With 2024 coming to an end, Ruby Cornelius counts down the best indie rock and alternative releases of the year
From bands that are becoming hit sensations after many studio albums, or artists that are still rising to stardom, here is everything that you need to know about this year’s best releases.
In 5th place with their ninth studio album, Kings of Leon bring ‘Can We Please Have Fun’, featuring the electrifying singles ‘Mustang’ and ‘Split Screen’ released on 10th May 2024. Whilst some fans say that this is their best album in years, others argue that their true, authentic sound created in the 2008 record ‘Only by the Night’ cannot be replicated leaving it in the last spot on our ranking due to the division in its reception. However, ‘Mustang’ fits in as a true 2024 feeling indie rock song with its choppy introduction and shot of new wave of indie rock, and certainly brings a new interesting sound to household favourite Kings of Leon.
With their fifth album, British band Razorlight bring a 10-track album titled ‘Planet Nowhere’ taking fourth place. This album is particularly special to fans of the band, as it features the original lineup including lead vocalist Johnny Borrel who aims to continue creating new and fresh music rather than settling with a greatest hits album. ‘Planet Nowhere’ includes singles ‘Zombie Love’, ‘Scared of Nothing’ and ‘Empire Service’ creating a tone that feels as if it could have been recorded after their first two studio albums ‘Up All Night’ and ‘Razorlight’ – an original sound of the 2000s, adding a huge hit of nostalgia to all listeners.
Wunderhorse have snatched the third spot, with the insanely popular album ‘Midas’ released on 30th August 2024. Including hit singles ‘July’ and ‘Rain’, Wunderhorse bring a new energy to the indie rock / alternative scene, electrifying audiences with their new music. ‘Aeroplane’ is the longest track on the album at 8 minutes and 41 seconds, yet it brings so many new ideas about indie music: some fans feel that the first few minutes are similar to Radiohead’s sound and others simply cannot get enough naming it the best song on the album. Either way, ‘Wunderhorse’ are fast becoming one of the most popular bands around – and there is no question as to why, they simply are bringing great new music into the game.
Second and third place come very close… but Fontaines D.C. grabbed second place with their fourth studio album ‘Romance’ featuring trending singles ‘Bug’, ‘Starburster’ and ‘In the Modern World’. Lead singer Grian Chatten pushes the band’s indie rock sound into a somewhat undefinable era with his unique vocals, and the single ‘In the Modern World’ brings the various sounds together to create the perfect blend of emotion and effortless excitement. Arguably ‘Bug’ is their most captivating track from ‘Romance’ having taken social media by storm with its mesmerising lyrics and catchy chorus – not to mention their captivating stage presence. With both incredible visuals and sound, how could the Fontaines not end up in 2024’s top three!
But for us, taking the number one spot is Inhaler with their single ‘Your House’ from their upcoming third studio album, ‘Open Wide’. Set for release on 7th February 2025, ‘Your House’ brings a new sound from Inhaler, but still keeps the gripping voice of lead singer Elijah Hewson paramount, truly showcasing the entire band’s incredible musical talents. From Bobby Skeetz on bass guitar, to Ryan McMahon on drums and Josh Jenkinson on guitar – each member is electrified on this new track. The drum beat that religiously continues throughout is a true credit to McMahon, contrasting delicately with the House Gospel Choir singing intricate backing vocals during the chorus, perfectly accompanying Hewson’s strong lead vocals.
2024 has been a fantastic year, for some truly fantastic artists – and it is certain that 2025 is holding a great line up already, with new music from not only Inhaler but also the Manic Street Preachers with ‘Critical Thinking’ set for release on 31st January and The Sherlocks with ‘Everything Must Make Sense’ out on 21st February.
Which artist won your top spot this year?
