There has been a high quality range of music that has been released this year – here’s a few of our favourites…
Midnight Sun by Zara Larsson: this album is filled with danceable tracks, yes perhaps there is a slight lack in emotional connection but there is no denying the quality of tracks such as ‘Pretty Ugly’ and ‘Saturns Return’. It will be interesting to see what she does next.
Things That Come and Go by Hadley Fraser: the West End star’s latest album has been wonderfully structured and features some wonderful orchestrations that really play into Fraser’s strengths as a performer. Particular standout tracks include a distinctive rendition of ‘Accustomed to Her Face’ (from My Fair Lady) a beautifully delicate version of ‘Fly Me to the Moon’.
The Life of a Showgirl by Taylor Swift: this has to have been the most highly anticipated new album of the year and as always with Taylor swift – deservedly so. From album opener ‘The Fate of Ophelia’ all the way through to ‘Actually Romantic’, every song has been expertly crafted to make the listener sit up and pay attention as well as enjoying the thoughtfulness of the lyrics.
Jamie Muscato -Live 2024: this debut album from the West End star is a real treat from start to finish. Recorded during his live performance at the Cadogan hall, the quality of sound on this albumm should be highly praised as it makes you feel as though you are listening to the songs live there is such a crystal clear clarity that isn’t always the case on live albums. What is equally lovely, is in between songs, the listener gets to hear him reflecting on his particular choices in music and reinventing them to fit his style. Songs such as ‘Part of Your World’ which is given a rock make over and an unexpected rendition of Taylor Swift’s ‘Cruel Summer’ are two particular standouts.
Marisha Wallace – Live in London: there is plenty to enjoy on the West End performer’s album thanks to the selection of songs that tie in nicely with aspects of her life making it feel extremely intimate and personal. There is sheer warmth and personality on display from Marisha that instantly draws the listener into her world – her versions of ‘I Cain’t Say No’ from Oklahoma and ‘Adelaide’s Lament’ from Guys & Dolls showcasing her comedy skills with great flair, while he power of her vocals shouldn’t be underestimated as heard on ‘My Man’ and ‘I’m Telling You’.
Here for it All by Mariah Carey: it is incredible to know that this is the singer’s 16th studio album – but it also proves just how much more she has got to give musically. While her voice may have changed, there is plenty to enjoy – thanks to the cool vibes of ‘Play This Song’ and the deeply gospel sounding ‘Jesus, I Do’ it shows a singer influenced by any number of genres.
Bradley Jaden: Recorded Live in London: this album offers fans to sit back and be entertained with Jaden’s versatile skills as a performer. There is a real sensitivity to the way in which he performed ‘The Impossible Dream’ (Man of La Mancha) ‘On the Street Where You Live’ (My Fair Lady) that highlights the depths to which he goes in making the song come truly alive.
Mayhem by Lady Gaga: Lady Gag’s latest album is completely irrisistable as it explores the sound of the early days of her career to delightful effect. Whether it is the boldness of album opener ‘Disease’ or the wistful soulfulness on ‘Blade of Grass’ the sheer range of her vocal capabilities are explored fully.