Staged Haze’s Most Anticipated Albums of 2024—So Far

There are so many artists who have already confirmed they are releasing albums this year, but there are sooooo many more artists who COULD release music, but haven’t quite hinted to it, but have made moves to expect something soon.

We compiled a list of our most anticipated albums that are confirmed as well as a list of albums that we’re praying for. Maybe you’ll find something new to check out!

In chronological order:

Sleater-Kinney, Little Rope
January 19, 2024

For eight years, there wasn’t a peep out of Sleater-Kinney while the band was on hiatus, but ever since members Carrie Brownstein, Corin Tucker, and Janet Weiss reunited in 2014, there’s been a steady stream of new releases. This year’s no different, the iconic band is releasing their 11th album, Little Rope, tomorrow, January 19. They’ve already released three tremendous singles off of it, including “Hell,” an emotionally-charged, rollicking return to punk rock form for the band.

At this point, Sleater-Kinney has nothing left to prove. They’re already legends in whatever genre people feel like placing them in, whether it’s indie, alternative or riot grrrl. The band has even said that any albums past 2021’s Path of Wellness were up in the air, as longtime drummer Janet Weiss had left the band before the release of the album. So the fact that Little Rope is going to be released at all can only be chalked up to the fact that either Brownstein and Tucker absolutely love playing together, they enjoy having this creative release, or fans are just really, really lucky. Maybe it’s a combination of all three, but either way, I’m considering myself lucky for another highly anticipated record by one of my all-time favorite bands. – Erin

The Last Dinner Party, Prelude to Ecstasy
February 2, 2024

If the name ‘The Last Dinner Party’ sounds familiar to you, it’s probably because we just featured them in our 24 Artists to Watch in 2024 post, highlighting the band’s unparalleled rise to fame in 2023, despite only releasing a handful of singles.

However, the band’s gearing up to release their debut album and embark on a handful of festival dates this summer, further lamenting their status as an act to watch in the alternative pop space. The Last Dinner Party’s poetic lyrics and baroque pop sounds (rock music with elements of classical music) makes them a unique act to take note of, and I’m sure many music fans are going to get on board after their debut album drops. – Kristin

Declan McKenna, What Happened To The Beach?
February 9, 2024

I actually wrote about Declan’s potential third album last year, because he had already hinted at a new project. However, I was tricked! The first single from What Happened To The Beach? ended up coming out in July, and the record was announced for the beginning of this year. The promotional tracks “Sympathy” and “Nothing Works” stayed close enough to Declan’s dissonant and loud realm, with fuzzy guitars and angsty vocals. “Elevator Hum” though, his latest release – besides his “Slipping Through My Fingers” cover – brought out a completely different side of him, more melodic and soft.

I mentioned this in one of our monthly song lists, but “Elevator Hum” sounds exactly like the beach. The choices in production are almost mystical, but still making sure it includes Declan’s distinct sound once it reaches the chorus. If this is a good example of what the rest of the album is going to sound like, then I think we’re in for a treat. – Javi

Katelyn Tarver, Quitters
February 9, 2024

34-year-old Kaitlyn Tarver may be most well-known for her role on the TV show Big Time Rush, as well as stints on shows like HBO’s Ballers and ABC Family’s The Secret Life of the American Teenager. But it’s also important to be aware of her career as a singer/songwriter, including her extensive history touring with artists like James Bay and Michelle Branch, as well as co-writing a handful of songs with Joshua Bassett.

Every time I’ve heard a song by Katelyn Tarver, I’ve liked it. But I never really got into her as an artist: not for any particular reason, it just never really happened for me. However, I did see at she released an EP at the end of 2023, titled Japanese Cafe, and after giving it a spin, the sound completely clicked for me. After doing some digging, I learned that she’s set to release her sophomore album, Quitter, on February 9. Tarver is also doing a couple release shows to support the project, and I’m hoping to get the chance to see her perform in LA in just a couple weeks.
– Kristin

Madi Diaz, Weird Faith
February 9, 2024

Another artist we recently shouted out in our 24 Artists to Watch in 2024 post is Madi Diaz, the singer-songwriter based in Nashville who’s been helping artists become superstars, thanks to her incredible lyricism. I became familiar with Diaz’ solo work when her 2021 album History of A Feeling dropped, and I was instantly in awe of her confessional songwriting.

