Bo's Top Albums of 2024

I blinked, and suddenly we’re in the final month of 2024. Can you believe it? In some ways, the year flew by, but in others, January feels like it was ages ago—especially when it comes to music. This year was stacked with new releases! From the dominating pop icons to fresh faces making their debut and seasoned veterans reminding us why they're legends, music dropped across every genre. As a music lover, we were truly blessed.

Despite it being an overwhelming year for music, it was also the year I took chances on many new artists—and I'm happy to say I became a fan of many of them. According to my spreadsheet (yes, I’m a nerd who keeps track of my ratings for albums), I listened to 70 new releases this year.

With so much saturation, there were plenty of highs and lows. So for this year’s rankings, I’ve used a mix of streaming data (shout-out to stats.fm!) and my personal ratings to determine the final list. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Honorable Mentions

• Kylie Minogue, Tension II
• A.G. Cook, Britpop
• Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross, CHALLENGERS Score
• Rachel Chinouriri, What a Devastating Turn of Events
• Brittany Howard, What Now
• Omar Apollo, God Said No
• WILLOW, empathogen
• Kali Uchis, ORQUIDEAS
• The Marías, Submarine
• Tinashe, Quantum Baby

Top EPs & Mixtapes

• Tove Lo & SG Lewis, HEAT
• Shygirl, Club Shy
• Doechii, Alligator Bites Never Heal
• Leigh-Anne, No Hard Feelings
• Bon Iver, SABLE,

Amidst a sea of albums, we were lucky to receive some standout EPs and mixtapes. Club Shy kicked off Brat Summer, offering extended mixes and remixes that spanned across winter and spring. Shygirl really set the tone for what was to come.

The highly anticipated HEAT EP from Tove Lo and SG Lewis dropped during Pride Month, and it was such a treat. Both are longtime favorites of mine, and the house bangers here left me wanting more. If anything, we need a full album from them next!

Another standout mixtape was Alligator Bites Never Heal by Doechii. I fell in love with “Alter Ego” when it first dropped, and though this mixtape took a different approach, Doechii’s raw, punchy style captivated me. I'm not typically drawn to R&B/hip hop, but Doechii is a force. Her Tiny Desk concert and Colbert performance were mind-blowing!

TOP ALBUMS

25-16 Rapid Fire

25. Clairo, Charm – My apologies to Clairo as I wasn’t familiar with her game (Clairo shade, anyone?). Her sultry bedroom pop paired with gorgeous production made this album a welcome contrast to the year’s big pop releases.

Faves: Sexy to Someone, Add Up My Love

24. SOPHIE, SOPHIE – SOPHIE’s posthumous album is a journey through various sounds, collaborating with past partners. It’s a fitting tribute to her visionary work.

Faves: Reason Why (feat. Kim Petras), Why Lies (feat. BC Kingdom and LIZ), Always and Forever (feat. Hannah Diamond), My Forever (feat. Cecile Believe)

23. Tyla, TYLA – A debut worth celebrating! Tyla merges Amapiano with contemporary pop-R&B, creating a fresh and infectious sound.

Faves: Water, ART, Truth or Dare

22. FLO, Access All Areas – This debut from the girl group FLO taps into 90s/early 2000s nostalgia while still feeling modern. It was an instant feel-good album. And no one else can say Cynthia Erivo voiced their opening track!

Faves: Walk Like This, In My Bag (feat. GloRilla), IWH2BMX

21. Conan Gray, Found Heaven – The 80s revival lives on in Conan Gray’s synthpop album, and I’m here for it. The sharp songwriting makes up for any overdone production.

Faves: Fainted Love, Never Ending Song, Bourgeoisieses 

20. Jamie xx, In Waves – From the first single, I was hooked. This album is a polished dance masterpiece made for the club.

Faves: Baddy on the Floor, Life, Dafodil, Still Summer

19. Foster the People, Paradise State of Mind – Indie pop is back! Foster the People’s return to their psychedelic roots after a 7-year break was a cathartic end-of-summer treat.

