2024 was a phenomenal year for rock music, with legendary bands reigniting their spark and emerging artists pushing boundaries. Iconic names like Green Day, Pearl Jam, and Smashing Pumpkins returned to their roots, delivering albums that recaptured the vibrancy of their early days. Meanwhile, The Cure, Linkin Park, and The Black Crowes made triumphant comebacks, proving their timeless relevance.
From bold reinventions to heartfelt tributes, these albums shaped the rock landscape in 2024. Here’s a closer look at Loudwire’s ranking of the top 11 rock albums of the year:
11. Tim Montana – Savage
Tim Montana’s rock debut redefines his artistry. Known for his Nashville roots, this album brims with personal tracks like “Day by Day” and heavy-hitters such as “Get You Some.”
10. Green Day – Saviors
A powerful return for Green Day, featuring standout tracks like “The American Dream Is Killing Me” and the introspective “Dilemma,” showcasing Billie Joe Armstrong’s emotional depth.
9. Pearl Jam – Dark Matter
Pearl Jam embraces their evolution with Dark Matter, delivering punk-infused rock and poignant ballads under Andrew Watt’s masterful production.
8. The Black Crowes – Happiness Bastards
The Black Crowes’ first album in over a decade revives the groove and attitude of their early days, creating a foot-stomping, soulful experience.
7. Smashing Pumpkins – Aghori Mhori Mei
This album is a cohesive masterpiece meant to be enjoyed in its entirety, with diverse tracks like the orchestral “Pentacost” and the vibrant “Goeth the Fall.”
6. Bring Me the Horizon – Post Human: NeX GEn
A high-energy continuation of their Post Human series, this album pushes boundaries with tracks like the provocative “n/A” and hidden gems for loyal fans.
5. Unto Others – Never, Neverland
Reviving goth-metal vibes, Unto Others deliver a dynamic mix of haunting tracks like “Butterfly” and aggressive punk-inspired anthems.
4. The Cure – Songs of a Lost World
Lush and melancholic, The Cure captures raw emotion in tracks like “And Nothing Is Forever” and the hypnotic “Endsong,” evoking memories of Disintegration.
3. Falling In Reverse – Popular Monster
Ronnie Radke’s unapologetic and arena-ready album tackles controversial themes with sharp, refined songwriting that resonates powerfully.
2. Jerry Cantrell – I Want Blood
Alice in Chains’ guitarist shines with emotional melodies and haunting tracks like “Vilified” and “Echoes of Laughter,” making this a must-hear solo project.
1. Linkin Park – From Zero
Linkin Park’s comeback album introduces Emily Armstrong as co-vocalist, blending nostalgic vibes with fresh energy. Tracks like “The Emptiness Machine” and “Heavy Is the Crown” define this exciting new chapter.
These albums represent the best of what rock had to offer in 2024, blending nostalgia with innovation and proving that the genre remains as vibrant as ever.
