➥ AADL 2024 Staff Picks: Homepage
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AADL 2024 STAFF PICS: AUDIO
Music, podcasts, CDs, records, and more:

JENNY C. – DESK CLERK

Qbomb
Hyperpunk
(2022)
I have listened to a lot of Qbomb this past year. Qbomb is a West Coast-based “hyperpunk” band (their first album’s name, and their own descriptor for their music). Qbomb’s members mostly met each other working at an animation studio (I’ve read they worked for Nickelodeon), and really bring their visual art aesthetics to their discography. The first time I heard their music was because I came across their music video for "Poison Pop" on YouTube. The video features the band wearing bright pink baseball uniforms and playing the game against animated monsters. That certainly caught my attention, but it was the sound that kept me listening. When I hear them, I flash back to my teen years listening to Mindless Self Indulgence—except WITHOUT the homophobic and ableist language MSI was known for shouting in their songs. The first Qbomb album tells the story of a fictionalized version of their band, with frontman Izzy Deluxe forming it for fame and fortune, only to gradually become more violent and disillusioned with the world when it doesn’t work out. For example in one track, "Insania," the character declares that his sanity is impeding his art and his goal of obtaining fame: “Being a damaged legend sounds so damn romantic though.” The band has released other tracks since the first album, but I don’t think they’re going to keep up this narrative they’d established. {YouTube} {Spotify}

Thiiird Person
Thiiird Person is a musician from Grand Rapids, and their music has gotten me through a lot in the past year or so. Well, not just their music, but their prolific and honestly absurd amount of TikTok posts (the vast majority of which are repeating their personal dad-joke about Buddha not being short for barracuda—because Siddhartha Gautama measured over 6 feet tall, and barracuda reach a maximum of 5 to 6 feet—so if anything, Buddha is long for barracuda). I became aware of Thiiird via that app and proceeded to follow his work on other sites/apps like YouTube, Bandcamp, and Spotify. Thiiird has an eclectic style of music. One track will be rap about cannabis with their own excellent beats, and then the next song will be an acoustic parody of a Counting Crows song, “Accidentally Did Drugs.” My favorite song, which holds the status of “Never skip when it comes up on shuffle,” is "SomeBuddy." This song is a hip-hop anthem to remember and protect your transgender loved ones in these increasingly dangerous times. {Bandcamp}

ALYSE P. — PRODUCTION TECHNICIAN

60 Songs That Explain the 2000s
podcast
With 60 Songs That Explain the '90s coming to an end, host Rob Harvilla has moved on to exploring songs that shaped the early aughts, and it is a fun nostalgic listen, for sure! {Spotify} {Apple Podcasts}

Energy Curfew Music Hour
podcast
Chris Thile and The Punch Brothers are back with a new variety music hour! Not sure if this was a limited release, but more of Thile's Prairie Home Companion/Live From Here-style musical variety content is always a good time and the musical guests are all great. {YouTube} {Spotify}

Silvertoungues
podcast
(2024)
The latest podcast from The Call of the Void creators Michael Alan Herman and Josie Eli Herman. This time, they’ve taken more of a serialized action-adventure slant to the story while still staying in the immersive sci-fi genre. I loved how the mini-episodes served as flashbacks, additional information provided clues that connected to the mystery, and surprise characters showed up revealing it's the same story universe as The Call of the Void's “the Voidverse”. While Silvertounges was released as a limited series, it will be interesting to see if Rosco and Tavi or any of the other characters appear in the Hermans' upcoming work as they’ve recently announced three new immersive horror podcasts on the horizon. {Pod.Link}

Adam Bradley Schrieber
Stridulation
(2024)
Percussionist Adam Schrieber's debut solo album is a compilation of new works as well as singles he has released over the years. Schrieber's style is unique due to the use of instruments he has collected, many of which are over 100 years old. Like much of the work Adam has done with Jack and the Bear, the songs on Stridulation have a haunting yet catchy old-timey vibe due to the fact that many of the instruments and recording tools Schrieber used are from the early 20th century. {Spotify} {Bandcamp}

Vulfmon
Dot
(2024)
Dot is the third full-length album from Vulfmon, aka Jack Stratton. It's hard to pick just one favorite song, but the ones featuring Evangeline are delightfully chill, the remix of "Hit The Target" featuring Eddie Barbash is a jazzy bop, and "Disco Snails" is—in true Vulf-style—the perfect mix of a good catchy song and utterly ridiculous lyrics. Other featured artists include Jacob Jeffries and Antwaun Stanley. {Spotify}

Half Alive
Persona
(2024)
{Spotify}

Michael Kiwanuka
Small Changes
(2024)
{Spotify}

Balu Brigada
"So Cold"
(2024)
The music video for this song is so simple yet complex. It's much like the song itself. {YouTube}

Ella Riot
“Clubbin”
(2011)
This song is not new by any means but has been back in my listening rotation this year. Who doesn’t love dance music featuring a bagpipe? {Spotify}

AMANDA S. — LIBRARY TECHNICIAN

Fail Better with David Duchovny
podcast
Duchovny invites well-known guests to discuss their failures and how it has informed their lives and careers. It’s intelligent, heartfelt, and offers a great example of being vulnerable. (One of his guests is former co-star Gillian Anderson!) {Apple Podcast}

Talking Scared with Neil McRobert
podcast
The host discusses horror novels with top names in horror books! It really digs deep and offers great recommendations and insight during fun conversations. (Plus, there’s some great Stephen King content on some episodes.) {Website} {Apple Podcast}

Behind the Rez with Sterlin Harjo
podcast
If you're like me and missing the TV show Reservation Dogs, then this podcast is for you. Co-creator, director, writer, etc. Sterlin Harjo and the cast and crew from the show sit down to reminisce, celebrate, and share behind the scenes stories from this amazing show. (If you still haven't watched it, go watch all three seasons immediately. {Apple Podcast}

AMANDA V. S. — GRAPHIC ARTIST

Chelsea Wolfe
She Reaches Out to She Reaches Out to She
(2024)
{AADL}

The Cure
Songs of a Lost World
(2024)
{YouTube}

Shōgun (soundtrack)
Music by Atticus Ross, Leopold Ross, and Nick Chuba
(2024)
{Website}

Hermanos Gutierrez
Sondido Cósmico
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Loma
How Will I Live Without a Body
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Nilüfer Yanya
My Method Actor
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Lone Justice
Viva Lone Justice
(2024)
{Spotify}

The Cactus Blossoms
Every Time I Think About You
(2024)
{Spotify}

ARTEMIS B. — DESK CLERK

Doechii
Alligator Bites Never Heal
(2024)
Doechii's music is consistently an incredible blend of strange, gorgeous, and fun, and her latest album is both exceptional and no exception. It is available to listen to across music streaming platforms. {Spotify}

How to Survive the End of the World
by Adrienne Marie Brown and Autumn Brown
podcast
The title of this podcast is a bit misleading: The Brown sisters have given me more hope this year than any other media. They discuss—amongst themselves and with a variety of experts—how to learn from the times we are in, how to love and care for each other with more grace and curiosity, and how to give ourselves the rest we need. Adrienne Marie Brown as a human may be my top cultural discovery of 2024. It is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. {Website}{Spotify}{Apple}

