The Best 49 Albums I Listened to in 2024 – Hesaú Rômulo

Creating lists is always a trap. Aware of that, here is mine: 49 albums I listened to in 2024 and found amazing. Don't agree? Then make your own, and no one will argue about it.

Unlike last year, this time I'm publishing a quick review of the best albums I listened to over the year. I considered the album as a whole product, not just the individual songs. The entirety of the work as an artistic proposal (title, cover, track sequence, arrangements, etc.). I’m against ranking them, so the list is NOT organized from best to worst, nor is it alphabetical. I arranged the albums in the chronological order of my listening experience, so it's not a purely random order.

1- Olustee - JJ Grey & Mofro

Almost a decade later, the guys are back. They returned exploring more elaborate sounds and sophisticated arrangements, with influences of soul, funk, and rock. I really liked the title track and also "Seminole Wind". They were ambitious with the album, and the results are excellent.

2- You to Me Are the Blues - Indigo Flood

I've spent a few months obsessed with Indigo Flood. The band reminds me a lot of the early Tedeschi Trucks Band. This blues album melds traditional and modern styles, offering deep, emotive tracks. Songs like "Song from a Dream" underscore the group's heartfelt and introspective approach. The production quality has been praised for its clarity and dynamic range. "Collage" is an incredible closing to the album, featuring powerful brass and above-average energy.

3- Eden Beach Club - Laurent Bardainne & Tigre d'Eau Douce

"Eden Beach Club" was a surprise for me. I didn't know the artists, and the album brings a vibrant fusion of groove, luxurious jazz, soul, and electronic elements. It has an interesting conceptual inspiration; the album feels like an invitation to a late afternoon. The proposal is intriguing and the execution is excellent.

4- Good Together - Lake Street Dive

The album "Good Together" showcases Lake Street Dive's signature blend of retro-soul and indie pop-rock but has received mixed reviews. With its ups and downs, the band manages to create a work that combines their well-known elements with some innovative ones, which might seem strange to long-time fans. I had to digest it slowly to understand what they achieved here.

5- A La Sala - Khruangbin

Khruangbin is one of my favorite bands, and over time they've become almost a subgenre of their own. They've become a reference point, and this latest album, especially "Todavía Via," has become a must-listen while I've been cycling. Khruangbin’s fourth studio album, A La Sala, showcases a return to their stripped-down and organic sound, blending Thai funk, soul, psychedelia, and dub. The tracks evoke cinematic and dreamy atmospheres, making it both contemplative and accessible.

6- Water Still Flows - Rich Ruth

Rich Ruth's album is a blend of Mythic Sunship, Sun Ra, and the most psychedelic phase of John Coltrane. It's a ticket to an irreversible journey, full of twists and abysses that stare back at you in the best possible way. This album is a profound fusion of spiritual jazz, post-rock, and ambient sounds, layered with influences from doom metal and minimalism. Rich Ruth’s dynamic instrumentation, including violin and harp collaborations, creates a balance between tension and beauty. The album is described as audacious, with an impressive blend of dark and light tones. It's an essential listen for fans of genre-blurring music.

7- Before the World – Club Kuru

Yes, it's a sentimental album filled with gentle sounds and an introspective theme. Yet, this subdued mood of the album captivated me, mainly because Club Kuru offers something I greatly appreciate in a band: immediate sonic recognition. Club Kuru's Before the World offers a fusion of introspection and soulful melodies, born from personal upheaval, balancing melancholy with renewal. The album explores themes of life, death, and nature's beauty through lush instrumentation and reflective lyrics. I really enjoyed "White Doves" and the title track as well.

8- MoonDial – Pat Metheny

"MoonDial" by Pat Metheny is a masterful solo baritone guitar album. The record explores serene and introspective moods, with highlights including a cover of the Beatles' "Here, There and Everywhere" and original compositions like "Shōga."I really appreciate Metheny's approach and how he imbues his compositions with depth. There is a resonance in the notes that makes listening to the album a unique experience.

