
• Teddy Swims – Lose Control
• Lady Gaga – Disease
• Kendrick Lamar – Not Like Us
• Noah Kahan – Stick Season
• ROSE + Bruno Mars – APT.
• Chappell Roan – HOT TO GO
• Laufey – From The Start
• Chick Corea + Bela Fleck – Remembrance

 

Lady Gaga + Bruno Mars – Die With A Smile

Beautiful duet, total throwback vision of a video. Bruno does it again. I can’t find fault in Lady Gaga either, though I could do without that image of smoking.

Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso

Totally a guilty pleasure. I am sure I’ll not look back on this with any true fondness. But it’s a time capsule, overplayed and all.

Teddy Swims – Lose Control

I guess this is from 2023, but I sort of missed the boat at the end of the year. Anyway, what a classic sound. I believe I could play this on repeat indefinitely and not tire of it.

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Mike Werner | Host of “The Desert Grind” (Saturdays 7-9 p.m.)

Albums 1000Mods – Cheat Death Psychlona – Warped Vision Lord Buffalo – Holus Bolus Blue Heron – Everything Fades Stonekind – Hollow Ground Daily Thompson – Chuparosa Elephant Tree/Lowrider – The Long Forever Samsara Joyride – The Subtle and the Dense Slomosa – Tundra Rock Yeast Machine – SLEAZE

Singles Planes Mistaken for Stars – Modern Logic Psychlona – Smoke Ruff Majik – Moth Eater RRRags – Walkers Spirit Mother – Wolves 1000Mods – Love Elephant Tree/Lowrider – The Long Forever Acid Row – Do You Love Enough? Planet of Zeus – State of Non-Existence The Swell Fellas – Pawns Parade

 

1000Mods – Cheat Death

1000Mods of Chiliomodi Greece have been around for nearly two decades. They are part of the heart and soul of the rock revolution that grew from the ashes of Greece’s economic depression after the 2007-08 financial crisis. After producing two EP’s in 2007 and 2009, the band released their first album, “Super Van Vacation,” in 2010. Since then, all their albums have evolved from desert/stoner metal, psychedelic rock, doom metal, to high level grunge — in that order. All their albums are good, but this latest is pure excellence. Their album, “Cheat Death,” is a massive undertaking of 10 songs, giving it an overall length of slightly over one hour. This album has a song for everyone who loves music, and it also proves why 1000Mods are the kings of the Greek underground.

Psychlona – Warped Vision

The U.K. band Psychlona is at the top of the desert/stoner rock underground scene in Great Britain and the world. They are another band that has been around a while and have never released a bad album. In fact, they keep on getting better. Their album “Warped Vision” is a superb masterpiece, injecting your ears and head with catchy psychedelic desert rock riffs and grooves. Once again, their colorful and creative album cover catches your eyes as much as their music. This is an album and band for all who truly love music.

Lord Buffalo – Holus Bolus

Lord Buffalo is from Austin Texas. They are the kings of heavy, goth folk, Americana psychedelic desert rock. That is the only way I can describe their music. I would put their album Holus Bolus as a high contender for album of the year. The first song, “Holus Bolus,” which gives the album its name, explodes in your face with all the musical sounds that appeal to your senses. It gives you a “lump dose” of pleasure “all at once” — the definition of the mid-19th century English dialect “Holus Bolus.” The rest of the album takes you on a dangerous but beautiful adventure. Check out this album and the band!

Blue Heron – Everything Fades

I was sent a nice note from the band Blue Heron out of New Mexico saying thanks for checking out their new album. I have been working on a list of regional bands from all of the Western states for an up-and-coming show on the Desert Grind. Their new album popped back onto my radar. I put on my headphones and at first was in shock from the heavy guitars and gravelly vocals. But when you listen to a few songs, it absolutely blows you away how good these musicians are. I mean the drummer… holy cow! The guitars…wow! The vocals! The lyrics! These guys are definitely shaking up the AOTY lists. It’s good to see a lesser-known band making waves in the desert rock world. In fact, this album and band define desert rock.

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Cam Rood | Host of “Far Out” (Saturdays (9-11 p.m.)