CHEYENNE F. — LIBRARY TECHNICIAN

Vampire Weekend
Only God Was Above Us
(2024)
With Charli XCX dominating summer, Magdalena Bay releasing a new album with a Grimes remix, Passion Pit and Alvvays playing music festivals, and Sky Ferreira's second album still unreleased, I truly have felt like I've been back in 2014. As far as nostalgia goes, I think my favorite "comeback" has been Vampire's Weekend's latest album, Only God Was Above Us. Seemingly building on the experimental nature of their previous album, Father of the Bride, while also referencing some of the more introspective moments of their album, Modern Vampires of the City, I think this is Vampire Weekend at their most realized. It's an incredibly cohesive album that alternates between playful and stark, with "Connect" being one of the standout tracks for me. {AADL}

Machine Girl
MG Ultra
(2024)
Machine Girl is my favorite New York-based digital hardcore electro-punk duo—Deli Girls is my second. I think their most recent album is some of their most sonically diverse works yet. I always have a hard time describing any Machine Girl album besides saying "I really love it!" but I do ... really love it! {Bandcamp}

The Garden
Six Desperate Ballads
(2024)
Every year I gush about how much I love The Garden, a band consisting of a pair of identical twins who dress up as clowns and make art punk while modeling on the side. I'm going to do it again this year. This EP is a little more paired down when compared to one of their most popular albums, Kiss My Super Bowl Ring, but it's just as loud and fun. I highly recommend seeing them in person; there's an energy to hearing them frantically play while trying to avoid being punched in the head in the middle of a pit that a recording just can't capture. {SoundCloud}

Sophie
Sophie
(2024)
I have been sorely missing Sophie since she left us in 2021, but even still I was a bit nervous about a posthumous release. However, Sophie had this album nearly finished before she passed and it shows. From her signature high-energy dance techno sandwiched between long experimental ambient tracks to features that were already pre-planned by her, this is fully her album. And it's really good! {Bandcamp}

Doechii
Alligator Bites Never Heal
(2024)
Doechii is one of the most talented upcoming rappers, and it's amazing to see her continue to grow as an artist. This mixtape is full of energy, and Doechii isn't afraid to dip into other genres. {Spotify}

Show Me The Body
Corpus II
(2024)
This summer, Show Me The Body released two mixtapes with little fanfare, which isn't odd for them. I think SMTB is one of the most solid post-hardcore bands out right now, but this mixtape really shines in its features. I was somewhat surprised to see some artists I really admire like ZULU, High Vis, and Nick Hakim work on this but my track goes to Magnum featuring SPELLLING. I never thought I'd see one of my favorite post-hardcore bands make music with one of my favorite experimental pop singers, but that's the power of music, I guess. {Spotify}

Coco and Clair Clair
Girl
(2024)
They're just so fun, and I think this is their best album to date. I really appreciate how CC&C have managed to build upon their light, and at times, irreverent rap-pop style. I think the highlight of this album is an extremely unexpected but still on-brand cover of "Our House" by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. {Spotify}

Kim Gordon
The Collective
(2024)
Kim Gordon just gets it, man. {AADL} {Spotify}

Shygirl
Club Shy
(2024)
In anticipation of FKA Twigs' new album—Eusexua coming out January 24, don't miss it—I decided to revisit Shygirl's EP Club Shy, which was released earlier this year. I wasn't disappointed. I love a good club album, and Shygirl's references to house music and more modern EDM energy make this EP one of the best "club-centric" releases of this year. {Spotify}

Warmduscher
Too Cold to Hold
(2024)
Yet another band that's really just fun and messy. It's punk-funk at its finest and I think you should listen to it! {Spotify}

Geordie Greep
The New Sound
(2024)
I was bummed out when I found out that the members of Black Midi decided to take an indefinite hiatus this year, but I think former Black Midi frontman Geordie Greep's first solo album has filled the hole left in my heart. With some pretty heavy involvement from Morgan Simpson, the amazing former drummer for Black Midi, and a continuing focus on character-driven songs, I honestly consider this an extension of the band. {Bandcamp}

Fontaines D.C.
Romance
(2024)
I've been following Fontaines D.C. for a long time, and this album is a slightly more polished but still punky departure from the sound of their previous albums. I think it stands on its own, and as I previously said, I always love to see artists grow and experiment with different sounds. As Fontaines D.C. breaks into the mainstream even more, I can see this album being the entry point for many newer fans. {Bandcamp}

Lingua Ignota
SINNER GET READY
(2021)
While waiting for Ethel Cain's newest album—Perverts coming out January 8, don't miss it—I found myself spending the entire month of November revisiting Kristin Hayter's previous music released under the name Lingua Ignota. While both artists use music to explore their complex relationships with romance, trauma, Christianity, and the intersection of the three, Hayter's long-leering tracks that alternate between uncomfortable silence and sheer noise leave a much starker and often uncomfortable impression. {AADL} {Spotify}

Earl Sweatshirt
Some Rap Songs
(2018)
I have been following Odd Future since Tyler, the Creator released his first album and it's been amazing to see the trajectory of some of the members. That being said, Earl Sweatshirt is my absolute favorite person to come out of Odd Future and I was reminded of how amazing this album is. {AADL} {Spotify}

Salyu x Salyu
S(o)un(d)beams
(2011)
While rewatching All About Lily Chou-Chou, I was reminded of the genius musician Salyu. While she's tried many different sounds over the years, I find this experimental electronic album that she created with producer Cornelius is one of her most ambitious. {Spotify}

Bloc Party
Silent Alarm
(2005)
This was such an impressive debut album, and with Bloc Party returning to the music festival circuit, I couldn't help but revisit it. I think the tracks Helicopter and This Modern Love in particular still feel new. {Spotify}

CHARLIE H. — DESK CLERK

Stray Kids
ATE
(2024)
My younger sibling got me hooked on this group over the past year, and I especially enjoyed their latest mini-album, ATE. Stray Kids loves to play with and blend all sorts of genres, and it’s always a fun and unique listening experience. My favorite track is probably "Jjam," which features some wild—and sticky—dub / glitch-hop / drum 'n' bass sounds. {AADL}

Stray Kids
Christmas EveL
(2017)
If you’re looking for something new this holiday season, check out this single album! The title track, "Christmas EveL," isn't your typical holiday jam—it's all about how much the snow and cold suck—but it's got such a great beat and a fantastic breakdown remix of "Feliz Navidad" you can't help but dance around to it. The music video for it is very silly, and I highly recommend looking it up! {YouTube} "Winter Falls" is also a real standout, and, as a pop ballad, it's quite different from Stray Kids’ usual sound. They really show off their vocals with some beautiful harmonizing and melancholy lyrics. {AADL}

CRYSTA C. — DESK CLERK

Vanessa Carlton
Heroes & Thieves
(2007)
I decided to go back and catch up on the albums of singers that I liked but whose careers I never followed. As part of that effort, I checked out Vanessa Carlton's third album, which I found even more powerful than her second and more mature than her first. {AADL}

ZZ Ward
The Storm
(2017)
ZZ Ward's debut album, Til the Casket Drops, is one of my all-time favorite albums. Her second album contains all the same power, energy, and unique sound as the first. {AADL}

Kacey Musgraves
Same Trailer, Different Park
(2013)
I've liked random songs from Kacey Musgraves over the years, so I thought it was time to check out one of her albums. I was not disappointed. {AADL}

DANI G. — BOOKSHELVER/PROCESSOR

Triple Click
podcast
This is a video game podcast hosted by three video game reporters. I have been listening to this podcast consistently for the last few years, and I love their insight into the new AAA games coming out as well as when they find smaller indie games they love. I also enjoy that they don't always agree on everything, meaning we get more interesting discussions and a better idea of when I will like or dislike a game they are talking about. {Website}