Faves: Lost in Space, See You in the Afterlife, Chasing Low Vibrations

18. Vampire Weekend, Only God Was Above Us – Vampire Weekend brings their signature sound to new heights, blending past influences with forward-thinking ideas.

Faves: Ice Cream Piano, Classical, Mary Boone

17. Justice, HYPERDRAMA – After a 7-year hiatus, the French duo returns with a bold electronic effort. Though it’s no Cross, it’s still a blast for anyone hitting the club scene.

Faves: Neverender (feat. Tame Impala), One Night/All Night (feat. Tame Impala), Mannequin Love, Saturnine (feat. Miguel)

16. St. Vincent, All Born Screaming – Bold, brash, and raw, Annie Clark’s self-produced album explores art rock with an intimacy that cuts deep.

Faves: Big Time Nothing, Violent Times, All Born Screaming

The Top 15

15. Empire of the Sun, Ask That God

Remember when I said indie pop was back? I wasn’t kidding! The Australian electronic duo (Nick Littlemore and Luke Steele) returned after an 8-year hiatus, and suddenly I was transported back to 2008, reminiscing about “Walking on a Dream.” Not much has changed with Ask That God—it’s still blissful, sun-kissed lyrics and vocals set against funky, nostalgic pop with a few current influences thrown in. It’s not exactly groundbreaking, but it’s a fun trip through Lord Littlemore and Emperor Steele’s eccentric universe. I’ve always loved my kooky Australian uncles, and I’m proud to be an Empyrean.

Faves: Changes, Music on the Radio, Cherry Blossom, AEIOU

14. Billie Eilish, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT

Admittedly, I’ve never been a huge Billie Eilish fan, but I was totally won over by her third studio album. It feels grown-up and realized, largely thanks to the risk-taking collaboration between Billie and her brother Finneas. Their dynamic is something special—unique and impossible to replicate. As the title suggests, the album oscillates between hard and soft moments, each carrying emotional depth. I didn’t expect to love this one as much as I did, but the intimacy and rawness of the project are undeniable. “Birds of a Feather” dominating radio and TikTok is just one testament to its resonance. I’m so glad Billie is finally getting the recognition she deserves for this one.

Faves: LUNCH, CHIHIRO, L’AMOUR DE MA VIE, THE GREATEST

13. Sabrina Carpenter, Short n’ Sweet

It’s official—I’ve caught the Carpenter bug! Woodworkers, rise up. After her last album piqued my interest, Short n' Sweet sealed the deal. Following the success of “Espresso,” Sabrina capitalized on the moment and delivered a polished, glittery album with hints of 70s retro vibes. As the title suggests, the record is short and sweet—just 36 minutes—but it packs a punch. Sabrina’s songwriting continues to shine, especially with her clever, tongue-in-cheek lyrics (see: “Where art thou? Why not uponeth me?”). This album feels like her long-overdue breakout, solidifying her place in the pop landscape. The future of pop is definitely in good hands.

Faves: Bed Chem, Juno, Good Graces, Taste

12. Magdalena Bay, Imaginal Disk

When this album dropped in late August, I had to say goodbye to Brat Summer and welcome Imaginal Disk Autumn. Mica Tenenbaum and Matthew Lewin somehow managed to go even more left-field with their second album. Imaginal Disk is the kind of record that doesn’t just take you on a journey—it’s an interdimensional ride. The duo strikes an odd balance between being dramatic and not taking itself too seriously. I’ve always loved their avant-garde approach to sleek pop production, and this album only deepens my appreciation for them. I hope more people start taking note of what they’re doing.

