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1. Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, “Woodland”

This album features some of the duo’s best material so far - showcasing their incredible sonic relationship. Every song is brimming with experience that only comes from a lifelong partnership in music.
Perfect record.

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2. Waxahatchee, “Tiger’s Blood”

I went from being pretty nonchalant about Katie Crutchfield’s music, to playing this record multiple times a week since its release. Crutchfield’s writing is excellent on this outing and it’s brought to life perfectly by this band.

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3. Adrianne Lenker, “Bright Future”

I love the next three records so much, it’s hard to rank them. This one is just SO dense. You’ve really got to be in the mood, but the writing is immaculate. I think “Sadness as a Gift” might be the greatest song ever written.

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4. Knocked Loose. “You Won’t go Before You’re Supposed to”

The Kentucky Hardcore (Metalcore?) heavyweights punch above their weight big time on this record. Possibly the heaviest “sounding” release this year? Unrelenting and brutal with a couple “hooks” to boot.

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5. MJ Lenderman, “Manning Fireworks”

I think MJ Lenderman is a guitar hero. Traces of Neil Young and J Mascis make for some very worthy moments in the tone zone. I love the “Priney-ness” of Lenderman’s lyrics as well. Great for fans of Prine, Young and Dinosaur Jr.

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6. High on Fire, “Cometh the Storm”

Righteous riffage from the masters. Spent a lot of time with this one in the car and at the gym. Incredible production and mixing too. Sounds great in the car! I still barely notice the 58 minute running time.

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7. Blood Incantation, “Absolute Elsewhere”

I first read about this album on a flight last year and was intrigued by the artwork and write up. I listened at least three more times on that trip. I love it but it’s a lot to chew on. Well worth a deep listen if you can!

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8. Sierra Ferrell: Trail of Flowers

When this record came out I had no idea who Sierra Ferrell was. I almost instantly fell in love with the lyrics and arrangements. Whimsical and lighthearted but heavy enough at all the right times. Americana for the modern world.

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9. Better Lovers, “Highly Irresponsible”

I was bummed when Every Time I Die ended and wasn’t sure how I would feel about this album, but was pleasantly surprised!Crushing riffs, insane drum parts and a truly amazing vocal performance from Will Putney. Heavy stuff!

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Posting my 2024 top 10 here over the next 10 days!

10. Iron & Wine’s “Light Verse.”

A great return to form from one of my favourite songwriters. I love Sam’s way of taking simple songs and dressing them up in really interesting ways. Great arrangements and lyrics.

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My first post here is a playlist of some of my favourite tracks from my top 15 favourite releases of 2024.

The first III acts of Blood Incantation’s “Absolute Elsewhere” close things out… so heads up, the last “track” is 20 minutes long!