Albums STRFKR – Parallel Realms Toro Y Moi – Hole Erth Tierra Whack – WORLD WIDE WHACK mynameisntjmack – mynameisnt Kaytranada – TIMELESS Logic1000 – Mother Erick The Architect – I’ve Never Been Here Before Peggy Gou – I Hear You Upper Class – Seagull Joints 2 Royel Otis – Pratts & Pain

Singles 49th & Main – Self Sabotage Joy Orbison – flex fm (freddit) Kal Banx, Isaiah Rashad – Sunstory DJ Seinfeld – If U Like Me (Edit) Men I Trust – Husk Mavo – Lollipop Shygirl, Empress Of, Kingdom, Club Shy – 4eva Glass Beams – Mahal NOIT – Vent nimino – I Only Smoke when I Drink

 

STRFKR – Parallel Realms

This album is a culmination of 15 years as a STRFKR fan for me! I never thought an album of theirs could captivate my attention more than “Miracle Mile” (2013), but here we are. I’ll never forget how the first play through took me on a journey, longing for the past but presenting the future as bright and playful. I am so happy I was able to attend the show in Jackson at the Mangy Moose, truly an unforgettable experience that brought the album to life in such a surreal way. 10/10! 

Favorite Tracks: “Chizzlers,” “Carnival,” “Lot Of Nice Things,” “Running Around”

Toro Y Moi – Hole Erth

Toro Y Moi at it again! As a fan who feels like “Outer Peace” (2019) is his best work, I was pleasantly surprised by “Hole Erth”: weaving alt-rock guitar riffs with rap-influenced beats, and a voice that keeps improving over the years. It’s fun, it’s catchy, it’s different. Pitchfork hated it, but I gotta give it to him. I’m happy he decided to do some genre-bending and experimentation. After Paris Texas’ “Mid Air” (2023), I welcome artists to experiment with the rap-rock. BE BOLD.

Favorite Tracks: “Walking in the Rain,” “Hollywood,” “Madonna,” “Smoke”

Tierra Whack – WORLD WIDE WHACK

We’ve been waiting for a new Tierra Whack album for over five years and she totally delivered. After Whack World (2018) left us waiting on the edge of our seats for more, “WORLD WIDE WHACK” is, in my opinion, everything we waited for and more. She’s clever, precise, silly, and demands respect. Truly an album that deserves a top to bottom play through, the flow from song to song is *chef’s kiss*. The beat selection is top tier, and the vibes are immaculate. 

Favorite tracks: “INVITATION,” “CHANEL PIT,” “MS BEHAVE,” “BURNING BRAINS”

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Studebacher (Bill Helm) | Substitute DJ

Albums Lee Ritenour / Dave Grusin – BRAZIL Arturo Sandoval – My Foolish Heart Mike Stern – Echos and other Songs The Headhunters – The Stuntman Walter Smith – Three of us are from Houston, one is not Peter Bernstein – Better Angels Steve Davis – We See Julian Lage – Speak to MeGhost Note – Mustard n’ Onions Brian Bromberg – LeFaro Christian McBride and Edgar Meyer – But Who’s Gonna Play The Melody

Singles Chicago – Introduction Donald Fagan – Trans Island Skyway Dr. Duke Tomatoe – Blues With Feeling Christian McBride Band – Aja Traffic – Low Spark of the High-Heeled Boys Spencer Davis Group – I’m a Man The James Gang – Funk 49 Santana – Oye Como Va Jethro Tull – Thick as a Brick Jimi Hendrix – All Along The Watchtower

 

Lee Ritenour / Dave Grusin – BRAZIL

This album rocked my socks off! Not what you would expect from a couple of jazzers normally associated with the smooth side of jazz. They went to Sao Paulo. Magic happened.

Arturo Sandoval – My Foolish Heart

A collection of standards from the American Songbook revisited by one of the most influential trumpeters of our times.

Mike Stern – Echos and other Songs

Mike Stern at an introspective moment in time.

The Headhunters – The Stuntman

Not to be confused with Herbie Hancock and the Head Hunters. Completely different fusion of talent and valuable groove!

