Shining some light on incredible records I’ve come across this year. Physical media only.
While everyone’s gearing up for Apple Replay and Spotify Wrapped (shoutout to Jewel Ham), I’ve been reflecting on something less algorithm-driven—my physical media collection. This year, I’ve added some amazing records to the collection. Some are recent releases, others are a bit older, but all are new to my ears.
Since I listen to so much music, narrowing things down is a challenge. Rather than attempt a sprawling list of songs, I’m focusing on full albums—each with a standout track—and amplifying artists who deserve more attention than they usually get in the year-end wrap-ups.
Fabiana Palladino
Self-titled, 2024
Fabiana Palladino’s self-titled debut is a masterclass in genre-blending, weaving together the shimmering synth-pop of the ’80s, the raw emotional punch of ’90s RnB, and the irresistible grooves of ’70s disco-funk. It’s an album that feels intimate, like a whispered secret between artist and listener, yet bold enough to demand the spotlight. Tracks like In The Fire transport you into a hypnotic haze before hitting you with a funk groove so infectious, it’s impossible to stay still—earning its place as a standout for 2024 Album of the Year.
Kero One
Voodoo Remixes, 2023
Kero One’s remix of D’Angelo’s Spanish Joint masterfully transforms a mellow groove into a dancefloor gem, layering synths, drums, and bass with precision. Originally released in 2013, it’s made its way to 45 a decade later. Kero One’s undeniable artistry in the world of remixes continues on the flip side with his take on Feel Like Makin Love.
Madhuvanti Pal
The Holy Mother, 2023
Madhuvanti Pal’s The Holy Mother (Plays The Rudra Veena) offers over 90 minutes of meditative ragas played on the rarely recorded rudra veena. As the first vinyl LP featuring a woman on the instrument, it pairs technical brilliance with a deep, reflective listening experience, making it a captivating exploration of dhrupad’s rich tradition.
Keyon Harrold
Foreverland, 2024
Keyon Harrold’s Foreverland is a stunning blend of jazz, hip-hop, and R&B, showcasing his virtuosic trumpet skills alongside his talent as a producer and songwriter. Balancing respect for jazz’s roots with a modern, gritty edge, the album serves as a perfect gateway for listeners drawn to jazz through hip-hop influences. It’s a standout addition for fans of boundary-pushing music.
Ruthven
Rough & Ready, 2024
Ruthven’s Rough & Ready captures the essence of nostalgia while feeling completely new. Its soulful vocals and intricate production create an emotional depth that resonates beyond the surface, delivering an album as intimate as it is bold.
Yasuaki Shimizu
Kakashi, 1982
Kakashi by Yasuaki Shimizu is a 1982 masterpiece that blends jazz, electronic, and Japanese folk in a way that defies easy categorization. Shimizu’s virtuoso saxophone playing and his ability to seamlessly move between genres create an unpredictable, yet captivating sound. The album’s cover—featuring a playful cat—perfectly mirrors its blend of intrigue and creativity, reflecting Shimizu’s hands-on approach in both the music and artwork. If you’re into jazz that breaks the mold or the more avant-garde side of Japanese city pop, this is an essential listen.
YĪN YĪN
The Rabbit That Hunts Tigers, 2019
The Rabbit That Hunts Tigers by YĪN YĪN captures a unique energy, channeling the vibrant spirit of ’60s and ’70s Thai guitar music. While it shares a similar vibe to Khruangbin, YĪN YĪN brings a faster, more uptempo rhythm to their Thai-funk sound. This album is a must-listen for fans of instrumental music with a modern flair.
These final two rare 45s are niche finds, but perfect for crate diggers and producers who love sampling obscure gems.
Setha Sirachaya
Plik Lok, Year Unknown
First is พลิกล็อกค์ (Plik Lok) by Setha Sirachaya, a Thai artist blending ’60s bubblegum pop with ’70s funk and rock.
Kiko Kids Jazz
Mapunda, 1975
The second is Mapunda by Kiko Kids Jazz, a Tanzanian track capturing the Afro-Cuban vibe of the mid-’70s. Both offer rich, forgotten sounds worth digging into.
