Last night, a remarkable event took place in Chinatown. Pitchfork readers, writers, and industry folks gathered in a loft space for the site's first-ever Year in Music Mixtape. It was a night filled with conversations and games centered around the musical happenings of 2024. Deputy Director Jeremy D. Larson took the helm, while Pitchfork's head of editorial content, Mano Sundaresan, conducted interviews with Alphonse Pierre about rap, Arielle Gordon about Brat, and Jael Holzman about her band Ekko Astral and their acclaimed debut album, Pink Balloons. The panelists engaged the audience in exciting games like "Is It Brat?" and "Is This a Real Mixtape Title?". Alphonse even rewarded the winners with prizes from his personal collection of rap memorabilia, with one of the highlights being a DVD of Mr. 305: The Pitbull Story. To conclude the evening, Jeremy brought all the panelists on stage for a game inspired by "101 Things That Happened in 2024, Ranked on the Pitchfork Scale."

Special Thanks and Sponsors

This event was made possible with the help of AdHoc and Thought Enthusiast in organizing it. We also extend our gratitude to the generous sponsors Monopolio, Topo Chico, Visitor, and Good Spirits.

Conversations and Games

The conversations during the Pitchfork 2024 Year in Music Mixtape were truly insightful. Alphonse Pierre shared his perspectives on the rap scene, giving valuable insights into the trends and developments. Arielle Gordon's discussion about Brat added a unique flavor, highlighting the nuances of this genre. Jael Holzman's talk about her band Ekko Astral and their debut album was a treat for music lovers, as she detailed the creative process and the significance of the album. The games played with the audience added an element of fun and interactivity, making the evening even more memorable. It was a great opportunity for everyone to engage with the music and the industry in a unique way.

Panelist Insights

Alphonse Pierre's expertise in rap was evident as he discussed the various aspects of the genre. He shared stories and experiences that gave a deeper understanding of the rap culture. Arielle Gordon's passion for Brat was palpable as she talked about the challenges and rewards of working in this niche. Jael Holzman's enthusiasm for her band was infectious, and she provided valuable insights into the creative journey behind Pink Balloons. Their combined insights added a rich layer to the evening and left the audience with a greater appreciation for the music.

Closing with a Bang

The closing game inspired by "101 Things That Happened in 2024, Ranked on the Pitchfork Scale" was a fitting way to end the evening. It brought all the panelists together and showcased their collective knowledge and wit. The energy in the room was palpable as they competed and had fun. It was a memorable moment that left everyone with a lasting impression of the Pitchfork 2024 Year in Music event.