This year has been flooded by hundreds of new albums coming from popular artists such as Billie Eilish, Tyler, The Creator and Kendrick Lamar. But what about the EPs? The shorter projects call for a shorter list, so here are the five best EPs of 2024.
READ MORE: Editor's pick: The top 10 albums of 2024
5. "Sweet Boy pt. 1" by Malcolm Todd
Originally an EP at the start of the year, "Sweet Boy pt. 1" is composed of five alternative and indie songs and is an easy and fun listen. "4Me 4Me" is the best of the project, led by an addicting bounce and layered vocals.
Other tracks like "Ladygirl" and "Thailand" continue this vibe. Todd created an exciting experience on "Sweet Boy pt. 1" that is both danceable and chill, and it's absolutely worth a listen.
4. "Descanso" by Angela Muñoz
This EP cultivates a heavenly feel in every single song. The 20-minute listen is well worth it; it's an experience that envelopes you fully into the music. The way the project flows is similar to Steve Lacy's "The Lo-Fis:" The songs almost combine into one another while keeping their own style.
But what truly makes this EP great is Angela Muñoz's ethereal voice. "Forest Fire" is perhaps the best song, but "Descanso" as a whole is worth a listen.
3. "For You" by Troy Javelona
For those who enjoy a good R&B and soul feel, this EP is "For You." Each song flows into one another without sounding too much of the same, and though the project only lasts 17 minutes, it's still a joyful and complete ride.
Songs like "Dance" are groovy while songs like "Letting Go" are memorable and slower. The titular song "For You" is a good balance between the bright and joyful songs and the unhurried and more meaningful music within the EP.
2. "JRNY" by Jordan Ward and Joony
When looking for a chill vibe, look no further. "JRNY" is consistently relaxed while being upbeat one song and slow on the next. The layering of music and voices is what makes this EP stand out, especially in the track "Jealousy." Whether played in the background or listened to through AirPods, all the songs have the ability to change the atmosphere in the best way possible.
Ultimately, the EP gives off similarities to Brent Faiyaz's songs "Been away" and "Trust" while still having its own flavor. So for those who enjoy Faiyaz's work, this EP could expand your taste.
1. "14 minutes" by Dominic Fike
Dominic Fike's newest EP is the epitome of summer music. It is meant to be blasted in the car on a hot summer day, or — quite honestly — every day of the year.
While listening, each song stands out and is memorable: TikTok sensation "misses" is fun and upbeat, "hi grace" is a catchy autotune and piano-filled hit, and "coast2coast" is quick and thrilling.
If anything, the biggest downfall of the project is it being only 14 minutes. Yet, it only being that long is what makes it iconic. Every song hits and this EP is a good way to spend 14 minutes of any day.
Editor's note: The opinions presented in this review are the author's and do not imply any endorsement from The State Press or its editors.
Edited by Andrew Dirst, Sophia Braccio and Natalia Jarrett.
Reach the reporter at sjames51@asu.edu and follow @sennajames_ on X.
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Senna is a sophomore studying journalism and mass communication with a minor in Spanish. This is her third semester with The State Press.