9- Harvest - Balthvs

One of the year's revelations on my personal playlist, Balthvs is a Colombian psychedelic trio in the style of Khruangbin, but with a fascinating musical signature. Johanna Mercuriana's bass lines steal the show in several tracks. Both "Aguacero" and "Lovin" are on my list of most-listened-to songs this year. Recorded in the serene landscapes of La Mesa, Colombia, the album evokes a natural and ecstatic soundscape

10- Doggie Paddlin' Thru The Cosmic Consciousness - Psychic Temple

Psych Temple is more than just a band; it's a musical experience. I classify it as an experimental jazz album. Full of inventiveness and depth, Chris Schalard reflects on patience and fatherhood. These are long tracks meant for listening while washing dishes, making coffee, or even reading a book. It's a pleasurable journey.

11- Sunday Morning Put-On – Andrew Bird

Andrew Bird, one of my favorite musicians, decided to create a very specific album. It's a collection of classic jazz reinterpretations meant for Sunday mornings. It could have gone wrong, but that's not what happened with Sunday Morning Put-On. The album is a delicate immersion into intimate jazz, featuring interpretations of classics like "Softly, As In a Morning Sunrise" and the original "Ballon de Peut-être."

12- Axis of Time – Angelo Outlaw

I first heard Angelo Outlaw in Brasília, just after buying new headphones. I couldn't stop at the opening track and listened to the entire album from start to finish. Axis of Time marks an impressive debut, blending jazz, funk, soul, and R&B. It's a work featuring rich production with synthesizers and grooves that create a dreamy and introspective atmosphere. One of the revelations of 2024.

13- Slow Burn – Baby Rose & BADBADNOTGOOD

Another surprise on the list. Not the Canadian band itself, but the partnership. The album Slow Burn, a collaboration between Baby Rose and BADBADNOTGOOD, is a fusion of jazz, soul, and R&B with cinematic touches. Recorded in a raw and analog way, the album reflects a spontaneous creative process, featuring deep arrangements and introspective lyrics that explore emotional transitions and reconciliation with the past.

14- All Black Everything – Amy Gadiaga

Jazz is dead, right? Not at all. The EP All Black Everything marks the debut of French-Senegalese bassist, composer, and vocalist Amy Gadiaga. Released under the Jazz re:freshed label, the work explores themes such as racial identity, self-acceptance, and resilience. The album blends traditional and contemporary jazz with influences from Mexican folk music.

15- No Reino dos Afetos 2 – Bruno Berle

No Reino dos Afetos 2 is a rich musical and emotional exploration, blending Brazilian folk with contemporary pop influences. Bruno Berle combines acoustic arrangements and synthesizers to create an engaging and introspective musical texture. Berle made some very interesting choices, and the final product pleased me greatly, especially "Tirolirole."

16- The Future is Our Way Out – Brigitte Calls Me Baby

The album The Future is Our Way Out marks the debut of the band Brigitte Calls Me Baby, a Chicago group that combines indie rock, alternative pop, and new wave influences. Another notable debut. Nostalgia for the music I listened to in my teenage years made me include them on this list, but the band truly deserves the recognition.

17- Love Direction – The Dip

Released mid-year, Love Direction accompanied many of my work afternoons. It's a tribute to soul and R&B music with a modern twist. The Seattle group is known for their detailed compositions, and what pleased me the most were the refined arrangements and a standout brass section. They know how to balance between traditional simplicity and innovation whenever needed.

18-From the Source – Causa Sui

The album From the Source by the Danish band Causa Sui represents a dense mix of psychedelic rock, stoner rock, and improvisation. I've been following these guys for a long time, and once again, they didn't disappoint. It has a vibe that reminds me of Mythic Sunship (mentioned here before), and they know how to elevate the tone when the track demands it. Critics praised the group for their "cohesion and mastery" in creating an immersive experience, although the density might "require more attention from casual listeners." Listening to Causa Sui will be a highlight on your personal playlist too.

19- Ten Fold – Yaya Bey

Ten Fold by Yaya Bey is the farthest I've ventured outside of my comfort zone. It's not a musical genre I'm accustomed to, but the blend she creates with elements of R&B, soul, jazz, and reggae really stands out. Offering a dynamic and experimental sound, the 39 minutes provide an engaging approach that, for me, made the experience very enjoyable. I particularly highlight "Chrysanthemums," which I listened to on repeat.