Linkin Park
From Zero
(2024)
I have been a lover of Linkin Park music for a long time and was so excited to see them back on stage performing again. I think Emily Armstrong does an incredible job singing their older songs and I really love the new album that's just been released! If you haven't given it a try yet, I highly recommend the recording of their recent live concert as an intro to the new singer. She is such a powerhouse and does such a lovely job in honoring their music. {Spotify}

Twenty One Pilots
Clancy
(2024)
Twenty One Pilots is such a fun duo. I'm so excited to see them making music and performing again! {Spotify}

Live Laugh Larry
podcast
This podcast started as a daughter's "prank" on her dad for her YouTube channel. Essentially, she wanted to prove that you can do anything you set your mind to. But the advice and conversation between the daughter and her dad is so, so lovely and heartwarming. There are only a few episodes, and I'm not sure if they are going to continue it. I have loved listening to it and highly recommend giving it a listen—especially if you could use some strong Dad advice. {Spotify}

EILEEN W. — LIBRARY TECHNICIAN

Noah Kahan
Stick Season
(2023)
Grammy-nominated for Best New Artist. I picked up this album for its use of harmony and acoustic guitar—it's somewhere in that rock-folk-Americana area. But the reason I've been playing it in my car stereo nonstop for weeks is a combination of lyrics that sneak up on you and Noah Kahan's voice. His voice has a fullness to it coupled with an interesting edge that catches my ear in the best way possible. Kahan, who wrote or co-wrote the whole album, manages to tuck in lyrics that you don't catch on the first pass. Then on the second—or sixth—listen, you hear cutting assessments of the self ("My mouth was made for my foot to fit in it.") or astute social contemporary, and you're just like, "Yeah man, that's true." Or it's these little snippets like, "Did you know there's a coffin buried under the garden / It was there when we got here," and I'm like, "Whoa, wait. Unpack that!" But it just floats by and it's tucked in to lead up to some other idea. In a different song by another artist, that would be the whole song. I could stop someday and Google the lyrics, but discovering these piecemeal prizes while listening is a wonderful gift. Couple that with this interesting, subtle edge to Kahan's voice, and I can—and have—listened to him sing for days. {AADL}

ELI — LIBRARY DIRECTOR

Ginger Root
Shinbangumi
(2024)
Multitalented wunderkind Cameron Lew's new album for Ghostly is a retro upbeat delight. With a little taste of my all-time fav Pizzicato Five and reminiscent of Vulfpeck's Sky Mall, every track on this record is a winner. And the videos are great, too. {Spotify}

ELIZABETH S. — LIBRARY TECHNICIAN

Please hold while I list almost every new song Lil Nas X (aka Montero Hill) released this year:

Lil Nas X
“J Christ”
(2024)
This song offended a lot of people. The only thing I was offended by is that no one talked about how amazing his strut at the beginning of the video is. HELLO? {Spotify}

Lil Nas X
“Lean on My Body”
(2024)
The moment I saw the treadmill video YEARS AGO, I knew this would be THE song. IYKYK. {YouTube}

Lil Nas X
“Right There”
(2024)
{YouTube}

Lil Nas X
"Here We Go"
(2024)
From Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, what an absolute BOP. {Spotify}

Lil Nas X
“Need Dat Boy”
(2024)
This song encapsulates the moody vibe of his breakout album, but with an added “Je ne sais quoi” when he switches the entire vibe of the song at the end. Best queer artist PERIOD. {Spotify}

Something Corporate
“Watch the Sky”
(2010)
I forgot this song existed! I took my 15-year-old self into a warm embrace and paid for a ticket to their reunion tour—and WOW— what a ride. A sea of women my age with their arms outstretched in a fit of reverence reserved for the pulpit and a grown man crying tears of joy during “Only Ashes.” You can’t make this up, folks. {Spotify}

ELLEN L. — DESK CLERK

Tyler Childers
Purgatory
(2017)
{AADL} {Spotify}

Indigo De Souza
All of This Will End
(2023)
{AADL} {Spotify} {Bandcamp}

Mommy Long Legs
Life Rips
(2015)
{Spotify} {Bandcamp}

EMILY M. — LIBRARIAN

Sammy Rae & The Friends
Something for Everybody
(2024)
This retro-pop/soul group with a strong female singer makes me feel warm just listening to them! I've been following Sammy Rae since before "The Friends" and am thrilled to say her music continues to develop into something I love more and more. {Bandcamp}{Spotify}

HALEY Y. — DESK CLERK

Heriot
Devoured by the Mouth of Hell
(2024)
Top of my list this year: Heriot. Hands down. This U.K. metalcore band—led by super-talented vocalist/guitarist Debbie Gough—seamlessly jumps from genre to genre in Devoured by the Mouth of Hell. You'll hear death, black, and sludge metal, ambient, industrial, and more. The band has cited influences ranging from Slayer to Billie Eilish. It is, to say the least, a ride. Check out tracks "Harm Sequence" and "Visage." {Spotify}

Lambrini Girls
You're Welcome EP
"Company Culture"
(2023) (2024)
I deeply regret not going to see the U.K. punk band Lambrini Girls when they came to Detroit with Amyl and the Sniffers earlier this year. In the EP and singles that they've recently released, they directly confront misogyny and sexism, trans-exclusionary radical feminists (TERFs), and toxic masculinity. I've loved everything I've heard from them, and I'm super excited about their debut album, Who Let the Dogs Out, which will be released next year. {Spotify}

IDLES
TANGK
(2024)
TANGK is pretty different from IDLES' previous releases. It's a little more pop-influenced and a little softer than I expected. But its message of "all is love and love is all" is a beautiful thing to come from a punk band. Vocalist Joe Talbot said that he wanted to create an album that gave his listeners the love that he needs, and this album does just that. {Spotify} {Bandcamp}

Future Islands
People Who Aren't There Anymore
(2024)
I used to describe this band as a "guilty pleasure" of mine, but no more. This synth-pop band has my heart. Vocalist Samuel T. Herring's rough voice and melancholic lyrics contrast perfectly with the band's upbeat pop instrumentals. This album speaks to how life can be extremely tough but also extremely beautiful. {AADL} {Spotify} {Bandcamp}

ISH. H. — BOOKSHELVER/PROCESSOR

The Midnight Boys
podcast (for adults)
(2021)
The Midnight Boys are a group of friends, a majority of them Black men, who come together to give their takes on new superhero movies and shows. They are funny, insightful, and—pew, pew—don't shy away from difficult questions or sharing their opinions. Listen long enough and you feel like one of the crew, sharing in on long-running jokes and continuing discussions from week to week. Their themed drafts are also always a delight to listen to. If you are into comics, fandom, or nerddom, and want a laugh, then this is a fun show to listen to. {Apple Podcasts} {Spotify}

House of R
podcast (for adults)
(2021)
Do you ever love something so much that you just want to talk about it until you can't talk anymore? Or dive into the deep end exploring themes, lore, and execution behind your beloved media? If you do, and that media has to do with epic fantasy, sci-fi, or superheroes, then this is the show for you. Joanna and Mallory do the research and their enthusiasm is endless and infectious. It's just the balm you need to ease into the wait for the next episode, season, or movie. {Apple Podcasts} {Spotify}

