Shaad D’Souza, music critic for The Saturday Paper, dives into the standout albums of 2024. He discusses Charli XCX's acclaimed 'Brat' and its personal themes, while also highlighting the authenticity in MJ Lenderman’s 'Manning Fireworks.' The resurgence of alt country is a fascinating focal point, connecting it to indie rock. Shaad also covers the innovative sounds of Kim Gordon's experimental work and the eclectic mix from Magdalena Bay, showcasing the remarkable evolution of modern music and its diverse narrative styles.
Charlie XCX's breakout year highlighted her unique lyrical depth and personal introspection through her acclaimed albums, especially in the track 'Girl, So Confusing.'
MJ Lenderman's 'Manning Fireworks' creatively critiques modern masculinity, offering relatable insights through catchy hooks and thoughtful lyrics that resonate with contemporary listeners.
Deep dives
Charlie XCX's Impactful Year
Charlie XCX had a breakout year with the release of two critically acclaimed albums, starting with the original version of 'Brat' and followed by a remix that showcased her skills as a producer. The remix album features new vocals and significant reimaginings of the original songs, providing a fresh perspective on her earlier work while reflecting on her journey in the music industry. One standout track, 'Girl, So Confusing,' directly addresses her relationship with fellow artist Lorde, effectively exploring themes of friendship dynamics and the pressures of public perception. This specificity in her lyrics distinguishes Charlie from other pop stars who often emphasize broad relatability, allowing listeners to connect with her deeper themes of rivalry and personal introspection.
Magdalena Bay's Genre-Bending Opus
The duo Magdalena Bay released 'Imaginal Disc,' an ambitious album that blends multiple genres, including dance pop, disco, and psychedelic elements, reflecting their unique artistic journey from a prog band to pop musicians. Their sound is marked by a cult following, demonstrating the effectiveness of nurturing a dedicated fan base rather than pursuing widespread appeal. The album's length and complexity stand in contrast to the trend of shorter pop records, offering a rich listening experience that captivates fans. This diversity in their music showcases their creative instincts and highlights the evolving landscape of pop music in the digital age.
MJ Lenderman's Exploration of Masculinity
MJ Lenderman's album 'Manning Fireworks' presents a remarkable take on modern indie rock, blending catchy hooks with incisive lyrics that critique contemporary masculinity. His songwriting navigates various expressions of masculinity, from overtly toxic traits to subtler, more pervasive cultural influences, all while maintaining a relatable and engaging sound. The standout track 'Wristwatch' exemplifies this thoughtful approach, balancing sharp observations with infectious melodies, drawing listeners into a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding male identity. This mix of emotional depth and musicality makes Lenderman's work resonate strongly within the broader alt-country and indie rock movements.
Every day this week, critics from The Saturday Paper and beyond are bringing you their top picks of the year.
2024 was a blockbuster year in music: Beyonce went country, Taylor Swift went everywhere, and we all went Brat.
Today, with The Saturday Paper’s music critic Shaad D’Souza, we’re exploring the albums that defined the year.
That includes Charli XCX of course, but also a surprising new album from Sonic Youth’s Kim Gordon and a tender exploration of modern masculinity by MJ Lenderman.