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Chef Lito (Karl Schmidt) | Substitute DJ

Albums HYUKOH, 落日飛車 Sunset Rollercoaster – AAA Jamie xx – In Waves King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – Flight b741 Dirty Art Club – b sides Johnny Blue Skies – Passage Du Desir The Oh Sees – SORCS 80

Singles HYUKOH, 落日飛車 Sunset Rollercoaster – Y Rattlesnake Milk – On The Road Baroness – Grad The Brian Jonestown Massacre – Straight Up And Down Floating Points – Birth400 The Clean – Anything Could Happen Primal Scream – Loaded The Lostines – Playing the Fool Foxygen – Bowling Trophies Jamie xx, The Avalanches – All You Children

 

HYUKOH, 落日飛車 Sunset Rollercoaster – AAA

An incredible collaboration from two bands I had honestly never heard of before. The pairing brings together HYUKOH, a Korean indie rock outfit well-established in their scene, and the prolific Taipei pop band 落日飛車 Sunset Rollercoaster. The album manages to bring influences from myriad genres: dream pop, Bossa Nova, Blues Rock, and even a stellar ambient track, and brings it together to form a record which is both widespread in its sound, yet uniform in its style and approach. While my list is unranked, this one is undoubtedly my favorite album to come out in 2024. The track “Y” in particular makes me feel like I’m floating, and is one I’ve probably listened to a hundred times this year.

Jamie xx – In Waves

FINALLY Jamie xx releases another full-length album, and boy was it worth the wait. His 2015 release “In Colour” is on my Mount Rushmore of electronic albums and “In Waves” follows up with a sound that is more of a driving, club oriented work. Laced with bangers, incredible samples and an impressive collection of collaborators (including the freaking Avalanches!) it’s intricate while being fun, complex while being to-the-point. So glad Jamie is back.

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – Flight b741

No surprises here. My favorite band is back for the 26th time with another great work. One of their “simpler” albums, “b741” brings the classic rock sound with the iconic “Gizz” twist. Ripping harmonicas, irresistible grooves, silly lyrics, themes of climate change. It’s all there. The boys cannot be stopped.

Dirty Art Club – b sides

A woefully underrated producer whom I find myself listening to any time I’m hanging with friends, cleaning my house, or cooking up a meal. Nobody makes mood music like the D.A.C., and “b sides” is no exception. Samples pulled from the deepest crates in second-hand record stores effortlessly looped and intertwined with beats from both the computer and analog instruments, Dirty Art Club once again finds a way to make the silkiest, grooviest tracks that always seem to set the vibe just right.

Johnny Blue Skies, Sturgill Simpson – Passage Du Desir

Sturgill’s new moniker, Johnny Blue Skies, seems to imply a new chapter in the accomplished country/bluegrass artists musical story. Yet, there are all of the familiar traits which makes Sturgill one of contemporary country’s greatest acts. Introspective, often poetic lyricism overtop of rich and layered instrumentation more similar to the golden era of country rather than the pop-country which has dominated the airwaves for decades. You can feel the reverence Stugrill/Johnny has for the genre, and the record demonstrates that completely.

The Oh Sees – SORCS 80

Not too many notes on this one. It is classic “Oh Sees” and I freaking love this band. The energy, the weird sounds, John Dwyers’ yips and hollers over screeching guitars and chugging drums is something I will never get tired of.

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Kevin Doyle | Substitute DJ

Albums Beck – Mutations Ween – The Mollusk Nick Drake – Five Leaves Left Squirrel Nut Zippers – Hot Francis Bebey – African Electronic Music (1975-1982) The Well-Informed – Everybody Knows The Milk Carton Kids – The Ash & Clay Nellie McKay – Get Away From Me Tom Waits – The Black Rider Pixies – Doolittle

Singles The Kinks – Victoria Glen Campbell – Wichita Lineman Belle and Sebastian – Lazy Line Painter Jane John Prine – Crazy As A Loon The Magnetic Fields – Papa Was a Rodeo Agalisiga – Gatlohiha

 

Beck – Mutations

I’ve always been a fan of Beck since the early ’90s. “Odelay” is a classic but “Mutations” is on another level.

Ween – The Mollusk

I love a nautical-themed album. This is one of Ween’s best, for me.

Nick Drake – Five Leaves Left

There is always an occasion for Nick Drake.

Squirrel Nut Zippers – Hot

Get up and dance!

Francis Bebey – African Electronic Music (1975-1982)

Classic. Give it a listen, and “don’t give me bananas, potatoes and yam at the same time.”

The Well-Informed – Everybody Knows

This duo from Brooklyn put out a really solid album. Great songwriting and harmonizing.

The Milk Carton Kids – The Ash & Clay

I think “Snake Eyes” is a timeless classic. What a great duo.

Nellie McKay – Get Away From Me

Funny, clever, and just a solid album.

Tom Waits – The Black Rider

Dark, Weird, and great storytelling for the theater.

