I stayed in my comfort zone during 2024. Without really being in search of new music, I let it come to me. These were my favorites.
Evolve by Phish. Somehow at 40 years into their career Phish keeps climbing to higher peaks with a studio release that helps demonstrate just how great their post-pandemic work has been.
Tension by Mulatu Astatke & Hoodna Orchestra. Ethiopian jazz meets exotica in a style I like to refer to as “elevated elevator” music.
Hydra by Nuala Kennedy & Eamon O’Leary. Two of the best vocalists and instrumentalists in Irish music come together for a release that will stand the test of time.
Wild Rose of Morning by Andrew Marlin, Christian Sedelmyer, and Jordan Tice. This Andrew Marlin led project gets a big kudos for being able to effortlessly pull off both the O’Carolan piece Si Bheag Si Mhor and a cover of Norman Blake’s Billy Gray.
Atriums by Trey Anastasio. Time goes out the window as you listen to this long form piece of ambient music. Simply amazing.
Trail of Flowers by Sierra Ferrell. With lyrics such as “I could break a hundred down at the Dollar Bill Bar”, what’s not to like?
When I’m Called by Jake Xerxes Fussell. Album number five from this song catcher continues the trend of excellence. If you haven’t heard Jake Xerxes Fussell, I urge you to check him out. All of his stuff is great!
Epiphany: Irish Traditional Music on the Tenor Banjo by Elaine Reilly. As an amateur Irish tenor banjo player, I’m required to include this marvelous debut album by Elaine Reilly. But it's not without merit. Forgoing the technical pyrotechnics that some whizz kids might lean toward, Reilly focuses on taste, tone and joy in a mature style reminiscent of Angelina Carberry and John Carty.
Highway Prayers by Billy Strings. Billy Strings’ creativity and musical drive are unparalleled. His once-in-a-generation talent is on full display with Highway Prayers.
Cuimhne Ghlinn: Explorations in Irish Music for Pedal Steel Guitar by David Murphy. Irish pedal steel guitarist David Murphy makes beautiful use of a non-traditional instrument that is actually perfectly suited for the playing of slow airs and harp tunes. For fans of Susan Alcorn.
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