In 2024, rock legends delivered some of their finest work yet. David Gilmour’s Luck & Strange brought family and nostalgia together with fresh soundscapes, while Nick Cave’s Wild God captured raw, cinematic beauty. Green Day’s Saviours tackled social issues head-on, and The Cure’s Songs of a Lost World marked a haunting return. From Slash’s blues-infused powerhouse to Liam Gallagher and John Squire’s indie super-collab, this year’s standout albums prove that rock remains as vibrant and evolving as ever.
David Gilmour (Rock Album of the Year)
The 5th solo outing from David Gilmour is very much a family project with lyrics written by wife, the author, Polly Samson - who has contributed lyrics to all her husband's solo work as well as the last two Floyd albums - but also youngest daughter, Romany adding vocals to two of the tracks. The additional influence of co-producer Charlie Andrew may well have proved pivotal in coaxing a great album from Gilmour. Arguably Floyd's finest moments came from the friction between Gilmour and Waters - in Charlie Andrew, he's found a voice to challenge the go-to guitar solo and lengthy fade out. Not that Luck & Strange is without those components, but there is so much more: harp skips over the album, strings and choirs lift it and there's swampy blues chugging beneath Gilmour's signature solos. It may be inevitable, certainly understandable from a septuagenarian that much of the album looks back, often recalling a childhood and growing up in 20th century and expressing the hope that such golden times aren't gone forever. That said Gilmour sounds at peace and still with something to say in his time in life.
By David A, Head of Music and Tech
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Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - Wild God
Nick Cave & The Bad Seed's new album is a powerful exploration of grief, love, and magical genius. Throughout 'Wild God' (originally rumoured to have been named Joy), the songs can be described as almost cinematic, featuring a choir and a symphony of different instruments. The combination of the hymnal nature of these songs and Cave’s honest yet emotional voice makes for a gut-wrenchingly beautiful yet devastating album. As we listen through the perfectly curated tracklist, the tension builds as he seems to disappear among The Bad Seeds, rather than standing apart as he usually does. 'Wild God' is full of wonder, whimsy and storytelling. It represents an attempt to embrace positivity and to fall in love with life and happiness again after his battle with grief. Although his grief remains present throughout the album, it feels as if Cave is acknowledging it as a part of himself and moving forward. At its core, the album embodies love, painful optimism, and self-aware acceptance.
By Saoirse H, Community Executive
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Shed Seven - Matter of Time / Liquid Gold
It's been a busy old year for Shed Seven. Relentless touring, meeting all their fans and releasing a fantastic chart topping album which is an invigorating collection that captures the spirit of the band while looking forward, making it a compelling listen for both old and new fans alike. If that wasn't enough then how about a record of their best tracks reimagined, with an orchestra. A wonderful trip through their 30 years as a band and revisiting the dizzy heights of their most beloved material It's been a good year to be a Shed Seven fan.
By Steven F, Music Buyer
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The The - Ensoulment
After a mere 24 year wait between studio albums, Matt Johnson's The The return with Ensoulment and it's been well worth the wait. Theres a lot for Matt to sink his teeth into these days: worldwide misinformation, the covid response and even online dating platforms are all covered here as well as the familiar themes of love, sex, death and, of course, the USA. It's a brilliant record.
By Chris H, Senior Music Buyer
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The Cure - Songs of a Lost World
The Cure’s Songs Of A Lost World marks their return after a 16-year hiatus. With haunting tracks like “Alone”, the album dives into themes of loss and mortality, blending atmospheric instrumentation with Robert Smith’s introspective lyrics. Dark, reflective, and emotionally intense, it recalls the band's early roots while showcasing their ability to evolve.
By Kamil H, Marketing Manager
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Liam Gallagher & John Squire - Liam Gallagher John Squire
The two Manchester legends have created an incredible indie super-album. Drawing influence from both Oasis and The Stone Roses, this album has everything a fan of either band would want to hear. With a strong nod to the 1960s, the album is filled with bold guitar, which complements Gallagher's voice well, despite being much more guitar-heavy than the tracks we are used to hearing him sing on. Essentially, the record is a tribute to the fans of both bands who have stuck with them throughout.
By Saoirse H, Community Executive
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Slash - Orgy of the Damned
Slash’s guitar work is on fire, sounding better than ever. "Orgy of the Damned" stands out with an amazing rendition of "Papa Was a Rolling Stone," featuring Demi Lovato. Slash has assembled a stellar lineup of rock 'n' roll legends to infuse a fresh, electrifying energy into a collection of blues and soul classics. Featuring contributions from Gary Clark Jr., Billy F. Gibbons, Iggy Pop, and Brian Johnson. Overall, the album is a brilliant homage to the roots of blues and soul, reimagined through Slash’s signature sound.
By Ian B, Film Buyer
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Green Day - Saviours
Green Day’s Saviors dives into modern America with sharp criticism, tackling topics like Trump, Musk, and the opioid crisis. Tracks like "Dilemma" and "Strange Days" address addiction and social issues, while "1981" nostalgically reflects on the early 80s. With standout songs like "Bobby Sox" and "Father to a Son," Green Day blends catchy riffs, choruses, and even doo-wop. At 15 tracks in 45 minutes, it's their best work since American Idiot.
By Chris H, Senior Music Buyer
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