Shabaka's album "Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace" kicks off with the captivating song "End Of Innocence." In 2024, this piece, along with many others, managed to strike a perfect balance between being haunting and comforting. atibaphoto/Courtesy of the artist adds to the visual allure.

Uncover the Musical Tapestry of 2024

Album Introduction

Every personal year-end list comes with a disclaimer. This one is no exception. It doesn't aim to capture the full range of listening habits over the past 12 months. There's no specific ratio of new to old music consumption. It doesn't reveal the extent of rabbit holing, nostalgia, or sonic time traveling. It simply focuses on the music that haunted and comforted.For instance, E L U C I D doesn't just rap; he offers guided tours through his dissonant fever dreams on "Revelator." Dear Silas's "Cadillac Leather in July EP" feels like the soundtrack to a lost season of HBO's "Insecure," as if Issa Rae's character could be seen rapping along while staring in the mirror.

Kendrick Lamar's Impact

King Kendrick led off his GNX decree with "wacced out murals," which has become a daily incantation since its release. The way it can be heard as a creeped-out, Jordan Peele-style remix of Whodini's "Friends" is truly remarkable. It shows Kendrick's ability to create music that lingers in the mind.

Schoolboy Q's Musical Exploration

Schoolboy Q turned Coltrane's "Naima" and an album full of other well-sourced samples into a middle-aged, ruminating gangsta's paradise on "BLUE LIPS." This showcases his unique musical style and his ability to blend different elements together.

Tyler, The Creator's Frightening Parenthood

From the sounds of "CHROMAKOPIA," Tyler, The Creator knows how frightening parenthood can be. It gives a glimpse into the emotions and experiences associated with this life stage.

Brittany Howard's Dreamy Desires

Brittany Howard daydreams about what it would be like "To Be Still" as a flower in her lover's garden. Her music captures the essence of desire and the longing for simplicity.

Shabaka's "End Of Innocence"

Shabaka's "End Of Innocence" is a prime example of music that seems to long for the simplicity of not knowing. Even without words, it conveys a powerful message.

Other Notable Works

Wahid's "feast, by ravens," Dear Silas's "Cadillac Leather in July EP," BigXthaPlug's "TAKE CARE," ScHoolboy Q's "BLUE LIPS," Kendrick Lamar's "wacced out murals," Ka's "Bread Wine Body Blood," Tyler, The Creator's "CHROMAKOPIA," Brittany Howard's "To Be Still," Shabaka's "End Of Innocence," LL Cool J's "Spirit of Cyrus" (feat. Snoop Dogg), Blvck Svm's "michelinman," E L U C I D's "REVELATOR," Dawuna's "Southside Bottoms EP," Doechii's "Alligator Bites Never Heal," SML's "Small Medium Large," SALIMATA's "Wooden Floors," Bilal's "Live At Glasshaus," Joi's 'Tine Wolf Rebellion', and Marysia Osu's "harp, beats & dreams," and Mustard's "Ghetto" (feat. Young Thug and Lil Durk) all contribute to the rich musical landscape of 2024.These albums, EPs, and songs offer a diverse range of experiences and emotions, reflecting the complexity and beauty of music in 2024. Each one tells a unique story and leaves a lasting impression.