JOE K. — BOOKSHELVER/PROCESSOR

Kendrick Lamar
GNX
(2024)
I really like this album and all of the singles he released earlier in the year as well. The one and only GOAT. My favorite tracks are: “Wacced Out Murals,” “Luther,” “Reincarnated,” and “Gloria.” {YouTube}{Spotify}

Jungle
Volcano
(2023)
I found this album when it was recommended to me on YouTube in the form of a full-length motion picture. Each song is accompanied by an incredibly choreographed dance that's performed by top dancers. It's funky and groovy. It's "alternative indie-dance electric." My favorite tracks are: "Us Against the World," "I've Been in Love," and "Good at Breaking Hearts." {AADL} {YouTube}

Kneecap
Fine Art
(2024)
Kneecap is an Irish hip-hop rap trio that performs their songs in a mix of Irish and English. My favorite tracks are: "Fine Art," "I'm Flush," and "Harrow Road." {YouTube} {Spotify} {Bandcamp}

Bakar
Halo
(2023)
Halo is a great album to relax/study to. My favorite tracks are: "Alive!," "Right Here, For Now," and "Hell N Back." {YouTube} {Spotify} {Bandcamp}

Charli XCX
Brat
(2024)
DUH. Favorite tracks: "Sympathy Is a Knife," "Von Dutch," and "Girl, So Confusing." {AADL}{Spotify}

JOSH H. — DESK CLERK

Sherlock & Co.
podcast
It’s practically a requirement in my family to love Sherlock Holmes. I’ve read all the originals, watched Rathbone’s films and the Granada TV series along with any other ones I could get my hands on—including, somewhat unfortunately, the BBC Sherlock series—and played The Great Ace Attorney games featuring Herlock Sholmes. Having been burned a few times, I was nervous to start Sherlock & Co. but man, there was no reason to be. The perfect translation for Watson’s journal entries into the modern world is a podcast, and it absolutely nails the Sherlock Holmes episodic format intended to make it easy to start anywhere. The personalities and dynamics of Watson, Sherlock, and Mariana—who works for landlady Mrs. Hudson— are very well-written and add a fresh take while remaining true to the original character cores. {Spotify}

Big Thief
Vampire Empire
(2023)
I don’t really have anything to add here—except that if you’re dealing with relationship drama and want to scream about it—this is a pretty good song to yell to. If you enjoy it, be sure to check out the four albums of theirs we have in our catalog! {YouTube} {AADL}

Christopher Larkin
Hollow Knight: Original Soundtrack
(2017)
I love Hollow Knight, and it’s a great game, but at least a third of that is because of the amazing music. I like to throw it on to relax and read a book or work on a puzzle. Nothing says cozy like listening to “Sealed Vessel” for the trillionth time and reminiscing about a heartbreaking boss battle I genuinely cried through. {Spotify}

The Crane Wives
Beyond Beyond Beyond
(2024)
I’m no good at describing songs or music. I swear I have thoughts about Beyond Beyond Beyond, but it’s never going to leave my head in a way that makes sense. My favorites off the album are: “Bitter Medicine,” “Black Hole Fantasy,” “Time Will Change You,” and “Arcturus Beaming.” I like the band's immersive lyricism and fantastic instrumentals. Plus, the lead singer always puts her all into the vocals. {Spotify}

IKALANNI J. — DESK CLERK

The Crane Wives
Beyond, Beyond, Beyond
(2024)
This new album by The Crane Wives has some of the most captivating music about life lessons of love, sorrow, self-sabotage, and growth from the wreckage. I've had it on repeat all year. The intricate layering of string instruments and percussion ground the vocalists in a sort of melancholy that drives you further into their stories of the wild and tangible storms—both in the physical world and in ourselves. Motifs from every song make appearances throughout each piece of music seamlessly. You only start to notice them on the third listen of the album, giving insight into just how talented these musicians are. This band has come a long way since their 2010s humble beginnings in Grand Rapids. They've been experimenting in different genres and blending their elements together in a unique sound that belongs to only them. I think this album is one of their greatest pieces of work yet. {Spotify}

Nothing but Thieves
Moral Panic (The Complete Edition)
(2021)
Following this band for several years now, it is astonishing how Nothing but Thieves has been able to capture many of our societal issues and transform them into a 16-song album that's full of force in the midst of the pandemic. The band highlights the existential dread of human existence in a digital-first world that's teetering on a social collapse and weaves that theme throughout every song. They place emphasis on how we consume and who we put in positions of power as a way of reflecting the world back onto us. This band has always had an alternative edge to them, but this album digs deep into their fast-paced rock and metal influences to build a strong foundation for intense vocals and very intricate electric guitar work. They have worked hard to build an audience outside of the U.K. since their 2015 debut—and needless to say—they have gained a dedicated fan base all over the world. {Spotify}

Hiatus Kaiyote
Mood Valiant
(2021)
Nominated for a Grammy Award in 2022, this album by Hiatus Kaiyote is among one of my favorite jazz and R&B works to date. This third album is a sympathetic reminder of the slow decay we face along with the planet and how life and all of its joy can and will persevere despite it all. Working through her own health crisis and dealing with loss during the pandemic, lead singer Nai Palm vocals gracefully float above the drums and brass. They also almost remind me of a sunset amidst a wave of contentment. It's the band's funk-inspired sound that keeps you bumping on your feet and prompts you to be present in the moment while absorbing elements of subdued neo-soul. This album is an excellent example of how you can combine so many moving parts and still come out with a cohesive sound that's as smooth as velvet. {AADL}{Spotify}

Anaïs Mitchell
Hadestown
(2006, 2019)
I have been obsessed with this album since discovering Anaïs Mitchell's perpetually ever-changing musical theater album in 2017. She has dedicated years of her time and artistry to cultivating one of the most imaginative versions of old Greek mythology centered on Orpheus and Eurydice. She's transformed it into a tragic love story set in an industrial postmodern world ravished by the decaying ancient marriage of Hades and Persephone—all narrated by the messenger god Hermes. The Broadway show touches on the power struggle between socioeconomic classes and concepts of losing yourself while trying to save something else. The theme of devotion teeters between too much and too little, and every song takes us through a different character working through it in their own way. It's showcased onstage through indie-folk, blues, and ragtime grooves. The directive team also does a great job with their casting, often giving diverse and upcoming artists the spotlight whenever possible. {AADL} {Website} {Spotify}

JOHN B. — LIBRARIAN

Mdou Moctar
Funeral for Justice
(2024)
After the 2006 passing of Ali Farka Toure, I needed a new guitarist to fill the void he left behind. This album fulfills that and more. Mdou Moctar’s Funeral for Justice gives me my Ali Farka Toure, John Lee Hooker, Jimi Hendrix, and Eddie Hazel fix in one complete album. I find it best played loudly! {AADL}{Spotify}

LOREN B. — DESK CLERK

Cindy Lee
Diamond Jubilee
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Time Wharp
Live Online
(2020)
{Bandcamp}

Sasami
"Slugger"
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

NIKO K. – BOOK PRO

Montaigne
“Talking Shit”
(2024)
{Spotify}

Lucy Dacus
“Best Guess”
(2024)
A song that made me immediately burst into tears. {YouTube}

