Lots of good music has come out thus far in 2024. Here are 30 of my favorites that reached peak popularity in the first half of this year (or are still climbing).
In the realm of contemporary music, few bands possess the multifaceted allure and enduring charm quite like Vampire Weekend. This indie rock band has carved out a unique niche in the musical landscape, blending a diverse array of influences into a cohesive and captivating sound. Let’s delve into what makes their music so compelling.
One of the hallmarks of Vampire Weekend’s style is their ability to seamlessly fuse disparate genres, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly original. Tracks like “A-Punk” and “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa” exude an infectious energy, drawing listeners in with their vibrant rhythms and catchy hooks. Yet, beneath the surface lies a complexity that sets them apart from their contemporaries.
Central to the band’s appeal is frontman Ezra Koenig’s lyrical prowess. His insightful and often introspective lyrics add layers of depth to their music, inviting listeners to contemplate themes ranging from identity and belonging to the absurdities of modern life. Whether pondering the intricacies of grammar in “Oxford Comma” or grappling with existential questions in “Unbelievers,” Koenig’s words resonate long after the music fades.
Moreover, Koenig’s willingness to collaborate with other artists demonstrates his commitment to innovation and exploration. Tracks like “New Dorp. New York” with SBTRKT and “Tonight” with Phoenix showcase his versatility and ability to adapt his sound while maintaining a distinctive identity.
Ultimately, what sets Vampire Weekend apart is their ability to evoke a sense of longing through their music. Whether it’s the sun-soaked imagery of “Horchata” or the wistful introspection of “Step,” each song transports listeners to a vividly imagined world, rich with emotion and atmosphere.
Theirs is a legacy built not on fleeting trends or commercial success but on a genuine commitment to artistic excellence and creative exploration. The evidence can be heard in the playlist below.
The Ting Tings’ Stacey? Jane? Mary? Jo? Lisa? Hell? Her? Katie White! was born on this date in 1983. A couple of the duo’s songs are included on today’s playlist.
Ben Gibbard and Jimmy Tamborello, the two members of The Postal Service, collaborated by sending recordings of their music back and forth through the mail, which inspired their band name. The fact that they used FedEx and UPS for this purpose is besides the point. Do you really think they could get away with calling their project FedEx?
Ben Gibbard of The Postal Service and Death Cab For Cutie was born on this date in 1976. His work is well-represented on today’s playlist.
My favorite Weezer song is “Buddy Holly,” from their 1994 album titled Weezer, not to be confused with their 2001 album titled Weezer, their 2008 album titled Weezer, their 2016 album titled Weezer, or either of their 2019 albums titled Weezer. My second favorite Weezer song is “Hash Pipe,” from their 2001 album titled Weezer, not to be confused with their 1994 album titled Weezer, their 2008 album titled Weezer, their 2016 album titled Weezer, or either of their 2019 albums titled Weezer. In third place I’d probably put “Island in the Sun,” also from their 2001 album titled Weezer, not to be confused with their 1994 album titled Weezer, their 2008 album titled Weezer, their 2016 album titled Weezer, or either of their 2019 albums titled Weezer. Next for me would be “Beverly Hills,” from an album not titled Weezer, which I find confusing.
Weezer’s Rivers Cuomo was born on this date in 1950 and has never been the governor of New York. To celebrate a handful of Weezer songs are on today’s playlist. Oddly, I didn’t include any of the favorites I mentioned, which is the most confusing part of this post.