In 2024, the electronic music scene has seen a mix of remarkable albums that captivated listeners and others that fell short of expectations. One notable observation is the polarizing reception of Aphex Twin's latest release, which left some fans feeling unengaged. This article delves into both the highs and lows of the year, highlighting standout works from Skee Mask, Aleksi Perälä, Christopher Willits, and Max Richter, as well as less favorable reactions to Röyksopp and Aphex Twin.
The Triumphs of Ambient and Experimental Sounds
This section explores the success stories of artists who have managed to craft compelling and immersive listening experiences. The ambient and experimental genres have seen significant contributions this year, with several albums standing out for their innovation and depth.
Skee Mask’s Resort masterfully blends elements of rave culture with ambient soundscapes, creating an album that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The producer manages to avoid clichés often associated with post-rave music, delivering a sophisticated and engaging experience. Tracks like these are perfect for those moments when you need a mental boost during work or editing sessions. The balance between furious breakbeats and ethereal atmospheres makes it an ideal companion for productivity.
Aleksi Perälä's unconventional approach to music-making is another highlight. Working within a unique tuning system, he releases albums at an astonishing pace, each one pushing boundaries in unexpected ways. His recent work, Cycles I+II (Mixes), offers extended mixes that combine gamelan-like structures with pure sine waves. The result is a mesmerizing soundscape that aids concentration and enhances creativity. For those unfamiliar with Perälä, this album serves as an excellent introduction to his distinctive style.
The Disappointments and Unmet Expectations
Not all releases in 2024 met with universal acclaim. Some albums, despite their artistic merit, failed to resonate with certain listeners due to specific preferences or contextual limitations. This section examines why some records didn't quite hit the mark.
Röyksopp’s Nebulous Nights – An Ambient Excursion Into Profound Mysteries received mixed reviews. While the tracks are undeniably trippy and beautiful, the inclusion of vocal elements proved distracting for many listeners, especially those who prefer purely instrumental music. The voices, whether sung or spoken, tend to pull attention away from the task at hand, making it less suitable for focused work environments. A re-release in instrumental form might better serve this audience.
Aphex Twin’s Music from the Merch Desk (2016–2023) also faced criticism. Although a compilation of vinyl-only collectibles, it lacked the cohesion of a purpose-made album. Fans found it disjointed, akin to a hard drive dump rather than a curated collection. Despite Aphex Twin’s reputation for excellence, this release felt uninspired and boring, leading many to revisit older classics like Selected Ambient Works 85-92 instead. It’s a reminder that even legendary artists can sometimes miss the mark.