Poppy
Negative Spaces
(2024)
I really like this album. {Spotify}

LORI STRATTON — LIBRARY TECHNICIAN | PULP

Athletic Mic League
"Made History"
(2024)
Ann Arbor hip-hop group Athletic Mic League is celebrating its contributions and legacy with a new track called "Made History." Commissioned to write and record the track for the Ann Arbor District Library's Ann Arbor 200 bicentennial project, Athletic Mic League also pays homage to Washtenaw County hip-hop and Black history in Ann Arbor. On "Made History," Jamall "Buff1" Bufford, Trés Styles, Vaughan Taylor, and Mayer Hawthorne explore those milestones through nostalgic lyrics and local references over a chill beat. Read our interview with Bufford here. {AADL}

Annie Bacon & Her Oshen
Storm
(2024)
When it comes to grief, Annie Bacon doesn’t want people to feel alone. The Ann Arbor singer-songwriter and guitarist views it as a shared emotion that fosters connection and growth with others. Bacon masters that honest songwriting approach and explores grief in all its forms on her latest folk-rock album, Storm. The record’s 14 poignant tracks take listeners on an emotional odyssey through death, divorce, job changes, the pandemic, and a loss of identity. Bacon conveys all of that evocative lyrics and cathartic instrumentation on Storm. Key tracks include: “Secret Broken Heart,” “Mist,” “California Heat,” “Walk a Little Farther,” “Alone With Grief,” and “Worry.” Read our past interview with Bacon here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Hannah Baiardi
Phoenix
(2024)
For Hannah Baiardi, Phoenix represents a bold spiritual awakening. The Ann Arbor singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer chronicles a personal transformation while encountering unrequited love on her latest sophisti-pop album. In her musical realm, Baiardi easily converts that inspiration into a mesmerizing concept album filled with intimate lyrics, cathartic instrumentation, and soulful vocals. The dozen tracks featured on Phoenix explore the cycle of a potential relationship and the powerful emotions that accompany it. Standout tracks include: “Introduction,” “Twin Flame,” “Possessed,” “What Did You Do to Me,” “Invitation,” “Ring Meets the Rock,” and “This is Goodbye.” Check out our past interview with Baiardi here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Jim Bizer
About Time
(2024)
After two decades, Jim Bizer realized it was time to release a new solo record. The Dexter singer-songwriter hadn’t focused on his own album since 2004’s Connected and had spent ample time working on several collaborative projects, including a duo with Jan Krist and groups The Yellow Room Gang, Diamonds in the Rust, and Floyd King and The Bushwackers. Even as he worked on different projects, Bizer’s songs for About Time started brewing in 2005, and they began accumulating. He eventually landed on 13 tracks for his third solo album and noticed a theme of time had emerged. On About Time, Bizer brings that theme to life through evocative lyrics and soundtracks it with earnest folk instrumentation. Favorite tracks include: “Driving Me Sane,” “My Best Friend,” “Man in Your Life,” “Animal Husbandry,” “Midnight Girl,” and “Bitchin’ and Moanin’.” Learn more from our past interview with Bizer here. {Spotify}

Annie and Rod Capps
Love and Rain
(2023)
Chelsea’s Annie and Rod Capps weather life’s sunny and stormy moments together on Love and Rain. Those moments also serve as lighthearted and serious reminders about gratitude on the married duo’s latest album. The Capps demonstrate that mindset personally and professionally on Love and Rain, which features 10 tracks filled with perceptive lyrics, vibrant Americana instrumentation, and rich harmonies. Standout tracks include: “Mr. Crow,” “Old Spice & Patchouli,” “Bell Bottoms & Leather,” a Cajun-inspired rendition of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ “Louisiana Rain,” and “Love Comes Round.” Read our past interview with the duo here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Jim Cherewick
Good News
(2024)
Ypsilanti singer-songwriter/visual artist Jim Cherewick finds fleeting moments of catharsis and gratitude on Good News. The album’s eight tracks reflect the harsh realities of everyday life and yearn for an escape from drudgery, disappointment, and uncertainty. On Good News, Cherewick shares honest and insightful lyrics against a backdrop of folky instrumentation and electronic textures on his first “real” album—as he likes to call it. Noteworthy tracks include: “Frosting on Fire,” “Blue Lake,” “Death Wagon,” and “Bad Noose.” Check out our past interview with Cherewick here. {Bandcamp}{Spotify}

The Dirty ‘Ol Men
Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled
(2024)
Three members of the hip-hop collective The Dirty Ol’ Men died unexpectedly in 2021. The grieving remaining members channeled their emotions and experiences into writing and recording a cathartic album, Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled, during The Dirty Ol’ Men’s annual retreat two years later. What resulted are 10 compelling boom-bap tracks from 20 members, producers, and collaborators of the hip-hop collective—which includes several Washtenaw County and Detroit artists: Quentin Barrett, London Beck, Boog Brown, Buff1, F13ldz, Finale, Kopelli, Mr. P-Dro, Queso Tone, Beretta Shells, JB Swift, Where She Creep, and Rod Wallace. The songs on Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled feature insightful rhymes, emotive beats, and candid spoken-word segments about survival, growth, and legacy. Standout tracks include: “Zero Noize,” “Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled,” “Lifewater,” “The Basement,” “Good Vibes Only,” “Driver’s Seat,” and “If I Die.” Check out our past interview with Rod Wallace of The Dirty ‘Ol Men here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

DuPont Phillips
Big Sky Sessions
(2024)
Ypsilanti singer-songwriters Chris DuPont and Kylee Phillips decided a joint EP was long overdue. After several years of performing and recording together, they pooled their talents, catalogs, and influences to form DuPont Phillips and release Big Sky Sessions. DuPont Phillips reimagined three tracks from prior solo releases and recorded two renditions of Sheryl Crow (“Strong Enough”) and Jason Isbell (“If We Were Vampires”) classics along with a new song. The duo’s collaborative efforts resulted in an intimate folk-pop EP filled with stripped-down instrumentation, emotive duets, and lush harmonies. Killer tracks include: “Carole King,” “Long Time Coming,” “Sandpaper Hymn,” and “Scared With You.” Read our past interview with DuPont Phillips here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Fangs and Twang
You Monster
(2023)
After years of writing about monsters, Fangs and Twang didn’t expect to find them in human form. The country-rock trio of Billy LaLonde, Andy Benes, and Joe Bertoletti discovered some people started spreading monstrous misinformation at the height of the pandemic. In response, the Ypsilanti band channeled that disbelief into “You Monster,” the title track from its fourth album of the same name. The title track also lays the groundwork thematically for the horrors and delights Fangs and Twang uncovers on You Monster. The album’s 11 tracks explore the quirky adventures of Michigan creatures and out-of-state beasts through catchy, mythical lyrics and timeless country-rock, power-pop, and folk instrumentation. Monstrously good tracks include: “Mermaids in the Bay,” “LunaTick,” “Seger Snowman,” “Melonhead,” and a rendition of Ween’s “Ocean Man.” Check out our past interview with the band here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Frontier Ruckus
On the Northline
(2024)
Frontier Ruckus explores feelings related to aging and the passage of time on its latest folk-rock album, On the Northline. The Detroit-Ypsilanti trio of Matthew Milia, David Jones, and Zachary Nichols engages in deep soul-searching across the album’s dozen tracks. Contemplative lyrics, vivid suburban imagery, and wistful Americana, country, and jazz-inspired instrumentation encourage listeners to ponder their life trajectories. Key tracks include “Swore I Had a Friend,” “On the Northline,” “Mercury Sable,” “Clarkston Pasture,” “Bloomfield Marriott,” and “Wherefore.” Check out our past interview with the band here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Mike Green
Listening for the Bell
(2023)
Ann Arbor’s Mike Green ruminated for years about how to share his life experiences through songs. What resulted are 12 insightful tales for his debut album, Listening for the Bell, which explores the ups and downs of following your instincts. The folk singer-songwriter, guitarist, and booking agent vocalizes his thoughts about life choices and lessons through reflective lyrics and relatable stories. Listeners easily connect with the album's universal subject matter and earnest folk instrumentation. Favorite tracks include: “Cracks,” “Forgiveness,” “The Last Dance,” “Listening for the Bell,” and “The Darwin Prize.” Read our past interview with Green here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Evan Haywood
Canterbury Tales
(2024)
Evan Haywood digs into his musical archives and shares 12 live recordings from 2014-2018 on Canterbury Tales. The Ann Arbor producer, musician, songwriter, rapper, visual artist, filmmaker, and digital archivist includes excerpts from performances at Canterbury House, the River Street Anthology project, and a full-band show at Third Man Records. While the performances were recorded by Fred Thomas, Matt Jones, and Chris Koltay, Haywood spent a decade working on the mixes to prepare them for an official release. Standout tracks include: “You Can’t Hustle Time,” “Catamaran,” “Wellesleyan Rain,” and “Do Right By My Kin.” Learn more from our past interview with Haywood here. {Bandcamp}{Spotify}