Faves: Image, Death & Romance, That’s My Floor

11. Fabiana Palladino, Fabiana Palladino

One of my favorite discoveries this year was this stunning debut album from Fabiana Palladino. She’s definitely an artist to watch, and it’s no surprise she’s earned the stamp of approval from Lorde and Jessie Ware. This self-titled debut is a dazzling mix of contemporary R&B with lush synths. The production creates a pleasing, ambient atmosphere throughout. It’s easy to see why Jessie Ware is a fan, as Fabiana’s sound feels very much in the same realm. There’s even a hint of Janet Jackson’s influence. This album is the perfect introduction to Fabiana, and I’m eager to see what else she has in store.

Faves: I Can’t Dream Anymore, Give Me a Sign, Can You Look in the Mirror?

10. Kacey Musgraves, Deeper Well

This album hit harder for me this year, mainly because I’m going through my own Saturn return (turned 29 recently). Deeper Well brought me back to the early, stripped-down sound of Kacey, with a simpler, more intimate approach. It felt like a comfort listen—a warm hug. Beyond the Saturn return theme, anyone can relate to the album’s message of clearing out emotional baggage and embracing a fresh start. It’s a soothing, introspective journey that resonated deeply.

Faves: Anime Eyes, Cardinal, Sway, Lonely Millionaire

9. Empress Of, For Your Consideration

Empress Of is truly one of a kind. Lorely Rodriguez is that girl—her voice is instantly recognizable, and she’s brought a unique flavor to the pop landscape that few others have. For Your Consideration is a concept album that chronicles the end of her relationship with an LA movie director during his “For Your Consideration” Oscar campaign. The title track sets the scene, and for the next 30 minutes, the album dives into the highs and lows of a passionate, tumultuous romance while reflecting on broader Hollywood themes. Despite its shorter runtime, it zigzags through emotions and ideas while staying firmly on theme. Empress Of has never sounded more self-assured, with her unique storytelling and production shining through. In my humble (and very gay) opinion, this album is one of the year’s most underrated and overlooked, and it definitely deserves more acclaim. It also features some killer collaborations, including Rina Sawayama and MUNA.

Faves: Lorelei, Kiss Me (feat. Rina Sawayama), What’s Love (feat. MUNA)

8. Ariana Grande, Eternal Sunshine

I wasn’t expecting another album from Miss Ponytail anytime soon, especially with her busy acting schedule. But thank you, SAG-AFTRA strike, and Ariana’s reunion with Max Martin for making this album a reality. Eternal Sunshine explores themes of Saturn return, but in a uniquely personal way. Described as “sort of a concept album” and inspired by the film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Ariana takes us through the messiness of her life, flipping the idea of a “divorce album” on its head. It’s as if she took the best elements of Sweetener and Thank U, Next and elevated them. The result is an album that’s delicate, raw, and emotionally charged, yet still has those signature danceable beats. It’s clear that her time in Wicked rehearsals has only enhanced her vocal chops, songwriting, and overall musicianship.

Faves: We Can’t Be Friends (Wait For Your Love), Supernatural, Yes, And?

7. Bonnie McKee, Hot City

This album was long overdue, but I’m so glad we finally got it. Bonnie McKee is a legendary pop writer, responsible for some of the biggest hits of the 2000s and 2010s, including songs for Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Kesha, and Kelly Clarkson. If it hadn’t been for her label stringing her along in 2014, we would have had Hot City much sooner. After re-recording and regaining the rights to her songs, Bonnie finally released the album 10 years later. Hot City channels the early 2010s pop scene while feeling surprisingly fresh. For any pop fan who’s nostalgic for that era, this album is a treasure trove. Bonnie has already done so much for the genre, and Hot City offers a vibrant glimpse into her creative world.

‍Faves: Hot City, Electric Heaven, Rewind Your Heart

6. Dua Lipa, Radical Optimism

Perhaps the most divisive release of the year. Critics have plenty to say—whether it’s the repetitive sound or the questionable rollout. But honestly, I think Radical Optimism is a prime example of why sometimes, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Sure, it might not quite match the monumental impact of Future Nostalgia (but let's be real, that’s a tough act to follow), but the bottom line is this: Dua delivers earworm after earworm that I couldn’t stop playing. The vacanza queen takes us on a European getaway I can only dream of, and you can feel the fun she had making this record. Maybe she leaned a little too heavily into the comfort zone with collaborators like Kevin Parker (Tame Impala) and Danny L Harle, but honestly, it didn’t stop me from hitting repeat. Also, her headline show at Austin City Limits? 10/10.