The Pixies – Doolittle

This album knocked me over when I first heard it and remains a classic in my mind.

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Mike Walker | Substitute DJ

Albums Pet Shop Boys – Nonetheless Taylor Swift – The Tortured Poets Department Chappell Roan – The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess Sarah McLachlan – Fumbling Towards Ecstasy Bronski Beat – The Age of Consent La Roux – La Roux US – Atomic City (Tiesto Remix) Dido – Thank You (Not So Bad) Remix Tiesto & Tate McRae – 10:35 Sam Smith & Calvin Harris – Desire

Singles Pet Shop Boys – Dancing Star Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe! Taylor Swift, Post Malone – Fortnight Tracy Chapman – Fast Car Teddy Swims – Lose Control Benson Boone – Beautiful Things Beyoncé – Texas Hold ‘Em Kendrick Lamar – Not Like Us Supermode – Tell Me Why (Bronski Beat Remix) Pet Shop Boys – A New Bohemia

 

Pet Shop Boys – Nonetheless

Look. I listen to some crazy music. Pet Shop Boys have never been really mainstream, but they’ve had some major hits. As a weird and gay man, I like their weird and gay brand of electronic music as well as its musicality. Sometimes EDM lacks musicality in favor of electronic elements. “PSB” merges both in their entire catalog. But this new album is timeless, and yet also still somehow grounded in the early ’80s, even though it came out in 2024. The best tracks are “Dancing Star” (about Rudolf Nureyev, Soviet defector and gay dancer), “Loneliness” (because it offers a connection to how we all feel sometimes in a tune with a beat that is absolutely not about loneliness), and “Why Am I Dancing?” (because that question needs an answer).

Taylor Swift – The Tortured Poets Department

I know you all hate me because I didn’t pick an indie album that is better than hers, but I like Taylor Swift unabashedly and I got to see her in concert in Munich this summer. I am working on a podcast about “The Tortured Poets Department” and the lyrics and songs are brilliant, like all of Taylor Swift’s albums. She’s extremely popular because she’s extremely talented, the music is nearly universal, and it is catchy. I don’t need to listen to some indie record all day long when sometimes I just want to complain about my ex-boyfriend.

Chappell Roan – The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess

I know this came out in 2023, but it’s an amazing summer anthem album and, with it, Chappell Roan will win album of the year. She makes us think about our sacrifices, our desires, and fun. It’s a highly-easy album to listen to and to hear. It works on every level and I love all of the songs. Particularly notable are “Good Luck, Babe,” “Hot To Go,” and “Femininomenon.” Roan is also a cultural icon and the remixes are all gonna be fire. #WeKnowDis

Sarah McLachlan – Fumbling Towards Ecstasy

I listened to this album, 30 years after its release, because I saw Sarah in concert this summer to celebrate its 30th anniversary. As such, it received more treatment than it usually might. But “Possession” is a phenomenal song, deserving of a listen at least annually, about how we sometimes feel, insecurities and love. “Good enough” hits at all of our emotions and insecurities as well. “Ice Cream” describes ideal memories and what love can become. All the songs strike a ‘90s chord of hope and perseverance.

Bronski Beat – The Age of Consent

“Smalltown Boy” and other Bronski Beat songs got some remixes this year, as well as attention from the many TV shows and movies that have added the Bronski Beat songs to their soundtracks, especially to shows and films with queer themes. They are classic songs about the struggle to be an out gay person in the ’80s, but really they transcend the queer experience and illustrate how everyone can feel when they are the other. This album and their songs individually have tremendous musicality and value to the musical lexicon.

La Roux – La Roux

I listened to a lot of La Roux and remixes this year. I don’t know why. It’s amazing music. Lesbihonest.

US – Atomic City (Tiesto Remix)

I like this song. I went to the sphere to see U2 last fall and this single came out and I enjoyed this whole journey, so I had to pay some sort of tribute. I’ve always been a huge U2 fan. I know they used to be really mainstream, but that’s sort of starting to dwindle.

Dido – Thank You (Not So Bad) Remix

It’s just a good song and giving it to more audiences, more often, is a good idea.

Tiesto & Tate McRae – 10:35

I feel these emotions. So deal.

Sam Smith & Calvin Harris – Desire

It’s just good music. Sam Smith has a gorgeous voice, always, and Calvin Harris can mix and play.

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