Darrin James
See Right Through
(2024)
Ann Arbor singer-songwriter and producer Darrin James shares honest and vulnerable stories about marriage, family, death, and uncertainty on See Right Through. On his fourth full-length release, James reveals a gamut of emotions ranging from gratitude to joy to grief to hopelessness across seven tracks. Those raw feelings come to life through the album’s personal lyrics, heartfelt roots-rock instrumentation, and dreamy synth and horn textures. Be sure to give “When You’re With Me,” “Born for One Love,” “Old Friends,” and “Slips Away” a listen. Read our past interview with James here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Cece June
How Did This Get So Heavy?
(2024)
New York City singer-songwriter Cece June processes a variety of feelings—from heartbreak to frustration to hope—about unclosed chapters on her latest indie-folk EP, How Did This Get So Heavy? The University of Michigan alumna, who hails from Barcelona, Spain, faces her emotions head-on and looks to the future on her sophomore release, which features cathartic lyrics and wistful stripped-down instrumentation. Noteworthy tracks include: “Coffee Turned Cold,” “Things Unsaid,” “Tiempo—Samu’s Version,” and “Born Again.” Read our past interview with June here. {Spotify}

Moonwreckers
Why Look Here?
(2023)
After encountering heartbreak and grief, Moonwreckers understands the importance of feeling seen and validated. The Metro Detroit-Ann Arbor quartet of Matt Galbraith (vocals, guitar), Matt Konkle (drums), Paul Stiem (guitar), and Jamus Sumner (bass, vocals) explores that emotional need and its evolution across 12 tracks on the album, Why Look Here?. The record’s honest lyrics, plaintive vocals, and evocative instrumentation prompt listeners to process their emotions and struggles alongside the band. Key tracks include: “Coping,” “Let Go,” “May Grays,” “Golden Coast,” “I Need to Hear It,” and “Wake the Fuck Up.” Learn more from our past interview with Moonwreckers here. {Spotify}

Sophia Orensteen
AmericanGirl
(2024)
While pop-rock singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Sophia Orensteen hails from New York City, she’s ecstatic about attending the University of Michigan this year as a freshman. So much in fact that Orensteen wrote a song called “Michigan,” which pays homage to the school and serves as the aspirational opener from her debut album, AmericanGirl. “Michigan” is one of 13 coming-of-age tracks featured on the album and it sets the scene for a young woman’s experiences with the cycle of relationships. The album also includes introspective lyrics about life and love along with spirited pop-rock and pop-punk instrumentation. Standout tracks include: “Michigan,” “I’m Sorry,” “Blue Eyes, “Love U Only,” “The Girl You Love,” and “Dead Memories.” Check out our past interview with Orensteen here. {Spotify}

Pia the Band
Getting Better
(2024)
Pia-Allison Roa makes an honest self-assessment on her Getting Better EP. The Detroit singer-songwriter who performs as pia the band recognizes the importance of re-evaluating life plans and priorities and making changes along the way. As part of that process, pia the band examines past situations and relationships through contemplative lyrics and ethereal indie-rock, dream-pop, and shoegaze-folk instrumentation. All four of the EP’s tracks—“Patient,” “First Place,” “I Have Everything,” and “To Be”—are strong and memorable. Learn more about pia the band and Getting Better through our past interview here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Gastón Reggio
Michigan
(2024)
For Gastón Reggio, Michigan represents the ideal name for his second full-length album. The Uruguayan jazz composer and multi-instrumentalist penned most of the album’s eight tracks while living in Ann Arbor and wanted to capture those experiences from 2019-2021. On Michigan, Reggio, who previously drummed with Chirp and is now based in Durham, North Carolina, chronicles an inspirational sonic journey filled with jazz, prog rock, and world music influences. The album starts in the Great Lakes state and whisks listeners across the Appalachians to find new musical adventures in North Carolina. Key tracks include: “Michigan,” “Ya no verás,” “Crossing the Appalachians,” and “The Strings We Attach.” Learn more from our past interview with Reggio here. {Spotify}

Jo Serrapere
The Beautiful Ones, Volume I and Volume II
(2024)
Despite life’s obstacles, Jo Serrapere sees the beauty in herself and the world around her. The Dearborn singer-songwriter shares that hopeful mindset on her latest double album, The Beautiful Ones, Volume I and Volume II. Serrapere includes 22 tracks that explore her emotional struggles and the growth she’s experienced along the way. Those personal reflections also prompted her to take a more autobiographical approach to songwriting for the album. In addition to that approach, she features a variety of genres—including folk, blues, rock, and country—along with honest lyrics and emotive instrumentation on The Beautiful Ones, Volume I and Volume II. Noteworthy tracks include: “Don’t You Know Who You Are?”, “The Beautiful Ones,” “The Deeper Part,” “With Your Eyes Closed,” “Let Your Dirty Ride,” and “This World is Gonna Break Your Heart.” Learn more from our past interview with Serrapere here. {Bandcamp}{Bandcamp}{Spotify}{Spotify}

Michael Skib
This Bewitching Season
(2024)
Ann Arbor singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Michael Skib chronicles a spiritual quest on This Bewitching Season. Filled with hypnotic sounds of prog rock, heavy metal, and shoegaze, the album represents an internal struggle between light and darkness. Skib’s candid lyrics, ethereal vocals, and fearless instrumentation entice listeners to vicariously accompany him on his journey. Stellar tracks include: “This Bewitching Season,” “Heaven’s Light,” “07/07/2020,” “This Fire,” “12/23/2021,” and “Xenolith.” Learn more by reading our past interview with Skib here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Kat Steih
I Am Not My Self
(2024)
Ann Arbor singer-songwriter Kat Steih takes a bold look beneath the surface on I Am Not My Self. That deep examination reveals the challenges people often face with presenting one persona externally while wrestling with another self internally. Steih explores that theme on the EP’s title track and five other tracks bursting with honest lyrics and emotive new-wave, hard-rock, and pop-punk instrumentation. Killer songs include: “Secrets,” “I Am Not My Self,” “Take Me,” and “Alone.” Learn more by reading our past interview with Steih here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

