I posted my list of favorite from the first half of 2024 back in June (here). Rather than replicate that list for my full year review, consider this a continuation — the best songs from the second half of 2024.
Rosemary and Thieves, Garrett Owen (from the self-released Memoriam)
Owen’s tale of fractured relationships is stunning in every way, from the lyrics to the musical arrangement.
She used to keep
Such a beautiful garden
But now she just waters the weeds
Rosemary and thieves
Little Heart Racer, Fancy Gap (from the Ghost Choir Records release Fancy Gap)
A driving pop song that’s great for, well, driving. The chorus is infectious, even more so when horns join the party to close out the song.
Heaven Is, Melanie MacLaren (from the Tone Tree Music release Bloodlust)
It’s really a toss up between this song and MacLaren’s “Get It Back” but, at least for today, I’m giving the edge to “Heaven Is”. The song, which features a wistful melody, balances both lyrical charm and meaning.
Right Back to It, Waxahatchee (from the Anti- Records release Tiger’s Blood)
Few convey emotional fragility like Waxahatchee, in this case capturing a relationship that is simultaneously comfortable and troubled.
Behind the Eight, Michael McDermott (from the Pauper Sky Records release East Jesus)
This song would have made the list just for the unbridled scream that kicks it off. The musical fury that follows, not to mention McDermott’s message of perseverance, only makes the case that much stronger.
You gotta hold on tight before it slips away
Remember it’s alright if you’re not ok
It’s just one more day behind the eight
Count Your Blessings, Michael McDermott (from the Pauper Sky Records release Lighthouse on the Shore)
Two albums released means two opportunities to have songs on the best of list. Number two from McDermott is this uplifting reminder to be grateful for what you have.
You don’t know how good you got it
Until you try to live without it
How could I have ever been so blind
You don’t know how good you got it
So say a prayer for the broken-hearted
And count all your blessings tonight
Ready to Fall, Denitia (from the Country Road release Sunset Drive)
Nashville’s Denitia is sure to induce a smile with this celebration of falling in love.
Simple Things, Kevin Gordon (from the self-released The In Between)
Gordon shares a rocking ode to finding one’s way back to, well, life’s simple pleasures.
One Too Many, Maggie Antone (from the Love Big/Thirty Tigers release Rhinestoned)
Jack Daniel’s took me out and Johnny walked me home
Mary Jane rolled up and she got me stoned
Fifteen and six feet deep ain’t all that much
How’s one too many, but one ain’t enough?
Taught By Experts, Paul Kelly (from the Cooking Vinyl release Fever Longing Still)
Australia’s Kelly adds another brilliant pop song to a catalog that is already filled with them.
You say I playa cheating game
I never keep the rules the same
I learned a thing or two
What I learned I learned from you
And it works
I was taught by experts
Truckee River Blues, John Calvin Abney (from the self-released Shortwaving)
From restrained beginning to cathartic chorus, Abney’s “Truckee River Blues” is atmospheric and rocking. A perfect song to close one’s eyes and get lost in.
Falling Out of Love, The Damnwells (from the Poor Man Records release Bad At Beautiful)
Alex Dezen sure knows how to craft a melodic hook and this is the catchiest of the catchy from the band’s latest release.
A Little Green Left, Dustin Lowman (from the self-released Invulnerable)
There’s a timeless quality to Dustin Lowman’s weary tale of trying to find a flicker of compassion in himself and for others.
Number and a Street, Malin Pettersen (from the Die With Your Boots On Records release Acoustic Acts of Rebellion)
The conceit of this song is as remarkable as Pettersen’s performance. The Norwegian singer-songwriter offers a stark ode to a failed relationship, the memories encapsulated by the address of the apartment that they once shared.
Count to Ten, Leeroy Stagger (from the Tonic Records release 3 AM Revelations)
Glory be this throw your first in the air, sing-along rock anthem from Canada’s Stagger.
Kick the Devil Away, Sophie Gault (from the Strong Place Music release Baltic Street Hotel)
A mighty fine rock song with a healthy dose of attitude. “Who could really blame you for living like you want to while you’re on this Earth?”
Better, Somebody Someone
Austin’s Somebody Someone makes quite a statement with their debut single. Intoxicating and beautiful.
Angel, Butch Walker and Ashley Monroe
Walker and Monroe transform the Aerosmith hit into a haunting acoustic ballad.
Dead Weight, Maggie Rose (from the One Riot Records release No One Gets Out Alive)
Nashville’s Rose blends rock and R&B, circa late 1960’s/early 1970’s, for this electrifying kiss-off song. “I’m stepping out, I’m speeding up, I’m on the move… It’s easier to get there without you.”
Gettin’ By, Tyler-James Kelly (from the Clover Music Group release Dream River)
Authentic country courtesy of Providence, Rhode Island’s Kelly. “I’m gettin’ by… one disaster at a time.”
Right Side of the River, Lisa Bastoni (from the self-released On the Water)
Bastoni shares a freewheeling tale of coming to terms with heartbreak and what one wants in a relationship.
For every bleeding heart on the bank there is a sinking stone
For every little flat rock skipped, somebody’s feeling alone
And it’s so easy to get lost in the undertow
When you’re pulled down deeper than you ever meant to go
The Sky’s In Love With You, Aloud (from the self-released Observer Affect)
Another of the year’s power pop gems, courtesy of Los Angeles’ Aloud. The song is notable not only for how both acoustic and electric guitars power the track, but how the song blends joy and melancholy.
Queen of the Sick Burn, The Bluest Sky (from the self-released Raindancer)
The Bluest Sky serve up a tasty slice of Exile/Sticky Fingers-era Stones.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.