20- Last Time Forever – Stevie Toddler

Yes, another incredible bassist on my list. Stevie Toddler was an amazing discovery this year. Last Time Forever features a distinctive blend of pop, jazz, and progressive rock. I appreciated Toddler's originality and versatility, which is why she made it onto the list. The album is well worth giving a chance, as it was uniquely crafted.

21- Below Dawn - Bryony Jarman-Pinto

The album "Below Dawn" reflects an intimate and personal journey of artist Bryony Jarman-Pinto, addressing themes such as motherhood, social changes, and deep emotions. With a touch of jazz, rich harmonies, and poetic lyrics, the work explores both the turbulence of the pandemic and moments of personal transformation, including her experience as a mother. Bryony has an incredible voice, and the arrangements throughout the album perfectly complement this. She's definitely an artist to keep an eye on in the coming years.

22- Promise of Spring - George Boomsma

As someone who spends a lot of time discovering new music, I stumbled upon Promise of Spring, an emotional and moving work. My research revealed that the album explores themes of loss and overcoming, particularly in memory of his brother. With good tuning, lyrical narrative, and sophisticated arrangements, it has a sonic depth that is easy to digest.

23- Odyssey - Nubya Garcia

Nubya Garcia is no longer just a jazz promise; she is a reality. Odyssey is a testament to this statement. An impressive evolution of Nubya Garcia, exploring new territories by incorporating string sections with the Chineke! Orchestra while keeping her roots in contemporary jazz. Tracks like "Dawn" and "Triumphance" blend classical sounds with modern influences, including reggae and hip-hop.

24- Y'Y - Amaro Freitas

Contemplative, imaginative, and avant-garde—this is how I describe Amaro Freitas in a few words. The pianist's 2024 album, Y'Y, is a poetic homage to the Amazon and its rivers, exploring contemporary Brazilian jazz with introspective layers and spirituality. I particularly highlight the contributions of Shabaka Hutchings (flute) and Brandee Younger (harp), which greatly enhance Freitas's work. The album blends percussive elements, subtle synthesizers, and moments of introspection and exuberance. "Dança dos Martelos" is one of the best songs I've heard this year.

25- Sword and Stone - Ryan Adams

In 2024, I reconciled with Ryan Adams. I started listening to him again after more than a decade, just as he released several works simultaneously. I chose Sword and Stone because it's the one I most connected with. Adams went for simplicity and was rewarded, as are those who listen to the album. Additionally, he also released numerous live singles, performing renowned songs (I made a playlist of them).

26- BLACKHOLE – Ryan Adams

Ryan Adams appears twice on this list. Blackhole is an album with songs Adams composed since the 2000s but had never compiled into a single project, only performed live. The album has intensity and closes out a year of high productivity for the singer. The album has been praised for its cohesion and heartfelt storytelling​.

27- The Journey is Our Home - Bodies of Water

I define The Journey is Our Home as a contemplative experience that features elements of rock and choral music. It has an interesting rhythm and was a pleasant surprise for me (both the choir and the brass, as well as the syncopated beat). I didn't know the band before, and it was one of the year's pleasant discoveries. Besides the title track, "Footprints" caught my attention. The album has a respectable cadence. Perfect to listen to while sipping a Scotch whisky.

28- Low End Love Songs - Pale Jay

I confess I had high expectations for Pale Jay (one of the most creative and thought-provoking artists of the decade) and whether he could maintain his momentum and produce an album as good as Bewilderment. The answer is yes, he did. Low End Love Songs features Latin textures, combines falsetto vocals with rich yet simple arrangements. It’s an introspective album that operates at low frequencies but is far from monotonous. "Branch by Branch" deserves to be listened to incessantly.

29- Leon – Leon Bridges

Well-received by critics, "Leon" also delighted me. It's been great to follow Bridges' career and see how he has gained notoriety while maintaining his vivid artistic signature. "Laredo," "Peaceful Place," and other tracks from the album accompanied me throughout the year (especially when I was biking in the second half of the year). These tracks are expressions of a very rich and coherent collection.