VAZUM
Western Violence
(2024)
Jackson’s VAZUM didn’t expect a Western film to inspire the title of the latest 12-track album. The doomgaze duo of Zach Pliska (vocals, guitars, drums) and Emily Sturm (vocals, bass) stumbled upon the phrase “Western Violence” while watching The Quick and The Dead. On Western Violence, VAZUM reflects on the disintegration and disillusionment of our country and provides a social commentary on the personal, cultural, and political events that impact it. As part of that perspective, VAZUM brings Western Violence’s themes to life through vigilant lyrics, ethereal vocals, and spellbinding instrumentation filled with goth-rock, post-punk, and shoegaze elements. Standout tracks include: “Western Violence,” “Breach,” “Stellium,” “Blush,” and “Nightshade.” Check out our interview with the duo here. {Bandcamp}{Spotify}

The Whiskey Charmers
Streetlights
(2024)
The Whiskey Charmers often find creative inspiration in a dream. The Detroit duo of Carrie Shepard (vocals, acoustic guitar) and Lawrence Daversa (electric guitar, backing vocals) took that route while writing the title track for their latest alt-country album, Streetlights. The Whiskey Charmers continue to carry that mysterious vibe across the other 10 tracks for Streetlights, which include perceptive lyrics, vivid electric guitars, and timeless country instrumentation. The album’s tracks also focus on tales of change and examine different emotions that arise when relationships, situations, or experiences take an unexpected turn. Favorite tracks include: “There’s Black,” “Streetlights,” “Black Ridge Cave,” “Little Green Man,” “Time Bomb,” and “New Song for Sale.” Read our past interview with the duo here. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

MATT G. — PRODUCTION TECHNICIAN

In lieu of trying to sum up my thoughts on each one of these records, I'll just say this: I love heavy music, and 2024 was an exceptional year for nearly every subgenre that falls under that moniker. Everything you see in this list is something that I listened to at least a dozen times—or WAY more, in the case of my top four picks—and you probably should too if you like riffs!

Crypt Sermon 
The Stygian Rose
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Blood Incantation
Absolute Elsewhere
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Necrot
Lifeless Birth
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Mayhemic
Toba
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Undeath
More Insane
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Tribulation
Sub Rosa in Aeternum
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Nails
Every Bridge Burning
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

John Carpenter
Lost Themes IV
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Cavalera Conspiracy
Schizophrenia
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Judas Priest
Invincible Shield
(2024)
{YouTube}

Ghoul
Noxious Concoctions
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Vulture
Sentinels
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Umbra Vitae
Light of Death
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Defeated Sanity
Chronicles of Lunacy
(2024)
{YouTube}

Nile
The Underworld Awaits Us All
(2024)
{Bandcamp}

Swami and the Bed of Nails
All of This Awaits You
(2024)
{YouTube}

Jerry Cantrell
I Want Blood
(2024)
{YouTube}

PETE P. — LIBRARY TECHNICIAN

Kamasi Washington
Fearless Movement
(2024)
A powerful and sheer musical force, Kamasi Washington's work is delicately balanced with peaceful vocals and melodies that keep drawing me in and calling me back. I’m a sucker for artists who spark a movement through their pure belief, especially when it’s rooted in peace and collaboration.

Fearless Movement embodies that spirit perfectly. With his ever-growing group of virtuosic co-conspirators, Washington continues to captivate me on his musical journey. The album pulls from an expansive range of sonic influences, solidifying Washington’s role as a cornerstone of neo-fusion jazz. The album’s richness comes not only from his longtime bandmates but also from an impressive lineup of guest artists, including George Clinton, Thundercat, and André 3000.

None of Washington’s albums work as background music, and this one is no exception. The intricate layers, rhythms, and harmonies are so compelling they demand your full attention. If this is your first Washington album, then give it at least three listens before forming an opinion. You’ll uncover new nuances each time.

The last track, "Prologue," is my personal favorite. The rhythm section plays a drum and bass groove, somehow creating space for each musician to solo. The song’s crescendos offer a glimpse into what a Washington concert is like, making it a perfect closer for an album that refuses to be ignored. {Spotify}

Billy Strings
Highway Prayers
(2024)
Michigander Billy Strings may have crafted his defining masterpiece with Highway Prayers. I’m captivated by his old-timey lyrical choices and unique phrasing that's so distinct from my own. It’s astonishing how he structures his songs with such authenticity in today’s modern world.

If you only have time for two songs from this album, then make it "Gild the Lily" and "Richard Petty." "Gild the Lily" feels destined to become a standard—the kind of ballad you’ll hear on soundtracks across genres. It’s a gorgeous, introspective piece that highlights how deeply reflective this “outlaw bluegrass” artist can be. Meanwhile, "Richard Petty" is a brand-new take on the timeless “down-and-out” song, yet it feels like a classic that’s been with us forever. It’s a testament to Strings’ genius for pushing bluegrass forward while honoring its roots. {Spotify}

PHOEBE H. — DESK CLERK

NCT Dream
"Unknown"
(2024)
This is a song off their DREAMSCAPE album, which I also loved. But this song in particular has a specific feel and is about being strong and not giving up. It did a lot for me in a very important part of my year. {Spotify} {YouTube}

Jamila Woods
"Tiny Garden"
(2023)
I had this song on repeat for DAYS. {Spotify} {YouTube}

Enhypen
Romance: Untold
(2024)
Um, stan Enhypen? They never miss. {Spotify}

Keshi
Requiem
(2024)
Keshi is one of my favorite artists, and his new album shows that he just keeps getting better. It’s giving rock/electronic/sad boy vibes. {Spotify}

Baekhyun
Hello, World
(2024)
Specifically, the banger that is "Pineapple Slice." {Spotify} {YouTube}

NCT DREAM
DREAMSCAPE
(2024)
I don’t know why the two albums they released this year have basically identical titles, but they’re very different. This one is very fun and dancey with some retro vibes. {Spotify}

REENA P. — DESK CLERK

Underscores
Wallsocket (Director's Cut)
(2024)
Producer Underscores melds styles and genres in Wallsocket, a riotous concept album about a fictional Michigan town. Oscillating between driving dance tracks, slow emo lyrics, lengthy narrative ballads, and at one point a country stomp break, it feels like April Harper Gray is bursting at the seams to accommodate her creative ambitions. The bigger spectacles of the album, "Johnny Johnny Johnny" and "Old Money B****," are characterized by dense electronic beats, but the DNA of both punk-pop and horror movies are very present throughout the production. Although many albums have commented on the malaise of Midwest suburban life, Wallsocket intimately grasps a captivating, nuanced world and its inhabitants with the post-ironic treatment they deserve. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

Stan Rogers
The Very Best of Stan Rogers
(2011)
Canadian folk singer Stan Rogers' posthumously released compilation album collects some of his finest works for a 21st-century audience. Born before his time, I nevertheless have found solace and wonder in his renditions of shanties, ballads, and tunes. Stan has a fantastically rich and authentic voice and sings and performs with gravity and panache. It is a great tragedy that he passed so young. {Bandcamp} {Spotify}

RICH RETYI — COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER

Charley Crockett
Various albums and songs
I’ll stump for Charley Crockett until they give him the key to the city in his hometown of San Benito, Texas. Oh, wait. They did! And still, here I am!

