I’m probably keeping it the least real here at the Ometer, and I’m ok with that. I do really like metal, I do like dreamy pop, I do like pop punk (maybe love is the correct word for that genre) and a little bit of everything in between. Spotify didn’t give me the nickname of “Mall goth skater boi” for nothing this year. These are my 11 favorite records of 2024. Too many honorable mentions to mention.
it's been 16 years since their last release, can The Cure come up with something original, fresh and outstanding as their previous legendary body of work? The answer is a resounding yes. Songs of a lost world beautifully encapsulates the complex emotional dynamics often found in the music of The Cure: haunting melodies and lyrical sadness, especially in the way Robert Smith blends despair with a sense of resilience. The band's songs, especially those dealing with existential themes, are deeply introspective yet always allow for a form of catharsis, a bittersweet relief from the weight of sorrow. Smith’s lyrics and melodies create a space where pain can exist without overwhelming the listener, offering comfort in the form of music that processes rather than escapes the darkness, and the music is equally awe inspiring. Turn off the lights, put on a good pair of headphones and let Songs of a Lost World envelope you wholly.
It's always a pleasant surprise when a band that you thought had faded away comes back with a record that exceeds expectations. Gold, their 2016 debut, definitely had that raw, gritty sound that resonated with fans of heavy, sludgy rock, and War seems to continue that legacy with even more intense, doom-laden riffs and unrelenting energy.
The fact that War brings you right back to that feeling of excitement and surprise is a testament to the band’s ability to tap into the core of what makes their sound so compelling—riffs that hit hard and make you crave more. It’s great to hear that the band has returned from their hiatus and delivered something that stands out.. Here's hoping they continue to build on this momentum and keep releasing music that hits just as hard!
With Cartoon Darkness, The Australian punk band definitely brings that high-energy, chaotic sound they’re known for, with a mix of reckless abandon and gritty anthems. While it might not have the same razor-sharp focus as their debut, that wild, raw intensity is still very much present. Cartoon Darkness sounds to me like if a snarky, Cocaine fueled badger was shot out of a cannon and decided to start a punk band. It's a record that keeps you on your toes, demanding attention and not letting go, and that addictive quality is part of what makes it so hard to stop listening to.
I think my buddy and fellow ometer reviewer Eric Gmutza said it best . High On Fire is metal made for guys who like metal. Somehow, that makes total sense to me, and its what makes High On Fire so appealing to many metal fans. They’ve always had that raw, heavy energy, but it seems like this album has taken it to a new level, with Matt Pike seeming more energized than ever. The sludgy riffs and powerful drumming are key elements of their sound andtakes this record to new heights. When bands evolve like this, reigniting that fire, it really shines through in the music. Would I say this album feels more aggressive or perhaps more finely honed than their previous releases? Or is it a combination of both that’s got me so hooked? Either way when I hear these songs I feel like I can run through brick walls completely unscathed.
Touché Amoré's 6th record is surprisingly more raw and unpolished than their records before. After almost 20 years in the hardcore scene, the band's decision to embrace a more gritty and aggressive style sounds very fresh. The albums 11 tracks, stands in contrast to the more polished and refined sound of their 2020 album Lament. you might think a band that has all the same members currently as it was when they started back in 2007 might be resting a bit on their previous laurels. you'd be wrong. With the help of Nu Metal wonder producer Ross Robinson, the result is a ferocious energy that sets Spiral in a straight line apart from their past records.
Neck Deep has garnered a loyal fan base within the pop punk community since their beginnings in 2012 with the inclusion of this guy right here. But The shift from their earlier pop-punk energy to more pop-leaning and darker themes in their last couple of releases definitely stirred some mixed feelings among fans. However, I’m happy to say that Neck Deep has marked a return to their classic, upbeat, pop-punk sound. The balance they’ve struck between capturing the essence of their early music while still sounding fresh and relevant has really paid off. According to Spotify Neck Deeps Self titled was my most listened to record of 2024. I’m not mad and I won’t argue that fact. Welcome back guys!
Knocked Loose is a band that I had always liked musically, but never truly loved due to lead singer Bryan Garris, lets say unique, vocal style. That all changed with this, their 3rd full length You won’t go before you’re supposed to. Knocked loose has made one of the most chaotic, bone crushing records of their career, and I’ve finally embraced Bryan’s vocal style that perfectly fits in with the chaos. I can’t wait to see what they have in store for the future.
What’s Left Unsaid by Foreign Hands proves metalcore is back in a big way. Its brutal guitar work that blends heaviness and melody brings comparisons to bands like Poison the Well and Knocked Loose; those are excellent touchstones for the heavy but melodic side of the band’s sound. What’s interesting is that while metalcore can often feel derivative, Foreign Hands manages to create something fresh and unique within it.
The role of producer Wil Putney, known for his work with heavy acts, is likely key in shaping the band’s sound. His ability to create the perfect balance between aggression and melody—something metalcore bands often struggle with—seems to have brought Foreign Hands to a new level. It's great to see a band thrive in a genre that's often accused of stagnation, and it sounds like Foreign Hands is definitely one to watch if they keep pushing boundaries like this.
It’s amazing that after more than 50 years, the band continues to push boundaries and maintain their sound's intensity and freshness. Rob Halford’s voice is often considered ageless, and the chemistry between Glenn Tipton and Richie Faulkner on guitar certainly helps keep their music sharp and electrifying. Revisit their last three albums and tell me they don’t sound as lean and hungry as anything they’ve done in the 70’s to 1990, It’s a testament to their staying power and ability to evolve without losing the essence of what makes them legendary. For those who haven't checked out their recent work, it seems like now’s the perfect time to dive back into the newer Priest catalog.
This was a newcomer to records of the year for me as it was released just about a month ago, But upon first listen I was instantly hooked. Throughout her career, Poppy has constantly reinvented herself, shedding genres like a baby changes diapers, combining elements from each phase into a fresh, ever-evolving sound.
This latest album, Negative Spaces, highlights her ability to blend aggression and melody in new ways. The combination of crushing guitar, dreamy synths, edm inspired drum loops and intense vocal deliveries seems to push her musical boundaries further than ever before. I believe this album is truly her most cohesive and immediate yet. It’s exciting to see Poppy continue to grow and explore new sonic territories, blending the best aspects of her previous work into something that feels uniquely hers.