I have a feeling that many eyes are on Diaz as they await the release of Weird Faith: thanks to a brief stint opening up for Harry Styles on tour in 2022 and releasing a duet with Kacey Musgraves just a couple months ago. If the sounds of Weird Faith match the vibes of the singles that have been released thus far, we are definitely in for a treat. – Kristin

Chromeo, Adult Contemporary
February 16, 2024

Chromeo, the electro-funk duo comprising David “Dave 1” Macklovitch and Patrick P Gemayel, is gearing up for an eagerly anticipated release with their upcoming album, “Adult Contemporary.” Having been on the music scene since 2002, Chromeo is set to make a significant impact in 2024 as funk and disco resurge in popular culture through artists like Dua Lipa and Jungle.

Scheduled for release on February 16th, “Adult Contemporary” arrives at a time when the duo’s signature electro-funk sound aligns perfectly with the current zeitgeist. The resurgence of funk and disco has permeated mainstream pop, setting the stage for Chromeo to have a remarkable year. Having showcased their prowess at Coachella last year, Chromeo transcends the confines of traditional dance music, and their album promises to be a meditation on modern, mature relationships. With collaborations featuring La Roux, anticipation is high, and the duo is poised to make a significant impact in the realm of contemporary dance music. – Jesse

Royel Otis, PRATTS & PAIN
February 16, 2024

It feels like I’ve been writing about Royel Otis in every single list we’ve made in the past couple of months, and you know what, I’ll stand by it. The Aussie duo’s EP Sofa Kings made it onto my top 10 last year with only seven songs, and hopefully this full-length record will be an even greater follow up.

The band will also be touring North America this year (which is one of the concerts that I will be counting the days for) and I truly believe the music of both their older music and the new one is immaculately perfect to be performed live. The first single from PRATTS & PAIN, “Adored” actually stepped away a little bit from the nostalgic sound they were evoking in previous projects, and gave their artistry and entire new energy, a little more serious and maybe even more grown up. Royel Otis are definitely the group that I will be hyper fixating on this year, and I’m grateful that this time we’ll be getting a full-length album. – Javi

MGMT, Loss of Life
February 23, 2024

I think we can all agree that Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser’s debut album Oracular Spectacular (2007) changed lives. Songs like “Kids” and “Electric Feel” defined an era of indie pop anthems, and now, seventeen years later (big oof) and after six years of silence, MGMT is coming back with their fifth studio album Loss of Life.

Three very different tracks from the project have already been released, but the last one, titled “Nothing to Declare,” is the one that I think takes the cake. It’s actually the slowest one of the songs (which is a personal shock because I can’t do slow music) but it also just feels so unique and pure lyrically I immediately loved it from the first verse. “Bubblegum Dog,” another promotional single, is closer to the band’s weird origins, with semi off putting melodies and instrumentals, but that work oddly well with each other in classic MGMT style. MGMT is like an old friend who you can come back to at any point in your life, and I’m so happy that they’re continuing to add wonders to their discography. – Javi

Jacob Collier, Djesse Volumber 4
February 29, 2024

Jacob Collier’s “Djesse Volume 4” stands as one of the most anticipated albums of 2024, marking the grand finale of his ambitious Djesse series. Scheduled for release on February 29th, the album has been tantalizingly teased with singles like “Never Gonna Be Alone” featuring Lizzy McAlpine & John Mayer, the bombastic “Wellll,” and the soulful “Little Blue” featuring Brandi Carlisle. The anticipation has further heightened with the release of the fourth single featuring Lawrence & Michael McDonald and the fifth, “Witness Me,” boasting collaborations with Shawn Mendes, Stormzy, and Kirk Franklin.

Jacob Collier, known for his singular ability to orchestrate and produce elaborate tracks independently, has carved a niche for himself as an artist unlike any other. The Djesse series, initially conceived as one massive album, evolved into a sprawling four-part exploration spanning genres from orchestral to R&B, rap, and pop. “Djesse Volume 4” promises an ecstatic and global celebration of the human voice, featuring mesmerizing collaborations that showcase Collier’s unmatched musical versatility. – Jesse

Faye Webster, Undressed at the Symphony
March 1, 2024 

Faye Webster, the unconventional indie folk sensation hailing from Georgia, is set to shake up the alternative country scene with her eagerly awaited studio album, Undressed at the Symphony, scheduled for an early March release. This college dropout brings an edgier vibe to the genre, making her a standout artist to watch.