Faves: Falling Forever, Happy For You, Houdini

5. Maggie Rogers, Don’t Forget Me

I don’t usually stan men, but we have to thank Pharrell Williams for discovering Maggie back in 2016. After her rise to fame, it’s been incredible to watch her growth as an artist. Don’t Forget Me marks her third album, and it feels like a return to the style we fell in love with. After showing her range on Surrender, Maggie is settling back into her groove, and it’s so refreshing to hear. Co-produced with Ian Fitchuk, this record blends cosmic country with disco and psychedelic rock in a way that feels both simple and effective. Through it all, Maggie’s slinky vocals remain the focal point, never overshadowed by the production.

Faves: The Kill, So Sick of Dreaming, On & On & On

4. Beyoncé, Cowboy Carter

Following the success of Renaissance, Cowboy Carter is the second installment in a trilogy of albums recorded during the pandemic. This time, Beyoncé leans into Americana and country, but there’s so much more happening here—blues, folk, soul, R&B, funk, and gospel all come into play. It’s a genre-defying masterpiece that reflects both artistic reinvention and personal spite, particularly after the backlash she faced for her “Daddy Lessons” performance at the 2016 CMAs. With this record, Beyoncé proves she doesn’t need to “prove” anything, but she does it anyway—completely owning her place in the country and Americana genres. Featuring legends like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson, as well as rising stars like Tanner Adell and Brittney Spencer, Cowboy Carter takes you on a musical journey from the first track to the last. It may not be my favorite Beyoncé record, but I’m thrilled it exists in her ever-expanding catalog.

Faves: Bodyguard, Ya Ya, II Most Wanted

3. Allie X, Girl With No Face

Allie X goes full 80s synthpop on Girl With No Face, and I am living for it. From the release of “Black Eye,” I was hooked. The album is drenched in Allie’s signature weirdness, but it fully dives into the 80s goth-pop sphere, and she does it like no one else. Entirely self-produced, Allie is doing things that even big-name artists could only dream of in terms of sound and lyricism. And only Allie could write a touching, heartbreaking song about her eczema cream lady titled “Galina.” She’s an artist who continues to be criminally underrated (and she knows it—see: "You Slept On Me").

Faves: Galina, Off With Her Tits, You Slept On Me

2. Remi Wolf, Big Ideas

Remi Wolf wasn’t on my radar until this year, but now I’m fully on board. Big Ideas is a chaotic, bouncy record that traverses through disco, reggae, and a wide array of beats. It’s a fearless, kaleidoscopic journey through Remi’s thoughts, and she holds nothing back. “Soup” gives me modern-day “Call Your Girlfriend” vibes with its anthemic belting, while songs like "Alone in Miami" and "Toro" are raw and confessional. And then there’s “Slay Bitch”—pure fun. Remi doesn’t hold back, and it’s honestly just a joy to listen to.

Faves: Toro, Soup, Kangaroo

1. Charli xcx, Brat (plus the deluxe and remix albums)

Was there ever any doubt? Charli XCX is one of my all-time favorite artists, and Brat is a triumphant album that fully deserves all the praise it’s gotten. After years of making her mark in the underground, Brat is the ultimate club album that practically begged to be made. But it’s not just about dance beats—it’s the rawest, most authentic Charli we’ve ever seen. Beneath the party-girl persona, there’s a complicated pop star with layers and vulnerability. The album rollout has been a thing of beauty—dropping a deluxe album with new versions and guest features, and then an entire remix album that almost feels like an album in itself. No one is doing it like Charli, and she absolutely deserves all the success. Brat forever.

Faves: Spring Breakers, Everything is Romantic, Apple (the entire tracklist, honestly)