Best albums of 2024: Charli XCX, Beyonce, The Cure and more

The music world is buzzing with excitement over the best albums of 2024, and one name stands out prominently: Charli XCX. Her latest album, 'Brat', was released in June and quickly climbed to the top of the UK charts, marking her second number one album. Charli, known for her vibrant and edgy dance tracks, initially thought that her new sound might not resonate with a wide audience. However, 'Brat' defied her expectations, becoming a cultural sensation. The album received rave reviews from critics and was nominated for an impressive seven Grammy Awards. In fact, it was so influential that it even earned a spot in the Collins Dictionary, highlighting its impact on contemporary music. Recently, the BBC News conducted a 'poll of polls' to determine the best new releases of the year, and 'Brat' emerged as the clear winner. Critics praised the album for its raw and honest lyrics, which delve into Charli's personal insecurities and anxieties. In her own words, she described the album as 'chaos and emotional turmoil set to a club soundtrack', emphasizing the emotional depth behind the upbeat music. The BBC's poll was a comprehensive analysis, combining results from 30 year-end lists published by some of the most respected music magazines worldwide, including NME and Rolling Stone. Each album was awarded points based on its ranking, with the top album receiving 20 points. Charli's 'Brat' dominated the competition with a staggering score of 486 points, nearly double that of the second-place album, 'Cowboy Carter' by Beyoncé. In total, critics highlighted 184 albums as their favorites this year, showcasing a diverse range of musical talent. Charli XCX, born Emma Aitchison in Essex, UK, has been a prominent figure in the pop music scene for over a decade. She first gained recognition with catchy hits like 'Fancy' and 'I Love It', but her sound has evolved significantly over the years. With tracks like 'Vroom Vroom' and 'Track 10', she carved out a niche in the underground music scene, gaining a dedicated fanbase. As she worked on 'Brat', Charli reflected on her journey and questioned whether she truly deserved commercial success. This introspection fueled her creative process as she entered 2024 with renewed determination. Her producer, AG Cook, noted that Charli had a clear vision for the album from the very beginning, outlining the themes and messages she wanted to convey. The title 'Brat' had been in consideration for about two years, showcasing the thoughtfulness behind her artistic choices. Released in June, 'Brat' quickly became the soundtrack of the summer, and Charli further expanded her success with a remix album that reimagined many of the original tracks. This remix project featured collaborations with notable artists such as Billie Eilish and Lorde, adding a fresh twist to her music. Charli's ability to adapt and innovate has been a key factor in her success, as she embraces new ideas and creative directions. Billboard magazine lauded her for executing one of the most exciting and culturally significant album launches in recent memory, highlighting her ability to draw inspiration from club culture and hyperpop while making it accessible to a broader audience. Charli XCX's journey in the music industry has been nothing short of remarkable, and her latest album 'Brat' solidifies her status as a leading force in contemporary pop music.