Webster has given fans a taste of what’s to come with two intriguing singles. “Lifetime” not only showcases her musical prowess but also presents an album cover featuring an aged version of Faye, sparking curiosity about the thematic depth of her upcoming release. The accompanying music video is a thought-provoking visual journey that invites contemplation.

In a surprising move, Faye Webster has collaborated with rapper Lil Yachty on the slightly psychedelic track “Lego Ring.” Webster is set to embark on a tour in the UK and Europe this year, providing fans with the opportunity to experience her distinctive sound and stage presence live. With Faye Webster’s penchant for pushing boundaries, Undressed at the Symphony is sure to be an album full of unexpected twists and turns, making it a must-listen for those seeking something truly unique in the music landscape. – Jesse 

Ariana Grande, Eternal Sunshine
March 8, 2024

Putting all of the nonsense about Ariana Grande’s private life aside, I am going out on a limb to say that I am actually looking forward to the release of her new album. I’ve always been pretty hot and cold with Grande’s music, but one thing is for certain: everything she makes with Max Martin (one of the best pop music producers to ever exist), is absolutely amazing in my eyes. 

Grande’s lead single “yes, and?” dropped last week, and signaled a departure from Grande’s signature, bubble gum pop aesthetics into a more house music vibe. This certainly makes sense, as major players in the pop space like Troye Sivan, Dua Lipa, and one of my personal favorites, Jessie Ware, have been reimagining dance music recently, and have been met with positive reception. – Kristin

Bleachers, Bleachers
March 8, 2024

As someone who is a die hard Jack Antonoff fan, so much so that I do know that he was a member of the band FUN. (a band I also loved), I was super disappointed when I realized how little I connected with the band’s third album, Take the Sadness Out of Saturday Night.

I absolutely loved Gone Now (2017) and Strange Desire (2014), two albums that I felt very passionate about during very pivotal times of my life. I have high hopes for the self-titled album, and am super curious to see if the overall vibe of the album is different from the rest, considering that it’s their first release on Dirty Hit Records.

I’ve loved every one of the singles that have been released thus far, so I’m banking on this project being one of my favorites of 2024. Plus, I got tickets to see them perform at Red Rocks later this year. – Kristin

Waxahatchee, Tiger’s Blood
March 22, 2024

Katie Crutchfield, the acclaimed artist behind Waxahatchee, is making a triumphant return with her upcoming studio album, “Tiger’s Blood,” slated for release in March 2024. This highly anticipated project marks Waxahatchee’s first studio album since 2020, and fans are buzzing with excitement. Recorded at Texas’ Sonic Ranch, the album features the collaborative efforts of Brad Cook (Megafaun), MJ Lenderman, and Spencer Tweedy (Wednesday).

Known for her distinctive blend of folk with a touch of grit, Waxahatchee’s music embodies a unique blend of cynical romanticism. The upcoming album promises to be a captivating exploration of her musical evolution. As a teaser, Waxahatchee has already released the mesmerizing track “Right Back To It,” a collaboration with MJ Lenderman. The title aptly reflects Crutchfield’s return to the music scene, leaving fans eager for the full album experience.

In addition to the album release, Waxahatchee has exciting plans for a tour to accompany “Tiger’s Blood,” offering fans the opportunity to immerse themselves in the raw and emotive world of her music. Get ready for a journey through Crutchfield’s introspective storytelling and the sonic landscapes that have made Waxahatchee a standout presence in the indie music scene. – Jesse

Chance the Rapper, Star Line Gallery
TBD

Despite the commercial underperformance of his latest album, “The Big Day,” Chance the Rapper remains an artist of intrigue, and his upcoming release, “Star Line Gallery,” is among the most anticipated in 2024. While the exact release date remains uncertain, Chance teased a springtime launch during an Instagram live session, building anticipation with fervent promotion. Since the lukewarm reception of “The Big Day” in 2019, Chance has dropped singles and collaborated with Jeremih, leaving fans hopeful for a redemptive comeback.

The album shares its name with Chance and Vic Mensa’s festival in Ghana, the Black Star Line Festival, held at Accra’s Black Star Square in January 2023. Chance, drawing inspiration from Marcus Garvey, delves into the historical significance of the Star Line Gallery during an interview, highlighting the integral shipping line and its impact on the Black community. With Chance’s penchant for infusing heartfelt narratives into his music, “Star Line Gallery” promises to be a compelling and potentially redemptive project for the acclaimed rapper. – Jesse

Clairo
TBD

Indie-pop princess Claire Cottrill has been pretty quiet online in the past year, but she delighted as all by hinting at music with a (absolutely gorgeous) photo of herself on Instagram, with a caption that read “maybe this year 🎵”. Now, I know this doesn’t confirm absolutely anything and musicians are well known for ✨lying✨ about these things, but a girl can dream!