30- Goat – Goat

I discovered Goat this year and couldn't stop listening to them for at least six consecutive weeks. The album "Goat" by the Swedish band brings psychedelic rock with personality, vibrant energy, and an absurdly experimental sound. The instrumentals are marked by hypnotic beats and mystical vocals that create a unique ritualistic atmosphere. Different from what I'm used to hearing, Goat is excellent.

31- 100% Sahara Guitar" – Etran de L'air

A particular genre that I admire a lot, which I’ll call desert guitar. "100% Sahara Guitar" is an instrumental work from Niger that highlights Etran de L'air's talent in producing melodies with the Tuareg guitar. Hypnotic tracks evoke desert landscapes while diving into traditional rhythms with the addition of modern elements. It's an album for those who appreciate sounds rich in cultural texture.

32- Flawed By Design - Wolfgang Valbrun

Another solo debut and another new addition to my playlist: Wolfgang Valbrun, known for his work with the band Ephemerals, blends soul, jazz, and rock with an introspective approach. Highlights include tracks like "Keep Your Head Up" and "Flawed By Design," which offer an invitation to perseverance.

33- Perak - Thee Marloes

The debut album by Thee Marloes offers a fusion of modern jazz and vintage soul with a tropical aesthetic. A powerful trio from Indonesia leads this brilliant work, distinguished by its smooth instrumentation and melodic vocals, creating a unique and nostalgic atmosphere. Another pleasant surprise this year, I highly recommend exploring what these guys have to offer.

34- Città Futura - Bassolino

Dario Bassolino, a Neapolitan pianist, greatly surprised me with this project. He explores electronic sounds with italo-disco influences, creating a musical narrative about urbanism and the future of cities. It's a sonic journey filled with synthetic textures and danceable beats that evoke a futuristic nostalgia. "Città Futura" impresses with its thematic consistency despite being concise.

35- Real Life Thing – Sam Blasucci

Sam Blasucci made it to the best albums list last year, and he did it again! With a sound reminiscent of George Harrison's best days, Blasucci delivers a sophisticated collection of vintage pop with 1970s soft rock influences. Left-handed, he plays both guitar and piano in robust compositions, full of syncopated rhythms, brass incorporation, and various changes within each song. Without a doubt, one of my favorite albums of the year.

36- A Lover Was Born – Kelly Finnigan

I've been a fan of the Monophonics and have followed Kelly Finnigan for some time. In this solo project, Finnigan creates an interesting compilation of retro soul and raw emotions. The album showcases his vocal mastery and unique signature style. A gem for classic soul fans, Finnigan is one of the best of his generation.

37- Laura Marling - Patterns in Repeat

Laura Marling’s eighth album, Patterns in Repeat, explores themes of parenthood and personal transformation following the birth of her first child. The record was crafted in her home studio, featuring raw and intimate recordings that embrace her new domestic reality. Tracks like "Child of Mine" include ambient details, such as her daughter’s coos, reflecting her life’s shifting focus. Musically, the album leans on Marling’s signature acoustic minimalism, accentuated by lush string arrangements that heighten its emotional depth.

38- The Room – Fabiano do Nascimento & Sam Gendel

This collaborative album unites Fabiano do Nascimento's seven-string guitar with Sam Gendel's saxophone, creating a blend of contemporary jazz and South American folk influences. It is a work full of technical sophistication and sonic purity, presenting a deep dialogue between the instruments. It stands out for its creative approach and unexpected direction in each track. It has received praise for its clarity and harmony, being described as innovative and absorbing.

39- Cinema 3000 – Common Saints

This album by British producer Charlie J Perry, known by his stage name Common Saints, mixes experimental pop with reflections on the information overload of the modern world. Recorded in a studio in South London, the album has been praised for its subtle beauty and sonic innovation. I really enjoy Perry's musical approach, which manages to create an enjoyable atmosphere from the very first listen.

