Thanksgiving might be about turkey and stuffing for most, but here at Dig Me Out, it’s about celebrating the music that made the past year memorable. Our annual “Music We’re Thankful For” roundtable brought together fans and friends to talk about the albums, songs, and artists that brought joy, nostalgia, and even a little catharsis in 2024. From iconic artists who reminded us why they’re legends to new bands making their mark, this was a year to remember. Let’s dig in.
They Still Have It
The Cure – Songs of a Lost World
When The Cure finally released Songs of a Lost World, it felt like a gift we weren’t sure we’d ever get. This album had been teased for years, and when it dropped, it delivered everything fans could have hoped for. There was a sense among our group that this wasn’t just another release—it was a return to the rich, emotional sound that made The Cure legendary. Dark, atmospheric tracks like “Alone” and “Endsong” pulled listeners back to the days of Disintegration, while still feeling vital in 2024. After a decade and a half of waiting, this was a triumph.
Judas Priest – Invincible Shield
When Judas Priest released Invincible Shield, it was clear they weren’t just resting on their laurels. This album roared with the kind of energy that made them metal icons. “Trial by Fire” became an instant favorite, even winning over younger listeners. It’s proof that Priest still knows how to deliver hard-hitting, classic heavy metal with modern relevance.
J. Robbins – Basilisk
J. Robbins, the post-hardcore pioneer known for his work with Jawbox and Burning Airlines, delivered a stunning album with Basilisk. Blending intricate guitar work, synths, introspective lyrics, and his signature vocal style, Robbins once again proved why he’s considered a master of his craft. The album’s mix of personal vulnerability and razor-sharp musicianship earned praise as one of his strongest solo efforts to date.
Sebastian Bach – Child Within a Man
There’s no escaping the fact that Sebastian Bach is the voice of Skid Row, and his solo work continues to reflect that legacy. With Child Within a Man, Bach showcased not just his vocal power but his ability to write music that feels both fresh and familiar. Fans agreed—this was a modern take on the Skid Row sound that proved why Bach remains one of the most exciting voices in hard rock.
Watershed – Blow It Up Before It Breaks
Watershed, the Columbus-based band with a strong 90s legacy, returned with Blow It Up Before It Breaks. Known for their Cheap Trick-inspired power-pop, the album caught the attention of listeners with its tight, melodic songwriting and vibrant live shows. Fans appreciated the band’s ability to capture their live energy on record, making it a worthy addition to their catalog.
Bruce Dickinson – The Mandrake Project
Bruce Dickinson ventured into new territory with The Mandrake Project. While the album as a whole received mixed reviews, its lead single “Afterglow of Ragnarok” stood out as a dramatic and operatic anthem that showcased Dickinson’s unparalleled vocal power and theatricality.
Pig – Feast of Agony
The industrial powerhouse Pig delivered Feast of Agony, an EP packed with their signature dark, visceral soundscapes. It captured the raw energy and haunting melodies that fans of the genre adore, cementing Pig’s legacy as a mainstay of industrial music.
New Faces, New Favorites
Friko – Crashing Through
One of the year’s breakout acts, Friko turned heads with Crashing Through. This Chicago trio brought together the raw intensity of 90s alternative rock with a touch of indie vulnerability. Their single “Crashing Through” had some of us hooked within seconds. It’s rare to find a band that can evoke the spirit of Smashing Pumpkins or early Bright Eyes while sounding entirely their own.
Ahem – Avoider
Minnesota’s Ahem delivered Avoider, an album that felt like a love letter to 90s indie rock. Its fuzzed-out guitars, tight harmonies, and infectious energy were enough to keep it on repeat. Each song clocked in under three minutes, making it a perfectly concise, high-energy ride. If you’re into the grittier side of power-pop, this album was tailor-made for you.
Interlaker – Eyes on the Horizon
For fans of Lonely the Brave, Eyes on the Horizon was an emotional milestone. Interlaker, the new project from former frontman Dave Jakes, brought a mix of shoegaze, hard rock, and introspective lyrics. The album managed to channel the grandeur of Jakes’ earlier work while carving out a new identity, and the result was both powerful and personal.
The Last Dinner Party – Prelude to Ecstasy
The Last Dinner Party made waves with their theatrical, genre-bending album Prelude to Ecstasy. With a sound described as a mix of Suzi Quatro and Queen, the album delivered catchy, high-energy tracks that resonated with both indie and mainstream audiences. This all-female band brought fresh energy and attitude to the scene, and their live performances became some of the most talked-about shows of the year.
Arsun – Strange Dreams of You
At just 24 years old, Arsun made a bold statement with his debut album. Drawing inspiration from Dylan-esque folk and modern indie rock, tracks like “Strange Dreams of You” blended haunting melodies with introspective lyrics, earning the newcomer critical acclaim and a growing fanbase.
Emu – New Age
Australian band Emu burst onto the scene with their high-energy rock album, headlined by the epic single “New Age.” Their mix of stoner rock, boogie vibes, and relentless intensity drew comparisons to bands like Troubled Horse and The Hellacopters, making this release one of the year’s most electrifying surprises.