I must admit that Sling had a short life in my life and in my playlists, unlike Immunity, a record that remains as one of my favorites of all time. But her sophomore album also showed so much of Clairo’s growth as a songwriter and as an artist in general. I’m sure that by now she has perfected her craft even more, and she’ll give us an unforgettable album, hopefully soon! – Javi

Dua Lipa
TBD

Earlier this week, Dua Lipa became the latest to hit the cover of Rolling Stone, discussing the inspiration behind her new album, and working with Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker. The one thing that was glaringly absent? The name and release date of the new album!

I am a little annoyed that she was able to get this cover spot without revealing those important pieces of information, but I guess we’ll just have to wait a bit longer. As I’m typing this, I’m finding it shockingly terrifying to realize that Future Nostalgia came out in 2020 (that may as well be a decade ago), smack in the middle of the entire world having to stay inside. All I have left to say is when Dua’s new album drops, this time, the entire world is going to party. – Kristin

Lorde
TBD

While I am pretty skeptical about including Lorde on this list, I’d say it’s not entirely a shot in the dark. Though she did wait four years between Pure Heroine (2013), Melodrama (2017), and Solar Power (2021), I’m hopeful that she may break that pattern and drop the next album in 2024.

Pure Heroine dropped when I was starting college, Melodrama dropped as I was finishing it, and Solar Power dropped when I was getting out of a bad relationship. So selfishly to me, I am hoping for her next project to drop soon for my own joy (but also, maybe I’d be jinxing myself to have something intense happen to me this year)?

For those of us super fans who subscribe to Lorde’s email list, she’s been discussing the creation of new music for some time at this point: “The songs are spells; a spell to let go of something, a spell to unlock a door. Every time I put something into words just as I see it, set it to the right music, a knot comes loose in me. But it hurts too, confronting the knots. I’ve made enough records to know that this feeling of my skin coming off is part of it. I know I’m gonna look back on this year with fondness and a bit of awe, knowing it was the year that locked everything into place.” – Kristin

Phoebe Bridgers
TBD

It makes me really sad to think about the potential of June 2024 rolling around without any new music from Phoebe Bridgers, considering Punisher, our pick for the best album of 2020, will be turning four-years-old that month. It’s obvious that Bridgers hasn’t had much ~free time~ over the last couple years, touring with boygenius for most of 2023 and even opening up for a handful of Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour dates. So, in all of that, has she really had time to create a whole album? I’d like to think so.

Doubling down on the fact that she’s literally been all over the place for the past two years or so, I can’t say I’m super sure that it’ll come this year, but if at all, I can see her dropping something in the fall. – Kristin

Role Model
TBD

Listen, ROLE MODEL’s 2022 debut album Rx means so much to me. Honestly some of the songs are cringe, sure –”masturbation song” I’m looking at you– but most of it was inspired by one of my favorite people, Emma Chamberlain. And now that they broke up after over three years together, I am assuming Tucker’s new record will either give us some closure or (most likely) destroy us/me all over again.

Tucker himself said on his Instagram story that he has been rewriting the whole album in the past couple of months. This most definitely means that he had to scrap some lovey dovey songs and instead work on his recent heartbreak, which makes sense since he probably stopped believing in love (just like me) as soon as he and Emma split. I’m obviously excited for this project, but I’m also deeply, truly scared of what it might do to me. I can’t wait to be able to finally hear it, though. – Javi

Vampire Weekend
TBD

As someone who considers Vampire Weekend one of, if not their favorite band of all time, it’s kind of wild to think that I’ve lasted nearly five years without a crumb of new music from them.

Father of the Bride was a sonic shift for the band, noticeably due to longtime member Rostam Batmanglij making his departure before the release of FOTB, and it’s inevitable at this point that the next (unannounced) project will likely signal another change. 

I wasn’t anticipating anything new from the band before news broke at the end of 2023 that their next album is done, along with a couple festival appearances coming this spring and summer at Kilby Block Party and Hinterland (the ladder making a return to Lollapalooza fairly imminent).
– Kristin