40- Gira – MOMO

MOMO stood out as another surprise on my annual playlist, and I went on to learn more about Marcelo Frota and his previous works. "Gira" marks a new phase in his career, blending his Brazilian roots with contemporary London jazz. Frota balances spontaneous improvisation with captivating compositions. The album has been well-received for its originality and vibrant energy, and it's definitely worth appreciating with careful listening.

41- Don't Forget to Have Fun – Don Glori

The album by Don Glori (an anagram for Gordon Li), a Melbourne producer, is a celebration of experimentation and optimism. The record blends jazz, house, Brazilian music, and psychedelia. With standout tracks like "Pause" and "First Touch," the album has been praised for its creativity and thematic cohesion, which is what I enjoyed the most. Easily one of the releases of the year.

42- Chorus - Mildlife

Mildlife’s Chorus is a rich exploration of jazz-fusion, funk, and disco with an experimental twist. The album’s instrumental prowess shines, particularly in its intricate grooves and vibrant use of synths and flutes. However, its lyrical depth occasionally falls short, leaving the music as the primary force behind its charm.

43- The 1968 Tapes - Jazz Sabbath

For those who love both jazz and Black Sabbath, this album is a winning ticket. "The 1968 Tapes" presents jazz arrangements of Black Sabbath classics like "War Pigs" and "Into the Void," reimagined with complexity and improvisation. This is already the third album in the series, which both satirizes and pays homage to the band. An instant classic.

44- The Light of the Mind - Muriel Grossmann

Muriel Grossmann possesses seemingly boundless virtuosity and creativity, making her one of my favorite saxophonists of today. She explores spiritual jazz with hypnotic saxophone and an organic sound that evokes meditation and emotional intensity. The album has been widely praised by critics and contemporary jazz fans for its production quality and emotional depth. Grossman has absolute command over the brass and knows how to use it to her advantage throughout the album.

45- Idrache (Traces of the Past)- Tinariwen

This recent release by the pioneers of desert rock blends traditional Tuareg music with modern influences, addressing themes of resistance and memory. Tinariwen continues to receive acclaim for their authenticity and musical skills, being described as an essential work for fans of culturally textured sound.

46- How To Think Like a Billionaire - Bill Fisher

Bill Fisher's How To Think Like a Billionaire is an adventurous dive into nostalgic 80s-inspired AOR rock infused with yacht rock and synth-driven melodies. Tracks like "Beast of Man" and "Yell of the Ringman" showcase Fisher’s blend of heartfelt ballads and powerful riffs. His exploration of genre creates a unique soundscape with impressive vocals and thematic depth, making it one of his most daring works. ​ Additionally, it provides a consistent critique of tech billionaires. Without a doubt, it’s the best album by Bill Fisher so far.

47- Mdou Moctar – Funeral for Justice

Mdou Moctar’s Funeral for Justice blends Tuareg traditions with psychedelic rock, offering a politically charged album addressing colonialism, terrorism, and cultural preservation. Tracks like "Imouhar" and "Modern Slaves" showcase his guitar virtuosity and poignant storytelling. The production amplifies the emotional depth, making it a standout work of 2024.

48- Túnel Acústico – Marcos Valle

This 2024 album reflects the vitality and current relevance of Marcos Valle's legacy, combining elements of bossa nova, MPB, and Brazilian pop with a contemporary approach. Produced by Daniel Maunick, the record features a fusion of traditional and modern sounds, with highlights such as "Feels So Good," co-written with the legendary Leon Ware. Additionally, the album includes jazzy arrangements and emotive ballads that evoke both nostalgia and innovation. Túnel Acústico is a beautiful work that solidifies Valle's status, even after decades of career.

49- Charles Lloyd - The Sky Will Still Be There Tomorrow

This album by Charles Lloyd reflects both pain and beauty, seamlessly blending minimalist and explosive elements. With its evocative, timeless tracks, the work resonates as a testament to Lloyd's enduring mastery of jazz. The music is described as emotionally rich, offering subtle hope amid somber tones, and has been highly praised for its sophisticated craftsmanship. The album includes one of my favorites drummers: Brian Blade.