We went to Nashville this fall to see Charley Crockett at the Ryman. I think I’ve seen him in concert five times now? He’s pretty traditional country, tours 320 days a year (no joke, this guy is constantly on the road), and releases a new album every year. Sometimes two! I like him. The kids like him. YOU'LL LIKE HIM! {Website} {AADL} {Spotify}

ROOSEVELT R. — DESK CLERK

They Might Be Giants
Mink Car
(2001)
{AADL} {Spotify}

SHERLONYA ZOBEL — DEPUTY DIRECTOR

Trashy Divorces
podcast
I don't feel good about liking this podcast (or maybe it's more of a look-around-before-you-say-the-podcast-name sort of feeling), but the ears want what the ears want? This podcast, which takes a tour through the divorces of famous people, speaks to me because it really brings larger-than-life figures down to earth. {Website}

Dinner Party History
podcast
I don't know why the Internet keeps leading me to Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, but it does. On one such occasion, I encountered the Dinner Party History podcast and then proceeded to binge the whole series. Fatou and Maz have a fun and casual approach to history and they always answer the question of whether they'd invite the subject of the episode to a dinner party. {Spotify}

Relax With Animal Facts
podcast
With a preschooler at home, it can be a challenge to find content that is appropriate for all parties. Relax With Animal Facts is a podcast that we use at bedtime. I'm sure that I'm the family member who has actually stayed awake for the least amount of time listening to it, but my little one has learned a thing or two. {Website}

Scumbags of History
podcast
Brittany Schmitt and Mateen Stewart describe their show better than I would: "Join us as we dig through the dirty laundry of figures that society has historically put on a pedestal." This is a great listen if you need to cringe and or laugh. {Website}

TOBY Z. — LIBRARY TECHNICIAN

Kendrick Lamar
GNX
(2024)
This year was a banner year to be a Kendrick Lamar fan. First, in March Canadian rapper Drake made the unwise decision to begin a very public beef with the Compton, California hip-hop artist. With a flurry of perfectly timed releases, Lamar cemented himself as this generation’s greatest rapper. “Not Like Us” quickly became the song of the summer and was followed by a video. In late November, Lamar released his sixth studio album GNX. This album has everything: beats from veteran producers Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, and, of course, MUSTARD! Multiple features from R&B star SZA, among others. And of course, there's Lamar’s thought-provoking words and inimitable delivery. Favorite tracks: “Reincarnated” and “GNX.” {Spotify}

ALLISON J. — LIBRARY TECHNICIAN

Blackpink in 2024:

Honestly, this was kind of a quiet year for Blackpink up until the last few months. After completing their year-long tour at the end of 2023, the girls renewed their group contract but decided to take one year to pursue their solo goals before returning as a group—hopefully, in 2025! Literally the only time we saw the girls together this year was for their eighth anniversary live on Weverse. 

Lisa released solo material first, with singles "Rockstar," "New Woman," a collaboration with Rosalia that also happens to be one of my favorite songs of the year, and "Moonlit Floor." She headlined the Le gala des Pièces jaunes charity event organized by the First Lady of France in Paris at the start of the year and followed it with performances at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, (where Lisa also won her second VMA as a solo artist—another historic win), the Global Citizen Festival, and the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show (featuring a particularly cool catwalk remix ending). Her debut solo album Alter Ego is set to release in February 2025 and she was just announced as a solo performer for Coachella 2025. Lisa is also set to make her surprise acting debut in the third season of White Lotus in 2025.

Jennie was next to release solo content with two collaborations: "Slow Motion" with Matt Champion and "Spot" with Zico. She’s also randomly showed up at their respective concerts in the past month to perform live with them. Jennie performed with Lee Hyo Ri on her show, a metaphorical passing of the baton from the first-generation It girl “Miss Korea” herself.  Her solo single "Mantra" was released in October and is such a bop! I instantly loved it and wanted more. She performed it on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, M Countdown, and Show! Music Core. Thankfully, Jennie’s debut solo album is set to drop next year as well, and she was also announced as a solo artist performing at Coachella 2025 alongside Lisa. And in the past week, Spotify Wrapped 2024 revealed that "One of the Girls"—Jennie’s song from last year’s crappy TV show The Idol—was the eighth most streamed song globally, showcasing Jennie’s staying power in the industry.  In addition to her music, Jennie also participated in the Korean Disney+ show My Name is Gabriel, a fun reality show where she tries to hide her true identity from others.

Rose’s solo activities started up within the last month, starting with an explosive and universally loved collaboration: "APT" featuring Bruno Mars. It instantly shot to the top of the charts and has yet to come down. She followed it with "Number One Girl," a song about her tortured relationship with fans and the Internet and "Toxic Til the End," a song about her two-year romantic relationship that she successfully hid from the public … until now. And Rose’s debut solo album Rosie is out now!  This means I haven’t had time to properly listen and rate it … but just know my Blackpink review for next year will likely start here! Rose was interviewed by SO many different outlets, but my favorites so far are her appearance on Hot Ones and her Buzzfeed Puppy interview.  She also performed "APT" with Youngji, who I just found out about last year and need to learn more! Side note: Youngji is a star in her own right and has a hilarious personality, which is featured on her own show where she’s recently interviewed Lisa and Jisoo.

Speaking of Jisoo, she’s been busy filming! She has several huge projects coming next year, including a starring role on Newtopia—an upcoming Korean zombie thriller series—as well as her movie debut in Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint. Jisoo was incredible in Snowdrop—available on Disney+ in the U.S.—and originally joined YG to further her acting career—not necessarily to become an idol—so I’m very excited to see her in these acting roles in 2025! She also announced her new album is coming next year, which means we’ll have so much content to look forward to in 2025! See you then!

Chappell Roan
The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess
(2023)
I have a feeling she’s going to make a lot of people’s lists this year—as she should!—so I’ll just say this: I avoided listening to this album for months because I kind of hate super popular or trendy stuff. I finally caved in June … and was instantly hooked. I LOVE Roan and I can’t believe I wasted so much time avoiding this perfect album! Her debut album is a mix of Cindy Lauper, Lady Gaga, Heart, Alanis Morissette, and Kate Bush, yet Roan undoubtedly offers unique artistry all her own. Every song is so, so good, but my favorites are "Femininomenon", "Red Wine Supernova," "Casual," "Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl," "Hot to Go," "My Kink Is Karma," "Picture You," "Kaleidoscope," "Pink Pony Club," and "Naked in Manhattan." "Pink Pony Club" in particular is one of the greatest songs of all time and will go down as an instant classic.  She also released "Good Luck, Babe!"—which recently hit a historic one billion Spotify streams—and has debuted a few new songs at live events, although she has yet to release them officially. Some of my favorite performances of hers from this year include "Good Luck, Babe!" at the 2024 MTV VMAs, her Bonnaroo set, featuring the largest Bonnaroo crowd… ever?, and her Tiny Desk concert. I also really hope that other folks like this video as much as I do! {AADL} {Spotify}

What Scares Us
podcast
Amanda, Matt, Christopher, and I continue to have a great time reviewing movies on our horror movie review podcast What Scares Us—a podcast where four friends share the horror movies that freak us out. Recent standout episodes include Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Poltergeist, When Evil Lurks, and Wes Craven’s New Nightmare, and we’ll have a brand new episode on Impetigore out soon. Join us! {Spotify} {Apple Podcasts}

More AADL Staff Picks:
➥ 2023
➥ 2022
➥ 2021
➥ 2020
➥ 2019
➥ 2018
➥ 2017
➥ 2016