Rediscovering Classics
The Hellacopters – Grande Rock Revisited
Sometimes, revisiting an old record can feel like catching up with an old friend, and The Hellacopters’ reissue of Grande Rock did exactly that. With fresh production and added guitar tracks, the album felt bigger and brighter while keeping its original edge intact. It was a masterclass in how to honor your past while bringing something new to the table.
Silver Sun – Mild Peril
Silver Sun’s Mild Peril wasn’t just a great power-pop album—it was a tribute to the band’s late singer, whose unfinished songs formed the core of the record. This deeply personal project managed to be both cathartic and wildly fun, delivering high-energy hooks while honoring a legacy.
The Singles That Stuck
Sometimes a single song defines the year, and 2024 delivered a collection of memorable tracks that captured the attention of the Dig Me Out community. These singles, whether energetic bursts or reflective moments, left a lasting impression on the group:
• “Feel the Fire” – Riot V: Tim highlighted this hard rock anthem for its soaring vocals and electrifying guitar riffs. It became a surprising family favorite when Tim’s daughter added it to her playlist after repeated car rides with the song.
• “Afterglow of Ragnarok” – Bruce Dickinson: Another pick from Tim, this cinematic and thunderous track blended heavy riffs with operatic flourishes. It stood out for its epic storytelling and showcased Bruce Dickinson’s incredible vocal range.
• “Let Go” – KMFDM: Ian praised this track as a standout moment from the industrial legends’ latest album. While the rest of the record felt inconsistent to him, “Let Go” captured KMFDM’s dark, driving, and infectious energy that fans love.
“Peace Sign” – Ride: This single offered a surprising turn from the shoegaze veterans, injecting melody and hooks into their dreamy sound. Tim appreciated its energy and accessibility, making it a standout in Ride’s catalog.
“Free to Fall” – John Davis: From his album Jinx, this track caught attention with its mix of fuzzed-out guitars and a Beatles-inspired melody. J admired how Davis blended his Superdrag roots with shoegaze textures to create something emotionally resonant and musically rich.
“New Age” – Emu: A relentless seven-minute stoner rock epic that left J energized and almost overwhelmed by its intensity. The wild guitar solos and driving rhythm gave it a raw, electrifying power.
“Keep It on Track” – Collective Soul: This track from Here to Eternity stood out for its infectious melody and the way it perfectly encapsulated Collective Soul’s signature sound. Keith found himself humming the chorus long after listening, a testament to the band’s enduring ability to craft memorable hooks.
“Helmet” – Buffalo Tom: This jangly and heartfelt track struck a chord with the group, embodying the earnestness and emotional depth that have defined Buffalo Tom’s music for decades.
“Crashing Through” – Friko: Chip described this single as a standout track that grabbed him within seconds, calling it his favorite song of the year before 2024 even began. Its blend of Smashing Pumpkins-style intensity and Saddle Creek-inspired emotionality resonated deeply with him, making it one of the most memorable singles discussed.
“Strange Dreams of You” – Arsun: This haunting, Dylan-esque track caught Chip’s attention later in the year, with its atmospheric quality making it feel like a perfect theme for a Netflix mystery or documentary. Its moody, 60s-inspired sound stood out as a creative high point for the emerging artist.
“I Am” – Sonic Universe: Corey Glover of Living Colour teamed up with virtuoso guitarist Mike Orlando for a high-energy collaboration that blended soulful vocals with intricate guitar work, creating a song that resonated for its dynamic intensity.
The Joy of Connection
Whether it was rediscovering old favorites with friends, sharing new discoveries with family, or seeing live shows that rekindled the magic, 2024 reminded us why we love this art form. From the heartbreak and beauty of The Cure to the electrifying energy of Judas Priest, music continued to bridge generations and unite listeners.
As we head into 2025, the albums and songs of 2024 leave us with plenty to reflect on—and plenty to inspire us. Whether it was the return of icons or the rise of fresh voices, this year reminded us why music remains one of life’s greatest joys. Now, it’s your turn: what were your favorite albums or songs of 2024? Share your picks and join the conversation. Let’s keep celebrating the music that connects us.
Songs in this Episode
Intro - Alone by The Cure (from Songs from a Lost World)
3:38 - Trust In Me by Silver Sun (from Mild Peril)
11:49 - (Hold On) To The Dream by Sebastian Bach (from Child Within The Man)
18:11 - Lapdog by Ahem (from Avoider)
21:34 - Fallout by Pig (from Feast of Agony EP)
31:17 - Free To Fall by John Davis (from JINX)
34:32 - Trial By Fire by Judas Priest (from Invincible Shield)
42:00 - Automaticity by J. Robbins (from Basilisk)
52:01 - Wanting and Waiting by The Black Crowes (from Happiness Bastards)
1:08:41 - The Darkness by The Sheila Divine (from I Am The Darkness. We Are The Light)
Outro - Dark Matter by Pearl Jam (from Dark Matter)
Your Turn to Join the Conversation!
The music we celebrate starts with you. Whether it’s an overlooked masterpiece, a cult favorite, or an album that shaped your life, your suggestions power our journey through the 90s and beyond. By becoming a member of our DMO Union on Patreon, you’ll not only help us remain independent and ad-free, but you’ll also have a say in the albums and artists we explore each year. Let’s keep the music alive and uncover the hidden gems of the past together, one listener-driven episode at a time.
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