As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the albums that defined the year and narrow our long list to a top ten here at Runout Record Club. We’ve been spinning records that inspired, challenged, and captivated us this year as well as choosing some of the finest albums for our curated and classic subscribers.
Here’s our definitive shortlist of the year’s best albums—each one more than worthy of a place in your vinyl collection, and if you subscribe you will have received two of these in the post ready for Christmas.
1. Dog Unit – At Home
This debut instrumental post-rock album is a masterclass in sonic storytelling.
'At Home' builds atmospheric layers of guitars and percussion that ebb and flow with cinematic grandeur. Dog Unit balances intricate arrangements with raw emotion, making this record a meditative yet dynamic listening experience.
2. Adeem The Artist – Anniversary
Adeem The Artist delivers a poignant Americana masterpiece with ‘Anniversary’. The album explores themes of love, identity, and change, weaving them into heartfelt storytelling and soulful melodies.
Tracks like “Doves in the Rearview” and “Homespun Halo” shine with intimacy and poetic charm.
3. Kublai Khan TX – Exhibition of Prowess
Heavy, relentless, and unapologetically powerful, ‘Exhibition of Prowess ‘showcases Kublai Khan TX at the peak of their hardcore prowess.
The album’s crushing riffs and visceral lyrics tackle themes of resilience and personal struggle, making it a cathartic experience for fans of the genre.
4. Kendrick Lamar – GNX
Kendrick Lamar’s ‘GNX’ cements his place as one of the greatest storytellers of our time.
This concept album dives deep into themes of generational trauma, identity, and redemption, all backed by genre-defying production. With every listen, GNX reveals new layers, making it a modern-day masterpiece.
5. Kim Gordon – The Collective
On ‘The Collective’, Kim Gordon explores a raw and experimental sound that blurs the lines between art rock and noise.
This album feels like an abstract canvas, with Gordon’s haunting vocals and jagged instrumentation creating a visceral and thought-provoking experience.
6. NewDad – Madra
Dreamy and introspective, ‘Madra’ is NewDad’s finest work yet.
Combining shoegaze-inspired textures with relatable, melancholic lyrics, the album strikes a delicate balance between light and shadow.
Standout tracks like “Glow” and “Heartsick” showcase their knack for crafting ethereal yet emotionally resonant music.
7. The Cure – Songs of a Lost World
The Cure’s long-awaited return does not disappoint. ‘Songs of a Lost World ‘is a haunting and beautifully crafted album that captures the essence of their gothic rock legacy.
With sweeping melodies and Robert Smith’s signature vocal delivery, this record feels like a melancholic embrace that fans will treasure.
8. Vince Staples – Dark Times
Vince Staples continues to push boundaries with ‘Dark Times’.
The album is a bold blend of introspection and innovation, pairing sharp lyricism with experimental beats.
Tracks like “Shadows on the Wall” and “Time Stopped” showcase Staples’ ability to combine vulnerability with undeniable swagger.
9. Clairo – Charm
Clairo’s ‘Charm’ is a stunning evolution of her indie-pop sound.
The album is filled with lush production, introspective lyrics, and an undeniable sense of vulnerability.
Tracks like “Porcelain Heart” and “Hollowed Out” highlight Clairo’s growth as an artist and her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
10. Floating Points – Cascade
Floating Points delivers another breathtaking electronic album with ‘Cascade’.
Seamlessly blending ambient textures with intricate rhythms, this record feels like a sonic journey through space and time.
It’s an album that rewards careful listening, with every detail adding to its mesmerizing complexity.
These albums represent our very best of 2024, showcasing a wide range of genres and artistry. Whether you’re into heavy-hitting hardcore, introspective singer-songwriters, or experimental electronic soundscapes, there’s something here for everyone.
What were your favourite records of the year? Let us know in the comments or on social media, and stay tuned for more great music in 2025 from Runout Record Club!
Visit www.runoutrecordclub.com to discover more curated vinyl for your collection.
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